Posted on September 10 2026
Learning how to change inline skate bearings is an essential inline skate maintenance skill.
Inline skate bearings allow your wheels to spin smoothly. Over time, bearings can become dirty, worn or damaged and may need to be replaced.
This guide explains how to remove inline skate bearings, how to install inline skate bearings and how to replace inline skate bearings.
What You Need
- Inline skates
- New inline skate bearings
- Skate tool
- Bearing spacer
- Clean workspace
Step 1: Remove the Inline Skate Wheels
Use the correct skate tool or Allen key to remove the wheel axles.
Take the wheels out of the inline skate frame.
Keep your axles and spacers organised.
Step 2: Remove the Old Bearings
Inline skate wheels normally contain two bearings with a spacer between them.
Use a bearing removal tool or appropriate method to remove the old bearings.
Take care not to damage the wheel.
Step 3: Inspect Your Inline Skate Wheels
Check your wheels for:
- Cracks
- Flat spots
- Uneven wear
- Damaged urethane
If the wheels are still in good condition, you can reuse them.
Step 4: Install the New Bearings
Place the first new bearing into the wheel.
Insert the bearing spacer.
Install the second bearing.
Make sure both bearings are seated correctly.
Step 5: Reinstall the Wheel
Place the wheel back into the inline skate frame.
Insert the axle and tighten it securely.
Step 6: Test the Wheel
Spin the wheel.
It should rotate smoothly without excessive movement.
If it feels tight or doesn't spin correctly, check that the bearings and spacer are seated properly.
How Many Bearings Do Inline Skates Need?
A standard four-wheel inline skate setup requires 8 bearings per pair of skates.
A three-wheel setup requires 6 bearings per pair of skates.
Do Inline Skate Bearings Need Spacers?
Many inline skate setups use spacers between the two bearings in each wheel.
The correct spacer size depends on the wheel and bearing setup.
When Should You Replace Inline Skate Bearings?
Replace your inline skate bearings if they're:
- Grinding
- Rough
- Rusty
- Damaged
- Noisy
- Not spinning smoothly
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change inline skate bearings myself?
Yes. With the correct tools, changing inline skate bearings is straightforward.
How many bearings are needed for inline skates?
Four-wheel skates require eight bearings per pair. Three-wheel skates require six.
Do new inline skate wheels need new bearings?
Not necessarily. Good existing bearings can often be reused if they're compatible and in good condition.
