Bearings are an important component of any machine that involves motion, such as RC cars and engines. Therefore, choosing the right type of bearings can significantly impact  performance and efficiency. When it comes to RC bearings, there are two main options to choose from: steel and ceramic bearings. But which one is worth the money? In this article, ProTek RC PRO Team Driver Adam Drake explores this topic.

Adam Drake talks ceramic vs. steel bearings.

- ProTek RC PRO Team Driver

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The choice of steel or ceramic bearings depends on the application.

In 1/8 scale electric buggies or trucks that are overpowered, a ceramic bearing may be durable but not necessarily worth the money as it won't improve lap times significantly.

When it comes to nitro and nitro engines, rear ceramic bearings are preferred by many due to their slightly lighter weight. Weight reduction equals less drag. While it won't make a significant difference in lap times, it can make the engine feel crisper and provide more acceleration. Additionally, there is less chance of corrosion with ceramic bearings as compared to steel bearings. Note that the front bearing is lighter and smaller, so the bearing material may not make much difference.

Steel bearings can help you reach the finish line and perform similarly to ceramic bearings in most applications. However, in some situations, such as stock racing, any small improvement can significantly affect lap times. In those cases, it may be worth considering investing in ceramic bearings. It can allow quicker acceleration, higher top speed, and weight reduction.

In addition to selecting the proper bearing for your application, it is important to use proper lubrication to avoid damage to the bearings. Bearing care is essential, proper cleaning and preparation of the bearings, regardless of the material, can allow for a free and smooth drivetrain.

Ceramic Bearings

 

Steel Bearings

Summary

Steel or ceramic bearings, which is best? The choice is up to you. Here are the key points to consider when choosing between steel and ceramic bearings:

• Ceramic bearings may not be worth the cost for overpowered electric vehicles, but they can make a difference in limited power racing.
• Ceramic bearings are preferred for nitro engines due to their lighter weight and corrosion resistance.
• Steel bearings perform similarly to lighter weight ceramic in most applications, but small improvements can affect lap times in stock racing.
• Proper cleaning, preparation, and lubrication are crucial for smooth operation.