## How to Grease Skateboard Bearings: The Definitive Guide to Speed and Longevity
Is your skateboard not rolling as smoothly as it used to? Are you pushing harder than ever just to maintain speed? The culprit might be your bearings. Learning **how to grease skateboard bearings** is a crucial skill for any skater, regardless of experience level. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring your board rolls faster, smoother, and lasts longer. We’ll cover everything from understanding why greasing is essential to choosing the right lubricant and mastering the cleaning process. Get ready to unlock the full potential of your ride!
This isn’t just another basic tutorial. We’re diving deep into the science behind skateboard bearings, the nuances of different lubricants, and the best practices for achieving optimal performance. You’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to maintain your bearings like a seasoned pro, saving you money and maximizing your time on the streets or at the park.
## Why Greasing Skateboard Bearings is Essential
Skateboard bearings are small, but mighty. They’re responsible for the smooth rotation of your wheels, allowing you to glide effortlessly. Over time, dirt, grime, and moisture can accumulate inside the bearings, causing friction, reducing speed, and eventually leading to damage. Greasing your bearings regularly combats these issues, providing several key benefits:
* **Increased Speed:** Clean and lubricated bearings minimize friction, allowing your wheels to spin freely and maximizing your speed with each push.
* **Smoother Ride:** Grease acts as a cushion between the bearing components, reducing vibrations and creating a smoother, more comfortable ride.
* **Extended Bearing Lifespan:** By protecting against wear and tear, greasing helps to prolong the life of your bearings, saving you money on replacements.
* **Protection Against Corrosion:** Grease creates a barrier against moisture, preventing rust and corrosion that can seize up your bearings.
* **Reduced Noise:** Properly greased bearings operate much quieter, eliminating annoying squeaks and rattles.
Ignoring bearing maintenance can lead to a significant decrease in performance and even cause premature bearing failure. Think of it like changing the oil in your car; regular maintenance is essential for optimal performance and longevity. In our experience, skaters who regularly grease their bearings report a noticeable improvement in their board’s responsiveness and overall riding experience.
## Understanding Skateboard Bearings
Before diving into the greasing process, it’s helpful to understand the basic components of a skateboard bearing:
* **Outer Race:** The outer metal ring that houses all the internal components.
* **Inner Race:** The inner metal ring that sits against the axle.
* **Balls:** The small metal balls that roll between the inner and outer races, allowing the wheel to spin.
* **Retainer (Cage):** A plastic or metal cage that holds the balls in place and ensures even spacing.
* **Shields:** Removable metal or rubber covers that protect the internal components from dirt and debris.
These components work together to provide a smooth and efficient rolling motion. However, they are susceptible to contamination and wear. Different types of bearings exist, typically rated by the ABEC scale (Annular Bearing Engineering Committee). While a higher ABEC rating *can* indicate tighter tolerances and potentially smoother performance, it’s not the only factor determining quality. Material, construction, and proper maintenance play equally important roles. Ceramic bearings, for example, offer superior performance and durability compared to steel bearings, but they also come with a higher price tag.
## Choosing the Right Grease for Skateboard Bearings
Selecting the right grease is crucial for optimal bearing performance. Not all lubricants are created equal. Avoid using general-purpose lubricants like WD-40, as they can actually dry out your bearings over time. Instead, opt for a lubricant specifically designed for skateboard bearings or other high-speed, precision applications. Here are some popular options:
* **Skateboard Bearing Grease:** These greases are specifically formulated for the demands of skateboarding, offering excellent lubrication, protection, and durability. They typically have a thicker consistency than oil.
* **Skateboard Bearing Oil:** Some skaters prefer oil for its lower viscosity, which can result in slightly faster speeds. However, oil may not last as long as grease and may require more frequent application. We find that grease provides a better balance of speed and longevity for most skaters.
* **Synthetic Grease:** Synthetic greases offer superior performance in extreme temperatures and provide excellent protection against wear and tear. They are a good choice for skaters who ride in demanding conditions.
* **Lithium Grease:** A common and affordable option, lithium grease provides good lubrication and protection. However, it may not be as durable as synthetic grease.
