As a kid, I was convinced that a higher ABEC rating meant faster skateboard bearings. I remember guys at the local skatepark boasting about their ABEC-7 bearings and how much faster they could ride. It turns out that was a placebo effect; in reality, the ABEC rating has very little to do with a bearing’s quality or performance, especially when it comes to longboarding. The real question is, does the ABEC rating system even matter when choosing bearings for your longboard? The answer is nuanced and isn’t a simple yes or no.
I recently had a discussion with David from SkateCeramics about ABEC ratings and ceramic bearings. He reached out after reading my article on why I believe expensive ceramic bearings are often not worth the investment. I wanted to know what an expert thought about ABEC ratings. Let’s delve into what ABEC actually signifies and when it matters and when it doesn’t.
ABEC 7 rated skateboard bearing
Understanding ABEC Ratings for Longboard Bearings
The ABEC rating system, managed by the American Bearing Manufacturers Association (ABMA), measures the manufacturing precision and tolerances of bearings. It uses odd numbers – 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 – with higher numbers indicating tighter tolerances and theoretically better precision. However, this focus on precision doesn’t translate directly to longboard performance. The ABEC rating primarily addresses the ball’s manufacturing precision, not other critical factors like impact resistance, side loading, or the clearance between the balls and races.
Longboard bearings do not typically need to reach extremely high rotational speeds. Most riders won’t exceed 2000 RPM, according to Bones Bearings, making super high-precision bearings unnecessary. That said, completely disregarding ABEC ratings is not advisable. The internal fit and overall precision of a bearing, which is somewhat indicated by its ABEC rating, affect the “feel” and feedback from the wheels to your feet. High-precision components, though, require the materials to be consistent in their expansion and contraction when subjected to temperature changes. Steel races don’t always work well with other materials in this regard, which is why some manufacturers avoid the ABEC rating altogether.
It’s important to note that there are cheap ABEC-9 bearings available online, but the ABEC rating itself shouldn’t be the deciding factor for your longboard. You need to look at the whole package, not just the number.
What About ABEC 11?
The term “ABEC-11” sometimes comes up, but it’s not an official rating. According to my conversation with David from SkateCeramics, there is no official ABEC-11 rating. It’s a marketing term indicating the bearing exceeds the precision of an ABEC-9 but does not have specific parameters to adhere to. Manufacturers using the term “ABEC-11” set their own benchmarks as long as they exceed ABEC-9 standards. It is a marketing strategy used to indicate a bearing is superior to a standard ABEC-9, similar to other manufacturing standards where the highest rating is exceeded to denote something special.
Key Factors for Longboard Bearing Quality
When considering longboard bearings, several factors beyond the ABEC rating are far more important for overall performance and longevity:
Rubber Shields
The ability to remove bearing shields is a key feature that makes cleaning and re-lubricating them easy and effective. If you ride frequently in dusty areas, easily removable seals are very helpful. When dirt accumulates inside, the bearings and cage make contact and create friction. Some bearings, like the Bronson Raw, come without shields, which is suitable for those who need self-cleaning.
Impact Resistance
For longboarders, impact resistance is essential. Cheaper, low-quality bearings often break under impact. While some cheaper brands can handle the odd impact, they’re more prone to failing sooner. Therefore, when choosing bearings, consider how much impact they can withstand for the kind of riding you do.
Price vs. Quality
There is a point of diminishing returns regarding the price of longboard bearings. Spending more than $40 USD is typically unnecessary. It’s more practical to ride mid-range bearings that last six months than expensive ones that don’t perform well for a year. A bearing’s lifespan and durability should be weighed against the price.
Environmental Factors
If you live in a dry, dusty, or wet area, your bearings will suffer more. Dust and dirt lead to those annoying squeaky skateboard noises. Rain and moisture can also affect bearings quickly. When deciding between cleaning your bearings or getting a new set, think about where you usually ride and how much maintenance you’re willing to do.
Riding Style
Your riding style should also influence the type of bearings you need. If you mostly cruise around town, expensive bearings aren’t necessary. A standard set of bearings will work well for leisurely rides. For carving bowls or mini ramps, inexpensive bearings are typically sufficient. However, if you’re a street skater who loves big features or a downhill longboarder, you will need bearings designed for high impact. Brands like Bones Super Swiss or Bronson G3s are suitable for demanding situations. Still, more affordable options can also be considered if they fit your needs and budget.
Bronson raw beargins
Conclusion
The ABEC rating is just one piece of the puzzle. While it measures manufacturing precision, it doesn’t tell the whole story when it comes to longboard bearing performance. Choosing bearings just by their ABEC rating alone isn’t the best approach. Instead, it’s best to aim for a balance of price and quality by considering factors like materials, impact resistance, and ease of maintenance.
A quality longboard bearing is built from good materials, handles side loading, and lasts for a decent amount of time. Focus on these factors over the ABEC rating when selecting the best bearings for your longboard. Look for bearings that last and can withstand the stresses of longboarding, rather than just fast-spinning.
Ruben Vee
