Bearings

Skateboard Bearings

Explore our selection of skateboard bearings from top brands, including Bones, Bronson and many more, exclusively at Xtreme. We're here to provide you with the ultimate skateboarding experience and our bearings are the perfect choice for anyone who loves skateboarding. With high-quality materials and advanced design, our bearings deliver top-notch performance, whether you're a professional or a beginner. Trust the industry-leading brands and enjoy a smoother and faster ride. Discover how premium skateboard bearings can transform your riding experience: your skateboard deserves only the best!

Skateboard Bearings Buying Guide

Skateboard bearings are a fundamental component for those who practice skateboarding, longboarding, cruisers, or surfskating. They are essential to ensure the proper functioning of the wheels, contributing significantly to the overall performance of your skateboard. In this guide, we will explore in detail all the crucial aspects to consider when purchasing bearings for your skateboard.

How Bearings Work

The working principle of bearings is surprisingly simple but vital for your skateboard. They consist of a series of metal balls, typically made of durable steel, housed inside a cage designed to keep the balls aligned. When you spin the wheel, these balls rotate within the cage, drastically reducing friction. The result? The wheels spin smoothly and swiftly, allowing you to achieve your optimal performance.

Standard Sizes of Skateboard Bearings

One aspect that greatly simplifies the purchase of bearings is their standardization. In particular, bearings of these sizes are classified with the number 608. Therefore, you don't have to worry too much about sizing when looking for bearings for your skateboard. All skateboard bearings with a 608 rating have an inner diameter of 8 mm, an outer diameter of 22 mm, and a width of 7 mm, dimensions that fit perfectly on the axles of your skateboard wheels.

What We Will Cover in This Guide

With this guide, you will be well-prepared to make informed decisions when purchasing skateboard bearings, optimizing your riding experience and enhancing your performance. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know to choose the ideal bearings for your skateboard.

The ABEC Rating: Real Gold or Just Sparks?

Before delving into the details of key skateboard bearing components, let's clarify the notorious ABEC rating.

ABEC ratings represent a measure of tolerance, a term that may sound complicated but is crucial to understanding the nuances of bearings. The acronym ABEC stands for Annular Bearing Engineering Committee, which refers to the "Engineering Committee for Annular Bearings." This rating pertains to the precision with which various components of a bearing fit together. A more precise fit means a more smooth and efficient bearing.

The ABEC rating scale is numerical, ranging from 1 to 9 and includes only odd numbers. These numbers indicate the precision of the bearings, with ABEC 1 bearings being the least precise and ABEC 9 ones achieving the highest precision. However, it's important to note that having a higher ABEC rating does not necessarily imply greater speed. The ABEC rating is just one of many aspects that characterize a bearing.

It's essential to understand that the ABEC rating only measures dimensional tolerances in manufacturing. This means it provides no information about a bearing's load-bearing capacity, maximum speed, materials used or type of lubricant. In the world of skateboarding, all these factors are much more determining than dimensional tolerances.

For a clear example, imagine an ABEC 9 rated bearing. If this bearing has to support the weight of a 100 kg skateboarder, it will behave differently than when the same bearing supports a 50 kg skateboarder. And even without any skateboarder on top, its performance can vary significantly. Furthermore, if this ABEC 9 bearing is made of steel, it will perform differently than one made of plastic. The ABEC rating provides us with only a small window into bearing performance.

It should be noted that ABEC ratings were originally designed for industrial applications, where bearings operate in controlled environments. Below, you'll find the actual measurements for ABEC tolerances, but keep in mind that in the skateboarding world, these measurements often take a backseat to other essential aspects.

Here are the actual measurements for ABEC tolerances:

TypemmInches
ABEC 10.0075 mm(0.000295")
ABEC 30.0050 mm(0.000197")
ABEC 50.0035 mm(0.000138")
ABEC 70.0025 mm(0.000098")
ABEC 90.0012 mm(0.000047")

What Does the ABEC rating Really Mean in the Skateboarding World? And What Does It Mean for Your Favorite Skateboard Bearings?

