Needle bearing

A needle bearing is a type of roller bearing whose rollers are long and thin, like needles. Because the rollers are so slim, the bearing takes up little radial space while carrying high loads. It suits oscillating or slow-turning parts as well as compact high-speed spots.

On motorcycles they are found in swingarm pivots and suspension linkages, in the small end of two-stroke connecting rods, in gearbox gears that spin freely on their shafts, in rocker arms and in some wheel and kickstart assemblies.

Needle bearings need good lubrication and are sensitive to dirt and water. Linkage and swingarm needle bearings on off-road bikes should be cleaned and greased regularly; replace them if they feel notchy or have flat spots, usually together with their seals and inner sleeves.