Best Bike Wheel Hub Bearings for Common Hub Repairs

Best Bike Wheel Hub Bearings

A strong bike wheel hub bearing choice matches your hub’s bearing style and exact dimensions, whether you need loose 1/4-inch balls, a retained set, or a sealed cartridge. This selection suits home mechanics refreshing common cup-and-cone hubs as well as riders replacing specific cartridge or brand-specific hub parts. BC Precision’s loose Grade 25 chrome-steel balls lead for their clearly stated size and precision; the other options cover retainers, coaster hubs, 6902 cartridges, and dedicated Zipp or Industry Nine replacements.

Before ordering, identify the bearing already in your hub and verify ball size, cartridge dimensions, and hub model. Similar-looking parts can differ in critical measurements, and a bearing that does not match the hub will not become suitable just because it is listed for bicycles.

BC Precision 1/4-inch Balls is the leading general-purpose choice for riders rebuilding a compatible cup-and-cone rear hub. Its 1/4-inch AISI 52100 chrome-steel balls are precision ground and lapped to Grade 25 tolerance, and the 100-count pack is enough for five stated rear-hub rebuilds with extras. It is loose bearing stock, not a sealed cartridge or complete hub kit, so confirm that your hub uses 1/4-inch balls before buying.

For retained bearings or a cartridge replacement, choose a product matched to the hub’s measurements instead.

Our Top Picks

BC Precision 1/4-inch BallsBest Overall

BC Precision 1/4-inch Balls

The 100-count pack of 1/4-inch Grade 25 chrome-steel balls suits compatible rear-hub rebuilds and provides enough for five stated overhauls.

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FKG 1/4-inch RetainersBest Retainer Set

FKG 1/4-inch Retainers

Four retainers each hold seven 1/4-inch balls, making this a clearly specified option for hubs that accept this retained-bearing size.

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CIQIYO 1/4-inch RetainersMost Included

CIQIYO 1/4-inch Retainers

The pack includes 10 steel retainers with seven 1/4-inch balls each and lists front and rear hub use, subject to its 25 mm outer diameter.

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Compare these hub bearing options

#ProductMaterialMaterial TypeCompatible LubricantBuy
1Alloy SteelAlloy SteelGreaseView on Amazon
2
FKG 1/4-inch Retainers2. FKG 1/4-inch RetainersBest Retainer Set
Alloy SteelAlloy SteelGreaseView on Amazon
3Alloy SteelAlloy SteelGreaseView on Amazon
4Stainless SteelStainless Steel—View on Amazon
5Carbon SteelCarbon SteelGreaseView on Amazon
6
DT Swiss 6902 Bearing6. DT Swiss 6902 BearingGenuine DT Swiss 6902 replacement
MultiMultiGreaseView on Amazon
7
FUSHIBEARING 6902 Hybrid7. FUSHIBEARING 6902 HybridSealed hybrid-ceramic cartridge
Hybrid Ceramic, Stainless SteelHybrid Ceramic, Stainless SteelGreaseView on Amazon
8
Zipp 61802 2RS Bearings8. Zipp 61802 2RS BearingsZipp hub-specific bearing pair
MultiMultiGreaseView on Amazon
9
Industry Nine Torch Kit9. Industry Nine Torch KitTorch Mountain hub service kit
MultiMultiGreaseView on Amazon
10
LongTing TH390 TH240 Bearings10. LongTing TH390 TH240 BearingsSealed freehub replacement
AcrylicAcrylic—View on Amazon

Detailed Reviews: Best Bike Wheel Hub Bearings

BC Precision 1/4-inch Balls

#1 · Best Overall

1. BC Precision 1/4-inch Balls

  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Material Type: Alloy Steel
  • Compatible Lubricant: Grease

Best for: Bulk rear-hub rebuilds.

Why it ranks #1: The 100-count pack of 1/4-inch Grade 25 chrome-steel balls suits compatible rear-hub rebuilds and provides enough for five stated overhauls.

