In this guide, we will talk about the basic factors that you may want to consider when purchasing bearings for the first time. The factors that we are going to talk about will have an impact on the cost and performance of the unit. Keep reading to know more.

Size

Size matters when you go to make this purchase. Depending on the application, you may want to choose the correct bearing size. For example, for most skating applications, 608 bearings are used. They are more common than 627 7mm bearings. On the other hand, other sizes like the 688 are not as common.

As a general rule of thumb, we suggest that you consider a size that is designed for your wheels and axles. In this way, you can easily get the correct size.

Materials

The efficiency of a bearing depends on friction. Bearings made of high-quality material can tolerate a high level of friction. For example, bearings made from steel alloys offer the highest level of toughness.

Apart from this, steel bearings are also very affordable. Additionally, coatings and components made from titanium, ceramic, or bronze can improve product performance, durability, and strength. If you want to get the best deal, ceramic is your best option.

Classification

Some people consider the ABEC rating on a scale of 1 to 9 when purchasing bearings. But keep in mind that this system is designed for industrial applications. So if you need roller skating bearings, you can choose “skating qualified” products. In this case, you don’t need to invest in industry standard high-end products. It is not worth the price you are going to pay.

Number of balls

Traditionally, most bearings contain 7 balls for better balance, durability, roll, and speed. On the other hand, 6 ball bearings roll much longer and produce less friction, making them a great option if you are looking for sustained, high-speed skating.

Bearings that have eight balls can help you tolerate side loads. Apart from this, they are ideal for aggressive turning and high speed. Therefore, you may want to choose the correct type based on your needs. With a little research, you can choose that magic number.

Sealed vs repairable

Here you have two options to choose from. If you opt for serviceable bearings, you can remove the plastic retainers or guards to gain access to the bearings and re-lubricate them. Most of the high-end units fall into this category. You can clean and lubricate them for better performance. Additionally, this practice can extend the life of your product.

On the other hand, the protection bearings cannot be opened. They cannot be cleaned to improve performance. However, if you don’t want to clean up your parents, sealed bearings may be an ideal option for you.

Hopefully, these steps will help you make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing bearings to suit your needs. Be sure to keep these factors in mind when making this purchase for the first time.