The Size of a Skateboard Bearing: Don't Let It Fool You!

Skateboard bearings are small, but they play a big role in your skating experience. They allow your wheels to spin smoothly and quickly, which is essential for speed, control, and tricks.

The Importance of Bearing Size

The size of a skateboard bearing is measured in millimeters. The most common size is 608, which is 22mm in diameter and 7mm in width. However, there are also smaller bearings (5mm, 6mm) and larger bearings (8mm, 9mm).

The size of the bearing you need depends on the size of your skateboard wheels. Smaller bearings are typically used for smaller wheels, while larger bearings are used for larger wheels.

Benefits of Smaller Bearings

• Less friction, which means more speed
• Lighter weight, which makes your skateboard more easy to maneuver
• More compact, which can be helpful for tight spaces

Benefits of Larger Bearings

• More durability, which means they will last longer
• Can handle heavier loads, which is important for larger skaters or those who do a lot of tricks
• More stability, which can help prevent your skateboard from wobbling

How to Choose the Right Bearing Size

The best way to choose the right bearing size for your skateboard is to measure your wheels. The size of the bearing should be the same as the inner diameter of your wheels.

If you're not sure what size your wheels are, you can check the manufacturer's website or look for the size printed on the side of the wheels.

Tips for Installing Bearings

Once you have the right size bearings, you need to install them correctly. Here are a few tips:

• Make sure the bearings are clean and free of debris.
• Apply a small amount of lubricant to the bearings.
• Use a bearing press or a hammer and drift to install the bearings.
• Make sure the bearings are seated all the way into the wheel.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when installing bearings:

• Over-tightening the bearings. This can cause the bearings to bind and slow down your wheels.
• Using the wrong size bearings. This can cause the bearings to pop out of the wheels or to grind against the axle.
• Installing the bearings backwards. This can cause the bearings to spin backwards and slow down your wheels.

Potential Drawbacks of Skateboard Bearings

Skateboard bearings are a great way to improve your skating experience, but there are a few potential drawbacks to keep in mind:

• Bearings can be expensive, especially if you buy high-quality bearings.
• Bearings can be difficult to install, especially if you don't have the right tools.
• Bearings can wear out over time, especially if they are not properly maintained.

Maintenance and Care

To keep your skateboard bearings in good condition, it's important to maintain them regularly. Here are a few tips:

• Clean your bearings regularly with a bearing cleaner or rubbing alcohol.
• Lubricate your bearings regularly with a bearing lubricant.
• Inspect your bearings for signs of wear and tear.

Interesting Stories About Skateboard Bearings

Here are a few interesting stories about skateboard bearings:

• In 2015, a Guinness World Record was set for the longest skateboard slide. The slide was 1,000 feet long and was made possible by using high-quality skateboard bearings.
• In 2016, a group of skateboarders skated across the Great Wall of China. The skateboarders used special skateboard bearings that were designed to handle the rough terrain.
• In 2017, a skateboarder named Nyjah Huston landed the first triple flip on a skateboard. Huston used precision skateboard bearings to help him land the trick.

What We Can Learn from These Stories

These stories show us that skateboard bearings are an important part of skateboarding. They can help us to go faster, do more tricks, and even set world records.

Key Takeaways

• The size of a skateboard bearing is important.
• The right size bearing will help your wheels spin smoothly and quickly.
• There are many different types of skateboard bearings available.
• It's important to maintain your skateboard bearings regularly.
• Skateboard bearings can be used to achieve great things.

Table 1: Common Skateboard Bearing Sizes

Table 2: Benefits of Different Bearing Sizes

Table 3: Tips for Installing Skateboard Bearings

Tips and Tricks

• If you're having trouble getting the bearings into the wheels, try using a bearing press.
• If you don't have a bearing press, you can use a hammer and a drift to install the bearings.
• Be careful not to over-tighten the bearings.
• Lubricate your bearings regularly to keep them running smoothly.
• Inspect your bearings regularly for signs of wear and tear.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-tightening the bearings. This can cause the bearings to bind and slow down your wheels.
• Using the wrong size bearings. This can cause the bearings to pop out of the wheels or to grind against the axle.
• Installing the bearings backwards. This can cause the bearings to spin backwards and slow down your wheels.
• Not lubricating the bearings. This can cause the bearings to wear out prematurely.

Potential Drawbacks

• Bearings can be expensive, especially if you buy high-quality bearings.
• Bearings can be difficult to install, especially if you don't have the right tools.
• Bearings can wear out over time, especially if they are not properly maintained.

Conclusion

Skateboard bearings are an important part of your skateboard. They allow your wheels to spin smoothly and quickly, which is essential for speed, control, and tricks. By choosing the right size bearing and maintaining them regularly, you can get the most out of your skateboard.

Additional Resource:

• Skateboard Bearing Guide