Replacing skateboard wheels is a simple DIY task that saves you money and keeps your ride smooth. This complete guide shows you how to swap bearings and wheels in under 15 minutes using basic tools.
You will learn expert tips for choosing the right durometer, removing stuck bearings, and tightening axle nuts correctly. Follow these proven methods to upgrade your setup or replace worn-out wheels today.
Best Skateboard Wheels for Smooth Cruising – Detailed Comparison
Bones Wheels STF V2 Sidecut – Best Overall Choice
These 99a durometer street tech formula wheels offer incredible durability and slide control. The Sidecut design reduces weight without sacrificing strength. Ideal for technical street skaters who need consistent performance on rough asphalt and smooth park surfaces.
Ricta Clouds 78a – Best for Rough Roads
Featuring a soft 78a durometer, these wheels absorb vibrations from cracks and pebbles effortlessly. The 53mm size provides a perfect balance of speed and stability. Recommended for commuters and cruiser skaters who prioritize comfort over technical tricks.
Spitfire Formula Four 99a – Best for Park Skating
Engineered with proprietary Formula Four urethane, these wheels maintain shape under extreme pressure. The classic 52mm profile offers predictable slides and excellent grip on vert ramps. Best option for bowl riders and transition skaters seeking longevity.
How to Remove Old Skateboard Wheels – Tools & Preparation
Before you start, gather the right tools to avoid stripping bolts or damaging bearings. You only need a skate tool or a 1/2-inch socket wrench for this job.
Essential Tools Checklist
- Skate tool or socket wrench – fits standard 1/2-inch axle nuts
- Flathead screwdriver – pries off speed washers and bearing shields
- Clean rag – wipes away dirt and old lubricant
- Bearing press tool (optional) – makes removal easier
Step 1: Loosen the Axle Nut
Insert your skate tool into the axle nut and turn it counterclockwise. Hold the opposite side of the truck with your hand to stop the wheel from spinning.
Remove the nut completely and slide off the speed washer and wheel. Keep these parts organized to avoid losing small hardware.
Step 2: Remove Stuck Bearings
Place the wheel flat on a hard surface. Insert the flathead screwdriver between the bearing and the wheel hub at a 45-degree angle.
Gently pry the bearing upward, rotating the wheel as you go. Repeat this motion around the entire bearing until it pops free. Never force the bearing—this can warp the wheel core.
Key Takeaway: Always remove bearings from one side at a time. Prying both sides simultaneously can crack the wheel or bend the bearing shield.
Once both bearings are out, inspect the wheel for cracks or flat spots. If the wheel is chipped or unevenly worn, it is time for a full replacement.
How to Install New Bearings and Wheels – Proper Technique
Installing new bearings correctly prevents premature wear and ensures a smooth ride. Follow this exact sequence to avoid damaging your fresh components.
Step 1: Seat the Bearings into the Wheel
Place one bearing flat on the wheel hub opening. Apply even pressure with your thumb or a bearing press tool until it clicks into place. Never hammer bearings—this distorts the internal races and causes grinding.
Flip the wheel over and repeat for the second bearing. Ensure both bearings are flush with the wheel surface. A speed washer goes on the outside of each bearing before mounting.
Step 2: Mount the Wheel onto the Axle
Slide the wheel onto the truck axle with the bearings facing inward. The speed washer should sit between the bearing and the axle nut for proper spacing.
Thread the axle nut on by hand to avoid cross-threading. Tighten it until the wheel has zero side-to-side play but still spins freely with a gentle flick.
Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
- Overtightening – compresses bearings, causing friction and heat buildup
- Undertightening – allows wheel wobble, damaging axles over time
- Dirty hands – transfers grit into bearings, reducing lifespan
Key Takeaway: The ideal tightness leaves a tiny gap between the speed washer and the bearing. Spin the wheel—if it stops abruptly, loosen the nut by a quarter turn.
Once all four wheels are installed, test your setup on a flat surface. Listen for grinding or clicking sounds, which indicate misaligned bearings or debris inside the hub.
How to Choose the Right Skateboard Wheel Size and Durometer
Selecting the correct wheel size and hardness directly impacts your skating style and comfort. The wrong choice can make tricks harder or ruin your cruising experience.
Wheel Size Guide – Diameter Matters
Wheel diameter is measured in millimeters and affects speed and acceleration. Smaller wheels (50-53mm) accelerate faster and are ideal for technical street skating. Larger wheels (54-60mm) roll faster over cracks and are better for cruising or transition skating.
| Wheel Size | Best For | Speed | Acceleration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50-53mm | Street tricks, flip tricks | Slow | Fast |
| 54-56mm | All-around, park skating | Medium | Medium |
| 57-60mm | Cruising, downhill, rough roads | Fast | Slow |
Durometer Explained – Soft vs. Hard Wheels
Durometer measures wheel hardness on the Shore A scale. Soft wheels (78a-87a) grip the ground and absorb vibrations, making them perfect for rough pavement. Hard wheels (99a-101a) slide easily and offer better control for technical tricks.
