Bearing races sold separately, without rolling elements or a cage, are classified as parts of ball or roller bearings rather than as complete bearings. The key is that a finished bearing requires all functional elements assembled together. A standalone inner or outer ring is a part, and its classification under 74699 (N.E.S.) or the more specific rolling-element parts heading (74691) depends on whether it is a race or a rolling element.

A bearing cage must be identifiable as designed and principally used to retain and space rolling elements within a bearing assembly. Manufacturer documentation, part numbers cross-referenced to bearing assemblies, and dimensional conformance to bearing standards all support this classification. A generic stamped metal ring without such evidence could be classified as a metal article rather than a bearing part, with different duty implications.