Choosing the right skateboard bearings can make your ride better. This includes enhanced performance and smoother movement. The market has many high-performance parts from top brands like Bones, Bronson Speed Co., and Spitfire. These bearings fit all skateboard wheels, making them perfect for any skater, beginner or pro.
Models like DGK Skateboards Benjamins and Boa Wheels Blackbelly show the importance of good bearings. They’re built for speed and fun with precision and durability. Knowing the differences in materials, technology, and prices helps you pick the best ones for a smooth ride.
Key Takeaways
- Perfect bearings ensure a smoother and faster ride.
- Universal sizing makes them compatible with all skateboard wheels.
- Bones Reds and Bronson Speed Co. are top-selling brands recognized for their durability and performance.
- Quality bearings vary in material, technology, and price.
- Investing in high-performance skateboard parts is beneficial for both beginners and experienced skaters.
Understanding Skateboard Bearings
Looking into skateboard bearing basics, know the key parts that make up a bearing. They include the C-ring, bearing shield, outer and inner rings, steel balls, ball retainer, and rubber seal. Together, they ensure your skateboard moves smoothly and reacts well.
The standard skateboard bearing size is the same for most skateboards. It has an 8mm core, a 22mm outer diameter, and is 7mm wide. This size fits various wheels and axles. Knowing these sizes helps pick the right bearings for your board.
Bearings get rated by the ABEC rating system, from ABEC 1 to ABEC 9. The rating shows how precise a bearing is, with higher numbers being more accurate. Most skateboarders use ABEC 5, but ABEC 7 and 9 offer more speed and smoothness. Yet, some top bearings don’t use ABEC ratings. For example, Bones Bearings use Skate Rated standards for better performance.
For a clear view, check out this table that shows different ABEC ratings:
| ABEC Rating | Precision | Application |
|---|---|---|
| ABEC 1 | Least expensive and accurate | Entry-level skateboarding |
| ABEC 3 | Basic accuracy | Casual skateboarding |
| ABEC 5 | Standard accuracy | General skateboarding |
| ABEC 7 | High accuracy | Fast cruising and tricks |
| ABEC 9 | Extremely high accuracy | Downhill and high-speed skating |
In short, knowing skateboard bearing basics, standard skateboard bearing size, and ABEC rating explained helps pick the best bearings. This knowledge is key for your skateboarding.
Key Features to Look for in Skateboard Bearings
When picking quality skateboard bearings, it’s vital to know what makes them perform well. The bearing ABEC ratings are very important. This scale goes from 1 to 9, with higher numbers meaning more precision. For example, ABEC 1 bearings are the least precise but are cheaper. ABEC 9 bearings are super fast, great for downhill skating.
The material of the bearings affects how well and long they work. Bearings made from top-notch steel or ceramic last longer and ride smoother. Ceramic bearings, while costing more, between $70 to $100, outperform steel ones starting at $15. Also, the number of steel balls inside, usually 6 or 7, impacts its efficiency and how much weight it can handle.
The design inside, like nylon ball retainers, makes sure they spin well and boost performance. Bearings coated with titanium resist rust better and last longer. This is good news for frequent skaters.
But there’s more than just ABEC ratings and materials. Bearing spacers and speed washers are key too. Spacers, usually 8mm x 10mm, keep bearings apart at the right distance, aiding in speed and steadiness. Speed washers, sold in packs of 100, cut down on friction and keep bearings from getting damaged.
For less bearing drag, the kind of lube used matters. Grease can push speeds to 32,000 RPM, while oil goes up to 38,000 RPM. With oil, 70mm wheels can reach 500 kph (310 mph).
Getting the right mix of these essential skateboard bearing features will help make your skateboarding fun and more controlled.
Top Brands for Skateboard Bearings
When you look for top skateboard bearing brands, some names always pop up. Bones bearings, Bronson Speed Co, and Spitfire lead the pack. They’re known for top-quality and great performance.
Since the 1980s, Bones bearings have been key in skateboarding. They’re famous for lasting long and performing well. Among their products, the Swiss and ceramic bearings are favorites. Bones Reds Bearings are especially loved, winning a recent SkateHut giveaway. Their Swiss bearings are called the “Rolls Royce” for their luxury quality.
Bronson Speed Co brings new ideas with products like the Bronson G3. These bearings are nitrogen-filled to stay fresh. They’re made to cut down on friction and boost performance. Their shield-free RAW bearings are one-of-a-kind, making the brand stand out.
Spitfire is also a top choice for skateboard bearings. Their ‘Cheapshots’ line was the second favorite in the SkateHut giveaway. Spitfire’s bearings offer good quality at a fair price. They appeal to those watching their budget. The Classics and Burners lines provide more choices without giving up quality.
If you’re looking for more options, check out this comprehensive guide. It compares many top skateboard bearing brands.
Comparing Different Bearing Types
Understanding the differences between ceramic and steel skateboard bearings is key. Each type impacts how you skateboard. Steel bearings, common and varied, range from ABEC 1 for beginners to ABEC 9 for pros.
ABEC ratings, created in the 1970s, measure bearings’ precision and accuracy. ABEC 1 bearings are budget-friendly but slow. ABEC 5s are both speedy and durable, great for skilled skaters. Higher ABECs mean smoother rides but need more care.
Steel bearings are tough and cheaper but can rust and expand with heat. Ceramic bearings, however, run cooler and are lighter. They’re made from tough materials like silicone nitride. Choosing the right type matters a lot.