For most skaters, 99a durometer wheels provide the best balance of grip and slide. Beginners should start with softer wheels (87a-92a) to build confidence without harsh feedback.
- 78a-87a: Maximum grip, smooth ride, poor slide control
- 88a-95a: Balanced grip and slide, good for general skating
- 96a-101a: Minimal grip, excellent slide, best for parks
Key Takeaway: Match your wheel durometer to your primary terrain. Soft wheels for rough streets, hard wheels for smooth parks, and medium wheels for versatile all-around use.
How to Maintain Your New Skateboard Wheels for Longevity
Proper maintenance extends the life of your wheels and bearings significantly. A few minutes of care each week prevents costly replacements and keeps your ride smooth.
Cleaning Your Bearings Regularly
Remove your wheels and pop out the bearings using the prying method described earlier. Wipe away visible dirt with a dry rag before soaking bearings in acetone or bearing cleaner for 10 minutes.
Let them air dry completely on a paper towel. Apply one drop of speed cream or lightweight oil to each bearing shield and spin them to distribute the lubricant evenly.
Rotating Wheels for Even Wear
Skateboard wheels wear unevenly because you push with the same foot every time. Swap your wheels every 2-3 weeks to prevent conical wear patterns that ruin performance.
Move the rear wheels to the front and vice versa. Also flip each wheel so the inside face becomes the outside face for balanced wear across both surfaces.
Signs It Is Time to Replace Your Wheels
- Flat spots – caused by hard stops or powerslides, creating a bumpy ride
- Cracks or chunks – missing urethane compromises grip and safety
- Uneven wear – one side significantly smaller than the other
- Vibration at speed – indicates warped cores or damaged bearings
Key Takeaway: Check your wheels monthly for visible damage. A simple spin test reveals bearing issues—if the wheel stops abruptly, clean or replace the bearings immediately.
Store your board indoors away from extreme heat or cold. Direct sunlight degrades urethane over time, making wheels brittle and prone to cracking during hard landings.
How to Troubleshoot Common Skateboard Wheel Problems
Even with proper installation, you may encounter issues like wobbling or strange noises. Identifying the root cause quickly saves time and prevents further damage to your board.
Wheel Wobble – Why It Happens and How to Fix It
A wobbly wheel usually means the axle nut is too loose or the bearing is not fully seated. Tighten the nut until the wheel has no lateral movement but still spins freely.
If the wobble persists, remove the wheel and check for debris inside the bearing bore. A tiny pebble or dirt clump can prevent the bearing from sitting flush against the wheel hub.
Grinding or Clicking Noises – Diagnosing the Source
Grinding sounds typically indicate dirty or dry bearings that need cleaning and lubrication. Remove the bearings, clean them with acetone, and reapply speed cream to eliminate friction.
Clicking noises often come from a loose bearing shield or a cracked bearing race. Inspect each bearing closely under good light and replace any with visible damage or missing shields.
Wheels Not Spinning Freely – Common Causes
- Overtightened axle nut – compresses bearings, restricting rotation
- Misaligned bearings – not seated straight in the wheel hub
- Damaged bearing shields – bent metal rubbing against the race
- Grit inside bearings – acts as sandpaper, slowing rotation
Key Takeaway: Always start with the simplest fix—loosen the axle nut slightly. Most spinning issues resolve with proper nut tension rather than full bearing replacement.
If your wheels still feel sluggish after cleaning and adjusting, the bearings may be worn beyond repair. Replace them with fresh ABEC-5 or ABEC-7 rated bearings for optimal performance.
How to Upgrade Your Skateboard Setup with New Wheels and Bearings
Upgrading wheels and bearings is the most cost-effective way to transform your board’s performance. A strategic combination can improve speed, grip, and overall ride quality dramatically.
Matching Wheels to Your Riding Style
Street skaters benefit from hard 99a-101a wheels in 50-53mm sizes for flip tricks and slides. Park and vert riders should choose 54-56mm wheels with a 99a durometer for stability on transitions.
Cruiser and longboard riders need soft 78a-87a wheels in 60-65mm sizes for maximum shock absorption. Always match your wheel profile to your primary terrain for the best experience.
Choosing the Right Bearings for Speed
| Bearing Rating | Best For | Speed | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABEC-1 | Basic cruising, beginners | Low | Low |
| ABEC-3 | Casual skating, parks | Medium | Medium |
| ABEC-5 | Street tricks, all-around | High | High |
| ABEC-7 | Downhill, speed runs | Very High | Very High |
Budget-Friendly Upgrade Combinations
- Entry-level upgrade: Bones Reds bearings ($20) + Ricta Clouds 78a wheels ($35)
- Mid-range setup: Bronson G3 bearings ($30) + Spitfire Formula Four 99a ($45)
- Premium build: Bones Swiss bearings ($60) + Bones STF V2 Sidecut ($55)
Key Takeaway: Invest in quality bearings first—they make the biggest difference in roll speed. Pair them with mid-range wheels that match your terrain rather than overspending on both components.
Test your new setup on familiar ground to feel the difference. A proper upgrade reduces pushing effort and makes your board respond exactly how you want it to.
