How do I know if my bike bearings are worn?

Worn out or dry bearings will feel rough, metallic and dry. Sometimes they’re so dry that if you pull your finger fast across the axle you can make the axle keep spinning because there’s no grease inside the bearings to slow it down.

How do I know if my headset bearings are worn?

Bounce the front wheel off the ground a few times: a rattling sound indicates the headset is loose. If the bars lock in the middle and point straight then it’s either too tight or the bearings are heavily worn.

When should you replace bike pivot bearings?

Normally every 12–18 months for the casual once a week rider. But I’ve seen bearings go in 6 months and others last 3 years. Drop that shock out and keep an eye out for yourself.

How long do mountain bike bearings last?

Bike wheel bearings will last for 8,000 miles on average. This can vary to as high as 18,000 miles and as low as 5,000 miles depending on the surface on which they are ridden and the rider’s weight. Notably, sealed cartridge bearings typically last longer than unsealed ball bearings due to separation from the elements.

How often should you grease bicycle wheel bearings?

Most people don’t realize this, but your bike needs maintenance. Your axle bearings needs to be cleaned and repacked with grease every 500 miles (100 on a mountain bike). This instructable shows how to repack your axle bearings and install a new freewheel body (if you need one).

What causes bike bearings to go bad?

Driving conditions – driving through deep water or mud can cause your wheel bearings to fail. Water, mud or other contaminants such as dust or road salt could get past the seals and enter the bearing, polluting the grease and wearing away the bearings.

How long do bicycle headset bearings last?

If you ride in good dry conditions, headset bearings can last 2-7 years, depending on the level of service. But if you ride in wet or dusty conditions, they can only last you 2-3 months.

What is pivot bearing?

Pivot bearings are frictionless bearings that are suitable for pivotal, angular, or oscillating applications. A cantilevered pivot bearing is a commonly used type of pivot bearing for applications such as: gimbal rings.

How often should you grease bike hubs?

This is a very subjective opinion. A standard like “change your oil every 3000 miles” doesn’t exist as far as I know, although here is a suggested one. I ride about 3,000-4,000 miles a year and my rule of thumb is to do the hubs every 300 – 500 miles or so, and the bottom bracket twice a year.

Is White Lithium Grease good for bicycle bearings?

Yes, you CAN use that crap as a light lubricant and seize preventant, but it’s way too thin for use as a bearing grease. If you ask 99% of the population what “white lithium grease” is, that’s what they’ll mention.