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When shopping for a kick scooter—whether for daily commuting, weekend adventures, or stunt riding—you may have come across terms like ABEC-5, ABEC-7, or even ABEC-9. But what exactly do these numbers mean? And more importantly, how do they affect your ride?

In this article, we break down the ABEC bearing rating system and help you understand how to choose the right level for your needs.

🔧 What Is the ABEC Rating?

The ABEC rating (Annular Bearing Engineers’ Committee) is a standardized system used to classify the precision and tolerance of ball bearings. In simple terms, it reflects how accurately the bearing components are manufactured. The higher the number, the tighter the tolerances—and the smoother the bearing can potentially perform.

Common ratings include:

• ABEC-1

• ABEC-3

• ABEC-5

• ABEC-7

• ABEC-9

Note: Not all high-performance bearings are ABEC-rated, but within the ABEC system, higher ≠ always better, especially in real-world scooting.

⚙️ ABEC-5: Reliable for Everyday Use

Best for: Beginners, casual riders, school commutes

ABEC-5 bearings offer a great balance between performance and durability. They are widely used in entry-level and mid-range scooters because they:

• Deliver smooth rides on sidewalks and park paths

• Can handle daily wear and minor shocks

• Are budget-friendly and long-lasting

At Hyeed, we often equip kids' scooters and entry-level models with ABEC-5 bearings to ensure comfort without overengineering.

⚙️ ABEC-7: Smoother and More Efficient

Best for: Daily commuters, teenagers, and intermediate riders

ABEC-7 bearings are manufactured with tighter tolerances, resulting in:

• Smoother rolling motion

• Less resistance while pushing

• Better performance at higher speeds

This makes them ideal for urban commuting, where efficiency and glide matter. Many of our adult scooters come with ABEC-7 bearings to offer a stable, responsive riding experience on streets and pavements.

⚙️ ABEC-9: Precision for Performance

Best for: Stunt riders, speed enthusiasts, smooth surfaces

ABEC-9 bearings are among the highest-rated in the system. Their advantages include:

• Maximum precision

• High-speed capabilities

• Excellent performance during tricks and jumps

We use ABEC-9 bearings in our stunt scooters, where impact resistance and speed control are critical. That said, they perform best on clean, smooth surfaces and may not show full potential on rough outdoor paths.

🛠️ A Word of Caution: ABEC Isn’t Everything

While ABEC ratings indicate manufacturing precision, they don’t measure:

• Bearing material quality

• Lubrication

• Sealing or dust protection

• Real-world performance on bumpy roads or tricks

In fact, a well-lubricated ABEC-5 bearing may outperform a poorly maintained ABEC-9 in daily use. That’s why we at Hyeed focus not only on rating, but also on the overall bearing system, including fit, material, and assembly.

✅ Which One Is Right for You?

🏁 Final Thoughts

Bearings are the unsung heroes of every scooter ride. Whether you're gliding through your morning commute or mastering your next trick, understanding your ABEC rating helps you make informed decisions—and get the best experience from your scooter.

At Hyeed, we carefully match each bearing type to its purpose—so you don’t have to guess.
Explore our collection and feel the difference with every ride.