The Ultimate Guide to Skate Bearing Size: Everything You Need to Know
The size of your skateboard bearings plays a pivotal role in maximizing your skating experience. In this comprehensive guide, we unravel the complexities of skate bearing size and equip you with insider know-how to select the ideal bearings for your skating aspirations.
Understanding Skate Bearing Size
Skate bearings are typically measured by their inner diameter (ID), outer diameter (OD), and thickness (W). These dimensions determine the bearing's fit, speed, and durability.
Inner Diameter (ID)
The inner diameter measures the diameter of the bearing's inner race, which fits onto the axle of your skateboard wheel. Common ID sizes range from 5mm to 8mm, with smaller sizes being more prevalent.
Outer Diameter (OD)
The outer diameter measures the diameter of the bearing's outer race, which contacts the inside of the wheel bearing seat. OD sizes range from 22mm to 30mm, with 22mm being the most popular.
Thickness (W)
The thickness measures the width of the bearing. Common thicknesses include 6mm and 8mm, with most bearings being 8mm thick.
Selecting the Right Bearing Size
Choosing the correct bearing size is crucial for both performance and safety.
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608 Bearings (22mm OD, 8mm ID, 7mm W): These are the most common bearing size, suitable for most skateboards, longboards, and inline skates.
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6900 Bearings (30mm OD, 10mm ID, 10mm W): These larger bearings are designed for heavier riders or high-impact skating activities like downhill longboarding.
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608RS Bearings: These bearings have a rubber shield on one side, protecting them from dirt and moisture.
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608ZZ Bearings: These bearings are fully shielded on both sides, making them suitable for wet or dusty conditions.
Bearing Sizes by Board Type
Different types of skateboards require specific bearing sizes:
| Board Type |
Bearing Size |
| Skateboard |
608 |
| Longboard |
608 or 6900 |
| Inline Skate |
608 |
| Scooter |
608 or 6000 (20mm OD) |
| Roller Skate |
627 (7mm ID, 22mm OD, 7mm W) |
Impact of Bearing Size on Performance
The size of your bearings has a direct impact on your skating experience:
Speed:
- Larger bearings have a wider surface area, reducing friction and increasing speed.
Durability:
- Bigger bearings with a thicker W are more robust and can withstand higher loads.
Fit:
- Bearings must fit snugly into the wheels to prevent slippage. Check the ID and OD specifications to ensure compatibility.
Tips and Tricks
- Replace bearings regularly to maintain optimal performance.
- Use a skate bearing tool for easy removal and installation.
- Clean bearings periodically using rubbing alcohol or spray lubricant.
- Carry spare bearings in case of breakdowns.
How to Step-by-Step Approach to Replacing Bearings
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Remove the wheels: Use a skate tool to loosen the axle nuts and slide the wheels off the axles.
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Extract old bearings: Pop the old bearings out of the wheels using a bearing tool or a thin, flat object.
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Clean the wheels: Wipe away any dirt or debris from the wheel bearings' seats.
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Insert new bearings: Place the new bearings into the wheel bearings' seats, ensuring they fit snugly.
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Reattach the wheels: Slide the wheels back onto the axles and tighten the axle nuts using a skate tool.
Call to Action
Understanding skate bearing size is essential for unlocking your skating potential. Use the knowledge from this guide to make informed choices and select the perfect bearings for your skating style and board type. Remember to stay on top of bearing maintenance and replacement to enhance your ride.
