All You Need to Know About Bearings on Your Longboard

Longboarding is a gravity-fueled sport that requires riders to stay in control as they cruise down hills or push around town. It’s no secret that bearings on a longboard play a pivotal role in your longboarding experience. With a myriad of options available, selecting the perfect bearings can seem overwhelming.

To assist you, we have compiled this in-depth guide to bearings on longboards.

Understanding Bearings: Types and Sizes

Bearings are small mechanical devices that allow the wheels of your longboard to spin smoothly and efficiently. They come in various types, each with its own pros and cons:

Type	Pros	Cons
Ball Bearings	Affordable, low rolling resistance	Susceptible to dirt and water damage
Ceramic Bearings	Faster rolling, more durable	Expensive, can be fragile
Hybrid Bearings	Combine the benefits of both ball and ceramic bearings	Can be more expensive than ball bearings

In addition to types, bearings also vary in size. The most common sizes for bearings on a longboard are 8mm and 10mm. 8mm bearings are smaller and lighter, while 10mm bearings are more robust and can withstand higher loads.

Choosing the Right Bearings

Selecting the appropriate bearings for your longboard depends on your riding style and terrain:

Riding Style	Terrain	Bearing Type	Size
Cruising	Flat, smooth surfaces	Ball or hybrid bearings	8mm
Downhill	Steep, technical hills	Ceramic or hybrid bearings	10mm
Long-distance	Extended rides	Sealed or shielded bearings	10mm
All-around	Variety of terrains	Hybrid or ceramic bearings	8mm or 10mm

Maintenance and Care

Caring for your bearings on a longboard is crucial for their longevity and performance:

Maintenance Task	Frequency
Cleaning	Every 3-6 months
Lubricating	Every 1-2 months
Inspecting	Before every ride

Success Stories

"Since installing ceramic bearings on my longboard, my average speed has increased by 15%! They're worth every penny." - Brian, avid longboarder

"After sealing my ball bearings, they now last almost twice as long as before. No more worrying about replacing them frequently." - Sarah, casual cruiser

"I recently upgraded to hybrid bearings and noticed a significant improvement in my rolling resistance. Highly recommend them for high-performance longboarding." - John, downhill racer

FAQs

Q: How often should I replace my bearings?

A: It depends on the type, riding style, and maintenance. Replace them when they become noisy or show signs of wear.

Q: Can I use different bearing sizes on my longboard?

A: Yes, but it's not recommended. Using dissimilar sizes can affect the performance of your board.

Q: What's the best way to clean bearings?

A: Remove them from the wheels and use a solvent such as mineral spirits or degreaser. Avoid water, as it can rust the bearings.

By following these tips, you can ensure that bearings on a longboard provide a smooth, enjoyable ride. Happy longboarding!

All You Need to Know About Bearings on Your Longboard