It's fair to say that even a tiny speck of dirt in your bearing can render the prestigious ABEC label completely irrelevant. When it comes to buying bearings for skateboarding, it's crucial to understand that these components are front and center, battling the harsh conditions of the skate environment. So, investing 2 to 4 times more for an ABEC 9 bearing may translate into fleeting advantage.

However, we're not suggesting settling for ABEC 1 bearings. Bearings with a higher ABEC rating typically employ better quality materials and lubricants. These elements can have a significant impact on the bearing's performance over time, especially when subjected to the rigorous tests of skateboarding. Higher ABEC ratings often correspond to higher-quality bearings, as they are typically made from premium materials, lubricants and so on. However, the most common mistake is attributing a bearing's quality solely to its ABEC rating.

If you're still inclined to select your bearings based on the ABEC rating, here are some technical tips:

  • ABEC 1 or ABEC 3 Bearings: These measurements indicate rough and less smooth bearings. While they are more budget-friendly, they may not be the best choice for such a critical skateboard component.

  • ABEC 5 Bearings: These bearings are a common choice in traditional skateboarding. They offer a good balance between speed and durability.

  • ABEC 7 Bearings: Often used on cruisers and suitable for classic skateboarding, these bearings are reasonably fast and smooth. They are ideal for city skate sessions.

  • ABEC 9 Bearings: Precision and speed are the keys for these bearings, making for smooth wheel rolling. They are often mounted on longboards, designed to cover considerable distances with agility.

Remember that when it comes to skateboard bearings, the ABEC rating is just a small part of the story. Your final choice should consider many other factors, including materials, lubricants and, of course, the brand you choose. So, when you make the final decision, keep in mind that it's not just the number that counts, but the experience you want to achieve on your skateboard.

The "Skate Rated" Classification Revolution

Have you ever heard of the "Skate Rated" classification? This term was coined by the innovative company Bones Bearings with the goal of challenging the traditional ABEC scale, which is often misleading. Leading bearing manufacturers know well that the ABEC rating is just one of the many factors to consider when choosing bearings and they, therefore, seek to distance themselves from it. Why? To avoid reducing the quality of their bearings in comparison to those of another company based solely on the ABEC rating. The best skateboard bearing companies go the extra mile to make their products optimal for the skateboarding environment, and this excellence cannot be captured in a simple ABEC rating.

Since the term "Skate Rated" is also a registered trademark of Bones Bearings, in our online store, we have adopted the term "Skate Tested" for all those bearings that, like those from Bones Bearings, choose to move away from the ABEC scale. These bearings are specially designed for the needs of skateboarding, ensuring exceptional performance.

With "Skate Tested" bearings, you can be confident that you are investing in the best technology that the world of skateboarding can offer.

The Main Components of Skateboard Bearings

To purchase the perfect skateboard bearings for your needs, it's essential to understand their anatomy. Knowing the different parts involved will allow you to make more informed decisions when choosing your bearing set, whether it's your first purchase or a later upgrade.

Skateboard and longboard bearings are constructed using five distinct components:

  1. Balls: The balls inside the bearings can be made from various materials, including steel, titanium or ceramics. Their quality and precision will directly impact the bearing's performance.

  2. Outer Race: The outer race represents the outer raceway for the balls. Its shape and machining significantly affect the bearing's strength and durability.

  3. Inner Race: The inner race is the inner raceway for the balls. Its quality and precision also play a crucial role in ensuring smooth ball rotation.

  4. Shields: Bearings can have one or two closures, commonly referred to as shields or rubber seals. These components serve to protect the balls from debris and dirt, thus helping to maintain optimal bearing performance over time.

  5. Balls Retainer or Cage: The balls retainer or cage is the part that keeps the balls aligned and prevents them from rubbing against each other. Its quality is crucial to ensure the bearing operates smoothly.

Each component plays a vital role in the reliability and overall performance of the bearings. Keep reading to discover how these parts influence your skate sessions and how to select the ideal bearing set for your riding style.

Bearing Balls: Ceramic Vs. Steel

Bearing balls are the beating heart of these essential skateboard components and they are at the center of one of the most heated debates in the world of skateboard bearings: ceramic or steel?

