Bearing Information: How to Read Bearing Part Numbers
Choosing the right bearing is easier when you understand what the bearing part number means. Many scooter bearings are single-row deep groove ball bearings, and their part numbers usually include four digits followed by optional letters or suffixes.
Example: 6200-ZZ Bearing
The part number 6200-ZZ can be broken down like this:
- 6 = Bearing type
- 2 = Bearing series
- 00 = Bore / inner diameter code
- ZZ = Metal shields on both sides
Bearing Type Codes
- 1 = Self-aligning ball bearing
- 16 = Thin section single-row deep groove ball bearing
- 2 = Wide self-aligning ball bearing
- 22 = Self-aligning roller bearing
- 23 = Wide self-aligning roller bearing
- 3 = Double-row angular contact ball bearing
- 4 = Double-row ball bearing
- 5 = Thrust ball bearing
- 6 = Single-row deep groove ball bearing
- 7 = Single-row angular contact bearing
Bearing Series Code
- 0 = Extra light
- 1 = Extra light thrust
- 2 = Light
- 3 = Medium
- 4 = Heavy
Bearing Bore Size / Inner Diameter
The last two digits usually help determine the inner diameter of the bearing in millimeters. For most bearing numbers, multiply the last two digits by 5.
Example: 6004-2RS Bearing
In 6004-2RS, the last two digits are 04. Multiply 04 by 5:
04 × 5 = 20mm
So, a 6004-2RS bearing has a 20mm inner diameter.
Important Bore Size Exceptions
For bore codes 00 through 03, the rule is different:
- 00 = 10mm bore
- 01 = 12mm bore
- 02 = 15mm bore
- 03 = 17mm bore
Bearing Seal Suffixes
Letters after the bearing number tell you what type of seal or shield the bearing has.
- Z = Metal shield on one side
- ZZ = Metal shields on both sides
- RS = Rubber seal on one side
- 2RS = Rubber seals on both sides
- RZ = Low-friction synthetic rubber seal
If there is no suffix, the bearing is usually open and has no seals on either side.
Other Bearing Markings
C3 Clearance
A C3 marking means the bearing has greater internal clearance than standard. C3 bearings are often used where heat or temperature differences may cause expansion. The extra clearance helps reduce the chance of early bearing failure.
X Marking
An X after the bore code, such as X1, X2, or X3, usually indicates a special internal bearing design.
Need Help Finding the Right Bearing?
If you are unsure which bearing fits your scooter, check the part number on your old bearing or contact Classic Scooters USA for help choosing the correct replacement. Getting the right bearing helps improve fit, performance, and long-term reliability.