12 Reasons Why Your Skateboard Turns on Its Own

Your skateboard turns on its own due to weight distribution, trucks that are too loose, or old and worn bushings. Understanding the potential reasons behind this occurrence is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring a consistent ride.

Skateboarding can be a fun and exhilarating activity, but it can also be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. One common problem that skateboarders experience is their skateboard turning spontaneously, which can lead to falls and injuries. There are several reasons why this may happen, but the most common culprits include issues with weight distribution, loose trucks, and worn-out bushings. As a skateboarder, it’s essential to understand these potential causes and take steps to address them, such as adjusting your board setup or replacing old components. In this article, we’ll explore 12 reasons why your skateboard might turn on its own and provide tips for preventing it from happening.

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1. Wheel Alignment

How Misaligned Wheels Can Cause A Skateboard To Turn On Its Own

If you are experiencing your skateboard turning on its own, one of the reasons could be misaligned wheels. Wheel alignment is crucial for skateboarders to maintain proper balance and control while cruising, performing tricks, or turning. Below are some key points that will help you understand how misaligned wheels can cause your skateboard to turn on its own.

• When wheels are not aligned, they create friction while rolling, which can make the board turn in one direction. This imbalance can cause you to lose control of your skateboard.
• Misaligned wheels can cause uneven wear on the tires, which can lead to flat spots, reducing the smoothness of the ride.
• Skateboard decks are not perfectly symmetrical, and this asymmetry can amplify the effect of misaligned wheels, making it more pronounced.

Signs Of Misaligned Wheels

To identify if your skateboard has misaligned wheels, look out for the following signs:

• The board turns on its own when you are riding on flat surfaces.
• You feel a wobbling sensation while cruising.
• The wheels produce a grinding noise or cause rough vibration.

Steps To Realign The Wheels

To adjust the wheel alignment on your skateboard, follow these steps:

• First, loosen the axle nuts on all four wheels. This will allow you to adjust the wheels’ position along the axle.
• Place the skateboard on a level surface, and use a ruler to measure the distance between the wheel and the deck’s edge on both sides of the board.
• Adjust the wheel’s position by pushing it towards the deck edge that has a shorter distance.
• Tighten the axle nut on that wheel, but not too tight. Repeat this process for each wheel.
• Once all the wheels are aligned, tighten the nuts securely, but not too tight.

Wheel alignment is crucial for skateboarders to ensure proper balance, control, and a smooth ride. Misaligned wheels can lead to a wobbling sensation, loss of control, and uneven tire wear. If you experience any of these symptoms, take action to realign the wheels as soon as possible for an optimal riding experience.

2. Loose Trucks

Loose Trucks: Why They Can Affect Skateboard Stability

One of the most common reasons why your skateboard may turn on its own is due to loose trucks. Skateboard trucks are the metal t-shape part that connects to the board and holds the wheels. If this part is loose, it can cause instability and affect your overall skateboarding experience.

• Loose trucks can make the skateboard feel wobbly and unstable, leading to difficulty in maintaining balance.
• The wheels won’t turn properly if the trucks are too loose, leading to difficulty during turns and tricks.
• The chance of falling off the skateboard increases when the trucks are too loose, leading to injuries.

Ways To Tighten The Trucks

Thankfully, there are a few ways you can tighten the trucks on your skateboard:

• Use a skate tool to adjust the nuts on the kingpin, which is the part that goes through the middle of the truck.
• Tighten the nut until it feels firm and snug, but not too tight that the wheels can’t spin. Test it out with a few gentle pushes to see whether it feels stable.
• If the trucks are still too loose even after tightening the nut, consider changing the bushings. The bushings are the small rubber pieces that sit on the kingpin and helps the truck flex and turn.

How To Test If The Trucks Are Too Loose

Testing whether the skateboard’s trucks are too loose is easy and can be done with the following steps:

• Stand on the board with one foot and lift the other up when slightly moving side to side. If the board wobbles rapidly, the trucks could be too loose.
• Push the board gently from behind, and if you feel like you are losing control of the board, the trucks could be too loose.

Loose trucks can significantly affect skateboard stability and control. Therefore, it’s essential to check them regularly and tighten them when needed to enjoy a safe and smooth skateboarding experience.

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3. Weight Distribution

Skateboarding is a thrilling sport, but it doesn’t come without its challenges. One common experience skateboarders have is the unexpected turning of their skateboard on its own. This can be caused by various factors, including weight distribution. In this section, we’ll discuss how weight distribution affects skateboard turning and offer some tips to help you balance your weight distribution for better stability.

The Impact Of Weight Distribution On Skateboard Turning

Weight distribution is a crucial factor in determining how well your skateboard will turn. An imbalance in weight distribution can cause your skateboard to turn unexpectedly, making it challenging to maintain stability.

