- One of the most common bearing problems is a "whisping" sound coming from the wheels. This is caused by a flat-spot in a bearing, and it can lead to scratches in the racer the bearings are held in. Replace all bearings because it is nearly impossible to tell which one is bad.
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You may have to replace the whole bottom bracket if it gets too wet.Any time your bearings are completely immersed in water (like when riding through a deep creek)--then left to sit for a day or more without being overhauled and re-greased--they will have to be replaced. Rust, no matter how insignificant looking, always ruins bearings. -
a dirty headset, filled with gravelIf you spin the bearings near your ear and hear the sound of gravel rubbing, there is probably sand in your bearings. Sand will pock-mark metal and can lead to flat-spots. It also causes extra drag and prevents the bearings from moving freely. - When spinning or turning the cranks, wheels or headset, you might come to a sticky spot. This may be caused by an ovalized headset, a bent frame, a bent axle, or bad bearings.
- If the thing that is supposed to spin doesn't move--or has a very hard time moving--check to make sure the hub that encases the bearings isn't too tight. If not, then your bearings will need to be replaced.
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If you notice watery grease leaking from your hubs, that means water got in and is rusting your bearings. They will need to be replaced.
