Picking the right bearings for your skateboard is crucial. The ABEC rating system helps in making this choice. A closer look at ABEC 3 and ABEC 7 bearings reveals important info about their performance and life span. But, do you know what the numbers really mean for your skating experience?
The ABEC rating system goes from ABEC 1 to ABEC 9. Higher numbers mean more precision. Still, things like how the bearing handles side loads, its toughness, and the right lubrication aren’t shown by the ABEC score. However, bearings in different ABEC categories can affect your skate bearing performance.
Key Takeaways
- The ABEC rating system includes five classes: 1 (widest tolerance), 3, 5, 7, and 9 (tightest tolerance).
- ABEC 3 bearings make up more than 98% of ball bearings sold annually.
- ABEC 7 bearings offer smaller runout and axial play, making them suitable for high-speed applications.
- Higher ABEC ratings don’t necessarily mean better performance for skateboarding under typical conditions.
- Choosing the best ABEC rating for skateboarding depends on balancing cost, performance, and application needs.
Understanding ABEC Ratings
When you get into skateboard bearings, knowing about the ABEC rating system is key. It helps judge how precise bearings are. The scale, made by the Annular Bearing Engineering Committee, goes from ABEC 1 to 9. Higher numbers mean the bearings are made more accurately.
ABEC ratings shed light on bearing precision. For example, ABEC 1 bearings can be off by up to 0.0075 mm. But ABEC 9 allows only 0.0012 mm off. While this accuracy matters in many fields, for skateboarding, things like material durability and seal quality are more crucial.
It’s a myth that higher ABEC ratings mean better skateboard bearings. The ABEC scale doesn’t consider factors crucial for skateboarding like load capacity and materials. Bones Bearings skips ABEC ratings, opting for “Skate Rated” to meet skater needs.
The table below outlines the max off-center allowance for each ABEC level:
| ABEC Grade | Maximum Allowable Eccentricity |
|---|---|
| ABEC 1 | 0.0075 mm (0.000295″) |
| ABEC 3 | 0.005 mm (0.000197″) |
| ABEC 5 | 0.0035 mm (0.000138″) |
| ABEC 7 | 0.0025 mm (0.000098″) |
| ABEC 9 | 0.0012 mm (0.000047″) |
The materials in bearings matter a lot too. Ceramic balls are strong and smooth, but steel balls handle damage better. The kind of lubricant used also affects performance. Light oils mean faster spins but need more care than grease.
Even though ABEC ratings tell us about manufacturing precision, they don’t give skateboarders the full picture. The type of materials, the lubrication used, and how well you maintain your bearings are way more important for a smooth ride.
Key Differences Between ABEC 3 and ABEC 7
Looking at ABEC 3 vs ABEC 7 bearings shows important differences. An ABEC 3 bearing allows a slight error of 0.005 mm (0.000197″). On the other hand, an ABEC 7 bearing has a finer tolerance of 0.0025 mm (0.000098″). These manufacturing details affect your ride’s speed and smoothness.
ABEC 7 bearings skate faster and smoother compared to lower-rated ones. This is especially true for high speeds and fancy skate moves. For example, an ABEC 1 bearing can go up to 32,000 RPM. But, an ABEC 7 can achieve higher speeds with less effort.
The type of material in the bearings matters too. Skate bearings like ABEC 7 might use special steel or ceramics. These materials help the bearings last longer and reduce friction.
When deciding on bearing ratings, think about what you need. ABEC 3 bearings cost less and work well for new or casual skaters. Yet, seasoned skaters might pick ABEC 7 for better speed and smoothness. Knowing this helps you choose bearings wisely.
| ABEC Rating | Max Allowable Eccentricity (mm) | Speed with Grease Lubrication (RPM) | Speed with Oil Lubrication (RPM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABEC 3 | 0.005 (0.000197″) | – | – |
| ABEC 7 | 0.0025 (0.000098″) | – | – |
In summary, studying bearing precision shows why these differences matter. Whether you care about cost, speed, or how smooth the ride is, knowing the differences between ABEC 3 and ABEC 7 bearings is key. It helps you make the best pick for your skate needs.
Performance Comparison
When checking ABEC 3 and ABEC 7 bearings, it’s key to look at what skateboarders say and hard data. Higher ABEC ratings mean tighter fits. For instance, ABEC 7 bearings are more precise with a 2.5 μm tolerance, while ABEC 3’s is at 7 μm.
ABEC 7 bearings are typically faster and smoother at high speeds. Yet, the ABEC impact on speed also depends on the lubricant and how well the bearing handles weight and stress.
Tests show ABEC 7 bearings are better at keeping their speed and stability, thanks to their precision. They do well with light oil. ABEC 3 bearings, a bit less exact, still work well. They’re great with grease, making them durable.
Comparing bearings in different skate conditions gave interesting findings. For 52mm wheels, ABEC 7 bearings hit speeds up to 460 kph (310 mph) when oiled. ABEC 3 bearings trail a bit but are still efficient. This points out the efficiency gap between ABEC classes.
Skater stories often say ABEC 7 bearings make for quicker, smoother rides. Yet, everyday skaters might not see a big change. Pros really feel the difference, especially in contests where speed matters.
Cost Considerations
Getting the right skateboard bearings means knowing the ABEC bearing prices. ABEC ratings go from 1 to 9. The higher the number, the better the precision. But, high-rated bearings cost more because they need finer work and take longer to make.