A 100-count supply of 1/4-inch precision-ground, Grade 25 chrome-steel balls covers five typical rear-hub overhauls, with extras left over. That quantity suits mechanics handling several wheel services, while the lapped finish and consistent diameter support a smooth, low-drag spin under load in compatible hubs.

Each ball is made from through-hardened AISI 52100 chrome alloy steel and precision ground and lapped to Grade 25 tolerance. Those stated characteristics provide consistent sizing and a smooth rolling surface for a rebuild. The 100-piece count is based on the listed typical requirement of 18 balls per rear wheel, so it can support five such overhauls plus spares. These are loose balls, not a complete retainer assembly; use them where the hub takes 1/4-inch balls.

Pros
  • 100 balls provide enough for five typical rear-hub overhauls plus extras.
  • 1/4-inch (6.35 mm) size is listed for most rear hubs.
  • Through-hardened AISI 52100 chrome alloy steel.
  • Grade 25 precision grinding and lapping support consistent diameter and smooth spin.
Cons
  • Loose balls require rebuilding a hub that uses this size rather than replacing a complete retainer.

Skip it if you need a complete caged retainer; CIQIYO's 10-piece 1/4-inch-by-seven-ball assemblies come already arranged in retainers.

Choose this pack for repeated rear-hub rebuilds using loose 1/4-inch balls, especially when spares are useful. Its bulk count and precision finish are practical advantages, but it is not a retainer and the hub must use this ball size.

Full product details
BrandBC Precision
Compatible LubricantGrease
Item Dimensions0.25 x 0.25 x 0.25 inches
Item Weight0.27 g
Dimensions0.25 x 0.25 x 0.25 inches
ManufacturerBC Precision
MaterialAlloy Steel
ModelM6-NZ15-1UOG

Listed on Amazon as: 1/4" Bicycle Rear Hub Bearing Balls, Fits Shimano Campagnolo, 100 Pack

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FKG 1/4-inch Retainers

#2 · Best Retainer Set

2. FKG 1/4-inch Retainers

  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Material Type: Alloy Steel
  • Compatible Lubricant: Grease

Best for: Four-piece 1/4-inch retainers.

Why it ranks #2: Four retainers each hold seven 1/4-inch balls, making this a clearly specified option for hubs that accept this retained-bearing size.

Four 1/4-inch-by-seven-ball retainers give the FKG set a straightforward route to replacing multiple matching hub assemblies. Its listed outer diameter of 0.98 inch and inner diameter of 0.55 inch help identify the intended size, making it useful when a repair calls for this specific caged-bearing format.

The set contains four retainers, each specified with seven balls measuring 1/4 inch, plus stated outer and inner diameters of 0.98 and 0.55 inch. That information helps a buyer compare the replacement assembly with the existing hub before disassembly. Because the balls are held in a retainer, handling them as a unit is simpler than placing loose balls individually. The listing identifies alloy steel and grease compatibility, but does not give a broader hub-model fit list.

Pros
  • Four-piece set supports more than one matching bearing replacement.
  • Each assembly uses seven 1/4-inch balls.
  • 0.98-inch outer and 0.55-inch inner diameters provide sizing references.
  • Alloy-steel construction and grease compatibility are specified.
Cons
  • The listing does not identify specific compatible hub models beyond the stated dimensions and ball size.

Skip it if you need a broad model-specific fit reference; DT Swiss's 6902 replacement is identified by its bearing size and brand.

Pick this set when your repair calls for four 1/4-inch-by-seven-ball retainers and the stated diameters match. It suits planned replacement work, but the available fit information is dimensional rather than a list of compatible hub models.

Full product details
BrandFKG
Compatible LubricantGrease
Item Weight0.05 kg
ManufacturerFKG
MaterialAlloy Steel
Model514-0007

Listed on Amazon as: FKG Bike Hub Bicycle Wheel Hub Bearing 1/4" x 7, Set of 4

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CIQIYO 1/4-inch Retainers

#3 · Most Included

3. CIQIYO 1/4-inch Retainers

  • Material: Alloy Steel
  • Material Type: Alloy Steel
  • Compatible Lubricant: Grease

Best for: Retainer repair multipack.

