Grease Skateboard Bearings: Best Tips

Grease skateboard bearings is crucial for maintaining smooth performance and prolonging the life of the bearings.

Every skateboard uses eight bearings — two per wheel — and they are all the same universal size worldwide: the 608 standard (8mm bore x 22mm outer diameter x 7mm wide).

Inside each bearing, seven or eight steel balls roll between an inner and outer ring, separated by a cage. A metal shield or rubber seal keeps contaminants out.

Over time, factory grease breaks down, dirt infiltrates, and your bearings become crunchy, slow, and noisy.

Regular greasing is the single most effective maintenance task a skater can perform.

Understanding Skateboard Bearings

Components of a Skateboard Bearing

• Outer Race: The outer race, is the part that fits securely into the wheel, keeping the bearing components aligned and stable.
• Inner Race: The inner ring that fits onto the skateboard axle and allows the bearing to spin.
• Cage (Retainer): The cage is a small part within the bearing that holds the balls in place and keeps them evenly spaced.
• Balls: The small round elements that roll between the inner and outer races, allowing the bearing to spin smoothly.
• Shields: Protective covers that keep dirt and water out and hold the lubricant inside.

Do you know what are the standard skateboard bearings dimensions.

Why Grease is Crucial for Bearings

Factory-applied bearing grease is engineered for controlled-environment industrial use — not the streets, skateparks, and gritty surfaces skaters ride daily. Within weeks of regular use, that factory grease becomes contaminated with dirt, grit, and moisture.

The result: increased rolling resistance, slower speeds, rougher ride quality, and premature bearing failure.

Fresh, properly applied grease creates a thin protective film between the steel balls and raceway that reduces friction to near zero, extends bearing life by months, and restores that effortless glide every skater wants.

SPEED TEST: Spin a dry, dirty bearing — it stops in 2-3 seconds. Spin the same bearing freshly lubricated — it spins freely for 8-15 seconds. That difference equals more push distance, higher top speed, and less fatigue every session.

Tools and Materials Needed for Greasing Bearings

Essential Tools

WARNING: Do NOT use WD-40 as a lubricant. WD-40 is a water displacer and solvent, not a bearing lubricant. It will temporarily make bearings spin faster, then evaporate and leave them bone dry — often dirtier than before. It also degrades rubber seals.

Choosing the Right Grease

Step-by-Step Guide to Greasing Skateboard Bearings

Step 1 - Disassemble the Bearings

To remove skateboard wheels and bearings, use a skate tool or wrench to unscrew each axle nut counterclockwise, then set the nuts aside.

Carefully slide the wheels off, keeping any washers safe.

To pop out the bearings, place the wheel's edge on the axle and tilt it to pry each bearing out.

Step 2 - Remove Bearing Shields

To carefully remove the bearing shields without causing damage, take a thin razor blade or pin.

Carefully insert it beneath the shield's edge and slowly pry it up to remove.

Work slowly around the shield’s perimeter, lifting it slightly as you go.

Avoid prying too forcefully; instead, ease the shield out by gradually applying pressure around the entire edge.

This technique minimizes bending or warping, ensuring the shield remains intact for reinstallation.

Step 3 - Clean the Bearings

To clean your bearings, place them in a container.

Fill the container with isopropyl alcohol or acetone until the bearings are fully submerged.

Allow the bearings to soak in the solution for several minutes to loosen dirt and debris.

Then, gently swirl the container to help loosen the dirt and grime.

If needed, use a soft brush to remove stubborn debris. Take them out and let them air-dry completely before adding lubricant and reinstalling.

Step 4 - Dry the Bearings

To dry your bearings, take them out of the solvent and pat them with a clean rag.

Use compressed air to blow out any remaining moisture, being careful not to spin the bearings too fast.

Finally, let them air-dry completely before adding lubricant.

Step 5 - Apply Grease to the Bearings

To apply grease to each bearing, use a small amount—about the size of a pea or less for each one. 

Apply it sparingly to avoid excess buildup, which can attract dirt and slow down the bearing.

Spread the grease evenly around the balls inside the bearing using a clean, small tool (like a toothpick or pin).

Rotate the bearing gently to work the grease into all areas, ensuring smooth movement without adding too much.

This way, the bearing stays well-lubricated without any sticky buildup.

Step 6 - Reassemble the Bearings

To replace the shields, carefully align each shield over the open side of the bearing and gently press it back into place until it snaps securely.

Once the shields are on, position the bearing over the wheel's bearing seat and press it in.

For a snug fit, press the bearing into the wheel firmly with your hand.

Alternatively, place the bearing on the truck axle, then press the wheel onto it and push down until the bearing is fully seated.

Repeat the process on the other side of the wheel, then securely reattach the wheels to your skateboard.

Step 7 - Test the Bearings

After greasing the bearings and reassembling the wheels, spin each wheel by hand to spread the grease evenly.

Keep spinning until the wheels move smoothly without any resistance or wobbling.

