Sealed or Cup and Cone Bearings?

If you ride

, the chances are your bike is going to go through some pretty horrendous conditions. These conditions will be pretty detrimental to parts of your bike, particularly the bearings. You’ll then find that people like to argue about sealed or unsealed (cup and cone) bearings, but which is better?

Sealed bearings and cup and cone bearings are two common types of bearings used in bicycle components, particularly in hubs and bottom brackets. Both types serve the same purpose: they reduce friction and allow smooth rotation of parts like wheels and cranksets. However, they achieve this in slightly different ways and have distinct characteristics in terms of performance, maintenance, and durability. Let’s explore the differences between sealed bearings and cup and cone bearings in detail.

Sealed Bearings

Sealed bearings, also known as cartridge bearings or cartridge sealed bearings, consist of an inner and outer race with rolling elements (balls or rollers) contained within a sealed cartridge. The cartridge is typically made of metal or plastic and is filled with grease to lubricate the bearings and protect them from contamination. The seal effectively keeps out dirt, water, and other debris, extending the lifespan of the bearings.

Characteristics of Sealed Bearings
Maintenance-Free: Sealed bearings are designed to be maintenance-free. The sealed cartridge prevents access to the internal components, so there’s no need for regular cleaning or greasing.

Durability: Sealed bearings are more resistant to contamination and moisture, making them suitable for riding in wet or dirty conditions. The sealed design helps prevent premature wear and corrosion.

Smooth Performance: Sealed bearings often provide smoother initial performance because they are pre-greased and sealed, reducing friction and wear during rotation.

Easy Installation: Sealed bearings are typically easier to install because they come pre-assembled in a cartridge. This simplifies the installation process and reduces the risk of damaging the bearings during setup.

Replacement: When sealed bearings wear out or develop problems, they are usually replaced as complete cartridges rather than individual components. This can make replacements more expensive compared to servicing cup and cone bearings.

Advantages of Sealed Bearings

• Low maintenance requirements
• Excellent durability in various conditions
• Smooth performance due to sealed design
• Easy installation process
• Reduced risk of contamination and corrosion

Disadvantages of Sealed Bearings

• Limited serviceability: When the sealed cartridge wears out, it needs to be replaced entirely.
• Higher initial cost compared to cup and cone bearings
• Some cyclists prefer the ability to service and adjust bearings themselves, which is limited with sealed bearings.

Cup and Cone Bearings

Cup and cone bearings, also known as loose ball bearings or traditional bearings, consist of loose balls (usually steel) housed within a cup (outer race) and a cone (inner race). The cups and cones are threaded or pressed into the hub or bottom bracket, and the balls are placed between them. Adjustment is made by tightening or loosening the cone against the cup to achieve the desired preload and smoothness of rotation.

Characteristics of Cup and Cone Bearings
Serviceability: Cup and cone bearings are more serviceable than sealed bearings. They can be disassembled, cleaned, inspected, and re-greased, allowing for maintenance and adjustment as needed.

Adjustability: Cup and cone bearings offer greater adjustability. By tightening or loosening the cone, cyclists can adjust the preload and smoothness of rotation according to their preferences or to compensate for wear.

Cost-Effective: Cup and cone bearings are generally more cost-effective initially compared to sealed bearings. Additionally, since they are serviceable, they may offer better long-term value as they can be maintained and adjusted rather than replaced entirely.

Weight: Cup and cone bearings may be slightly lighter than sealed bearings because they do not require the additional material of the sealed cartridge. However, the weight difference is typically minimal and may not be a significant factor for most cyclists.

Compatibility: Cup and cone bearings are compatible with a wide range of hub and bottom bracket designs, making them a versatile option for different bicycle setups.

Advantages of Cup and Cone Bearings

• Can be disassembled, cleaned, and re-greased for maintenance.
• Preload and smoothness of rotation can be adjusted according to preferences.
• Lower initial cost and potentially better long-term value through maintenance.
• Lower initial cost and potentially better long-term value through maintenance.

Disadvantages of Cup and Cone Bearings

• Higher maintenance requirements compared to sealed bearings.
• Greater susceptibility to contamination and wear if not properly maintained.
• Requires periodic adjustment to maintain optimal performance.
• May not be as durable in extreme conditions compared to sealed bearings.

Comparison

Now, let’s compare sealed bearings and cup and cone bearings across various factors:

Maintenance

Sealed Bearings: Low maintenance, generally maintenance-free.
Cup and Cone Bearings: Higher maintenance, require periodic cleaning, inspection, and adjustment.

Durability

Sealed Bearings: More resistant to contamination and moisture, suitable for various conditions.
Cup and Cone Bearings: Susceptible to contamination and wear if not properly maintained.

Performance

Sealed Bearings: Smooth performance due to sealed design and pre-greased components.
Cup and Cone Bearings: Performance can be adjusted through preload adjustment but may require more attention to maintain smoothness.

Serviceability

Sealed Bearings: Limited serviceability, typically replaced as complete cartridges.
Cup and Cone Bearings: Highly serviceable and can be disassembled, cleaned, and adjusted.

Cost

Sealed Bearings: Higher initial cost. Replacement involves purchasing complete cartridges.
Cup and Cone Bearings: Lower initial cost, the potential for long-term savings through maintenance rather than replacement.

Compatibility

Sealed Bearings: Compatible with specific hub and bottom bracket designs designed for sealed bearings.
Cup and Cone Bearings: Compatible with a wide range of hub and bottom bracket designs.

Weight

Sealed Bearings: Slightly heavier due to the sealed cartridge design.
Cup and Cone Bearings: Slightly lighter due to the absence of a sealed cartridge.

Conclusion
Both sealed bearings and cup and cone bearings have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between them often depends on factors such as riding conditions, maintenance preferences, and budget considerations.

Sealed Bearings: Ideal for riders who prioritise low maintenance, durability in various conditions, and smooth performance. They are well-suited for riders who prefer a “fit and forget” approach to bearing maintenance.

Cup and Cone Bearings: Suitable for riders who value adjustability, serviceability, and potentially lower initial cost. They are a good option for cyclists who enjoy maintaining and fine-tuning their bicycle components for optimal performance.

Ultimately, the best choice between sealed bearings and cup and cone bearings will depend on individual preferences, riding style, and the specific requirements of the bicycle and its components. Some riders may prefer the convenience and durability of sealed bearings, while others may appreciate the adjustability and serviceability of cup and cone bearings. Regardless of the choice, proper maintenance and care are essential to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of bicycle bearings.