Why it ranks #3: The pack includes 10 steel retainers with seven 1/4-inch balls each and lists front and rear hub use, subject to its 25 mm outer diameter.

Ten steel retainers, each holding seven lubricated 1/4-inch balls, make the CIQIYO set a ready-to-handle option for front- or rear-hub repair. The enclosed arrangement keeps the balls together during fitting, and the ten-piece quantity suits refurbishment work where multiple assemblies or replacements are needed.

Each retainer measures 25 mm outer diameter and 14 mm inner diameter, with seven 1/4-inch balls. Those dimensions and ball count give buyers concrete points to compare against a hub before starting a repair. The listing specifies front and rear wheel hubs and mountain bikes, while the firm, steel retainer keeps its balls arranged together. Ten assemblies provide several replacements, but the specified size means this is not a universal fit for every hub.

Pros
  • Pack contains 10 retainer assemblies for repair or refurbishment.
  • Each retainer holds seven 1/4-inch steel balls.
  • Listed 25 mm outer and 14 mm inner diameters help identify the assembly.
  • Lubricated balls and a retainer that keeps them together simplify handling.
Cons
  • The fixed 25 mm outer and 14 mm inner diameters limit use to hubs matching those dimensions.

Skip it if you need loose precision balls for several rear-hub overhauls; BC Precision's 100-count pack is aimed at that job.

This set suits a rider or mechanic replacing caged bearings in compatible front or rear hubs, including listed mountain-bike use. Check the stated retainer dimensions and 1/4-inch ball size against the hub before beginning the repair.

Full product details
BrandCIQIYO
Compatible LubricantGrease
Included Componentsball bearings
Item Dimensions1 x 1 x 0.26 inches
Item Weight8.6 g
Dimensions1 x 1 x 0.26 inches
ManufacturerCQY
MaterialAlloy Steel
ModelBHB-1/4”X7-1in

Listed on Amazon as: 10 PCS Bike Ball Bearings for Front and Rear Hub Wheel

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Jaceyon 3/16-inch Retainers

#4 · Front Hub Option

4. Jaceyon 3/16-inch Retainers

  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Material Type: Stainless Steel

Best for: Stainless 3/16-inch retainers.

Why it ranks #4: Four stainless-steel retainers use seven 3/16-inch balls and are described for front-wheel replacement; verify the 0.8-inch outer diameter first.

Stainless-steel retainers with seven 3/16-inch balls give this four-piece Jaceyon set a clearly defined option for compatible bicycle front-wheel repairs. The stated 0.8-inch outer and 0.5-inch inner diameters make its size easier to compare with an existing bearing before taking the wheel apart.

Each retainer combines seven 3/16-inch balls with an outer diameter of 0.8 inch and inner diameter of 0.5 inch. These measurements help distinguish it from the larger 1/4-inch assemblies used in other hub repairs. The listing describes stainless-steel balls in a retainer and identifies replacement of a bicycle front-wheel bearing as an application, so the assembly format can be handled as one unit. Four pieces give a small repair set, but the stated use is specifically front-wheel replacement.

Pros
  • Four retainers are included for matching repairs.
  • Seven 3/16-inch balls per assembly define the bearing size.
  • Stated 0.8-inch outer and 0.5-inch inner diameters aid comparison.
  • Stainless-steel ball construction is specified.
Cons
  • The listed application is front-wheel bearing replacement, not a stated universal hub fit.

Skip it if you need a 1/4-inch rear-hub retainer; FKG's four-piece set uses seven balls of that larger size.

This Jaceyon set is for home repairs requiring a stainless 3/16-inch-by-seven-ball retainer, particularly the listed front-wheel application. Its dimensions are useful selection checks, but buyers needing another ball size or a confirmed rear-hub application should choose accordingly.