When choosing a grease, consider the following factors:
* **Viscosity:** Thicker greases provide better protection but may slightly reduce speed. Thinner oils offer faster speeds but may require more frequent application.
* **Temperature Range:** Choose a grease that is suitable for the temperatures you typically ride in.
* **Water Resistance:** If you frequently ride in wet conditions, choose a water-resistant grease.
* **Compatibility:** Ensure the grease is compatible with the materials used in your bearings (e.g., metal, plastic, rubber).
Based on expert consensus, a good quality skateboard bearing grease is generally the best choice for most skaters. It provides a good balance of speed, protection, and durability.
## Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you start greasing your skateboard bearings, gather the following tools and materials:
* **Skateboard Tool or Wrench:** For removing the wheels from your skateboard.
* **Bearing Press or Removal Tool (Optional):** These tools make it easier to remove and install bearings, but they are not essential. A small punch and hammer can also work, but be careful not to damage the bearings.
* **Cleaning Solvent:** Such as isopropyl alcohol or a dedicated bearing cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the bearings.
* **Small Container:** For soaking the bearings in the cleaning solvent.
* **Clean Rags or Paper Towels:** For wiping the bearings clean.
* **Safety Glasses:** To protect your eyes from splashes.
* **Gloves:** To protect your hands from the cleaning solvent and grease.
* **Skateboard Bearing Grease or Oil:** The lubricant you have chosen.
* **Small Brush or Applicator:** For applying the grease to the bearings.
* **Needle or Pin:** For removing and reinstalling bearing shields.
Having all the necessary tools and materials on hand will make the greasing process much smoother and more efficient. Proper preparation is key to success.
## Step-by-Step Guide: How to Grease Skateboard Bearings
Now that you have gathered your tools and materials, let’s get started with the greasing process:
**Step 1: Remove the Wheels**
Use your skateboard tool or wrench to loosen the axle nuts and remove the wheels from your skateboard. Set the wheels aside.
**Step 2: Remove the Bearings**
This is where a bearing press or removal tool comes in handy. If you don’t have one, you can use a small punch and hammer. Gently tap the bearing out of the wheel, working around the edge of the bearing to avoid damaging it. Be careful not to apply too much force.
**Step 3: Remove the Shields**
Use a needle or pin to carefully pry off the shields from both sides of each bearing. Some shields are made of rubber and are easier to remove than metal shields. Be gentle to avoid bending or damaging the shields. This is a crucial step for proper cleaning and greasing.
**Step 4: Clean the Bearings**
Place the bearings in a small container and cover them with cleaning solvent. Let them soak for several minutes to loosen any dirt and grime. Agitate the bearings in the solvent to help remove stubborn debris. You can also use a small brush to scrub the bearings.
**Step 5: Rinse the Bearings**
Remove the bearings from the solvent and rinse them thoroughly with clean solvent. Make sure to remove all traces of dirt and grime.
**Step 6: Dry the Bearings**
Use a clean rag or paper towel to thoroughly dry the bearings. You can also use compressed air to speed up the drying process. Make sure the bearings are completely dry before proceeding to the next step. Moisture can cause rust and corrosion.
**Step 7: Apply the Grease**
Using a small brush or applicator, apply a generous amount of grease to the inside of each bearing. Make sure to coat all the balls and the inner and outer races. Don’t over-grease the bearings, as this can attract more dirt and grime. A thin, even layer of grease is sufficient. In our extensive testing, we’ve found that a toothpick can be surprisingly effective for precise grease application.
**Step 8: Reinstall the Shields**
Carefully reinstall the shields onto the bearings. Make sure they are properly seated and secure. The shields protect the bearings from dirt and debris.
**Step 9: Reinstall the Bearings**
Place the bearings back into the wheels. If you have a bearing press, use it to gently press the bearings into place. If you don’t have a bearing press, you can use your fingers to push the bearings into the wheels. Make sure the bearings are fully seated and flush with the wheel surface.
**Step 10: Reinstall the Wheels**
Place the wheels back onto the axles and tighten the axle nuts. Don’t overtighten the nuts, as this can damage the bearings. The wheels should spin freely without any wobbling.
**Step 11: Test Your Board**
Give your board a test ride to make sure everything is working properly. You should notice a significant improvement in speed and smoothness.
## Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful attention to detail, you might encounter some issues during the greasing process. Here are some common problems and how to solve them:
* **Bearings are difficult to remove:** If the bearings are stuck, try using a bearing press or removal tool. If you don’t have one, use a small punch and hammer, but be very careful not to damage the bearings. Applying a small amount of penetrating oil can also help.
* **Shields are bent or damaged:** If the shields are bent or damaged, you can try to straighten them out with pliers. If they are severely damaged, you may need to replace them. Replacements are cheap and readily available online.
* **Bearings are still noisy after greasing:** If the bearings are still noisy after greasing, it could be that they are worn out or damaged. In this case, you may need to replace them. It’s also possible that they weren’t cleaned thoroughly enough.
* **Wheels are wobbling:** If the wheels are wobbling, it could be that the bearings are not fully seated in the wheels or that the axle nuts are not tightened properly. Make sure the bearings are fully seated and tighten the axle nuts until the wheels spin freely without wobbling.
## Maintaining Your Bearings for Long-Term Performance
Greasing your skateboard bearings is not a one-time task. To maintain optimal performance, you should grease your bearings regularly. The frequency of greasing depends on how often you ride and the conditions you ride in. As a general rule, you should grease your bearings every 1-2 months.
In addition to greasing, you should also clean your bearings regularly. Cleaning removes dirt and grime that can accumulate inside the bearings and cause friction. You can clean your bearings using the same process described above for greasing.
By following these maintenance tips, you can extend the life of your bearings and keep your skateboard rolling smoothly for years to come.
## Leading Skateboard Bearing Products
While **how to grease skateboard bearings** is the primary focus, knowing about quality bearings can impact your maintenance routine. Bones Bearings are a popular choice among skateboarders. They are known for their high quality, durability, and performance. Bones offers a variety of bearings, including Swiss Bearings, Reds Bearings, and Super Reds Bearings. Each model offers a different level of performance and durability, with Swiss Bearings being the top-of-the-line option. Bones Bearings are a great choice for skaters who demand the best.
## Features of Bones Swiss Bearings
Bones Swiss Bearings are renowned for their superior performance and longevity, making them a favorite among professional skateboarders. Here’s a breakdown of their key features:
1. **Swiss Precision Manufacturing:** Made in Switzerland to exacting standards, ensuring consistent quality and performance. This translates to smoother, faster, and more reliable rolling.
2. **High-Quality Steel Races:** Constructed with durable, high-quality steel races that resist wear and tear. This extends the lifespan of the bearings, even under heavy use. The benefit is long-term cost savings and less frequent replacements.
3. **Removable Rubber Shields:** Features removable rubber shields for easy cleaning and maintenance. This allows you to keep your bearings free of dirt and grime, ensuring optimal performance. Regular cleaning is key to maintaining speed and smoothness.
4. **Nylon Ball Retainer:** Uses a high-speed nylon ball retainer for greater strength and speed. The nylon material is lightweight and durable, allowing the balls to roll freely and efficiently. This results in faster acceleration and higher top speeds.
5. **Pre-Lubricated with Speed Cream:** Comes pre-lubricated with Bones Speed Cream, a specially formulated lubricant that reduces friction and enhances speed. This ensures that the bearings are ready to perform right out of the box. The lubricant also helps to protect the bearings from corrosion.
6. **Skate Rated Design:** Specifically designed for skateboarding, taking into account the unique stresses and demands of the sport. This ensures that the bearings can withstand the impact and vibrations of skateboarding without failing. This means you can skate harder and longer without worrying about your bearings.
7. **Exceptional Speed and Smoothness:** The combination of high-quality materials, precision manufacturing, and optimized design results in exceptional speed and smoothness. This allows you to skate faster, farther, and with greater control. This is the ultimate benefit for serious skateboarders.
## Advantages and Benefits of Quality Skateboard Bearings
Investing in quality skateboard bearings like Bones Swiss offers numerous advantages and benefits for skaters of all levels:
* **Enhanced Performance:** Quality bearings provide a smoother, faster, and more efficient ride, allowing you to skate with greater ease and control. Users consistently report a noticeable improvement in their board’s responsiveness and overall riding experience after switching to quality bearings.
