By Tom-E at 2006-02-03 18:19
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Bones Reds bearings are the standard in skateboaridng, and it's not because they're average or middle of the road. Bones Reds bearings cost about as little as any bearing does, they're not ABEC rated, and yet they are known by all skaters as the best bearing out there when cost/quality is considered. 
 They have got removable rubber shields, and come pre-lubricated with Bones Speed Cream. They run great as soon as you put them on and stay that way. They're durable, they're fast, and they're made in China so they're very well priced.
For those wondering about speed of these things since they're not ABEC rated, spare yourself the time and go out and buy them to see for yourself. I've noticed very little difference between Reds and other high quality ABEC rated bearings. For vert skaters, where bearing speed (friction) is much more of a factor, and durability not, it may make sense to look elsewhere.
For this kind of price and quality, you may never even want to consider another bearing. Defenitly look into Bones Reds, they're the industry standard with an overall excellent bearing at a great price.
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Speed - Well this is probably what most skaters are gonna be looking for in bearings. All I can say that it is average. It wont go super fast like ceramic bearings or anything. But the speed is still something to be reckoned with. Its fast and consistant once its broken in (breaking in period would be 3-4 hours of hardcore skating).
Price - in my opinion, price is a constant battle for skateboarders. And price should be the last of their worries, and the price of reds supports it. The price of these bearings are crazy low for how good these bearings peform. Maybe 5-10 dollars cheaper then your standard bearings. If your low on cash, this should be one of your top choices.
Smoothness - Bones has always had smooth and flowing bearings, and this one is no exception. Once you push, you don’t feel much friction inside the bearings and it feels good just to ride. One time, I was having more fun pushing to my friends houses then actually learning some tricks. Smoothness is definitely top notch so unless you f’ up your bearings bad. This should last a while.
Noise - Not really a lot of skaters care about this. But if you do get sick of the annoying screeching sound inside of your bearings before you go down that big set, reds will definitely help you out. These are quiet at hell and will be the last of your worries with these. Just don’t do anything stupid with it.
Durability - Just clean and re-lube these bearings every now and again and these will last you a while. For me, bearings are the most consumed product for me. So I exchange every 3-4 months. But that’s because I don’t maintain my bearings much. In estimation, I think these will last you about 6-8 months if you keep them well together.
Overall, these bearings are great. No only for peformance, but the price is outrageous, if your broke, and need a quick fix. Bones reds bearings are for you. 9/10.