Two types of ceramic materials there are two materials that are common for use on bikes.
Ceramic ball bearings for bicycles.
Bicycles usually use ball bearings.
When a bike with ceramic bearings goes over a bump the ball bearing which is harder than the steel race that contains it strikes the inner surface of the race.
However many bicycles still use older cup and cone system where balls can and should be replaced with new ones when servicing bearings.
The folks at enduro bearings argue that for bicycles the materials are far more important than abec ratings and that for most applications abec 3 and 5 are appropriate.
Fitting ceramic bearings on your bike may be a bit like fitting a formula one gearbox in your ford fiesta and expecting it to perform as well after 100 000 miles.
This is the case with most shimano hubs wheels they still use the cup and cone system.
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Ceramic which is significantly harder does not have this ability.
Make offer 1 pcs zro2 20mm ceramic zirconia oxide bearing balls ball bearings g5 6000rs 10x26x8 mm ceramic bearing si3n4 bicycle ball bearings 6000 2rs abec 5 14 35.
On a bicycle which is considered a low speed application compared to a formula 1 car or motorcycle engine for example the ball bearing material itself steel or ceramic has little to no effect on the friction of the bearing assembly.
This is different from a full ceramic bearing which would have both the balls and the races made of ceramics.
The silicon nitride used in kogel ceramic bearing balls has a set of material properties making them perfect for bicycle wheel bearings.
This impact leaves a very small dent or pit in the steel race.
Silicon nitride a dark grey material and zirconium a bone colored material.
Most sealed ceramic bearings are actually hybrid ceramic bearings which combine a steel race with ceramic ball bearings.
A ceramic bearing is also harder than steel bearings up to 30 which improves durability and they also don t rust so less maintenance should be required.
The material can be polished smoother than any metal reducing friction and wear.
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