The smallest components can make the biggest difference for cyclists – bearings are a perfect example. Tucked away in your hubs, bottom brackets, and headsets, they keep your bike running smoothly and efficiently, mile after mile. For cyclists chasing reliability and performance, premium-bearing brands like NSK and NTN have earned their place in the spotlight.
At Aire Velo Bearings, we proudly supply both NSK and NTN bearings. But what sets them apart – and which one is right for your ride? Let’s take a closer look at these two Japanese engineering giants and how they stack up for cyclists.
NTN Bearings
NTN is one of the largest bearing manufacturers in the world, known for its innovation and precision across various industries – including cycling. Made to exceptionally high standards, NTN bearings are ideal for riders who want a smooth, reliable ride with minimal friction and resistance.
NTN bearings feature premium seals and high-grade materials and are widely used in high-performance bike applications, from road to mountain and everything in between. NTN bearings offer:
Non-Contact Seals (LLB): These provide low-friction sealing, helping maintain speed and efficiency, especially in dry or lightly wet conditions.
High Precision Build: Designed with tight tolerances to reduce play and improve alignment across hub, headset, and bottom bracket applications.
Smooth Rolling: Low-friction designs mean less resistance and more speed, which is particularly beneficial for competitive road cyclists or time trialists.
Genuine OEM Supply: All NTN bearings at Aire Velo Bearings are sourced directly from NTN-SNR UK, so you can ride with confidence, knowing your bearings are the real deal.
Easy to Service: NTN bearings are well-regarded for their user-friendly design, making maintenance and replacement straightforward.
NTN bearings are a superb option for cyclists looking for a performance-focused product with long-term reliability. Whether you’re clocking up miles on tarmac or tackling gravel adventures, NTN bearings provide a balance of precision and endurance.
NSK Bearings
NSK is another global leader in bearing technology, and a brand that commands a strong following among engineers and mechanics alike. With a reputation for durability and top-tier materials, NSK bearings are built to withstand heavy use and extreme conditions – making them ideal for mountain bikers, touring cyclists, and all-weather riders.
Their VV (non-contact) and DD (contact) seal options offer flexibility depending on your needs, from speed to protection. NSK bearings offer:
Non-Contact VV Seals: Great for low-friction performance in dry environments, helping preserve rotational speed and smoothness.
Contact DD Seals: Provide robust protection in muddy, wet, or harsh conditions – perfect for UK winters or mountain biking in the Lakes.
OEM Quality: Sourced directly through official UK distributor Godiva, all NSK bearings from Aire Velo Bearings are genuine and ready to perform.
Long Service Life: Trusted by cyclists and bike mechanics for their outstanding resistance to contamination and wear.
Consistent Performance: Even after thousands of miles, NSK bearings maintain their integrity, making them an excellent long-term investment.
If you’re riding in mixed or adverse conditions or want bearings that’ll go the distance without fuss – NSK is a brand you can trust. They’re an excellent match for real-world riding in the UK with options to suit both high-speed and high-protection needs.
Performance
Both NTN and NSK bearings offer exceptional performance, but in slightly different ways. NTN bearings tend to prioritise speed and rolling efficiency, making them a top choice for road cyclists and racers. On the other hand, NSK bearings provide consistent performance even in tough conditions, making them a go-to for mountain bikers and year-round commuters.
When it comes to pure smoothness, NTN’s LLB seals can give you that edge in a race setting. But if your priority is riding through all weathers and over rugged terrain, NSK’s DD seals offer unmatched protection and longevity.
Durability
Durability is where NSK really shines. Their deep groove construction and sealing options make them ideal for riders who don’t want to constantly replace worn-out bearings. Whether you’re powering through boggy trails or city roads caked in grime, NSK bearings take it all in stride.
NTN bearings are no slouch either – especially when paired with regular maintenance. Their non-contact seals keep friction to a minimum while still offering solid protection, but they may not last quite as long in particularly grimy riding environments without regular servicing.
Cost-Effectiveness
From a cost-effectiveness standpoint, both brands offer excellent value – especially when you factor in the long service intervals and reduced wear on other bike components. NSK bearings might have a slightly higher upfront cost, but they often outlast cheaper alternatives by a significant margin.
NTN bearings, on the other hand, offer a performance upgrade at a very reasonable price point, particularly for riders who favour fast, dry rides. They’re a savvy choice for cyclists who want a noticeable improvement in smoothness without breaking the bank.
Application
When choosing between NSK and NTN, your riding style and conditions should guide the decision:
Road cyclists / racers: NTN LLB bearings for that low-friction speed boost.
Mountain bikers/trail riders: NSK DD bearings for protection and long-term reliability.
Commuters: NSK VV or DD, depending on seasonal riding conditions.
All-rounders: Mix and match – use NTN in your hubs for smooth rolling and NSK in your headset or pivot points for resilience.
The good news? Aire Velo Bearings stocks a full range of both, so you can tailor your setup to match your riding needs.
To shop NSK or NTN Bearings, Contact Aire Velo Bearings now
Whether you’re building up a new bike or giving your existing one a mid-season refresh, having the right bearings in place can make a world of difference. At Aire Velo Bearings, we stock a wide selection of NSK and NTN bearings – all sourced from official UK distributors to guarantee authenticity.
If you’re unsure which bearing suits your setup, our team is here to help. With over 30 years in the industry and a real passion for cycling, we can guide you toward the best choice for your bike and your budget. Get in touch now.