Archive for the ‘Skateboard Bearing’ tag
How to Properly Clean Skateboard Bearings
One of the biggest keys to having a smooth ride on your Skateboard Bearings is having a great set of high quality wheels. However, you can have best wheels money can buy, but if the Skateboard bearings inside are sticking and not rotating smoothly, it can be like skating in quicksand.
Many skateboarders don’t pay attention to their Skateboard bearings unless they stop working properly. So what are some of the reasons your bearings will start to cause you trouble?
The biggest factor can be the kind of bearings you buy. Many skateboarders try to cut corners and save money on their bearings. This is truly the last place you want to be a cheapskate. Quality skateboard bearings matter and will last much longer than a cheap pair. Not only that, but a good pair of skateboard bearings can make the difference between a slow board and fast, smooth riding one.
No matter what kind of bearings you buy, even top of the line bearings, will need to be replaced at some point. This of course depends on how often and how aggressively you skate. If you do a lot of cruising, then the bearings won’t need to be replaced as often. However, if you do a lot of tricks and vert skating, the pressure on you bearings can be pretty intense. They will get beaten up pretty badly, so it is up to you to check them periodically for signs of wear and tear.
You also want to be sure to get the proper fitting skateboard bearings. If the bearings are too tight or even worse, too loose, it will affect the performance of your wheels and the rotation won’t be nearly as smooth. In fact, it can be downright dangerous.
To keep your bearings humming along smoothly, you will want to clean them at least several times a week. Take a rag and wipe off the dirt and grime and be sure to get it out of all the niches as well. Then spray down your skateboard bearings with a shot of WD40 or some 3in1 oil.
If you take proper care of your skateboard bearings, they will take care of you. Your board will be faster, smoother and less dangerous. All it takes is a few minutes a day to keep them clean, and the payoff is huge.