Here’s a comparison of steel vs ceramic bearings:
| Feature | Steel Bearings | Ceramic Bearings |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Steel | Ceramic (Silicone Nitride) |
| Durability | High | Higher |
| Friction | Higher | Lower |
| Heat Resistance | Lower | Higher |
| Weight | Heavier | Lighter |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Maintenance | Frequent | Less Frequent |
When picking between ceramic and steel skateboard bearings, it’s all about what you value. Want better performance and a longer life? Or a more straightforward, affordable option? Understand your materials, as it will improve your skating.
How to Properly Maintain Your Bearings
Keeping your skateboard bearings maintained is key for a long-lasting skateboard. You should clean the bearings often and use the right lubricant. This stops dirt from building up and keeps your wheels turning smoothly.
To start, take the bearings out of the wheels. You can use a skateboard tool or a wrench. Then, soak the bearings in a solvent like isopropyl alcohol or acetone for at least 30 minutes. This helps get rid of the dirt and grime. When you see the solvent turning dark, it means it’s cleaning the bearings.
Next, shake the container gently to remove any stuck dirt. After soaking, take the bearings out and blow them dry with compressed air. To clean the axles and bolts, use a baby wipe or damp paper towel. This really helps them perform better.
Then, it’s time to oil the bearings. Use a special lubricant like Bones® Speed Cream®. For steel ball bearings, 2 drops each are enough. Ceramic bearings need just 1 drop. Proper lubrication makes bearings last longer and spin faster. Don’t use water or WD40 as they can cause damage.
Put the bearings back in the wheels carefully so they spin freely. If they don’t spin right, you might have to clean them again or check if something needs replacing.
After you’ve fixed up your bearings, skate on them for about an hour in a clean place. This break-in time makes them perform their best. Doing this maintenance regularly will make your skateboarding smoother and faster. Plus, it’ll help your skateboard bearings last much longer.
Price Range of Quality Skateboard Bearings
The price of skateboard bearings varies widely. It depends on their material, ABEC rating, and the brand’s reputation. They are usually sold in sets of eight, which means you need two bearings for each wheel.
Steel bearings start at about $15. For example, DGK Skateboards Benjamins are $15.99, and Boa Wheels Blackbelly are $13.99. If you’re looking into mid-range options, Ace Trucks MFG. cost $21.99, and Meow Skateboards ABEC 7 are $22.99. Ceramic bearings, which are on the higher end, will cost you between $70 and $100.
The ABEC rating greatly affects the price of bearings. Here’s a quick guide:
| ABEC Rating | Price Range |
|---|---|
| ABEC 1 | Least expensive |
| ABEC 3 | Generally inexpensive |
| ABEC 5 | Standard for most types of skateboarding |
| ABEC 7 | Slightly more expensive |
| ABEC 9+ | Extremely fast, typically higher in price |
Start by figuring out what you need when budgeting for bearings. Entry-level options are under £10. Mid-range choices are £10 to £20, and high-end ones with fancy features can be over £20.
Premium bearings worth looking at include Bones SWISS and Bones REDS. Independent offers three options under £20. Bronson G3 bearings may cost more but have advanced features.
Ceramic bearings are popular for their durability and low upkeep. They are pricier, between $70 and $100, but they won’t rust and ride smoother.
Comparing costs means thinking about what you need and your budget. Knowing your skateboarding style helps you pick without losing out on quality or performance.
Best Practices for Installing Bearings
To make your skateboard work its best, start with installing the bearings right. First, put one bearing into the wheel hub. Add a spacer if you’re using one to help spread out the weight and keep things stable. Then, place the second bearing and tighten the wheel nut without overdoing it—to keep the wheel spinning freely. Every skateboard wheel needs two bearings, so you’ll need eight for the whole skateboard.
Knowing how to install skateboard bearings helps your skateboard last longer. A skate tool makes this easier. It often has a socket wrench and bearing press for a snug fit without hurting the bearings.
Follow these skateboard assembly tips to steer clear of common mistakes:
- Use spacers for better weight distribution.
- Tighten the wheel nut right to keep bearings in place but don’t squash them.
- With shielded bearings, face the shields out to keep out dirt and go faster.
Use a bearing press when putting in new bearings to avoid any damage. Watch out for signs like hard pushing, weird noises, or hot bearings after riding, which mean it’s time for new ones. This keeps your board performing well and safe.
By following these guidelines, your skateboarding will get better and your gear will last longer. Regular upkeep, like cleaning and oiling, also makes your bearings last, giving you a smoother ride.
Frequently Asked Questions About Skateboard Bearings
Exploring the world of skateboard bearings, you’ll likely have questions. This FAQ will tackle the common bearing queries. Our goal is to help you choose wisely and keep your skateboard running smoothly.
The ABEC rating system is a common topic. ABEC ratings go from 1 to 9. They tell you about the precision and how well bearings work. For example, ABEC 5 bearings balance speed and price well. ABEC 7 bearings offer faster and smoother rides. If you crave top speed, go for ABEC 9+ bearings.
Many ask about ceramic versus steel bearings. Ceramic bearings, being 30% harder, last longer and don’t rust. They’re top-notch but can cost between $70 and $100. Steel bearings are cheaper, starting at $15, and great for new skaters or those who skate for fun.
Maintenance is key for bearing health. Cleaning and oiling them twice a year, or more for heavy use, is wise. This keeps them working well for a long time. Use good lubricants and a trustworthy skateboard bearing guide for the best care.
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!