Introduction

To maintain the highest levels of efficiency and to maximise the lifespan of your CeramicSpeed bearings, regular
preventative maintenance is required.

Depending on climate and typical
riding conditions*, maintenance may need to be performed more frequently or a
different grease type may be more appropriate. The recommendations below are based on the use of UFO TECH Grease products.

Service intervals vary depending on product type and bearing design. Please refer to the guidance below. Under normal conditions, CeramicSpeed bearings can last up to five times longer than conventional steel bearings.

CeramicSpeed headset bearings are generally exposed to less contamination and can typically be serviced once per year for most riders.

*Riding in hot regions (average temperatures at or above 35 °C / 95 °F), high humidity climates, extremely sandy or desert-like environments, or in consistently wet conditions will increase maintenance requirements. In such environments, UFO TECH Long Life Grease can provide improved protection and extended service intervals.

Preparation

Whenever possible, routine maintenance should be carried out without removing the bearings from their cup, frame bore or hub shell. This reduces the risk of stress or impact damage that may occur during bearing removal and reinstallation.

For cranksets, remove the cranks together with any spacers and dust covers.

For hubs, follow the hub or wheel manufacturer’s instructions when removing axle end caps and/or dust covers in order to expose the bearing face.

Once the face of the bearing is visible, carefully remove the bearing seal. Using a knife edge or flat pick, gently lift the seal starting from the inner lip (at the inner race) and carefully work it free. Small and controlled movements will help prevent damage to the seal during removal.

After removing the seal:

• Clean both sides of the seal
• Ensure it remains flat and undamaged
• Set it aside for reinstallation

You should now have access to the individual balls inside the bearing. Using a cloth or shop rag, wipe away grease from the face of the bearing to expose the balls.

If you see a solid ring, you are viewing the back of the bearing. While bearing performance is not direction-dependent, cleaning and maintenance are easier when performed from the front (ball side). If required, the bearing may be rotated to allow easier access for cleaning and future servicing.

Normal cleaning

To flush and clean CeramicSpeed bearings, use UFO TECH Bearing Cleaner, which has been developed as a non-toxic and easy-to-use cleaning solution.

Using the drip nozzle, apply a few drops of cleaner into each bearing (approximately 0.5–2.0 ml depending on bearing size). Rotate the bearing to create agitation within the bearing and
distribute the cleaner.

Allow the cleaner to soak for 3–5 minutes.

After soaking, use compressed air to flush grease and contaminants from the bearing. Repeat the process if necessary until the bearing is thoroughly cleaned.

Once the bearing appears clean and rotates smoothly, allow it to air dry completely before applying fresh grease.

Follow the grease selection and application guide below to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

After applying grease, reinstall the face seal by placing it on the bearing with the all-rubber side facing outward. Press the seal evenly into the groove on the outer race until it sits flat and evenly on the bearing.

When reassembling the components, ensure any dust covers are installed in the correct orientation.

Deep Cleaning

If normal cleaning does not restore smooth bearing operation, or if the bearings have not been serviced within the recommended intervals, a deeper cleaning process may be required.

Carefully remove the bottom bracket cups from the frame or remove the bearings from the hubs or frame (if no cups are used). Remove all accessible seals.

Place the bearings in a suitable container and fully submerge them in UFO TECH Bearing Cleaner.

Agitate the bearings periodically or use a container with a lid and gently shake it to allow the cleaner to circulate through the bearing. Allow the bearings to soak for 3–5 minutes.

Protective gloves and eyewear are recommended, and cleaning should be carried out in a well-ventilated area.

Remove the bearings from the container and dry them thoroughly using compressed air.

If the bearings have been successfully cleaned and are not permanently damaged, they should now rotate freely and smoothly.

Reinstall the rear seal and apply fresh grease according to the grease selection and application guide below.

Using the correct bearing press and drifts, carefully reinstall the bearings into the frame or hubs, or
reinstall the cups into the frame. Reassemble all components according to the original manufacturer’s specifications.

Choose the appropriate UFO TECH grease based on riding conditions, maintenance intervals and performance priorities.

The filling rate indicates how much grease is applied inside the bearing. Lower filling rates reduce friction and maximise efficiency, while higher filling rates increase protection against contamination and extend service intervals.