Which Bronze Bushing to Choose for a Motorcycle? RG7, B101 or BK331?
If you are restoring a motorcycle or replacing a worn bushing, you are probably wondering which bronze grade will be best. This is one of the most frequently asked questions we receive from POLBERIS customers.
There is no single material that is ideal for all applications. The choice depends on where the bushing operates, the load and the method of lubrication.
If we are talking about a motorcycle, the question is too general. RG7 is an excellent material for classic bearings and plain bushings in machinery, but I would not recommend it blindly for a motorcycle.
For example:
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swingarm bushing – aluminium bronzes or special sintered PTFE bushings are often used rather than RG7.
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connecting rod – definitely not RG7.
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suspension – bushings with self-lubricating coatings are often used.
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gear shift lever – RG7 can be a good choice.
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kickstarter, footrests – it can also work well.
RG7 has one disadvantage – it contains approximately 7% lead, which makes it easy to machine and gives it good sliding properties, but it is relatively soft. In motorcycles, where impacts and high variable loads occur, the following are often better:
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aluminium bronzes (e.g. CuAl10Ni5Fe4).
RG7 (CuSn7Zn4Pb7-C) bronze has been one of the most popular materials used for plain bushings for many years.
Its main advantages are:
✔ very good sliding properties,
✔ high wear resistance,
✔ easy machining,
✔ good compatibility with steel shafts,
✔ attractive price.
Therefore, RG7 is an excellent material for swingarm bushings, gear shift levers, pedals or other components operating with oscillating motion.
When Is RG7 Not the Best Choice?
If the bushing operates under very high loads or in difficult conditions, it is worth considering another bronze grade.
In such cases, the following is often used:
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B101 – when high wear resistance and high loads are important.
The material selection should always take into account the actual operating conditions.
How to Select the Right Bronze?
Before manufacturing a bushing, it is worth answering a few questions:
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Where will it be installed?
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Does it operate with rotary or oscillating motion?
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What loads occur?
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Will the component be lubricated?
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What material is the mating shaft made of?
With this information, a material can be selected that will operate for many years without excessive wear.
Not Sure Which Material to Choose?
At POLBERIS, we help select the appropriate bronze grade for a specific application. We manufacture bushings according to a technical drawing, sample or specified dimensions.
If you are not sure whether to choose RG7, B101 or BK331, contact us. We will advise you on the best solution for your motorcycle or machine.
Do not risk selecting the wrong material. Contact the POLBERIS experts – we will help you choose the appropriate bronze grade and manufacture the bushing according to your requirements. Choose proven solutions, high quality and professional advice. Contact us and shop at POLBERIS!
📞 632 614 202