How to take out skate bearings


Short answer

To take out bearings from your skates, you can use one of three methods: whip, push, or hammer, depending on your wheel core and axle size.


How to take out bearings efficiently

Removing bearings from your inline skate wheels can be done in three different ways: whip, push, or hammer. The method you use depends on whether your wheels have a plastic or metal core and whether your axle is 6mm or 8mm in diameter.


Step 1: Remove the wheel

Before you can take out bearings, you first need to remove the wheel from your skate. Use an Allen key (or two, if necessary) to unscrew the axle. Once the axle is removed, you can take the wheel off and prepare for the next step.


Step 2: Determine your wheel type

The technique for removing bearings depends on the core material of your wheel and the size of your axle. Here’s how to identify the best method:

  • Plastic core + 8mm axle → Use the whip method
  • Plastic core + 6mm axle → Use the push method
  • Metal core → Use the hammer method

Whip method: For plastic core wheels with an 8mm axle

If your wheels have a plastic core and an 8mm axle, the easiest way to take out bearings is by using the whip method. Follow these steps:

  • Hold the wheel in one hand.
  • Insert a screwdriver into the bearing from the inside of the wheel.
  • Gently pry the bearing out by applying pressure in small increments.
  • If it doesn’t come out immediately, rotate the wheel and apply force from multiple angles.

Push method: For plastic core wheels with a 6mm axle

If your wheels have a 6mm axle, the whip method won’t work because the bearing spacer prevents the bearing from moving. Instead, use the push method:

  • Place the wheel on a flat surface.
  • Use a tool like a puller or a screwdriver to push the bearing out from the outside.
  • If you have an extra spacer, use it to create a tool that matches the size of the existing spacer for easier removal.

Hammer method: For metal core wheels

If your wheels have a metal core, they are harder to remove. The hammer method is the most effective way to take out bearings from metal core wheels:

  • Place the wheel between two wooden blocks (or any hard surface) with a gap underneath.
  • Ensure the 8mm bearing spacer is not centered and blocks the hole.
  • Insert an axle into the spacer.
  • Use a hammer and punch to tap the axle, forcing the bearing out of the wheel.

When to replace yours

If your bearings make a "sissing" sound while rolling, it’s time to replace them. This noise indicates a lack of lubrication, which can cause the bearings to wear down and stop working. You can either re-lubricate them or replace them entirely. Many skaters, including professionals, choose to replace worn-out ones rather than maintain them.


Where to buy new ones?

Need new bearings? You can buy them online at Thisissoul or visit our store in Amsterdam. We sell them individually for just €1, and we also offer a bearing mounting service if you prefer a hassle-free replacement.

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