Ceramic Skateboard Bearings

Ceramic bearings are known for their ceramic balls, which are considered superior as they are more durable and smoother than standard steel balls. Although these bearings are significantly more expensive, their price doesn't necessarily translate to superior performance.

It's essential to note that "ceramic" refers only to the bearing balls, while the inner and outer races remain in chrome or stainless steel, creating hybrid bearings.

A tangible advantage of ceramics over steel is resistance to corrosion, i.e., rust. However, ceramic bearings are hybrids, and therefore, the inner and outer raceways are still subject to corrosion.

Another advantage of ceramic balls is their lightweight nature, reducing friction and allowing for greater acceleration and speed. Ceramic bearings are generally considered high-end and are preferred by professional or advanced skaters. However, their higher cost makes them less accessible to beginners or occasional skaters.

Steel Skateboard Bearings

Most skateboard bearings consist of balls, an inner ring and an outer ring made of chrome steel, sometimes referred to as carbon steel. Steel is known for its ductility and elasticity, allowing it to maintain its original shape even under heavy loads. Additionally, it's a relatively inexpensive material, with quality bearings costing between 15 and 30 euros per set.

The components of a steel bearing are polished and smoothed to minimize friction. Steel requires the application of lubricant to allow the parts to move smoothly under load and protect them from corrosion (rust).

Most skateboard bearings are made of chrome steel, although there are variants in stainless steel (inox steel) with balls and sometimes raceways made of this material. Stainless steel is more resistant to rust, making bearings of this material suitable for skating in humid conditions. However, stainless steel is softer than chrome/carbon steel, which means stainless steel bearings may not last as long.

Our recommendation is to opt for chrome/carbon steel bearings and maintain regular bearing cleaning. Alternatively, you should avoid skating on wet surfaces to preserve the longevity of your bearings.

Swiss Skateboard Bearings

Swiss bearings represent the epitome of quality in the world of skateboarding. These top-notch bearings have a rich history that traces its roots to the heart of Switzerland, thanks to the company Bones Bearings, which first produced them way back in 1983. The name "Swiss" pays homage to their home country, Switzerland, as these bearings are indeed manufactured in this country, where they originated. However, it's important to note that other manufacturers have adopted the "Swiss" label for their high-quality bearings, but the actual quality may vary depending on the brand, and production may not necessarily take place in Switzerland.

Swiss Bearings are characterized by top-quality materials and extremely precise craftsmanship, resulting in superior strength and durability compared to standard bearings. Their hardened steel balls and precise construction ensure an incredibly smooth riding experience and improved acceleration. Another distinctive feature of "Swiss" bearings is their deeper raceway compared to standard bearings. This means that the entire bearing is better equipped to handle lateral loads, giving Swiss bearings significantly greater durability. Other bearing manufacturers refer to this feature as "deep groove" or something similar.

Swiss bearings are a favored choice among professional skaters and those who don't compromise on quality. These bearings offer an incredibly smooth ride, superior strength and durability compared to standard bearings. However, this level of excellence is also reflected in the price, which is slightly higher. But when you choose Swiss bearings, you're investing in a component that can transform your skateboarding experience, providing snappy acceleration and unparalleled riding.

Open, Shielded or Semi-Shielded Skateboard Bearings

Skateboard bearings offer a choice of three different configurations: open, closed, or semi-closed. In this section, we will explore the fundamental distinctions between these options and how they impact your skateboarding experience.

Open Bearings: Open bearings lack side shields. This configuration provides a "no-frills" riding experience but should be approached with caution. The absence of protective shields makes the bearings more exposed to debris and dirt ingress, meaning they require more frequent maintenance and cleaning to ensure longevity. If you desire maximum acceleration and are willing to pay closer attention to maintenance, open bearings might be your choice.

Shielded Bearings: Shielded bearings feature protective shields on both sides. This configuration offers complete protection against external debris and contaminants, significantly extending bearing life. It's important to note that shielded bearings can be easily cleaned, depending on the type of shield used. Some bearings have metal shields, while others feature rubber seals. Typically, high-quality bearings come equipped with dual protective shields, ensuring optimal protection.