High-rated bearings like ABEC 7 or 9 can be much more expensive. They can cost five to ten times more than ABEC 1 or 3 bearings. So, choosing high-quality bearings can really affect your budget for skateboard upkeep.
It’s smart to do a cost-benefit analysis of bearings. This helps decide if ABEC 7 bearings’ high cost is worth it. For most, ABEC 3 bearings do the job well without breaking the bank. Simple bearings might cost £15-£20, but top-notch ABEC 9 bearings can run into hundreds.
Most bearings sold are ABEC 1 and ABEC 3. They work well for most skateboarders. High-end bearings might be needed for special cases needing high RPMs. But, for most skaters, choosing good brands and keeping up with maintenance is more cost-effective than chasing high ABEC ratings.
Applications for ABEC 3 vs ABEC 7
When picking the best bearings for skateboarding, knowing the difference between ABEC 3 and ABEC 7 is key. Higher ABEC numbers mean tighter manufacturing precision, but that’s not all there is to it. For fun skating or chill rides, ABEC 3 bearings are a wallet-friendly pick. They offer good enough precision and durability for beginners.
For competitive skateboarding, ABEC 7 bearings are the go-to for their tighter precision and less friction. They help skaters go faster with less effort. Check out this informative article for a deeper dive into ABEC 7 versus ABEC 9 in contests.
When it comes to other sports like inline skating or roller derby, the right ABEC rating matters too. Beginners might stick with ABEC 3 for its toughness and affordability. Yet, ABEC 7 fits better for those chasing speed and precision in their moves.
In areas outside sports, ABEC ratings become even more crucial. Take the auto industry, where high precision and ability to handle loads are vital. Here, ABEC 7 bearings are often the preferred choice for top-notch parts. In contrast, ABEC ratings in industrial use are about exact sizes, not load or speed. These bearings suit machinery that needs precise dimensions but doesn’t face harsh conditions.
Medical gadgets also gain from the strict standards of higher-rated bearings. Picking the right one boosts the device’s precision and lifespan. So, whether it’s for sports equipment or tech, choosing between ABEC 3 and ABEC 7 depends on what you need more: speed or durability.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Keeping your skateboard bearings in top shape is key to their longevity and performance. Regardless of whether they are ABEC 3 or ABEC 7, following certain care tactics can make a real difference.
Cleaning ABEC Bearings:
To making your bearings last, clean them often. Start by taking the bearings out of the wheels with a skate tool. Put them in a cleaning solution, like isopropyl alcohol, for 10-15 minutes. Shake them softly to get rid of dirt. Then, let them dry fully before you lubricate them. Remember, water is a no-go as it leads to rust.
Lubrication:
Lubricating your bearings right is vital for their endurance. Once they’re clean and dry, use just 1-2 drops of lubricant. This keeps them running smoothly and makes them last longer.
Storage Tips:
Where and how you store your bearings matters a lot. Keep them somewhere cool and dry, ideally between 59°F and 77°F, and under 60% humidity. Stored this way, they can last up to 5 years.
Difference in Maintenance for ABEC 3 vs. ABEC 7:
Although ABEC 3 and ABEC 7 bearings both need the same basic upkeep, there’s a bit to know. ABEC 7 bearings, being more precise, ask for more careful handling to avoid damage. They’re also made from better materials, so using top-quality lubricants and keeping them clean is key to their performance and life span.
Avoid Common Pitfalls:
- Keep your bearings away from water and damp to avoid rust.
- Avoid putting too much lubricant, as it can attract dirt and affect how they work.
- Always be on the lookout for signs of wear, like trouble pushing or weird noises, and replace the bearings when needed.
Stick to these care tips, perform regular maintenance, and store your bearings right. By doing so, you’ll keep your skateboard bearings in perfect condition and enjoy smooth rides every time.
Making the Right Choice for You
Choosing the right skateboard bearings is key. The ABEC rating tells us about precision and speed. A higher number means better precision. But, this doesn’t cover quality or how well they handle loads.
Bones Bearings focus on being “Skate Rated” rather than just ABEC rated. This means they’re made specially for skateboarding.
Looking for bearing advice for your skate style? Here’s a simple guide. ABEC 3 bearings are cheap but not the smoothest. ABEC 5s offer good speed and quality at a fair price.
For a quicker ride, go for ABEC 7. They’re better but cost a bit more. Downhill? Try ABEC 9 for top speed.
The material of your bearings matters too. Steel is common and durable. For racing, ceramic bearings are light and need less care. But they’re pricey and not for rough tricks.
Think about maintenance as well. Grease lasts longer but might slow you down a bit. Oil needs more care but makes your wheels spin faster. Check your bearings for wear and tear to know when it’s time for new ones.
Pick bearings that match how you skate, your budget, and how much work you want to put into care. This way, you’ll get the best ride possible.
I’m John Peterson, a passionate skater, blogger, and lifelong enthusiast. I’ve been skating for over 9 years and have gone on to write a blog dedicated to the sport of skating and its culture. Through my blog, I strive to share my knowledge and experience of the sport with all who are interested. From beginner tips, tricks, and equipment reviews to interviews and event coverage, I cover it all. So read my blog as I explore the wonderful world of skating!