Sorry, but I didn't notice the post on the silver surfer chew problems before I posted my reply. My chinchilla is the queen of chewers so whatever goes in with her has got to be 100% chew-proof. I can't speak for the classic silver-colored wheel but we've had the blue one for two-ish years now and it has held up beautifully. It's my understanding that the only difference is the color. Really great investment and it's by far her favorite item. I'm trying to break her of this habit but she loves to get it spinning, jump out, and hold her teeth against the inside of the wheel letting them scrap the inside as its spinning. Think fingernails on a chalkboard. Even with that, the only damage has been some scratches. The metal on this one is thick and the wheel is heavy. I will say it took some finessing to install it and I had to use a pair of pliers to bend one of the two hooks that hold it in place and then bend it back once I got it through the bars. The metal is thick enough that it didn't weaken the hook at all. My decision to get the wheel was because Isabeau did not like the Flying Saucer but I tried it first because it's open and better for their backs. I'd say give it a try but, ultimately, let your chin decide.