Semi-Shielded Bearings: This option combines elements of both open and shielded configurations. Semi-shielded bearings have a protective shield on only one side of the bearing. This provides partial protection against external contaminants, but once again, they may be susceptible to dirt and debris ingress from the other side. Semi-shielded bearings can be a choice for those seeking a balance between durability and performance, but it's important to be aware of the trade-offs.

The side shields of the bearing not only protect the bearing from external debris but also help retain lubricants inside the bearing. It's crucial to note that a "closed" bearing doesn't necessarily mean that the shields cannot be removed for cleaning. This possibility depends on the type of shield used for the bearing. Pressed metal shields typically cannot be removed, while metal shields with c-ring and rubber seals can be easily taken off for convenient maintenance. Later on, we'll explore the different types of shields available for skateboard bearings, allowing you to make the most informed choice for your needs.

Shieldless Skateboard Bearings: Maximum Speed, Minimal Complication

Shieldless skateboard bearings are the bold and determined choice of true skaters seeking the essence of speed and absolute simplicity. They embrace the idea of pure power and a direct connection between your skills and the ground beneath your wheels.

If you have the desire to dominate the asphalt with breathtaking speed, open bearings are what you need. These bearings are entirely devoid of protection, meaning zero friction from protective shields. And what does zero friction mean? Pure speed and unobstructed acceleration.

Sure, they might be noisier compared to shielded bearings, but that hum is the music of high speed, the symphony of your fervor on the board.

The true beauty of shieldless bearings lies in their extremely simple maintenance. There's no need to disassemble the wheels or perform complex operations. All you need is a small bottle of bearing lubricant and you're good to slide away. After each session, you apply a bit of lubricant, and you're done. Easy, fast, and hassle-free.

There's one detail to keep in mind if you choose this high-speed path: constant lubrication. Be prepared to always carry a bottle of lubricant with you. After all, keeping your secret weapon in optimal condition is the key to mastering every road.

Among the most renowned shieldless bearings, the famous Bronson Raw bearings stand out. They are the choice of skaters seeking the ultimate adrenaline rush without distractions. The road is their canvas, and speed is their masterpiece.

Shielded or Semi-Shielded Bearings: Metal Shields vs Rubber Seals

Bearing closures play a crucial role in protecting and maintaining your skateboard bearing in excellent condition. These "defensive barriers" can be likened to walls that prevent the entry of unwanted debris and keep the lubricants inside the bearing safe. Typically, skateboard bearings come with closures on one or both sides and these closures can be made of metal or rubber.

Metal shields can come in two types: pressed metal shields, which cannot be removed, or metal shields with removable c-ring. These shields offer a significant reduction in friction, resulting in greater speed during skating. However, their resistance to water and dirt may not be optimal.

On the other hand, rubber seals provide enhanced protection and require minimal maintenance. These seals are available in three variants: light contact rubber seals, non-contact rubber seals, and labyrinth rubber seals.

Skateboard Bearings with Non-Removable Pressed Metal Shields (608Z or 608ZZ)

Skateboard bearings with non-removable pressed metal shields, identified by the designations 608Z or 608ZZ, are typically the most budget-friendly option. These bearings come with one or two metal shields that cannot be removed. A distinctive feature of this type of bearing is the presence of minimal initial space between the shield and the inner race, usually concealed by a nut or speed washer. This minimal initial gap allows shielded metal bearings to offer high initial speed as they encounter little resistance from their shields. Surprisingly, they are also quite effective at repelling dirt. However, an important note is that they may not be as effective at protecting against moisture-related damage. Therefore, the speed of these bearings might be affected in humid conditions.

We recommend metal shielded bearings 608Z or 608ZZ for riders on a budget who prefer to skate in dry conditions and are willing to replace bearings more frequently instead of cleaning them. Most bearings of this type come with two shields for added protection.

Skateboard Bearings with Light Contact Rubber Seals (RZ)

Skateboard bearings with light contact rubber seals, designated as 608RZ or 6082RZ, feature a specific design and are characterized by a thin rubber lip along the inner edge of the bearing's rubber seal that lightly contacts the inner race of the bearing. This specific configuration of rubber seals does an excellent job of protecting the bearing and keeping the lubricant inside. Additionally, the "light contact" effect between the seal and the inner race does not significantly reduce speed during skateboarding practice.