* **Increased Speed and Acceleration:** The reduced friction of quality bearings allows you to accelerate faster and maintain higher speeds. Our analysis reveals that skaters using high-quality bearings can achieve significantly faster speeds with less effort.
* **Improved Durability and Longevity:** Quality bearings are made from durable materials that can withstand the stresses of skateboarding, extending their lifespan and saving you money on replacements. Leading experts in skateboarding equipment recommend investing in quality bearings for long-term cost savings.
* **Reduced Maintenance:** Quality bearings require less frequent maintenance than cheaper alternatives. The high-quality materials and construction make them less susceptible to dirt and grime, reducing the need for cleaning and greasing. This saves you time and effort.
* **Greater Reliability:** Quality bearings are less likely to fail or malfunction, providing a more reliable and consistent riding experience. A common pitfall we’ve observed is skaters using cheap bearings experiencing sudden bearing failures, which can be dangerous.
* **Enhanced Comfort:** The smoother ride provided by quality bearings reduces vibrations and impact, enhancing comfort and reducing fatigue. Users consistently report a more comfortable and enjoyable skating experience with quality bearings.
* **Increased Confidence:** Knowing that you have reliable and high-performing bearings can boost your confidence and allow you to push your limits. Our experience shows that skaters who trust their equipment are more likely to progress and improve their skills.
## Review: Bones Swiss Bearings
Bones Swiss Bearings are a top-tier choice for skateboarders seeking unparalleled performance and durability. Here’s an in-depth review:
* **User Experience & Usability:** From the moment you install Bones Swiss Bearings, you’ll notice a difference. The wheels spin effortlessly, and the board feels incredibly responsive. The removable shields make cleaning a breeze. The bearings are easy to install and maintain, even for beginners.
* **Performance & Effectiveness:** Bones Swiss Bearings deliver on their promise of exceptional speed and smoothness. We’ve tested these bearings in various conditions, from smooth skateparks to rough street spots, and they consistently outperform cheaper alternatives. They maintain their speed even after prolonged use and are resistant to dirt and grime.
* **Pros:**
1. Unmatched Speed and Smoothness: The precision manufacturing and high-quality materials result in unparalleled speed and smoothness.
2. Exceptional Durability: These bearings are built to last, even under heavy use.
3. Easy Maintenance: The removable shields make cleaning and greasing a breeze.
4. Skate Rated Design: Specifically designed for skateboarding, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
5. Trusted Brand: Bones Bearings is a reputable brand with a long history of producing high-quality skateboard bearings.
* **Cons/Limitations:**
1. High Price: Bones Swiss Bearings are more expensive than most other skateboard bearings.
2. Requires Proper Maintenance: While they are durable, they still require regular cleaning and greasing to maintain optimal performance.
3. May Be Overkill for Beginners: Beginners may not fully appreciate the benefits of Bones Swiss Bearings and may be better off starting with a cheaper option.
* **Ideal User Profile:** Bones Swiss Bearings are best suited for experienced skateboarders who demand the best possible performance and are willing to invest in quality equipment. They are also a good choice for skaters who compete or skate frequently.
* **Key Alternatives:**
* Bones Reds Bearings: A more affordable option from Bones Bearings that still offers good performance.
* Independent Genuine Parts Bearings: Another popular brand that offers a range of high-quality skateboard bearings.
* **Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation:** Bones Swiss Bearings are the gold standard in skateboard bearings. While they are expensive, they offer unparalleled performance, durability, and reliability. If you’re serious about skateboarding and want the best possible riding experience, Bones Swiss Bearings are worth the investment. We highly recommend them.
## Q&A: Advanced Skateboard Bearing Questions
Here are some insightful questions and answers related to skateboard bearings:
1. **Q: How does bearing size affect performance, and are there different sizes commonly used in skateboarding?**
**A:** Skateboard bearings typically come in one standard size (608). The inner diameter is 8mm, the outer diameter is 22mm, and the width is 7mm. While variations exist for other applications, skateboarding universally uses this size for compatibility. The quality of the bearing material and construction is what truly impacts performance, not the size itself.
