Knowing when to lube your bearings is key for skateboard maintenance. Bearings let your wheels spin smoothly, which means better skateboarding. How often you lube them depends on use, how dirty they get, and their type. Using a good lube like Bones Speed Cream® helps stop bearings from locking up and keeps them working well.
Bearings from Bones® are made just for skateboarding. They’re made with less wiggle room, which means they’re quick but can get damaged by dirt. So, it’s a good idea to clean and lube them when they start to sound dirty or noisy. For detailed tips on taking care of your bearings, check out this thorough guide on how long bearings last here.
Key Takeaways
- Bones Bearings are highly precise and designed specifically for skateboarding, not general machinery.
- Dirt in bearings can lead to increased friction, overheating, and potential bearing freeze-up.
- Regular cleaning and lubrication ensure optimal performance and prevent permanent damage.
- Use Bones Speed Cream® for effective lubrication and longer bearing life.
- Bearings exposed to harsh environments will require more frequent maintenance.
- Properly maintained bearings can significantly enhance your skateboard’s performance.
Understanding Skateboard Bearings and Their Importance
Skateboard bearings are key for a smooth ride. They let your wheels spin freely. This affects your speed and how well you skateboard.
608 bearings are standard in skateboarding, with two types: 608zz and 608RS/6082RS. Behind these simple numbers lies great complexity and precision. Unlike regular ABEC-rated bearings, those made for skateboarding, like Bones® Bearings, can handle skateboarding’s unique stresses.
High-quality bearings use advanced materials for better speed and durability. For example, they might have a smooth finish on steel races and non-contact rubber shields. These features cut down friction and make upkeep easier.
The ABEC rating system goes from 0 to 9. ABEC 5 or 7 is usually enough for skateboarding since you won’t go over 200 km/h. But, ABEC doesn’t look at how well bearings handle impacts or the material quality. That’s why many skate companies skip mentioning ABEC ratings.
Ceramic bearings beat metal ones in many ways. They’re better at resisting corrosion and heat and last longer. Also, taking good care of your bearings, as advised here, can make them last even longer.
| Type of Bearing | Shield Type | Material | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 608zz | Metal Shielded | Steel | Durability |
| 608RS/6082RS | Rubber Shielded | Steel | Maintenance Ease |
| Ceramic Bearings | N/A | Ceramic | High Performance |
Signs That Your Bearings Need Lubricating
Knowing when to lube your bearings is key for your skateboard’s best performance. If you hear a hissing sound or if your wheels stop quickly after pushing, they need quick care. Listening for grinding noises and checking for wheel wobble are also signs of needing more lube.
If there’s visible grime and dirt on the bearings, pay attention. Dust, sand, and moisture can harm them, lowering your skateboard’s performance. Keeping your bearings clean and lubricated can stop them from getting permanently damaged.
Cleaning your skateboard bearings right means using things like acetone or rubbing alcohol. Avoid regular household cleaners that can leave behind a residue. Some skaters clean their bearings multiple times until the liquid stays clear.
Lubrication is key to a better ride. Clean bearings mean less friction, less wear, and less heat. This lets your skateboard move quicker and smoother. It’s best to use special skateboard lubricants instead of common oils to avoid damage and dirt.
Each skateboard has two bearings per wheel, making eight bearings in total. So, keeping them clean and lubricated is crucial. A few drops of lubricant per bearing will keep them working well without attracting extra dirt. By doing this, your skateboard will perform better and its bearings will last longer.
Recommended Lubrication Schedule
Maintaining your skateboard’s bearings helps ensure smooth rides. A regular lubrication schedule boosts upkeep and performance. You should clean and lubricate your bearings every six months.
If you skateboard a lot or ride in tough conditions, consider cleaning every month. This keeps your bearings in top shape.
For proper lubrication, use special skateboard bearing lubricant. Don’t use common household products like WD-40. They’re not good for your bearings.
After riding in wet or dirty places, clean and lubricate right away. This stops rust and wear. Open bearings might need more care than closed ones due to their design.
Watch for signs that your bearings need work. A hissing sound when they spin or wheels that stop quickly can mean they need cleaning. A steady lubrication schedule and regular cleaning extend bearing life. They make skateboarding smoother and more fun.
Best Practices for Lubricating Skateboard Bearings
Start by cleaning your skateboard bearings well. Use an eco-friendly cleaner to get rid of all the dirt. It’s important to check your wheels by spinning them. If they stop quickly or sound noisy, they need cleaning. Soak the bearings in isopropyl alcohol for at least 30 minutes to loosen the dirt. Make sure to dry your bearings completely after washing to prevent rust.
Choosing the right lubricant is key. How to lubricate bearings is a common question. Many professionals trust Bones® Speed Cream® for its ability to make bearings last longer. You only need a little, about two drops for each bearing. Too much oil can cause friction, which makes them hot. Too little, and they might wear out. The correct amount ensures a protective film on all surfaces.
- Never use water or WD40, as they can damage bearings and cause rust. WD40, in particular, is known to be harmful.
- After cleaning and oiling, put the bearings back together carefully. Check everything is clean and fits right for the best spin.
- Removing the bearing shields can help clean them better. Many expert skaters recommend this.
By following these bearing lubrication tips, you’ll keep your skateboard bearings in top condition. Proper care saves money and ensures a smooth ride. Remember, clean, lubricate, and reassemble correctly for the best performance.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Cleaning Cost | $1-3 for isopropyl alcohol |
| Soaking Time | Minimum of 30 minutes |
| Lubricant | Bones® Speed Cream® |
| Sufficient Lubrication | Two drops per bearing |
| Key Tip | Avoid using water or WD40 |
Tips for Extending the Life of Your Bearings
To make your skateboard bearings last longer, pay close attention and be diligent. A top tip is to always keep them well-lubricated. Just a few drops of lubricant after a cleaning can make a big difference. They’ll spin better and last longer. Keeping up with regular lube jobs can save you time and money later on.
It’s also crucial to install and store bearings the right way. When putting in new bearings, use the right tools to avoid damage. And make sure to keep your skateboard in a place that’s dry and not too hot or cold. Water and dampness can cause the bearings to rust. This can hurt their performance and shorten their life. So, avoid keeping your skateboard in wet or dirty spots.
Cleaning your bearings well is another important step. Let them sit in a cleaning solution for a bit to get rid of dirt and gunk. If they’re very dirty, you might need to clean them a few times. After cleaning, dry them quickly with something like an air compressor or a special cleaner. If they still don’t spin right or make noise, clean them again. Cleaning them well and often means they’ll work better and last longer.
Last but not least, keep up with regular checks and listen for any odd sounds. Bearings that are in good shape work better and are safer. They won’t suddenly stop or shake. These tips will help you keep your bearings smooth. That means you can enjoy your rides safely for a long time.
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!