Do Ceramic Bearings Make A Difference

If only high quality ceramic bearings are used marginal gains will.

Do ceramic bearings make a difference.

The bearing clearance is a measurement given to the small gap between the inner race outer race and balls. If a cyclist has ridden a bike fitted with ceramic bearings and then returns to steel bearings it is likely that slightly more vibration will become noticeable. However while the ceramic balls will still abrade the steel rings hybrids will cope with marginal lubrication better than steel. On ceramic bearings this is usually a c3 clearance whilst on steel it s usually cn.

Riders using ceramic bearings can also expect a smoother riding experience. It is required to prevent bearing seizure when it warms up and expands. Cost of purchase for ceramic and steel bearings. Fitting ceramic bearings will make the bike feel like it is rolling smoother.

While regular bearings are made from stainless steel ceramic bearings are made from ceramic silicon nitride si2n4. Despite the small difference in design hybrid bearings requirements differ quite extensively from full ceramic bearings. Rolling resistance is the key trump card promoted by ceramic bearing fans. For example while full ceramic bearings do not require lubrication hybrid bearings do.

The only real big noticeable difference between the two is the bearing clearance. This is mostly due to the additional time spent to perfect a quality ceramic ball.