Understanding Spacers

Spacers are inserted between the bearings within each wheel. They are utilised in skates, scooters, waveboards, and almost anything that moves using bearings.

It's vital to use appropriate spacers for your wheels. Without spacers, bearings might experience excessive stress, roll inefficiently, and fail quickly. Using incorrect spacers could mean the bearings aren't properly secured, causing them to shift sideways as the wheel rolls.

Types of Spacers

The most typical spacers are:

• 6 mm spacers
• 8 mm spacers

6 mm Spacer

6 mm spacers feature an "extra ring" in the centre. These are compatible with 6 mm axles.

They are always paired with 6 mm axles. The spacer fits between the two bearings, ensuring they remain in place and reducing the bearings' internal diameter to 6 mm.

Guide to Removing Bearings with a 6 mm Spacer in the Wheel

8 mm Spacer

8 mm spacers fit snugly between the bearings, with no "extra ring" visible. They are designed for 8 mm axles.

These are used exclusively with 8 mm axles. The spacer is positioned loosely between the bearings, aligning the wheel bolt during assembly. It reduces the stress applied to the bearings.

Guide to Removing Bearings from a Wheel with an 8 mm Spacer

Spacer Material

Spacers are typically crafted from metal, though some are produced from plastic. Plastic versions lack the strength of their metal counterparts and tend to fracture easily. We recommend opting for metal spacers.

Mini / Micro (688) Bearings

Certain skate models use mini/micro bearings that require special spacers. Micro bearings have a smaller diameter, making standard spacers unsuitable. SkatePro does not supply micro bearings or compatible spacers.