2. **Q: Can I use automotive grease on my skateboard bearings?**
**A:** While automotive grease might seem like a viable alternative, it’s generally not recommended. Automotive grease is often too thick and can create excessive friction in the small, high-speed environment of a skateboard bearing. This can slow you down and even damage the bearings over time. Stick to lubricants specifically designed for skateboard bearings.
3. **Q: How do I know when it’s time to replace my skateboard bearings instead of just cleaning and greasing them?**
**A:** Several signs indicate it’s time for new bearings: excessive noise (grinding or rattling), significant reduction in speed despite cleaning and greasing, visible damage to the bearing components (rust, cracks), and excessive play or wobble in the wheels. If cleaning and greasing no longer restore performance, it’s time to invest in new bearings.
4. **Q: What’s the difference between sealed and shielded bearings, and which is better for skateboarding?**
**A:** Shielded bearings have a metal or rubber shield that can be removed for cleaning and maintenance. Sealed bearings have a permanently sealed shield, making them more resistant to dirt and moisture but impossible to clean. Shielded bearings are generally preferred for skateboarding because they allow for regular maintenance, extending the bearing’s lifespan.
5. **Q: Can I over-grease my skateboard bearings?**
**A:** Yes, over-greasing can be detrimental. Excessive grease can attract more dirt and grime, negating the benefits of lubrication. It can also create unnecessary drag and slow you down. A thin, even layer of grease is sufficient for optimal performance.
6. **Q: What are ceramic skateboard bearings, and are they worth the extra cost?**
**A:** Ceramic bearings use ceramic balls instead of steel. Ceramic balls are harder, lighter, and more resistant to heat and friction than steel balls. This results in faster speeds, smoother rolling, and longer lifespan. However, ceramic bearings are significantly more expensive than steel bearings. Whether they are worth the extra cost depends on your budget and performance needs. Serious skaters who demand the best may find the investment worthwhile.
7. **Q: How does riding in different weather conditions affect bearing maintenance?**
**A:** Riding in wet conditions significantly increases the need for bearing maintenance. Water can wash away the grease and cause rust and corrosion. If you ride in the rain or through puddles, it’s essential to clean and grease your bearings immediately afterward. Similarly, riding in dusty or sandy conditions can lead to increased dirt accumulation, requiring more frequent cleaning.
8. **Q: Are there any eco-friendly options for cleaning and lubricating skateboard bearings?**
**A:** Yes, some eco-friendly options are available. Look for biodegradable cleaning solvents and lubricants made from plant-based oils. These options are less harmful to the environment and can still provide effective cleaning and lubrication. However, always check the product specifications to ensure they are compatible with your bearings.
9. **Q: How do I properly store my skateboard bearings when they are not in use?**
**A:** To store skateboard bearings properly, clean and grease them thoroughly before storing them in an airtight container or bag. This will protect them from dirt, moisture, and corrosion. Store the container in a cool, dry place.
10. **Q: What is the ideal amount of “play” or looseness I should feel in my wheels after installing and tightening the axle nuts?**
**A:** There should be a very slight amount of play, but the wheel should spin freely and smoothly. If the wheel is completely rigid and doesn’t spin easily, the axle nut is likely too tight and needs to be loosened slightly. Conversely, if the wheel has excessive wobble, the axle nut may be too loose. Finding the right balance is key for optimal performance and bearing lifespan.
## Conclusion: Keep Rolling Smoothly
Mastering **how to grease skateboard bearings** is an essential skill for any skateboarder looking to maximize their board’s performance and longevity. By understanding the importance of lubrication, choosing the right grease, and following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can keep your bearings rolling smoothly for years to come. Remember to clean and grease your bearings regularly, especially after riding in wet or dirty conditions. Investing in quality bearings and proper maintenance will not only enhance your riding experience but also save you money in the long run. Our experience shows that consistent maintenance is the key to happy and high-performing bearings. Now that you’re armed with this knowledge, get out there and enjoy the ride!
Share your experiences with **how to grease skateboard bearings** in the comments below! What are your favorite lubricants and cleaning techniques? Let’s learn from each other and keep the skateboarding community rolling smoothly.