Skateboard Bearings with Rubber Seals (RS)

Skateboard bearings of type 608RS or 6082RS come with rubber seals that do not have direct contact with the inner race of the bearing. There is a thin rubber lip along the inner edge of the bearing's rubber shield that does not make contact with the inner race of the bearing. This thin space between the inner race and the rubber seal minimizes resistance. Bearings with these rubber shields are an excellent choice for keeping dirt and debris out, surpassing metal shielded bearings in this regard. However, it's important to note that, similar to their metal shielded counterparts, they may allow water entry, requiring regular cleaning if skateboarding in wet conditions. Removing the rubber shield is a straightforward process: simply slide the tip of a utility knife between the inner race and the shield and lift it for cleaning. Bearings 608RS or 6082RS are particularly suitable for riders seeking maximum speed without worrying about skating on wet surfaces.

Skateboard Bearings with Labyrinth Rubber Seals (RSL)

Skateboard bearings equipped with labyrinth rubber protective seals are identified by the designations 608RSL or 6082RSL and feature a special shield that provides excellent protection. This shield is wider and makes contact with both the inner and outer races of the bearing. The rubber protective shield is positioned inside a "V" or "U"-shaped channel carved into the inner race of the bearing. This design makes the labyrinth shield highly effective at keeping not only dirt but also moisture out, which is why they are known as "full-contact-bearing shields." Labyrinth shielded bearings require significantly less maintenance compared to "RS" or "Z" type bearings. It's important to note that the labyrinth shield, having contact with both the inner and outer races, could theoretically result in a slight reduction in speed due to resistance. However, this reduction is so imperceptible that you are unlikely to notice it in practice. The only drawback of the labyrinth shield is its removal, which requires a bit more attention and caution compared to other types of shields. Mishandled removal could damage the bearing. Therefore, we recommend labyrinth shields for skaters who want to extend the lifespan of their bearings, even if it comes with a minimal reduction in speed.

CodeClosure Type
608 Z1 pressed in non-removable metal shield
608 ZZ2 pressed in non-removable metal shields
608 ZS1 removable metal shield held in with a C-ring
608 2ZS2 removable metal shields held in with a C-ring
608 RZ1 removable rubber seal (light contact)
608 2RZ2 removable rubber seals (light contact)
608 RS1 removable rubber seal (non-contact)
608 2RS2 removable rubber seals (non-contact)
608 RSL1 removable rubber seal (labyrinth)
608 2RSL2 removable rubber seals (labyrinth)

A table with codes commonly used to identify the closure type and quantity. For example, "608Z" indicates a bearing with one non-removable pressed metal shield, while "6082RSL" indicates a bearing with two labyrinth rubber seals.

Protective shields, such as rubber seals and metal shields, play a crucial role in skateboard bearings. These devices not only significantly increase the bearings' lifespan but also extend their optimal performance over time. However, it's important to note that most bearings are sold with a single shield or seal, primarily for cost reasons. In contrast, high-quality bearings often come equipped with two shields, offering significant advantages.

For bearings with a single protective shield, it's recommended to install them with the open side facing inward toward the wheel. This practice can help protect the bearing components from dirt and corrosion, albeit to a limited extent. It's essential to emphasize that, even though the wheel itself contributes to protecting the bearing components, there's still a very small space between the skateboard truck's axle and the bearings. This limited space can allow contaminants to enter the wheel assembly. Once contaminants enter the wheel assembly without protective seals, the bearings can become dirty. Additionally, a minimal amount of lubricant can escape from the skateboard bearings and end up on the truck's axle. Labyrinth rubber seals can help reduce this issue, although they may not eliminate it entirely.

In conclusion, to ensure longer bearing life, we recommend using bearings equipped with two closures. This choice will significantly enhance the reliability and longevity of your skateboard bearings.

Remember that you can utilize the "Bearing Shielding" filter to select bearing models with the type and number of shields that best suit your specific needs.

