When Do You Need Bearings?
Its not a matter of miles. It is good rule of thumb to change bearings when you change gears regardless. Some people get away with re-using bearings, but that is just asking for trouble IMO. Besides bearings are cheap.
If you can remove them without damaging them you can reuse them. Most people replace them because they damage the cage or don't know if they may have damaged them. There are some great pullers that salvage the bearings without damaging them. I ran a Bearing Reclamation shop for several years, you would be suprised to see what the manufacturer calls servicable if they cant make the bearing anymore. If they still make them they consider small markings as unservicable just to sell you a new bearing. Search the web and look for bearing wear specs. Rule of thumb is if it not scored or discolored its good.