Full product details
BrandJaceyon
Case Material TypeAlloy Steel
ColorSilver
Item Weight0.01 kg
ManufacturerJaceyon
Part NumberJ-ZJ2020001
MaterialStainless Steel
Model NumberJ-ZJ2020001

Listed on Amazon as: Bicycle Bearing 3/16" x 7 Bike Wheel Bearings Retainer, Replacement Bike Parts 4Pcs Repair Accessories for Bike Front Rear Axle

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Lowrider Coaster Bearings

#5 · Coaster Hub Pick

5. Lowrider Coaster Bearings

  • Material: Carbon Steel
  • Material Type: Carbon Steel
  • Compatible Lubricant: Grease

Best for: Coaster hubs with 3/8-inch axles.

Why it ranks #5: The pair is specifically for coaster hubs with a 3/8-inch axle and uses nine 7/32-inch balls per bearing.

A matched pair of nine-ball coaster-hub bearings with 7/32-inch balls targets a distinct repair: compatible bicycle hubs using a 3/8-inch axle. The paired quantity can cover both bearing positions in the listed coaster-hub use, including lowrider, beach-cruiser, chopper, limo, and stretch bicycles.

Lowrider specifies two bearings, each with nine 7/32-inch balls, for coaster hubs and a 3/8-inch axle. Having a pair on hand supports service of both bearing positions rather than sourcing a single assembly. The listed bicycle styles include lowrider and beach-cruiser builds, so the application is more specific than a general wheel-bearing replacement. Carbon-steel material and grease compatibility are also stated. This is not a loose-ball assortment; axle size and coaster-hub application are central fit boundaries.

Pros
  • Pair supplies two coaster-hub bearings for a matching repair.
  • Each bearing contains nine 7/32-inch balls.
  • Specified for a 3/8-inch axle.
  • Listed applications include lowrider, beach-cruiser, chopper, limo, and stretch bicycles.
Cons
  • The stated 3/8-inch axle and coaster-hub application limit compatibility.

Skip it if you need a general front-wheel retainer rather than coaster-hub parts; Jaceyon's stainless 3/16-inch set lists front-wheel replacement.

Choose the pair for a coaster-hub service on a bicycle using a 3/8-inch axle, including the listed cruiser and lowrider styles. The 7/32-inch ball size and specific hub application are boundaries, not a general-purpose fit claim.

Full product details
BrandLowrider
Compatible LubricantGrease
Item Dimensions1.25 x 1.25 x 0.21 inches
Item Weight18.14 g
Dimensions1.25 x 1.25 x 0.21 inches
Manufacturerlowrider
MaterialCarbon Steel
Model105339×2

Listed on Amazon as: Lowrider Bike Coaster Hub Bearing 7/32×9. Bicycle Hub Bearing

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DT Swiss 6902 Bearing

#6

6. DT Swiss 6902 Bearing

  • Material: Multi
  • Material Type: Multi
  • Compatible Lubricant: Grease

Best for: Genuine DT Swiss 6902 replacement.

Why it ranks #6: This genuine DT Swiss cartridge is identified as a standard 6902 bearing measuring 15/28 x 7 mm, with diagrams recommended for fit confirmation.

This genuine DT Swiss 6902 standard cartridge is specified at 15/28 x 7 mm, giving owners a named replacement size for compatible DT Swiss hub service. Its brand identification and cartridge format make it a focused spare rather than a universal loose-ball repair kit.

The 6902 designation and 15/28 x 7 mm dimensions identify the cartridge, helping buyers compare it with a worn part or DT Swiss exploded parts diagrams. The listing describes it as a genuine DT replacement bearing and includes hub spares, which makes it a targeted choice for maintaining compatible DT Swiss assemblies. Grease compatibility is specified. No multi-bearing quantity is stated, so buyers servicing a hub that calls for several cartridges should account for the listed single bearing format.

