Ceramic Bearing Upgrade – Zipp

Which Zipp wheels can be upgraded to ceramic bearings?

Most Zipp wheels manufactured after 2015, including Firecrest and NSW series, can be upgraded with ceramic bearings in the hub and driver body. Zipp offers the hub shell bearing upgrade for 76/176... See more

Which Zipp ceramic bearing upgrade kit do I need for my wheels?

Zipp part number 11.2018.067.000 includes two 61903 ceramic bearings and is compatible with the following hubs: ZR1 road hubs ZM2 mountain hubs 76/77 front disc hubs 176/177 rim brake and disc rea... See more

Where are Zipp ceramic bearings manufactured?

Zipp ceramic bearings are made in Germany to Zipp’s specifications by a partner supplier specializing in medical equipment. The bearing kits are manufactured and assembled in the same location to e... See more

How much does it cost to upgrade my Zipp wheels to ceramic bearings?

The price varies by hub model, but MSRP is $164-$186 (USD) per wheel and $164 (USD) for compatible driver body bearings. Two bearings come with each kit. Labor costs may vary based on location. You... See more

Can I upgrade my driver body bearings to ceramic bearings?

You can upgrade your driver body to ceramic bearings if you have the ZR1, ZM2, or Cognition hubs (except for the first-generation rim brake Cognition hubs). The driver body bearings are not availab... See more

Can I install ceramic bearings in Zipp wheels myself?

Yes, we offer service manuals on the Zipp Service Site if you would like to replace hub bearings. These services require tools and mechanical skills that may be outside the comfort level of some ri... See more

What parts do I need to upgrade my entire Zipp wheelset to ceramic bearings?

Both the front and rear hubs use two bearings each. Compatible Zipp driver bodies use an additional pair of bearings. See the list of compatible driver bodies here. Each ceramic bearing upgrade kit... See more

Do I need to replace all of the bearings with ceramic bearings if I upgrade?

No. Upgrading only the hub shell bearings will provide the greatest performance benefits, even if your driver body is not upgradable to ceramic. You can choose to upgrade one wheel or both. See more

Can I upgrade my 88 & 188 Zipp hub with ceramic bearings?

No. Currently this upgrade is only available for hubs manufactured after 2015. See more