Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do ceramic bottom brackets make a difference?
Yes, ceramic bottom brackets offer several advantages over steel bearings. They have rounder balls for lower resistance, better races for lower resistance, and are grease-efficient in low RPM and low heat environments. This results in lower resistance and improved performance in bicycle bottom bracket applications.
2. How long do ceramic bottom brackets last?
Ceramic bottom brackets, like those from CeramicSpeed, generally last five times longer than standard bearings. They should be maintained every 5,000-8,000 km or 3,000-5,000 miles. For most riders, CeramicSpeed headset bearings can be maintained once per year.
3. What are the benefits of ceramic speed bottom brackets?
CeramicSpeed bottom brackets offer several benefits. They come in a coated version for even longer lifetime and lower friction. The coating is a thin metallic layer that is 75% harder than hardened-steel races, providing improved performance compared to non-coated ceramic bottom brackets.
4. What is a disadvantage of ceramic bearings?
One disadvantage of ceramic bearings is their brittleness. They can be prone to sudden failure caused by cracking at higher speeds. This limits their maximum speed to 20-25% lower than all-steel equivalents. Sudden shocks on ceramic bearings can cause brinelling.
5. Why do bikers carry ceramic ball bearings?
Bikers carry ceramic ball bearings because they offer lower friction at high RPM. The smooth surface and uniform size of ceramic bearings distribute the load evenly across the balls, reducing friction caused by imperfections. This translates to less power needed to spin the bearing.
6. Why are ceramic bearings so expensive?
The cost difference between ceramic and steel bearings is mainly due to the additional time spent perfecting a quality ceramic ball. Ceramic balls go through a polishing process that takes weeks to achieve a smooth and polished surface, resulting in higher manufacturing costs.
7. How many watts does a ceramic bottom bracket save?
Ceramic bottom brackets, like those from CeramicSpeed, offer power savings of between 10-12 watts. This translates to a more efficient transfer of power from the pedals to the wheels, resulting in improved performance and faster speeds.
8. Does CeramicSpeed make you faster?
Yes, CeramicSpeed can make you faster. The smooth and uniform surface of ceramic bearings creates less resistance compared to steel bearings, allowing for a more efficient transfer of power. This means less energy expended by the rider and ultimately faster speeds.
9. Do full ceramic bearings need lubrication?
No, full ceramic bearings do not need lubrication to run. Ceramic is non-porous and virtually frictionless, unlike steel. It also dissipates heat quickly. Therefore, full ceramic bearings can be run completely dry without the need for lubrication.