Pros
  • Genuine DT Swiss replacement bearing is identified.
  • 6902 standard cartridge format is specified.
  • 15/28 x 7 mm dimensions aid part comparison.
  • DT Swiss exploded parts diagrams are cited for further identification.
Cons
  • The listing describes a bearing, not a multi-bearing service kit.

Skip it if you want ceramic balls and sealed LLB protection; FUSHIBEARING's 6902-2RS listing specifies those features.

This is a focused choice for DT Swiss owners replacing a compatible 6902 cartridge, especially when checking the brand's parts diagrams. Its specified dimensions aid identification, but it is not presented as a complete multi-bearing service kit.

Full product details
BrandDT Swiss
Compatible LubricantGrease
Included ComponentsHub Spares
Item Dimensions1.19 x 1.19 x 0.35 inches
Item Weight22.68 g
Dimensions1.19 x 1.19 x 0.35 inches
ManufacturerDT Swiss
MaterialMulti
Model2160065105
Warranty DescriptionLimited Warranty

Listed on Amazon as: DT Swiss HSBXXX00N2336S Bearing 6902 (15/28 x 7 mm) Standard

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FUSHIBEARING 6902 Hybrid

#7

7. FUSHIBEARING 6902 Hybrid

  • Material: Hybrid Ceramic, Stainless Steel
  • Material Type: Hybrid Ceramic, Stainless Steel
  • Compatible Lubricant: Grease

Best for: Sealed hybrid-ceramic cartridge.

Why it ranks #7: The 15 x 28 x 7 mm sealed cartridge combines stainless steel and ceramic balls, with ABEC-3 tolerances and LLB seals stated.

A 15-by-28-by-7 mm stainless-steel and hybrid-ceramic cartridge combines ceramic balls with LLB seals and a V-groove sealing design. That configuration aims to keep dirt out and grease inside, making it a service-oriented option for compatible front or rear hubs seeking a protected bearing arrangement.

The bearing is accurately ground and polished to ABEC-3 precision tolerances, while its ceramic balls roll in a PA66 cage described as reducing drag. LLB seals and a V-groove design retain the included Germany Klueber NB52 grease while keeping dirt out, which supports longer intervals between service according to the listing. Its 15x28x7 mm dimensions are crucial for replacement compatibility. The package is one piece, so a hub needing multiple bearings requires additional matching units.

Pros
  • Hybrid-ceramic balls and stainless-steel bearing material are specified.
  • ABEC-3 precision tolerances and a PA66 cage are listed.
  • LLB seals and V-groove design keep dirt out and grease inside.
  • 15x28x7 mm dimensions identify the cartridge size.
Cons
  • One bearing is supplied, so a hub service requiring multiple units needs additional pieces.

Skip it if you need a genuine DT Swiss replacement identified for a DT Swiss hub; the DT Swiss 6902 listing is brand-specific.

This cartridge suits a hub requiring the stated 15x28x7 mm size and a sealed hybrid-ceramic construction. Its seals and grease focus support protected service, while the single-piece quantity and exact dimensions define the purchase boundary.

Full product details
BrandFUSHIBEARING
Compatible LubricantGrease
ManufacturerFUSHIBEARING
MaterialHybrid Ceramic, Stainless Steel
ModelSC6902

Listed on Amazon as: 6902-2RS Stainless Steel Ceramic Hybrid Radial Bearing, 15x28x7mm Bicycle Hub Front Rear Hubs Wheel Bearing (1PC)

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Zipp 61802 2RS Bearings

#8

8. Zipp 61802 2RS Bearings

  • Material: Multi
  • Material Type: Multi
  • Compatible Lubricant: Grease

Best for: Zipp hub-specific bearing pair.

Why it ranks #8: The pair is designed specifically for Zipp hub models and is identified by SRAM model ID HU-SPP-A0, so it is unsuitable for generic fit.

