Abstract: A roller thrust bearing having an increased efficiency and a reduced operating noise level includes a plurality of cylindrical roller elements radially oriented within a circular bearing cage which has inner and outer cage diameters and upper and lower cage surfaces. The roller elements protrude above and below the upper and lower cage surfaces, respectively, and upper and lower circular races having inner and outer diameters, are in rolling contact with the portions of the roller elements protruding above and below the upper and lower cage surfaces. The upper and lower races have features for reducing roller skidding against the races and for reducing operating noise of the thrust bearing. Another race feature allows the load carrying capacity of the bearing to vary to be proportional to the imposed load.