To keep your longboard performing at its best, regular maintenance is crucial. One essential aspect of maintenance is knowing how to change your longboard bearings. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of swapping out your bearings and ensuring a smooth ride.
Tools You'll Need:
Before you begin, gather the following tools:
- Longboard tool or skate tool
- Allen wrench
- New bearings (ABEC rated for precision)
- Bearing lubricant (optional)
Reminder*
Find a clean, flat surface to work on. Lay down a soft cloth to prevent scratching your longboard’s deck.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Follow these simple steps to change your longboard bearings effectively:
Step 1: Remove the Wheels
Using your longboard tool or skate tool, loosen the nuts securing the wheels. Remove the wheels carefully, keeping the nuts and washers together for reassembly.
Step 2: Remove the Bearings
Insert the end of the axle into the bearing and gently pry it out. Be cautious not to damage the bearings or the wheel. Repeat this process for all bearings.
Step 3: Clean the Bearings
If you plan to reuse your bearings, clean them thoroughly. Use a bearing cleaner or isopropyl alcohol to remove dirt and grime. Spin the bearings to ensure they move freely. If you don’t have these resources visit How to Clean Skateboard Bearings with Household Items?
Step 4: Install the New Bearings
Place a new bearing onto the axle, making sure the shielded side faces outward. Press the bearing into the wheel until it’s seated snugly. Repeat this process for all wheels. If you are searching for new bearings for your board visit The 11 Best Longboard Bearings To Buy In 2023.
Step 5: Reattach the Wheels
Slide the wheels back onto the axles, ensuring that the washers and nuts are in the correct order. Tighten the nuts using your tool, but avoid over-tightening, as this could hinder the wheel’s ability to spin.
Step 6: Test the Ride
Take your freshly maintained longboard for a test ride. Notice the improved speed and smoother ride after changing the bearings.
Optional Step: Lubricate the Bearings
If desired, apply a small amount of bearing lubricant to each bearing to enhance performance. Be cautious not to over-lubricate, as excessive lubrication can attract dirt.
Why Change Longboard Bearings?
Longboard bearings play a pivotal role in dictating your riding experience. Over time, these tiny components accumulate dust, dirt, and debris from the road, leading to increased friction and reduced performance. This not only diminishes your speed and maneuverability but can also result in an uneven ride and unnecessary strain on your board.
Changing your longboard bearings is essential to restore optimal functionality. By swapping out old, worn bearings for fresh ones, you ensure smoother glides, improved speed, and enhanced overall performance.
Regular bearing changes not only extend the lifespan of your longboard but also guarantee a more exhilarating and enjoyable ride every time you hit the pavement.
When to Change Longboard Bearings
Knowing when to change your longboard bearings is vital for maintaining peak performance. If you notice increased resistance while riding, slower speeds, or an uneven ride, it’s likely time for a change. Additionally, if your bearings emit unusual sounds or feel gritty when spun, they are likely worn out.
Riding conditions also impact bearing longevity; wet or dusty environments accelerate wear. As a general guideline, consider changing bearings every 6-12 months, depending on usage frequency. Regular inspection and cleaning can prolong their life, but changing them when signs of wear appear ensures an optimal ride.
Don’t wait for a compromised ride experience – fresh bearings mean a smoother, faster, and more enjoyable journey on your longboard.
Closing Thoughts
Changing your longboard bearings might seem like a complex task, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it’s a straightforward process. Regularly replacing your bearings will not only improve your riding experience but also extend the life of your longboard. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be back on the streets, enjoying a smoother, faster ride in no time.
