AD | If you are buying new skateboard bearings, you may wonder why having good bearings is so important.
The best skateboard bearings are important to ensure that you can skate smoothly and quickly. By spending a little more money on your bearings, you can get more out of your skating and have more fun. Below is more information about good skateboard bearings that you should remember to get the most out of your skating.
ABEC Ratings Overview
The ABEC rating system was created to measure the limits and tolerances of ball bearings used in machinery that spin at high RPMs of 20,000 or even faster.
ABEC ratings are indicated on most skateboard bearings, but a higher rating does not always mean it will give you a better skateboarding experience. There are many aspects of ball bearings that are not reflected in the ABEC system, such as lateral stress handing, impact handling, materials, noise, vibration and lubrication.
A higher ABEC rating (9 is the highest) means the bearing can spin faster, but skateboarding is done at a top speed of 30 MPH in most cases. So the ABEC rating is not relevant for skateboarders. There are other aspects of skateboard bearings that are more important.
Steel
Steel bearings are most common in skateboarding. They are durable and economical. But the quality of the steel can be different based on the price of the bearings. Higher quality steel in the most expensive bearings make it faster and more durable.
One negative of steel is it will rust over time if it gets wet. If you want your ball bearings to last, keep them oiled and do not go through puddles. It also is not recommended to skate in the rain.
Ceramic
Ceramic bearings are tougher and harder than steel. They deform less when there is pressure on them. They also are heat resistant and expand less and have less friction at high speed. They also do not rust when they get wet. These bearings are great for the rain and for fast skateboarders.
On the downside, ceramic bearings are brittle and can break if the board experiences high impacts. They also are more expensive.
Lastly, remember that the best skateboard bearings are well-oiled and clean, whatever the type of bearings you have. Even if you have cheap bearings, you will skate better with them well oiled and clean. Caring for your bearings will always result in a superior skateboarding experience.
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