Ceramic Bearings Vs. Steel Bearings: Which to Choose?
The bearings are one of the core components of the bicycle hub. They play a crucial role in ensuring smooth and efficient rotation in riding. For the bearings in bicycle hubs, the common types include steel bearings and ceramic bearings. Steel bearings have balls made of steel inside, while ceramic bearings have balls made of ceramic inside. Because the balls are made of different materials, the performance and longevity of the bearings are also significantly different. So what are the differences between them? Which bearings should I choose?
Key Differences
Friction
Ceramic balls are rounder, lighter, harder, and smoother than steel balls due to their lack of porousness. This reduces friction as well as energy loss, allowing your equipment to run more efficiently (and for longer) with ceramic ball bearings. Because of their relative smoothness, ceramic ball bearings require less lubrication than steel bearings.
Corrosion
Steel balls will corrode over time, even with perfect lubrication, while ceramic balls do not corrode. In fact, ceramic hybrid ball bearings may last up to ten times longer than steel bearings when it comes to corrosion.
Precision
When it comes to precision, the ABEC ratings of the spindle bearings we use are high enough that the difference between ceramic and steel bearings is minimal. The sole difference is that ceramic bearings will not thermally expand as much as steel bearings. That is to say, at high speeds, the steel bearing may expand slightly due to the heat generated, resulting in insufficient smoothness.
Weight
Compared to steel bearings, ceramic bearings are lightweight, reducing rotational inertia and improving overall system responsiveness.
Durability
Although ceramic bearings are hard, they are also relatively brittle. Impact or excessive loads can cause cracking or fracture, leading to premature failure. Steel bearings are known for their reliable durability and ability to withstand heavy loads and impact.
Cost
Ceramic bearings are significantly more expensive than steel bearings due to the high material and manufacturing costs associated with ceramic materials.
Which to Choose?
Ceramic bearings are better for applications that require high speeds, high temperatures, and longevity. Suitable for races like road, gravel or mountain cross country and marathon.
Steel bearings are better for applications that require heavy load capacity and ease of maintenance. Suitable for high-intensity riding such as all-mountain, enduro, dirt jump or downhill.
Our newly released Rollingstar II hubs are available in two options: steel bearings and ceramic bearings. You may choose the right type according to your needs.