The bearing on the left is a bicycle bearing and the one on the right is a standard skate bearing. They both look almost identical so why is it that cyclists don't worry about their bearings rusting after cycling in the rain? This is because bicycle bearing are packed with grease for protection. Skate bearings can also be protected using grease and the ideal type is marine grease as this is used to reverse trailers into sea water to launch small boats.
Q: How do I prepare my skate bearings using marine grease?
A: Follow these steps to prepare your skate bearings using marine grease: -
Start by removing the bearings from your wheels. Pull off the plastic cover with someting pointy then use a degreaser to thoroughly clean the bearings, removing any dirt, debris, any old oil or grease.
Once the bearings are clean and dry, apply a small amount of marine grease to each bearing. Rotate the bearings while applying the grease to ensure that it spreads evenly throughout the bearing. Make sure to cover all surfaces of the bearing with a thin layer of grease.
1. Marine grease
2. Bearing ready to be degreased
3. Bearing packed with marine grease, ready to be wiped and re-assembled
Once the bearings are greased, carefully reassemble them and insert back into the wheels, making sure they are properly seated.
Spin the wheels to ensure that the bearings are moving freely. Wipe away any excess grease that may have squeezed out during reassembly.
Q: How often should I apply marine grease to my skate bearings?
A: The frequency of greasing your bearings depends on how frequently you skate and the conditions in which you skate. In general, it's a good idea to inspect your bearings each season if you skate frequently in wet or dirty conditions.
Q: Is marine grease safe for my skate bearings?
A: Yes, marine grease is safe for use on skate bearings. It provides excellent protection against moisture and helps to keep your bearings moving smoothly, even in the wettest conditions.