Do Ceramic Bearings Make A Difference

On ceramic bearings this is usually a c3 clearance whilst on steel it s usually cn.

Do ceramic bearings make a difference.

If only high quality ceramic bearings are used marginal gains will. The only real big noticeable difference between the two is the bearing clearance. Rolling resistance is the key trump card promoted by ceramic bearing fans. Riders using ceramic bearings can also expect a smoother riding experience.

The first thing that strikes the eye when looking at bicycle bearings is the difference in price between steel bearings and hybrid ceramic bearings. Fitting ceramic bearings will make the bike feel like it is rolling smoother. Cost of purchase for ceramic and steel bearings. It is required to prevent bearing seizure when it warms up and expands.

Despite the small difference in design hybrid bearings requirements differ quite extensively from full ceramic bearings. However while the ceramic balls will still abrade the steel rings hybrids will cope with marginal lubrication better than steel. Because ceramic bearings are rounder with a smoother surface and more uniform size friction is reduced and that can contribute to a less energy required. Replacing them with low quality ceramic bearings doesn t make sense as they will very soon be worse than the original ones.

While regular bearings are made from stainless steel ceramic bearings are made from ceramic silicon nitride si2n4. For example while full ceramic bearings do not require lubrication hybrid bearings do.