When to replace frame bearings

[Hale_Storming]

Hi Guys, I have a YT Decoy Elite, with 2000km on the clock. I've never replaced the frame bearings as there doesn't seem to be any play, but I'm wondering when and how often do you replace your frame bearings?

 

[TommyC]

I recently did a full strip down on my 2 year old cube with only 600 miles on. Out of 12 bearings 4 needed replacing and 4 I got away with cleaning and repacking.

 

[TQFreak]

Never

 

[RustyIron]

Generally, they last for as long as I have the bike. That can be anywhere from two to five years, and thousands of miles.

 

[Binhill1]

I've had more mountain bikes than I care to remember. Apart from wheel bearings I can't remember replacing any . What does a faulty pivot bearing feel or sound like ? .

 

[steve_sordy]

You are dependent upon the designer for how long your bearings last. How and where you ride also has an impact, butv not as much as the designer.

I bought a Norco Sight 1 in Mar'13 and it was £3150 after discount, so it was not a cheap bike. That bike went through a set of frame bearings every 8 months! The sealing was appalling! They weren't just a bit dodgy they were seized, rusty all the way though, you name it.

I can't remember replacing frame bearings before then and I've had very few indeed since I sold the bike.

 

[Mbiker35]

I just went thru my 2019 DECOY, I ride it hard. The main chain stay bearing was really loose and rear end had a pretty noticeable wiggle. I bought a baring set from EBay for half the price of it's web site for it's set. But I didn't replace the old ones once I had the frame apart. I only needed to pop the bearing seals out and repack them. I also always use marine blue grease on my bikes. That is just my preference.

 

[Bear-uk]

Should you need to replace frame bearings then Enduro cageless bearings are very good.
Without a cage to hold the balls, there's room for an extra ball.
They are also filled with marine grease which is more waterproof than standard grease.

 

[timo2824]

Clean and repack as necessary, I've had brand new bearings have a bit of wiggle, so I go by noise and feel. I've cleaned bearings that you would think no way is this going to be okay, and then ran them for years... If you're not feeling any play I'd just clean, grease, and ride!