The Ultimate Guide to the Fastest Skateboard Bearings

Introduction

In the realm of skateboarding, speed is a coveted attribute, whether you're shredding down hills, tearing up the park, or simply cruising the streets. And while many factors contribute to a skateboard's overall speed, the bearings play a crucial role.

Bearings are the small, rotating devices that sit inside your skateboard wheels, allowing them to spin smoothly and efficiently. The faster the bearings, the less friction they generate, and the faster your skateboard can roll.

What Makes a Bearing Fast?

Several factors influence the speed of a skateboard bearing, including:

• Ball Count: Bearings with more balls distribute the load more evenly, reducing friction and increasing speed.
• Ball Size: Larger balls roll more efficiently, resulting in lower friction and higher speeds.
• Raceway Design: The shape and smoothness of the bearing's inner and outer races directly impact rolling resistance, with smoother races leading to faster speeds.
• Lubrication: High-quality lubricants reduce friction and wear, thereby increasing bearing speed.

Rating Systems: ABEC vs. Bones Bearings

There are two main rating systems used to classify skateboard bearings: ABEC and Bones Bearings.

ABEC (Annular Bearing Engineering Committee) Ratings

ABEC ratings range from 1 to 9, with higher numbers indicating higher precision and quality. ABEC 5 bearings are considered low-end and suitable for casual skating, while ABEC 7 and 9 bearings are high-end and ideal for performance skating.

Bones Bearings (BONES REDS, SUPER REDS, SWISS, CERAMIC)

Bones Bearings is a skateboarding-specific bearing manufacturer that uses its own rating system:

• BONES REDS: The most popular and affordable Bones Bearings, offering a balance of speed and durability.
• BONES SUPER REDS: An upgraded version of REDS with higher-grade steel and a faster break-in period.
• BONES SWISS: The fastest Bones Bearings, featuring Swiss-made steel and precision manufacturing.
• BONES CERAMIC: The absolute fastest Bones Bearings, with ceramic balls and a low-friction raceway design.

Choosing the Fastest Skateboard Bearings

The best skateboard bearings for you will depend on your individual preferences and needs. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

• Budget: ABEC 5 bearings are the most affordable option, while Bones Bearings are more expensive but offer higher performance.
• Speed: Bones Bearings, particularly SWISS and CERAMIC, are generally faster than ABEC bearings.
• Durability: Higher-grade steel and precision manufacturing increase bearing durability.

Table 1: Comparison of ABEC and Bones Bearings

Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing the Fastest Skateboard Bearings

1. Determine Your Budget: Decide how much you're willing to spend on bearings.
2. Consider Your Speed Needs: If speed is a priority, go for Bones Bearings, particularly SWISS or CERAMIC.
3. Check the Durability: Higher-grade steel and precision manufacturing increase bearing durability.
4. Read Reviews: Get insights from other skaters about their experiences with different bearings.
5. Make Your Choice: Select the bearings that best meet your needs and preferences.

Table 2: Approximate Speeds of Different Skateboard Bearings

Strategies for Increasing Skateboard Speed

• Use High-Speed Bearings: The single most important factor in increasing skateboard speed is using fast bearings.
• Clean and Lubricate Bearings Regularly: Clean and lubricate your bearings frequently to reduce friction and maintain optimal speed.
• Use Larger Wheels: Larger wheels have less rolling resistance and can roll faster.
• Reduce Drag: Remove unnecessary obstacles or debris from your path, such as rocks, sticks, or leaves.
• Lean Forward: Leaning forward while skating helps you reduce wind resistance and gain extra speed.

Tips and Tricks for Faster Skateboarding

• Break in New Bearings: New bearings can be a bit slower at first. To break them in, skate hard for several hours to smooth out the surfaces.
• Use Speed Wax: Speed wax is a lubricant that can reduce friction between the bearing and axle, resulting in higher speeds.
• Tuck In: Tucking in your arms and legs while skating reduces wind resistance and increases speed.
• Avoid Kickturns: Kickturns slow you down, so try to avoid them if possible.
• Pump the Board: Pumping the board by pushing down on the tail and nose in sequence can generate speed.

Story 1: The Boy Who Out-Speeded the Wind

Once there was a young boy named Billy who loved to skateboard. He had a pair of brand-new Bones SWISS bearings, and he was the fastest kid in town. One day, Billy was skating down a hill when he suddenly encountered a strong headwind. But instead of slowing down, Billy leaned forward and tuck