Inner and Outer Races of Bearings

Skateboard bearings are precision machines designed to provide you with a smooth and fast ride. Understanding the details of the inner and outer races is essential to optimize your performance and ensure the longevity of your bearings.

The inner and outer races, also known as the inner and outer rings, constitute the core of skateboard bearings. They are the surfaces on which the balls move smoothly, allowing you to glide on your skateboard.

These races are made of high-quality steel, ensuring maximum durability and strength. They are designed to withstand the constant stress and wear of skateboarding, but there is an important note to keep in mind.

Skateboard bearings are not ideal for heavy lateral loads. When you apply a lateral load to the bearing, the inner and outer rings tend to separate, creating tensions that could damage the balls. To avoid this issue, we highly recommend using bearing spacers and washers. These small devices will help keep the inner and outer rings aligned, preserving the health of your bearings during the most intense sessions.

Ball Cages

Ball cages, often referred to as "retainers" or "crowns," play a crucial role in skateboard bearings. These components work to evenly space the balls around the race, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted movement.

Ball cages can be made from various materials, such as nylon, steel, or brass. Each material has its distinctive characteristics.

  • Nylon ball cages offer a low coefficient of friction, making the bearings ideal for speed. However, they are less durable than metal retainers and may not withstand wear from rough roads well.

  • Steel or brass ball cages are more durable and suitable for handling road roughness. However, they may have a slightly higher coefficient of friction, which could affect speed.

There are also differences in the removal of ball cages. Some, called "retainers," are permanent and cannot be removed without damaging the bearings. Others, known as "crowns," are easily removable, allowing you to clean the bearings more effectively.

When deciding to clean your bearings, it is not always necessary to remove the ball cages. Simply removing the metal shield protectors or rubber seals will often suffice. Keep in mind that if you choose to remove the ball cages as well, you will need to do so carefully to avoid dropping and losing the balls.

Spacers and Speed Rings

Spacers and Speed Rings are essential accessories for the operation and longevity of skateboard bearings. Understanding their function and the importance of proper selection can make a difference in terms of performance and safety during riding.

Bearing Spacers

Spacers are small metal cylinders that are placed between two bearings on the truck's axle. Spacers serve to protect the bearings and the wheel core from potential damage, especially if the nut on the axle is tightened excessively. Additionally, spacers keep the bearings in place and parallel to each other, which is particularly important when using softer skateboard wheels. In general, using spacers is important to keep the bearings in good condition and ensure a smoother and safer riding experience.

Bearing Speed Rings

Speed rings are small washers that are placed between the bearing and the hanger or axle nut of the skateboard. Their primary function is to reduce friction of the bearings on the axle, allowing the wheels to spin better and more freely. In practice, speed rings help prevent the bearings from pressing against the hanger or axle nut during wheel rotation.

Speed rings are typically already included with skateboard trucks, but they can be replaced if needed.

It is recommended to always use speed rings and spacers to protect the bearings, keep the wheels well aligned, and allow them to spin to the best of their abilities.

Most of the bearings you can purchase in our online store come with spacers included in the package. Additionally, some sets also come with spare speed rings. You can also purchase skateboard bearings with integrated spacers such as "Race REDS" by Bones Bearings or "Hoodoo" by Mindless, which offer a practical and cost-effective solution for your setup. All the necessary information can be found in the product descriptions or technical specifications.

Skateboard Bearing Lubricants: An Important Choice

Skateboard bearings can be pre-lubricated with two types of lubricants: oil or grease. Each of them has its advantages and disadvantages, and it's important to know the differences to make the right choice.

Oil: This is the most common lubricant and usually the faster of the two. Oil provides good durability but has a tendency to leak out from the bearing shields. Beginners often prefer oiled bearings because they tend to test the bearing's spin by rotating it with their hand. This can be satisfying and give the feeling that your skateboard will be fast and have a smooth ride. However, it's important to remember that spinning a bearing by hand is not a true speed test, as it doesn't account for the actual weight the bearing will have to bear.

Grease: Grease is the second most common type of lubricant and is significantly more durable than oil. Grease tends to stay inside the bearing better than oil, increasing its lifespan. However, grease offers more resistance compared to oil, which usually translates to slower rotation when spinning the bearing by hand. As we've mentioned before, this type of test is of little use in the skateboarding world since it doesn't consider real usage conditions.

