Longboard bearings might seem like a minor component, but a high-quality set can significantly enhance your ride. They can make maintenance easier and your overall skating experience more enjoyable. Today, we’re diving into a detailed review of the Loaded Jehu bearings, a popular built-in option known for its performance. But are they truly worth the investment? Let’s find out.
The Loaded Jehu bearings are designed with several features aimed at improving speed, smoothness, and ease of maintenance. Their construction, materials, and design choices all contribute to their performance, making them a popular choice among longboard enthusiasts. We will explore these aspects to give you a complete picture of what these bearings offer.
Loaded Jehu Bearings: Key Features
- Rubber Shields: Protects the bearings from dirt and debris, extending their lifespan.
- Chromium Steel Construction: Ensures durability and smooth rolling.
- Built-in Spacers and Washers: Simplifies wheel changes and maintenance.
- Distinctive Pink Color: Adds a touch of style to your setup.
- Price: Approximately $23
Loaded Jehu v2 bearings
Performance Analysis of the Loaded Jehu Bearings
Impressive Out-of-the-Box Roll Speed
One of the standout qualities of the Loaded Jehu bearings is their exceptional roll speed right from the first use. This is largely due to the use of a thinner lubricant, eliminating the need for a break-in period. This immediate speed is a great advantage for riders who want to get going right away without having to wait for their bearings to loosen up.
However, the thinner lubricant also means that the bearings may require maintenance sooner than bearings with a thicker lubricant, possibly after a month or two of regular use. This is something to keep in mind as consistent maintenance will ensure the bearings continue to perform at their best.
Smooth and Quiet Ride
The Jehu bearings are praised for their smooth and quiet operation. They produce very little noise, allowing for a more stealthy ride, which can be particularly appreciated in public areas. This is a significant upgrade compared to noisy bearings, which can often detract from the overall skating experience. The smooth ride enhances the feeling of gliding and control, making skating more enjoyable.
Built-in Design for Easy Maintenance
The built-in spacers and washers of the Jehu bearings greatly simplify maintenance. When swapping wheels or cleaning your bearings, you only need to handle two parts per wheel instead of the usual five (two bearings, two washers, and one spacer). This convenience can save time and effort for the rider. The reduced number of parts to handle is a welcome feature for those who like to keep their gear well-maintained.
Bearings, washer and bearing spacer
The removable rubber shields are another great feature, providing easy access to the interior for thorough cleaning. This ensures that you can remove any accumulated grime, allowing the bearings to perform optimally. Regularly cleaning your bearings can also significantly extend their lifespan and maintain their peak performance.
High-Quality Retainers
The retainers on the Loaded Jehu bearings are robust and can be removed and reinstalled without losing their shape or hindering the bearing’s performance. This contrasts with some lower-quality bearings, where the retainers can easily deform, affecting the bearing’s ability to spin freely after maintenance. The durability of these retainers means that you can confidently clean your bearings without worrying about causing any performance issues.
Loaded Jehu retainer
Minor Issue with Rubber Shields
Despite their many advantages, the rubber shields on the Jehu bearings are not without fault. Over time, the shield on the bearing closest to the hanger might bend slightly due to friction with the hanger. This bending can cause the shield to press against the bearing, slightly reducing speed, and also potentially allow dirt to enter more easily.
Loaded jehu bearings rubber shield
However, this issue can easily be resolved by placing a thin washer between the hanger and the bearing, which prevents any rubbing. While this is a minor issue, it is important to be aware of so that you can troubleshoot it if you do experience it. It’s also worth noting that this issue is common to many built-in bearings, so it’s not a unique problem specific to the Jehu bearings.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Loaded Jehu bearings are a high-quality option suitable for all levels of longboarders. Their fast roll speed, smooth and quiet operation, and easy maintenance make them a great choice for those looking to improve their skating experience. While there is a minor issue with the rubber shields, this is easily addressed, and the numerous benefits of these bearings make them a worthy investment.
If you’re seeking traditional bearings with spacers and washers, check out Bones bearings here. However, if you’re looking for high-performance built-in bearings, you can buy the Loaded Jehu bearings here on the Loaded website. For more information on bearings, check out our guide on all you need to know about skate bearings.