How to Replace Skateboard Wheels Without a Press Tool
Not everyone owns a bearing press tool, but you can still replace wheels at home with common household items. These DIY methods work just as effectively when done carefully.
Using a Skate Tool and Your Body Weight
Place the wheel on a hard, flat surface like concrete or a workbench. Position the bearing over a small gap, such as the edge of a stair or a table corner.
Apply downward pressure with your palms evenly around the bearing edge. Rock the wheel gently side to side to work the bearing out without damaging the hub.
Alternative Tools for Bearing Removal
- Flathead screwdriver – pry from alternating sides, rotating the wheel
- Allen key or hex wrench – insert behind the bearing and push upward
- Old skateboard axle – use as a makeshift press by threading a nut against it
- C-clamp – provides even pressure without hammering
Installing Bearings Without a Press
Place the bearing on the wheel hub opening. Use a heavy book or wooden block on top and press down firmly with your full body weight.
Check that the bearing sits flush by running your finger around the inside edge. If it sits crooked, remove it and try again with more even pressure distribution.
Key Takeaway: Never use a metal hammer directly on bearings—this creates micro-fractures in the steel races. Always use a rubber mallet or a wooden block as a buffer between the tool and the bearing.
If the bearing refuses to seat fully, check for burrs or debris inside the wheel hub. Sand the inner edge lightly with fine-grit sandpaper to remove any obstructions before trying again.
Conclusion: Master How to Replace Skateboard Wheels at Home
Learning how to replace skateboard wheels at home saves you money and keeps your board performing at its best. With basic tools and the steps above, you can swap wheels in under 15 minutes.
Always match your wheel durometer and size to your riding style for the best experience. Clean your bearings regularly and rotate wheels monthly to extend their lifespan.
Grab your skate tool and try the process today. Your board will feel faster, smoother, and more responsive with every push.
Frequently Asked Questions about Replacing Skateboard Wheels
How often should I replace my skateboard wheels?
Most skaters need new wheels every 3-6 months with regular use. Street skaters who do many slides and hard stops may need replacements sooner.
Check for flat spots, cracks, or uneven wear monthly. If your wheels measure more than 2mm smaller than their original diameter, it is time for a fresh set.
Can I replace skateboard wheels without removing the bearings?
No, you must remove the bearings before installing wheels onto a new set. Bearings are pressed into the wheel hub and need to be transferred individually.
However, you can replace the entire wheel-and-bearing assembly as a unit if you buy pre-assembled wheels. This option costs more but saves time during installation.
What is the best way to remove stuck bearings from skateboard wheels?
Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry the bearing from alternating sides. Work your way around the bearing in small increments to avoid warping the wheel hub.
If the bearing refuses to budge, apply a small amount of penetrating oil around the edge. Let it sit for five minutes before attempting removal again.
Do I need special tools to replace skateboard wheels at home?
You only need a basic skate tool or a 1/2-inch socket wrench for the axle nuts. A flathead screwdriver helps with bearing removal but is not mandatory.
A bearing press tool makes installation easier but is not required. Most skaters successfully replace wheels using only a skate tool and their hands.
Why do my new skateboard wheels wobble after installation?
Wheel wobble usually comes from an improperly tightened axle nut or unseated bearings. Tighten the nut until the wheel has no side-to-side play while spinning freely.
If wobbling continues, remove the wheel and check for debris inside the bearing bore. Clean the hub surface and reseat both bearings firmly before reinstalling.
What is the difference between ABEC-5 and ABEC-7 bearings?
ABEC-7 bearings have tighter manufacturing tolerances than ABEC-5, resulting in smoother rotation at higher speeds. They cost more but offer better performance for downhill and speed skating.
For most street and park skaters, ABEC-5 bearings provide excellent performance at a reasonable price. The difference is negligible for casual skating and basic tricks.
Can I use longboard wheels on a regular skateboard?
Yes, longboard wheels fit standard skateboard trucks as long as the axle diameter matches. Most longboard wheels use the same 8mm bearing size as skateboard wheels.
However, longboard wheels are typically larger and softer, which changes your board’s handling. They may cause wheel bite on tight turns unless you use riser pads.
How do I know what size skateboard wheels to buy?
Choose wheel size based on your primary riding style and terrain. Small wheels (50-53mm) suit street tricks, while medium wheels (54-56mm) work for park skating.
Large wheels (57-60mm) are best for cruising and rough roads. Your deck size also matters—wider boards accommodate larger wheels without wheel bite issues.
What should I do if my bearings make noise after installing new wheels?
Remove the wheels and check if the bearings are fully seated in the hub. A bearing that sits crooked will rub against the speed washer and create clicking sounds.
Clean and re-lubricate the bearings if they feel dry or gritty. If noise persists after cleaning, the bearings may be damaged and need replacement.
Is it worth buying expensive skateboard wheels?
Premium wheels use higher quality urethane that maintains shape longer and provides consistent performance. They resist flat spots better than budget options.
For casual skaters, mid-range wheels offer excellent value and performance. Invest in premium wheels only if you skate frequently or compete at advanced levels.