A pair of bearings identified for Zipp hub models provides a brand-specific replacement route for a complete front- or rear-hub bearing service. The listing ties the parts to Zipp bearing type 82/182 and SRAM model ID HU-SPP-A0, giving owners concrete identifiers for matching their hub parts.

The pair is sold for complete hub bearing replacement and is specified for Zipp hub models, rather than presented as a general-purpose cartridge. Its identification as bearing type 82/182 and SRAM Model ID HU-SPP-A0 helps narrow the intended application when consulting hub documentation. Two bearings provide the listed pair quantity for service. Because the compatibility is model-specific, the identifying information matters more than a generic size comparison; buyers should use the supplied Zipp identification to determine whether this is their replacement.

Pros
  • Pair quantity is specified for complete hub bearing replacement.
  • Designed for Zipp hub models.
  • Identified as Zipp bearing type 82/182.
  • SRAM Model ID HU-SPP-A0 provides a specific reference.
Cons
  • Compatibility is limited to the identified Zipp hub application rather than a general fit.

Skip it if you need a 6902 cartridge with explicit 15x28x7 mm dimensions; FUSHIBEARING's SC6902 lists that size.

Zipp hub owners seeking a paired front- or rear-hub replacement are the intended buyers. Use the 82/182 and HU-SPP-A0 identifiers against the relevant hub information; the brand-specific application is the key fit boundary.

Full product details
BrandZipp
Compatible LubricantGrease
Included ComponentsCartridge Bearing
Item Dimensions9.5 x 5 x 1 inches
Item Weight18.14 g
Dimensions9.5 x 5 x 1 inches
ManufacturerZipp
MaterialMulti
ModelOther Hub Parts
Warranty DescriptionLimited Warranty

Listed on Amazon as: Zipp Bearings for Hubs Front or Rear (61802 2RS) (1 Pair), 11.1915.049.000

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Industry Nine Torch Kit

#9

9. Industry Nine Torch Kit

  • Material: Multi
  • Material Type: Multi
  • Compatible Lubricant: Grease

Best for: Torch Mountain hub service kit.

Why it ranks #9: This complete bearing set is specified for Industry Nine Torch Mountain 6-Bolt and Fatbike hubs, making exact hub-model compatibility essential.

A complete bearing set for Industry Nine Torch Mountain and Fatbike 6-Bolt hubs makes this kit a targeted maintenance option for those hub assemblies. Its model-specific scope suits owners servicing compatible mountain or fatbike hubs who want the bearing set for hub upkeep together.

The kit is specified for Industry Nine Torch Mountain and Fatbike hubs with 6-Bolt configuration, and is described as a complete bearing set for hub maintenance and servicing. That bundled scope supports an organized service job without treating the parts as generic bearings for unrelated wheels. The listing connects proper upkeep with maintaining hub performance, while the Torch Mtn model name helps identify the intended family. Buyers outside these exact hub applications should not assume compatibility from the kit description.

Pros
  • Complete bearing set is specified for hub maintenance.
  • Compatible with Industry Nine Torch Mountain hubs.
  • Fatbike hub use is explicitly included.
  • 6-Bolt configuration identifies the intended hub application.
Cons
  • The kit is specific to Torch Mountain and Fatbike 6-Bolt hubs.

Skip it if you need a single standard 6902 cartridge rather than a hub-specific set; DT Swiss's genuine 6902 bearing is a focused replacement.

Industry Nine Torch Mountain or Fatbike 6-Bolt hub owners are the clear audience for this service kit. It suits planned hub maintenance, while its model-specific application makes it unsuitable as a general-purpose bearing assortment.

Full product details
BrandIndustry Nine
Compatible LubricantGrease
Included ComponentsOther Hub Part
Item Dimensions9.5 x 5 x 1 inches
Item Weight4 ounces
Dimensions9.5 x 5 x 1 inches
ManufacturerIndustry Nine
MaterialMulti
ModelTKMB01
Warranty DescriptionLimited Warranty

Listed on Amazon as: Torch 6-Bolt Mountain Hub Bearing Kit

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LongTing TH390 TH240 Bearings

#10

10. LongTing TH390 TH240 Bearings

  • Material: Acrylic
  • Material Type: Acrylic

Best for: Sealed freehub replacement.

