The Ultimate Guide to Bearings of a Skateboard

The bearings of a skateboard are a key component that allows the wheels to rotate smoothly and efficiently. They are typically made of stainless steel or ceramic and are rated based on their ABEC rating. The higher the ABEC rating, the better the precision and quality of the bearing.

Basic Concepts of Bearings of a Skateboard

Bearings are responsible for reducing friction between the wheel and the axle. The most common type of bearing used in skateboards is a ball bearing. Composed of a set of steel balls held in place by an outer and inner ring, these bearings allow the wheels to spin smoothly.

Bearing Type	Description
Ball Bearings	The most common type of bearing, and are typically made from stainless steel or ceramic. Abec-rated for precision and quality.
Roller Bearings	Made up of cylindrical rollers, these bearings are designed to handle heavier loads and speeds.
Tapered Roller Bearings	Used in high-performance skateboards, these bearings are designed to reduce friction and wear.

ABEC Rating

The ABEC rating system classifies bearings based on their precision and quality. A higher ABEC rating indicates a higher level of precision and lower rolling resistance.

ABEC Rating	Precision
ABEC 1	Lowest precision, intended for recreational use
ABEC 3	Moderate precision, suitable for most skateboarders
ABEC 5	High precision, for advanced riders and high-speed skating
ABEC 7	Highest precision, designed for professional skateboarders

Advanced Features

Besides the basic types of bearings, there are also a number of advanced features that can improve the performance of your skateboard.

Sealed Bearings

Sealed bearings are designed to keep dirt and moisture out, which can extend their lifespan and improve their performance. The Inline Skating and Roller Sports Association reports that sealed bearings have a lifespan of 2-3 times longer than unsealed bearings.

Bearing Feature	Benefit
Sealed Bearings	Keep dirt and moisture out, extending lifespan and improving performance.
Ceramic Bearings	Lighter and more durable than steel bearings, and reduce friction.
Lubricated Bearings	Pre-lubricated for optimal performance, and reduce maintenance.

Ceramic Bearings

Ceramic bearings utilize ceramic balls instead of steel, making them more lightweight and durable. They also reduce friction, which can improve the speed of your skateboard.

Lubricated Bearings

Lubricated bearings are pre-lubricated with a high-quality lubricant, which reduces friction and improves performance. This can save you time and maintenance in the long run.

The Ultimate Guide to Bearings of a Skateboard