A distributed load bearing including an outer flex ring, a load distribution spring, and a retainer. The outer flex ring is configured to be positioned radially outwards of a shaft. The load distribution spring is preloaded and positioned radially outwards of the outer flex ring. A radially inner surface of the load distribution spring contacts the outer flex ring. The radially inner surface is an arc defined by a first radius when the load distribution spring is in a lower load distribution mode, and a second radius when the load distribution spring is in a higher load distribution mode. The retainer is positioned radially outwards of the load distribution spring, and the retainer angularly and radially positions the load distribution spring.

A distributed load bearing including an outer flex ring, a load distribution spring, and a retainer. The outer flex ring is configured to be positioned radially outwards of a shaft. The load distribution spring is preloaded and positioned radially outwards of the outer flex ring. A radially inner surface of the load distribution spring contacts the outer flex ring. The radially inner surface is an arc defined by a first radius when the load distribution spring is in a lower load distribution mode, and a second radius when the load distribution spring is in a higher load distribution mode. The retainer is positioned radially outwards of the load distribution spring, and the retainer angularly and radially positions the load distribution spring.

A bearing unit has a radially outer ring, a radially inner ring and a retaining cage configured to retain a plurality of rolling bodies between the inner ring and the outer ring. The retaining cage is centered on the radially outer ring and includes a one-piece annular body including a first ring connected to a second ring by a plurality of bridges. A plurality of pockets in the annular body are configured to house and retain one of the plurality of rolling bodies, and the pockets are framed by the first ring and the second ring and are located between adjacent pairs of the bridges. Each of the plurality of pockets has a side wall having a circumference, and a plurality of circumferentially spaced circumferentially extending recesses of substantially square section are located in the side wall of each of the recesses.