I was a bit skeptical about SpitFire bearings before trying them. The speed and durability of the bearings were the main concern to me. As SpitFire makes bearings of different grades, I decided to try a couple of bearings.
So, I bought the SpitFire Classics and SpitFire Burners bearings. After going on a few days of skateboarding sessions, it is time to share the experience with you. Here is my SpitFire skateboard bearings review that covers almost all aspects.
Let’s get into more details.
The History of SpitFire Bearings
SpitFire started its journey in 1987. Jim Theibaud founded this brand as a part of the Deluxe Distribution Family. After a breakthrough in making skateboard wheels using polyurethane, SpitFire wheels worked to improve them. And they started making bearings that are long-lasting and performance-oriented.
Types of SpitFire Bearing
I have seen three types of SpitFire bearings. These are cheapshots, Classics, and Burners. Cheapshots bearings don’t have high quality, so I didn’t buy them. Here is a quick overview of the other two types.
A. SpitFire Classics Skateboard Bearings
Despite being mid-range bearings, I found them extraordinarily smooth and durable. Though the Classics bearings aren’t faster than Burners, they show excellent heat resistance.
B. SpitFire Burners Skateboard Bearings
These bearings are designed to deliver unmatched performance from their precise construction. Due to the precise machining and dual labyrinth shields, these bearings are extremely long-lasting.
SpitFire Bearings Complete Review
Let’s talk about these bearings in detail.
01. Bearing Dimensions
Both bearings have the same dimensions mentioned in the above chart. The bore diameter is 8 mm, and the outer diameter is 22 mm. They have a width of 7 mm. This standard dimension ensures fast acceleration, good hold of speed, and decent load capacity.
02. Bearing Weight
The Classics bearings weigh about 0.2 pounds, whereas the Burners bearings weigh 0.24 pounds. As the Burners bearings are slightly heavier, they give better stability.
03. Bearing Material
Both bearings have chromium steel rings to be heat resistant. Nylon cages are used to hold the balls, but it would be better to have steel or brass. Though that would increase the weight, I prefer metal cages.
04. Bearing Tolerances
The Classics bearings have an ABEC 5 rating, and the Burners bearings have an ABEC 7 rating. Bearings with a higher rating will have a tighter tolerance, hence higher precision.
So, the Burners bearings have higher precision than the Classics. Check this ABEC Rating Guide for a better understanding of ABEC ratings.
05. Bearing Performance
Though both bearings were very smooth, I found the Burners to be the best performer between these two. With the same push, Burners bearings went much a bit further than the Classics.
06. Bearing Durability
Both bearings were very durable. And it was easy to maintain them due to the removable shield.
Besides talking about the overall bearing, I wanted to go deeper. So, here is how the parts were in these bearings.
07. Bearing Shield
The shield in both bearings was made of plastic and quite durable. It protects the inner components from dirt. // Bones skateboard longboard bearings Review //
08. Bearing Inner and Outer Race
Both the inner and outer races have solid construction. These races are honed and polished to perfection to give the most satisfactory performance.
09. Bearing Ball
The balls used in these bearings were made of hardened steel. So they won’t break down so easily.
10. Bearing Retainer
These bearings have nylon retainers to keep the balls evenly spaced around the racers. As a result, the speed was impressive.
11. Included Components
There is no need to use spacers or washers for these bearings in skateboard wheels, so no spacers or washers come with the package. But if you use them in roller skate wheels, you need to buy those components separately. To see more pictures of spitfire bearings, check Kyle’s gallery.
However, the Spitfire bearing is among the best skateboard bearings for beginners. But I’ll advise you to shift to the more advanced and quality-full skateboard bearing when you have enough money and good skills.
FAQs About SpitFire Bearing
Check answers to some commonly asked questions.
Is SpitFire bearing customizable?
No, they aren’t customizable. So check before confirming your purchase.
Is assembly required for these bearings?
No, they come ready to use out of the box.
Is SpitFire bearing pre-lubricated?
Yes, it is pre-lubricated with high-speed SpitFire lubricant.
How to maintain SpitFire skateboard bearings?
Dip bearings into solvent and wait for some time. Then, lightly tap the bearings on a paper towel to remove the gunk. You can also use an old toothbrush to remove the gunk.
Final Verdict
SpitFire is a popular brand for skateboard bearings. As it was my first experience with the brand, I wanted to share my views on two of its most popular bearings. Among these two, the Classics bearings are a more affordable option. And they perform decently.
But if you really want to go beyond the limit, the Burners bearings are more suitable. They have a higher ABEC rating with more durable rings and honed races.
