Bronson Raw Bearings: A Deep Dive into Speed and Maintenance-Free Performance

Bronson is a standout brand that specifically engineers bearings for skateboarding. After hearing varied opinions about their performance, I decided to test the Bronson Raw bearings myself, and I can confidently say they are exceptionally good. Designed to be used without shields, the tungsten coating effectively prevents dust and dirt accumulation, eliminating the need for regular cleaning and relubrication. Let’s explore their performance, advantages, and disadvantages in detail. I’ve put them through rigorous testing, comparing them against other well-known bearings, and will continue to monitor their performance over the coming year.

Initial Thoughts on Bronson Raw Bearings

Upon unboxing, the design immediately caught my attention. It’s a departure from the shielded bearings I’m accustomed to, having skated Bones for years. The open design, while not directly impacting speed, is aesthetically pleasing. The orange ball cage, made from non-distortion fiberglass and pure nylon, adds a unique touch. The packaging, which utilizes nitrogen to minimize oxidation, is another thoughtful detail. The only downside was the absence of spacers, which I luckily had on hand. A quick spin test indicated impressive speed and prolonged rotation, and the sound they produce is subtle and not distracting.

The Upsides of Bronson Raw Bearings

  • Exceptional Speed: These bearings are remarkably fast right out of the box.
  • High Durability: They are built to withstand the rigors of skateboarding.
  • Maintenance-Free: No cleaning or relubrication is needed.
  • Distinctive Design and Sound: The unique aesthetic and subtle sound are appealing.

The Downsides of Bronson Raw Bearings

  • Higher Price Point: They are more expensive than standard options like Bones Reds.
  • Sound Preference: Some may find the sound of the exposed bearings less desirable.
  • Lack of Spacers: The absence of spacers in the packaging is an oversight.

Putting the Bronson Raw Bearings to the Test

Initially, I mistakenly installed the bearings with the shields on the outside, which defeats the purpose of the open design. However, after correcting my error, I immediately appreciated how the design allows dirt and debris to escape, preventing build-up. The bearings produce a subtle, almost musical sound as the balls spin, which is more noticeable on rougher surfaces.

The Bronson Raw bearings performed exceptionally well on various wheel types, including OJ’s, Orangatang’s, and Bones wheels. Their speed is immediately noticeable, with no break-in period required. They are ideal for cruising, technical street skating, and park sessions. I also felt the speed advantage when skating my local mini ramp.

Long-Term Durability of the Bronson Raw Bearings

Bronson raw bearings in casingBronson raw bearings in casing

I am committed to further testing the long-term durability of these bearings, exposing them to varied conditions, including dirt and rain. While some users have reported that they last up to a year without needing cleaning, I’ll provide an update based on my experiences over the coming months. The deep raceway channels are designed to prevent the balls from popping out and to handle angled impacts effectively. While some skaters may be apprehensive about shieldless bearings, these have proven to be quite robust.

Update: After a full year of use without maintenance, the Bronson Raw bearings are still performing flawlessly!

The Maintenance-Free Advantage

The Bronson Raw bearings are designed to eliminate the need for maintenance. The tungsten-coated races provide extreme friction resistance and are incredibly durable, withstanding high temperatures. The shieldless design allows dirt to exit freely, while a non-stick dry lubricant ensures smooth operation. Cleaning and lubricating these bearings is not recommended, as the special coating is designed to last. They are very resilient to water, and even if rust appears, they can be restored by boiling and baking them dry.

Bronson Bearings: A Solid Alternative

Initially, there was some skepticism about Bronson bearings, but this perception is shifting. Bronson bearings are proving to be just as effective as Bones bearings. For example, the Bronson G2’s often outlast Bones Reds, and their ceramic options are comparable to Bones but are more affordable.

Bronson Raw vs. Bones Bearings: A Comparison

Bronson vs Bones bearingsBronson vs Bones bearings

The Bronson Raw bearings position themselves well between Bones Super Reds and Bones Swiss 6 Balls. They outperform the Super Reds but may not match the Swiss 6 in absolute performance. Both brands offer high-quality bearings; however, the Bronson Raw bearings provide a true open design, whereas Bones bearings have a thin plastic layer over the balls. From a budget perspective, I would choose the Bronson Raw over the Swiss 6.

Should You Invest in Bronson Raw Bearings?

If you have the budget, the Bronson Raw bearings are an excellent investment. They offer speed, strength, and longevity, often lasting for years without needing replacement. While top-tier bearings don’t automatically improve skating skills, they do enhance the overall experience by ensuring a smoother ride and maintaining speed. The higher initial cost is offset by their durability and the convenience of not needing frequent replacements.

Instead of buying cheap bearings that require replacing every 6 to 12 months, or spending time and money on cleaning tools, the Bronson Raw bearings offer a superior, maintenance-free alternative. Their ability to be restored, even after exposure to challenging conditions, further underscores their value. I highly recommend these bearings, just remember to get spacers separately!

Final Thoughts on Bronson Raw Bearings

The Bronson Raw bearings provide a smooth and effortless ride, eliminating the frustration of squeaky bearings. They are specifically engineered for skateboarding, demonstrating Bronson’s commitment to quality and performance. The design, featuring 7 balls deep in the raceway channel, minimizes stress and effectively handles impacts, making them ideal for technical and park skaters. Cruisers and longboarders will also appreciate their speed and durability. These bearings offer a long-lasting, maintenance-free solution for any skateboarding discipline.

Ruben veeRuben vee

By Ruben Vee

Rate this post

LongboardsGuide Team

Hi guys! We are LongboardsGuide team, welcome to our blog. We are here to help you choose the right gear to ride safely, together with Tom creating helpful tutorials and guides for beginners. Everyday I try to share my knowledge about it with all of you.