Quick Take: ⭐ ~ 4.3/5 –Spitfire Cheapshots are budget-friendly skateboard bearings that deliver smooth, consistent roll for everyday skating. They’re not built for elite performance, but they hold up well for street, park, and casual use. Their value, durability for the price, and reliability as a beginner or backup option is to be praised. Note that they’re slightly slower and noisier than premium bearings over time, which is expected at this price point.
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Overview:
Key specifications (what you get)
Model:
Spitfire Cheapshots
Quantity:
Set of 8 bearings (enough for 4 wheels)
Type / Tolerance:
ABEC-3 precision rating (standard skateboard tolerance)
Cage:
Impact-resistant nylon cage & high-carbon chromium steel rings (durable & removable shields)
Lubrication:
Pre-lubricated with Spitfire high-speed lubricant
Origin:
Made by Deluxe Distribution
Imported (typically from the USA, disclosure of production facility is not known)
Performance — speed & feel:
Speed:
Spitfire Cheapshots offer a smooth, consistent roll with decent acceleration right out of the box. They’re not designed for maximum top speed, but they perform reliably for street, park, and casual cruising at a budget-friendly level.
Feel:
The ride feels predictable and controlled, with minimal vibration on clean surfaces. Over time, some noise or slight drag can develop, which is typical for bearings in this price range.
Takeaway:
A solid, value-driven bearing that delivers dependable performance and smooth feel for everyday skating, especially suited to beginners and budget-conscious riders.
Durability & contamination resistance:
Spitfire Cheapshots are surprisingly durable for their price class, handling regular street and park use without falling apart quickly. The removable shields help keep out some dirt and debris, but they’re not as tightly sealed as premium bearings, so grit and moisture can affect performance sooner. With basic cleaning and re-lubrication, they hold up well, but they won’t last as long under heavy rain or very dirty conditions compared to higher-end bearings.
Maintenance notes:
Initial Care:
Break them in gently—spin and clean off any factory residue before heavy use for a smoother roll.
Cleaning:
Keep your Spitfire Cheapshots rolling smooth by cleaning them periodically, especially after gritty or dusty sessions. Carefully remove the rubber shields and flush the bearings with a proper bearing cleaner, or for a complete and safe option, use a kit like the Bones Clean & Lube Maintenance Package. This removes dirt, old grease, and debris without damaging the steel races or nylon cages. Allow the bearings to dry fully before re-lubricating to maintain long-lasting speed and reliability.
Lubrication:
After cleaning, restore silky smooth performance with a few drops of light bearing oil, such as Bones Speed Cream™. Proper lubrication protects your Cheapshots from rust and wear while keeping them rolling fast and consistent. Remember: a little goes a long way—over-lubricating attracts dirt and slows your bearings, so use sparingly for the best performance.
Avoid Water/Mud:
They’re budget bearings with basic shielding, so avoid skating in wet or extremely dirty conditions when possible.
Inspection:
Check for play or roughness; replace if the bearings become noticeably pitted or noisy beyond cleaning.
Comparison vs alternatives:
Vs. cheap generic bearings:
Spitfire Cheapshots are clearly superior in build quality, pre-lubrication, and removable shielding, offering more consistent performance and longer life than generic budget bearings. They provide a smooth roll out of the box and better reliability under everyday use, all at a modest price.
Vs. ceramic / high-ABEC race bearings:
Ceramic or ABEC‑9 race bearings can deliver higher peak speeds and lower friction, but they’re more sensitive to dirt, moisture, and require more maintenance. Cheapshots prioritize durability, ease of use, and consistent on-board performance, making them a practical choice for beginners and casual riders over absolute top speed.
| Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
|---|---|
| Affordable: Excellent value for beginners and casual skaters. | Not High-Speed: Slower than premium or ceramic bearings. |
| Smooth Roll: Consistent, reliable performance out of the box. | Noise Over Time: Can become slightly noisy with extended use. |
| Removable Shields: Offers some protection against dirt and debris. | Limited Contamination Resistance: Shields aren’t fully sealed. |
| Pre-Lubricated: Ready to skate with minimal setup. | Shorter Lifespan than Premium: Wears faster under heavy use. |
| Durable for Price: Holds up well under normal street and park use. | Basic Precision: ABEC‑3 rating limits top-end performance. |