• When your weight is mostly on the front of your skateboard, it can cause the board to turn more sharply.
• When your weight is distributed evenly on both feet, it can provide better control and stability while turning.
• When your weight is mostly on the back of your skateboard, turning can become more challenging and slower.

Understanding the impact of weight distribution on skateboard turning can help you create better control and stability while performing tricks or cruising around.

Tips For Balancing Weight Distribution

Balancing your weight distribution is essential for maintaining control and stability on your skateboard.

• Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart to create a stable base on your board.
• Keep your knees bent and your weight evenly distributed on both feet.
• Avoid leaning too much on one side, especially when turning.
• Practice shifting your weight from the front to the back of your board gradually to gain better control.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to balance your weight distribution and improve your skateboard’s stability while turning.

The Effects Of Rider Position On Skateboard Stability

Your rider position can have a great impact on the stability of your skateboard. Proper rider position is essential for maintaining control and balance while turning.

• A crouched position can provide better control and stability on your skateboard while turning.
• A straight-legged position can destabilize your skateboard and make turning more challenging.
• A sideways position can create greater stability while turning, especially when carving.

By experimenting with different rider positions, you will find the one that works best for you, providing you with better stability while turning.

Weight distribution is an important factor in skateboard turning, and maintaining balance is crucial for proper control and stability. By following the tips outlined in this section, you’ll be able to improve your weight distribution and rider position for better stability on your skateboard.

4. Bushings

The Purpose Of Bushings In A Skateboard

Bushings play a significant role in making turns and controlling your skateboard. They act as cushions between the truck and the skateboard deck. Bushings help you turn the board by reacting to the pressure you apply to them. The harder the bushings, the more difficult it is to turn, and vice versa.

Here are some reasons why bushings can cause your skateboard to turn on its own.

How Worn-Out Bushings Can Cause Unpredictability

Worn-out bushings can be the cause of unpredictability in your skateboard’s movement. When they wear out, they become flat and lose their elasticity, which makes it challenging to control the turns. The skateboard may also become shaky and unstable. If you don’t replace the bushings in time, they may crack or break, leading to an abrupt stop while riding at high speed.

Therefore, it’s crucial to check for worn-out bushings regularly by looking at the rubber’s condition.

How To Replace The Bushings

If you notice that your bushings have become worn out and are causing unpredictability, you need to replace them.

• Remove the truck from the skateboard. You can use a skate tool to unscrew the four bolts.
• Remove the bushings from the truck. You can use a flathead screwdriver or your fingers to remove the old bushings.
• Clean the truck with a cloth or paper towel.
• Insert the new bushings into the truck. Make sure they fit correctly and are not too tight or too loose.
• Re-assemble the truck and place it back onto the skateboard.

By replacing old bushings with new ones, your skateboard will become more stable and predictable. Soft bushings will make it easier to turn, while harder bushings will make it more challenging. Choose your bushings based on your riding style and preference.

Understanding the importance of bushings and keeping them in good condition is essential for your skateboard’s performance and durability. Checking them regularly for wear and tear, and replacing them when needed will help ensure your skateboard maintains a smooth ride and remains in good condition for longer.

5. Deck Wear

Skateboarding is a fun way to indulge in recreation while enjoying the outdoors. However, when your skateboard starts to turn on its own, it can lead to a frustrating and unsafe ride. If you are experiencing this issue, you might want to check your skateboard’s deck wear.

Worn-out decks are a common cause of a skateboard turning on its own. Let us delve deeper into the effects of worn-out decks on the skateboard’s performance, the impact of warped decks, and signs of wear and tear on a skateboard deck.

The Effects Of Worn-Out Decks On Performance

A skateboard’s deck wear can lead to significant impacts on its overall performance.

• Unstable rides due to loss of structural support, leading to difficulty in maintaining the right balance.
• Reduced strength and durability, resulting in a shorter lifespan.
• Lower torsional strength, causing difficulty in executing certain tricks.

How Warped Decks Can Impact Skateboard Turning

A warped skateboard deck can lead to an unstable and unpredictable ride. Warping occurs when the skateboard deck loses its original shape, making it difficult to maintain balance and control the skateboard’s direction.

• Warping can cause the wheels to tilt, leading to a change in the board’s direction and difficulty in maintaining a straight ride.
• Unpredictable grip due to uneven distribution of weight on the board caused by warped decks, leading to instability and loss of control.
• Difficulty in turning and executing tricks due to the uneven weight distribution and unpredictable ride.

Signs Of Wear And Tear On A Skateboard Deck

To prevent unexpected accidents and improve your skateboard’s performance, it is crucial to identify signs of wear and tear on the board’s deck.

• Hairline cracks on the deck surface are a sign of structural damage and reduced durability, leading to loss of support.
• Delamination or separation of the deck layers due to wear and tear, causing a decline in the board’s strength and overall performance.
• Cupping or wear on the skateboard deck’s tail and nose, leading to an unstable ride and difficulty in executing certain tricks.