This ensures the bearings are properly lubricated and run well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Greasing Bearings

Over-Greasing the Bearings

Too much grease can create extra friction inside the bearing, leading to increased resistance as the parts try to move.

This excess buildup can slow down the bearings, making them less efficient. It also attracts dirt and debris, which can further slow the bearings and cause them to wear out faster.

Applying the right amount of grease ensures that the bearings move smoothly. It also prevents buildup, keeping the bearings running efficiently.

Using the Wrong Type of Grease

WD-40 and motor oil are not ideal for skateboard bearings because they do not provide proper lubrication.

Additionally, they tend to attract dirt, which can damage the bearings and reduce their performance.

WD-40 is more of a cleaner, not a lubricant, and motor oil is too thick, which can cause friction and wear.

Using a proper bearing lubricant designed specifically for skateboard bearings helps ensure smooth movement and long-lasting performance.

Skipping the Cleaning Process

Cleaning bearings before greasing is essential to remove dirt, dust, and old lubricant.

If left inside, these contaminants can mix with the new grease, increasing friction and reducing the bearing's performance.

Contaminants can also cause the bearings to wear out faster and affect their smooth movement.

By thoroughly cleaning the skateboard bearings first, you remove any debris that could interfere with their performance.

This ensures that the grease can work effectively, allowing the bearings to function smoothly and at their best.

How Often Should You Grease Skateboard Bearings?

Factors That Affect Greasing Frequency

• Riding Environment: If you skate in wet, dusty, or muddy conditions, you’ll need to clean and grease your skateboard bearings more frequently. This helps prevent rust and dirt buildup, ensuring the bearings stay in good condition and perform smoothly.
• Skating Frequency: The more frequently you skate, the sooner you'll need to grease your skateboard bearings to ensure they continue to run smoothly.
• Bearing Type: Higher-quality bearings need less frequent greasing, while lower-quality ones may need more care.

Benefits of Regularly Greasing Skateboard Bearings

Improved Performance and Speed

Properly greased bearings reduce friction. This allows the balls to roll smoothly inside the bearing, instead of grinding against the raceways.

This reduces resistance, making the wheels spin faster and with less effort, resulting in a smoother and quicker ride.

When you properly lubricate the bearings, they perform efficiently and last longer.

Insufficient or excess grease can increase friction, slowing down the ride and causing wear.

Proper lubrication ensures optimal performance and speed.​​

Increased Lifespan of Bearings

regular maintenance and greasing of skateboard bearings not only improve their performance but also significantly extend their lifespan.

This proactive approach can save money by reducing the need for replacements, making it a cost-effective practice for skateboarders who want their gear to last longer.

Protection Against Rust and Corrosion

Regular maintenance and greasing can help skateboard bearings last longer, saving you money in the long run.

By keeping the bearings lubricated, you reduce friction and prevent rust or dirt buildup, which can cause the bearings to wear out faster.

Regular care, such as cleaning and greasing after every few sessions or in harsh conditions, ensures smooth performance.

It also helps avoid the need for frequent replacements. This proactive approach keeps your bearings in good shape, extending their life.

Ultimately, it saves you from the cost and hassle of replacing them often.

Bearing Do's & Don'ts

Follow these rules consistently and your bearings will reward you with fast, reliable, long-lasting performance:

DO's — Best Practices

• Use dedicated bearing lubricant or light machine oil (e.g., Bones Speed Cream)

• Clean bearings thoroughly before applying any fresh lubricant

• Apply lubricant sparingly — just 1 to 2 drops per bearing is correct

• Dry bearings completely after solvent cleaning before re-lubricating

• Use fresh solvent for each cleaning session to avoid re-contamination

• Spin bearings after lubricating to distribute grease evenly across all balls

• Service after any water exposure, even light rain or morning dew

DON'TS — Common Mistakes

• Never use WD-40 — it is a cleaner that evaporates, leaving bearings bone dry

• Never over-grease — excess lubricant creates drag and slows you down

• Never skip the cleaning step before applying fresh lubricant

• Never use water to clean chrome steel bearings — this causes rust immediately

• Never mix different lubricant types in the same bearing

• Never reinstall shields before solvent has fully evaporated

• Never ignore grinding or crunching sounds — service bearings immediately

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What type of grease should I use for skateboard bearings?

For skateboard bearings, it's best to use a lightweight lithium grease or a skate-specific bearing grease.

Can I use WD-40 to grease my bearings?

No, it is not a lubricant and can break down the bearing grease, causing wear and poor performance. WD-40 is a thin lubricant that attracts dirt, which can potentially damage the bearings.

How often should I grease my skateboard bearings?

For most riders, greasing every 2-4 weeks or after 10-15 sessions is a good rule of thumb

Is it necessary to clean bearings before greasing?

Yes, it is necessary to clean your bearings before greasing them.

Conclusion

Regularly cleaning and greasing your skateboard bearings reduces friction and keeps them protected from dirt and rust. This also saves money by helping you avoid frequent replacements.

If you have any questions, you can contact lily bearing.