Electric skateboards are an emerging trend as a mode of transport, providing an enjoyable and ecologically friendly alternative to regular commuting. In order to achieve the highest performance and durability of an electric skateboard, it is important to invest in good quality bearings. Bearings are essential to smooth rides, less friction, and faster speeds. Throughout this guide, we shall discuss the optimal bearings in electric skateboards, the features to consider and how to select the appropriate bearings in the best way possible.
Understanding Bearings and Their Role in Electric Skateboards
Small, circular components are known as bearings and minimize friction among moving components. When it comes to electric skateboards, the bearings are surrounded in the wheels, and hence they can easily turn around the axes. The overall ride quality is due to these small but powerful elements which affect things such as speed, acceleration, and noise.
In the case of electric skateboards, the right bearings will make a big difference to your ride. Low quality bearings will lead to reduced speed, friction and ride will be uncomfortable. Instead, quality bearings may improve the performance, and your electric skateboard will roll through the air with fewer efforts.
The most important things to consider in Electric Skateboard Bearings
The following features should be kept in mind when buying bearings to fit your electric skateboard:
Material
The bearing material is a critical component of the bearing durability and performance. A majority of high quality skateboard bearings are either steel or ceramic. Steel bearings are tough and not very expensive and provide the best balance of performance versus cost. Instead, ceramic bearings are lighter, smoother and less prone to wear and tear, but they cost more.
ABEC Rating
ABEC rating is a system which measures accuracy of bearings. Better performance and less friction are indicated by higher ABEC ratings (such as ABEC-7 or ABEC-9). But it’s worth mentioning that ABEC rating is not the sole factor that dictates the quality of bearing, particularly concerning electric skate boards. Materials and the general design of the bearing also help to determine the performance of the bearing.
Seals and Shields
Bearing shields or seals prevent the inside part of the bearing to be touched by dust, dirt as well as moisture that may weaken its performance. Although there are skateboarders who use bearings with no seals to reduce friction, sealed bearings are often the best option when using electric skateboards because they can survive outdoors.
Lubrication
Lubrication is necessary in order to provide smooth running of bearings. Greased bearings decrease friction and eliminate overheating. Most skateboard bearings are already pre-lubricated, although regular maintenance and lubrication will allow them to last longer and maintain optimum performance.
Electric skateboard top Bearings
These are some of the best bearings that can be used in electric skateboards. The following are some of the most viable alternatives:
1. Steel Bearings
One of the most commonly and inexpensive electric skateboard products is steel bearings. These bearings are made out of high-carbon steel and are durable and reliable. They are best suited to riders who tend to have a more budget-friendly and dependable attitude. Steel bearings are also quite simple to maintain and provide excellent performance in a range of riding conditions.
2. Ceramic Bearings
Ceramic bearings are a high quality part aimed at performance riders. The ceramic materials used to make these bearings are light, smooth and durable compared to steel. A faster and smoother ride is achieved through the reduced friction due to ceramic bearings. They are more expensive than the other options but the performance and durability advantages they present justify the price to serious electric skateboarders.
3. Precision Bearings
Precision bearings are high-speed bearings, so they are an ideal option when you want to push your electric skateboard to the max. The bearings are much more precise and less resistant and smooth to ride. They are usually produced using quality materials like steel or ceramic and suit people who value speed and performance.
4. Sealed Bearings
Sealed bearings offer the most ideal solution to the electric skateboard riders who often ride in open areas where dirt, dust, and moisture are common. These bearings have rubber or metal seals that guard the inner parts against pollutants, which allow them to be used longer. Sealed bearings are low maintenance and offer easy operation and hence are one of the preferred bearings by daily riders.
5. Hybrid Bearings
Hybrid bearings are the best of both worlds with regards to steel and ceramic bearings. The inner parts are usually ceramic and the outer parts are usually steel. It is a hybrid construction with the smoothness and lightness of ceramic bearings and the power and strength of steel. The hybrid bearing is the most suitable option since it is good in terms of performance and price.
How to Maintain Your Electric Skateboard Bearings
When it comes to the matter of selecting the correct bearings, it is important to address the issue of proper maintenance as well to make sure that they are used long enough and deliver the expected performance. The following are some of the guidelines that will help you maintain your electric skateboard bearings in the best possible condition:
1. Frequent Cleaning: Dust and debris could accumulate on your bearings and lead to their degradation eventually. Washing your bearings with a bearing cleaner or alcohol on a regular basis will ensure that they are running well.
2. Lubrication: Bearings require proper lubrication to minimize friction and wear. Apply lubricant periodically to ensure that your bearings are smooth and efficient.
3. Inspect for Damage: Check and Repair Bearings: Check your bearings frequently to determine whether they are in good condition or damaged. When you see cracks or roughness there, you should change them.
4. Keep Dry: Sealed bearings may provide a level of protection against water, however it is still a good idea not to ride in puddles or wet areas as much as possible. Bearings can be destroyed by water and their performance affected.
Conclusion
The right bearings selected in your electric skateboard can really matter in terms of how you ride. Good bearings minimize friction, increase speed and provide a smoother ride. You have to keep in mind the material, ABEC rating, seals, and lubrication but these are not the only factors to consider when choosing between cheap steel bearings and the expensive ceramic ones. When you take proper care of them and maintain them, your bearings will give you a smooth and enjoyable ride over many miles to come.
In the case of electric skateboarding, performance is the priority. The right bearings will provide you with the most ideal experience, whether you are ripping through the city or cutting down a hill. To learn more about the best bearings and other electric skateboard parts, be sure to stop by Bearmax USA, where we have a wide variety of the highest quality products to ride on.