Why it ranks #10: The listing names TH390 and TH240 freehub compatibility but gives no bearing dimensions, and its acrylic material specification leaves fit unclear.

The title identifies a sealed steel 16257RS freehub bearing for TH390 and TH240 hubs, giving buyers a model-and-bearing reference for replacement work. The accompanying description presents sealed cartridge bearings as replacements for worn or damaged hubs across mountain, road, and hybrid bicycles.

The product title names TH390 and TH240, a 16257RS bearing, and a freehub application, while the description says the sealed cartridge bearings replace worn or damaged hub bearings. That information supports a targeted repair workflow for the named hub models and the listed mountain, road, and hybrid bicycle categories. However, the supplied material does not provide bearing dimensions or a detailed fit chart. The listed material specification says acrylic, so confirm the exact replacement part from the available product information before relying on material assumptions.

Pros
  • Title identifies TH390 and TH240 hub models.
  • 16257RS designation specifies the bearing reference.
  • Sealed cartridge replacement is described for worn or damaged hub bearings.
  • Description names mountain, road, and hybrid bicycle applications.
Cons
  • No bearing dimensions or detailed compatibility chart are provided in the supplied specifications.

Skip it if you need a stated 15x28x7 mm cartridge size; FUSHIBEARING's SC6902 listing provides those dimensions.

This listing may suit a TH390 or TH240 freehub repair when the 16257RS reference matches the part being replaced. Its sealed-cartridge description covers several bicycle categories, but the available specifications lack dimensions and a detailed fit chart.

Full product details
BrandLongTing
ManufacturerLongting66
MaterialAcrylic
ModelYTRDYDJRY-CE6BE491

Listed on Amazon as: Bicycle Hub Bearings TH390 TH240 Sealed Bearing Steel 16257RS Freehub

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Avoid the wrong bearing format and dimensions

The most common fit trap is treating every bicycle hub bearing as the same kind of part. Loose balls, retained ball sets, and sealed cartridges are different formats: BC Precision supplies loose 1/4-inch balls, while FKG and CIQIYO supply retainers, and DT Swiss and FUSHIBEARING list 6902 cartridges. Even two retainers can differ: Jaceyon uses 3/16-inch balls, while FKG uses 1/4-inch balls.

Cartridge labels also need checking; the DT Swiss 6902 is specified as 15/28 x 7 mm, and the FUSHIBEARING listing gives 15 x 28 x 7 mm. Measure the existing part and consult the hub’s service diagram or manual before ordering.

A stated front/rear use does not prove that a bearing fits every hub, and a retained set’s outer and inner diameters matter alongside ball size.

How to Choose Bike Wheel Hub Bearings

Bearing format and hub compatibility

Look first for the same bearing format and hub application as the part you are replacing. This selection ranges from loose balls in BC Precision 1/4-inch Balls to retained sets such as FKG 1/4-inch Retainers, sealed 6902 cartridges, and hub-specific kits for Zipp and Industry Nine. Lowrider Coaster Bearings are specifically for coaster hubs with a 3/8-inch axle.

Buyers servicing a conventional hub should match the original loose-ball or retainer setup; owners of a cartridge hub should use its cartridge specification. Brand-specific products suit their named hubs, not a generic wheel.

When the existing format or model is uncertain, check a hub diagram or the removed bearing before selecting a replacement.

Bearing size and measurements

Choose by the complete set of measurements, not by a broad bicycle-fit label. Listed ball sizes range from Jaceyon’s 3/16 inch to 1/4 inch for BC Precision, FKG, and CIQIYO, and Lowrider specifies 7/32 inch. Retainer dimensions vary too: CIQIYO lists a 25 mm outer diameter and 14 mm inner diameter, while Jaceyon lists 0.8 and 0.5 inches.