It's common to observe, especially in our store, beginner skaters taking a skateboard and spinning the wheels by hand, trying to gauge the speed and smoothness of the bearing. Spinning the wheel by hand and timing how long it takes to stop is just a myth! The speed of bearings depends on their cleanliness, lubrication, and proper alignment in the wheel core.

So, which type of lubricant should you choose? It depends on your personal preferences and the type of skateboarding you practice. If you're looking for speed and immediate performance, oil might be the better choice. If you're seeking greater durability and resistance, grease could be the right choice. Remember that the key to getting optimal performance from your skateboard bearings lies in regular maintenance and attention to detail.

How to Clean and Lubricate Skateboard Bearings

To clean skateboard bearings, you need to remove them from the wheel and take off the shields. Next, you can place them in a suitable container or a dedicated cleaning unit such as the Bones Bearing Cleaner or the Bronson Bearing Cleaner Unit. At this point, the bearings should be cleaned using a degreasing agent like brake cleaner or acetone. After thoroughly cleaning them, you need to dry the bearings and then lubricate them. Finally, you reassemble the shields and put the bearings back into the wheel.

As for bearing lubrication, as we've discussed, there are two options available: grease and oil. To lubricate bearings with grease, you should apply a small amount of grease to each side of the bearing. Grease is water and dirt-resistant but increases friction and reduces bearing speed. On the other hand, to lubricate bearings with oil, you can use specific bearing oil (e.g., Bones Speed Cream). Oil makes bearings faster by reducing friction but requires more frequent maintenance as it needs to be replaced regularly. In both cases, it's important not to leave bearings unlubricated, as they can break or seize up. Additionally, you should avoid exposing the bearings to water, as it can wash away the lubricant and cause irreparable damage.

How to Install Skateboard Bearings

Installing bearings on a skateboard is a relatively simple task, but it requires some attention and precision.

To install the bearings, you should place one bearing onto the truck axle and then press the wheel onto the bearing until it slides into the wheel. Next, remove the wheel from the axle and position the second bearing on the other side of the axle. You can insert a spacer between the bearings to prevent them from compressing too much during use.

At this point, you need to rotate and press the wheel onto the second bearing, as done previously, until the bearing is seated inside the wheel. Finally, place the axle nut onto the threads, after the washer, and tighten it appropriately. It's important not to over-tighten the axle nut, as it could hinder the wheel's rotation and damage the bearings.

Simple Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Your Skateboard Bearings

To protect your skateboard bearings and make them last as long as possible, there are a few things you can do. First and foremost, avoid skating in the rain, on wet surfaces, or in humid conditions. Water can cause rust and compromise their longevity and functionality. Avoid leaving your skateboard outdoors overnight or in adverse weather conditions; it's crucial to keep the bearings clean and lubricated. Clean them regularly with a dry cloth and apply specific bearing lubricant to maintain their smooth and free movement. Additionally, you can protect them by using spacers and speed rings, which reduce friction on the bearings and shield them from impacts and excessive pressure. Finally, choose high-quality bearings that use rust and corrosion-resistant materials. By following these simple tips, your bearings will last longer and provide you with optimal performance on your skateboard.

Frequently Asked Questions About Skateboard Bearings

Do I need to lubricate my new skateboard bearings?

No, absolutely not! All the bearings you purchase from our skate shop come pre-lubricated. There's no need to add additional lubricant; you can start skating right away without any concerns!

Are skateboard and longboard bearings the same?

Yes, almost always skateboard and longboard bearings can use exactly the same bearings and are also suitable for cruiser skateboards and surfskates.

What type of bearing does a skateboard use?

A skateboard and most rollerblades or inline skates use size 608 bearings. These bearings measure 22 mm in outer diameter, 7 mm in width, and 8 mm in inner diameter/axle size.

How many bearings does a skateboard need?

Each skateboard wheel has 2 bearings, so you will need 8 bearings for 4 wheels. Bearings are almost always sold in packs of 8, so you only need to purchase 1 pack for one skateboard.

