SkateAmerica: Skateboard Bearings and How to Clean Them

The only reason why the wheels turn freely is the anti-friction device inserted between each wheel and axle

. This small device is called bearing. What exactly is a skateboard bearing and how do you keep it performing well? SkateAmerica, a popular online shop of skateboard gears and components, shares with us some facts about skateboard bearings.

Skateboard bearing are small devices attached to the wheels to enable them to roll. It also prevents friction between the wheels and the axle of a skateboard. A skateboard usually has eight bearings. Dirt and moisture is prevented from sticking to the bearing by covering it with either a plastic or metal ball retainer.

Skateboard bearing are classified according to speed rating. Manufacturers differentiate each type by the speed it can produce. Skateboard bearing made in the US or other standard bearings are rated using the ABEC scale. In the ABEC scale 1 is the lowest and 7 would be the highest. Only odd numbers are used. Skateboard bearing made by Swiss engineers are all rated 7 which means only pro skateboarders should be using them.

Beginners may think that skateboard wheels can turn without the use of bearings. True. But the main function of bearings is to provide maximum speed with only minimal push from the rider. It triples the force the rider initiates. A standard skateboard should have two bearings on each wheel.

Dust, dirt, and moisture can decrease the functionality of your skateboard bearings. To prevent this from happening, you have to regularly remove the plastic bearing cover to expose the bearings and use a clean paper towel to scrub of the dirt. You also have to store your skateboard on a clean, dry place. Moisture can cause rusting of the bearings, minimizing its ability to provide speed.

To ensure optimum performance of your skateboard bearings, you have to care for it regularly. First, you have to remove the plastic cover of the bearings using a safety pin or a thumb tack. Be careful in detaching the cover because it might get damaged. Like mentioned earlier, take a clean, dry paper towel and use it to scrub off dirt and dust from the metal bearings. You can also use an old toothbrush to scrub.

Use mineral spirits or a special bearing cleaner to clean them thoroughly. Take a clean jar and pour and adequate amount of cleaner. Soak the bearings into the jar. Close it tightly and shake the jar well. Wait for 10 to 15 minutes.

After soaking the bearings well into the cleaner, rinse them using 99% Isopropyl Alcohol. If not available, tap water can do. Allow to dry then apply adequate amount or a few drops of lubricant. To ensure that every part has been lubricated, spin the bearings. Then you can now reattach the plastic covers and attach them back to the skateboard.

Skateboard bearings are very important. Make sure you take good care of them and only purchase good quality bearings. Check out SkateAmerica for excellent skateboard gears and components.

SkateAmerica: Skateboard Bearings and How to Clean Them

By: Clive Power

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