For cartridge hubs, the 6902 options are specified at 15 x 28 x 7 mm. Riders replacing a known bearing can match those values directly; anyone without the original dimensions should measure or consult the hub’s parts diagram before buying, since a nominally similar bearing may still fail to fit.

Quantity and construction

Match the supplied quantity and material to the repair you plan, while keeping the bearing type in mind. BC Precision offers 100 loose chrome-steel balls, enough for five stated rear-hub rebuilds plus spares; CIQIYO has 10 retainers, and FKG and Jaceyon each list four. Lowrider supplies a pair for a coaster hub.

For cartridge replacements, DT Swiss is a single standard 6902 listing, FUSHIBEARING is one stainless-steel and ceramic hybrid cartridge, and Zipp supplies a pair. Buyers doing several compatible loose-ball services may prefer a bulk pack, while a single cartridge repair calls for the exact cartridge part and count.

Material or quantity alone does not establish compatibility.

Which Bike Hub Bearings Should You Choose?

For a compatible cup-and-cone rear hub using loose 1/4-inch balls, choose BC Precision 1/4-inch Balls: its Grade 25 chrome-steel balls and 100-count quantity make it the strongest general-purpose pick. If your hub uses retained balls, match the dimensions: FKG 1/4-inch Retainers offer four sets, while CIQIYO 1/4-inch Retainers provide 10 and specify front/rear use. For a 3/16-inch retainer, consider Jaceyon 3/16-inch Retainers; for a coaster hub with a 3/8-inch axle, choose Lowrider Coaster Bearings.

A 6902 cartridge buyer should compare DT Swiss 6902 Bearing with FUSHIBEARING 6902 Hybrid and confirm the exact specification. Zipp and Industry Nine Torch Kit are for their named hubs.

Avoid LongTing unless its fit is independently confirmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell whether my wheel hub uses loose balls, retainers, or sealed cartridge bearings?

Open the hub only if you can do so safely, then inspect the bearing arrangement. Loose balls sit individually in the hub’s cups; retainers hold balls in a cage; sealed cartridges are self-contained units. Check the hub’s documentation or ask a qualified mechanic if the arrangement is unclear.

How do I measure a hub bearing and confirm the correct ball or cartridge size?

For loose balls, measure a removed ball with a suitable measuring tool and count the balls or retainer arrangement required by the hub. For a cartridge, read its markings or measure its inner diameter, outer diameter, and width. Confirm the measurements and bearing type against hub documentation before ordering.

When should I replace hub bearings rather than clean, grease, and reinstall them?

Replace bearings that are visibly damaged, pitted, corroded, or rough when rotated; cleaning and fresh grease will not restore damaged bearing surfaces. If the bearings look sound and turn smoothly, cleaning and regreasing may be appropriate. Check the hub cups and cones too, since damaged mating surfaces can affect the repair.

Can I substitute a cartridge bearing for loose balls in a cup-and-cone hub?

No; these are different bearing systems and are not interchangeable by size alone. A cup-and-cone hub is designed for loose balls or retainers running against its cups and cones, while a cartridge fits a specific bearing seat. Identify the hub design and match the replacement type before buying.

What should I check before choosing a bearing kit for a named hub?

Confirm the hub’s exact model and bearing arrangement, then compare the kit’s stated application and bearing dimensions with the hub’s documentation. A product named for a particular hub is not a universal fit. If the required specification cannot be verified, contact the hub maker or a qualified mechanic before ordering.

Final Words

Start by identifying whether your hub takes loose balls, retainers, or a cartridge, then verify the size and application before ordering. For a compatible cup-and-cone rear hub using loose 1/4-inch balls, BC Precision is the general-purpose choice; retained bearings and cartridges need their own matched options. Choose named-hub kits only for the specified hub, and avoid the LongTing option unless its fit is independently confirmed.

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