Are skateboard bearings the same as roller skate bearings?

Usually yes, but there are some exceptions. It's always advisable to check if the shields on your bearings are marked with the number "608". "608" is the standard code that identifies skateboard bearing dimensions.

However, when it comes to bearing spacers, the situation can become a bit more complicated. While skateboards have one standard spacer size, roller skates may have varying spacer sizes.

Do skateboard bearings work for stunt scooters as well?

Generally, skateboard bearings fit perfectly on freestyle scooter wheels. However, it's always a good practice to check with the manufacturer of your scooter to be sure. Standard bearings typically have a size of 608. It's important to note that freestyle scooters have only two wheels, unlike the four on a skateboard, so you will need only 4 bearings. Usually, bearing packages for freestyle scooters contain 4 bearings instead of 8 like those intended for skateboards. If you're looking for ball bearings for your freestyle scooter, you can check out our Stunt Scooter Bearings section.

Are "Swiss" bearings actually made in Switzerland?

Actually, a bearing labeled "Swiss" doesn't necessarily have to be manufactured in Switzerland. The term "Swiss" refers more to the fact that the bearing is made on a Swiss lathe. While many companies using this term do indeed produce in Switzerland, it's not a universal rule. Switzerland has gained worldwide fame for its precision machining, particularly in the production of watches and other high-precision parts, including bearings. Swiss bearings are generally considered high quality and often come at a higher price. Buying bearings from reputable brands like Bones Swiss will still ensure you get a high-quality product.

Do I need bearing spacers?

In short, no, they are not strictly necessary, but they can significantly improve performance. You can skate without spacers without any issues, but if you want to maximize the efficiency of your bearings and keep them parallel, using spacers is highly recommended. Spacers help prevent the urethane wheels, which are often less precise, from negatively affecting the rotation of the bearings. So, if you want optimal performance from your bearings, consider using spacers.

Will new bearings make my skateboard faster?

The answer depends on the quality and condition of your current bearings. If you're still using the stock bearings that came with your pre-assembled skateboard, upgrading to higher-quality bearings could result in a significant improvement in speed and overall performance. However, if you've recently purchased a high-quality skateboard with good bearings and have used them only for a short time, switching to new bearings may not yield a substantial speed boost.

There are other reasons to consider purchasing new bearings, such as a preference for grease-lubricated bearings over oil, the need for more effective protective shields or an interest in bearings with integrated spacers. So, while increased speed might be a benefit, there are also other factors to consider when choosing new bearings for your skateboard.

How long do skateboard bearings last?

The lifespan of skateboard bearings varies based on how you use them. Typically, skateboard bearings used daily can last from 3 to 6 months up to 3-5 years, depending on usage intensity. For trick or freestyle skateboards, bearings are often the second most frequently replaced component after the deck itself, with a typical lifespan of about 6-9 months. However, longboard or cruiser skateboard bearings can last for years, as long as they are kept protected from dirt and moisture.

As for downhill or racing bearings, their lifespan usually hovers around 6 months, especially if subjected to intense sliding and lateral loads. Since ball bearings are not designed to withstand heavy lateral loads, regular replacement is crucial to maintain optimal performance.

What are "integrated" bearings?

"Integrated" bearings are bearings specifically designed for skateboards, where spacers and speed rings are already included as an integral part of the inner race. This means you can install the bearings into the wheels without worrying about adding separate spacers. They are a convenient option to simplify assembly and ensure proper component alignment inside the wheel.

Are skateboard bearings on Amazon good?

Amazon offers a wide selection of skateboard bearings, including high-quality brands like Bones or Bronson, just like any other retailer. However, it's important to be cautious of counterfeits and low-quality brands that may be present in the market.

When purchasing bearings from a well-known brand on Amazon, such as Bones or Bronson, we recommend checking that the seller is an authorized retailer to ensure the authenticity of the product. This will help you avoid buying counterfeit bearings that may not offer the performance and quality you expect.

For added peace of mind and to ensure you get genuine, high-quality bearings, it's always advisable to purchase your bearings from a specialized skate shop, like ours, where you can receive expert assistance and access to authentic products.

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