A worn-out skateboard deck can impact its overall performance and lead to instability, loss of control, and unpredictable rides. By identifying the signs of wear and tear and regularly maintaining the skateboard, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience.

6. Foot Placement

Skateboarding blends the thrill of speed, balance, and maneuverability, making the sport fascinating to many. However, it can be frustrating when the skateboard turns on its own, even when you’re not making any movement. One of the reasons why your skateboard may turn on its own is improper foot placement.

In this section, we’ll cover the importance of foot placement on a skateboard, how incorrect placement can cause the board to turn unexpectedly, and some tips to improve your foot placement.

The Importance Of Foot Placement On A Skateboard

Proper foot placement is crucial while riding a skateboard. The right foot placement determines the board’s stability, how easily you can turn, and how fast you can go.

• It ensures that the rider’s center of gravity remains secure.
• It makes it easier to maintain balance while performing tricks.
• It helps the rider have better control of the board, including when making turns.

How Improper Foot Placement Can Cause The Skateboard To Turn On Its Own

Incorrect foot placement may cause the skateboard to turn on its own, leaving the rider off balance. Such movements may come as a result of the rider putting too much weight on one side of the board or placing the feet in the wrong position.

• When one foot is more advanced than the other, causing uneven weight distribution.
• If one foot drifts off the board’s edge, causing it to tilt in the direction of the misplaced foot.
• When both feet are placed too far apart or too close together on the board.

Tips To Improve Foot Placement

Improving foot placement on a skateboard may take some time, but doing so will enhance your skateboard riding experience and minimize turning.

• Place your feet shoulder-width apart on the board’s bolts, ensuring that you are facing straight ahead.
• Keep your weight evenly distributed on both feet. Avoid placing more weight on one foot than the other, as it may cause imbalance.
• As you ride, steer clear of shifting your foot positions way too often. Instead, learn to adjust gradually to avoid sudden movements that may lead to unexpected turns.
• Keep your knees bent slightly, as it helps with balance and absorbs any unwanted movements of the skateboard.

Improving your foot placement not only helps your balance and control, but it also reduces the chances of the skateboard turning unexpectedly.

7. Board Shape

Why Board Shape Matters For Skateboard Stability

The shape of a skateboard can greatly affect its stability. Skateboard decks come in a variety of shapes, and each shape has different features that affect stability.

• The width and length of the deck can affect how stable it is. Wider decks tend to be more stable than narrow decks, while longer decks offer a larger surface area for your feet, which can help with control and stability.
• The concave shape of the deck plays a significant role in how stable the skateboard is. A higher concave can help with control, but too much concave can make the skateboard less stable.
• The shape of the nose and tail also affects how stable the skateboard is. A steeper angle on the nose and tail can make the skateboard more responsive, but less stable.

The Effects Of Different Board Shapes On Turning

The shape of a skateboard deck can also affect how it turns. Different shapes offer different turning capabilities, which can affect your riding style and preferences.

• A shorter deck with a smaller wheelbase is more responsive for quick turns, making it ideal for street riding.
• A larger wheelbase with a longer deck is better for cruising and carving.
• A skateboard with a wider nose and tail is better for performing tricks like manuals and ollies.

Choosing The Right Board Shape For Your Riding Style

Picking the right shape for your skateboard is essential for optimal riding performance. Your riding style and preferences should play a significant role in determining which deck shape to choose.

• Street riders should opt for a deck with a shorter length and smaller wheelbase for better maneuverability.
• Park riders should consider a deck with a medium length and a wider nose and tail for better control for trick riding.
• If you are looking for a cruising deck, choose a longer board with a larger wheelbase for a smoother ride.

Understanding the different shapes of skateboard decks is crucial for selecting the right one for your riding preferences and goals. Keep in mind that different board shapes and sizes come with various strengths and weaknesses, so choosing a deck that best suits your style and experience level is key to achieving excellent performance on the skateboard.

8. Riding Surface

The Impact Of The Riding Surface On Skateboard Turning

Your riding surface can have a significant influence on the stability and turning ability of your skateboard.

• Smooth surfaces: riding on a smooth surface will typically result in a quicker and smoother turn, as there is less resistance between the board and the ground.
• Rough surfaces: on rough surfaces, turns can be more challenging to execute, as the board may bounce around or get caught on any bumps or imperfections.
• Wet surfaces: wet surfaces can be especially tricky for skateboarders, as the board can easily slip or slide, making turns much harder to control.

How Different Riding Surfaces Affect Skateboard Stability

Different surfaces can also impact the overall stability of your skateboard.

• Concrete or asphalt: these surfaces tend to provide good stability, but it can be harder to execute sharp or sudden turns without losing balance.
• Gravel or dirt: these types of surfaces can be more challenging, as the board may sink into the ground, making it harder to maintain balance and execute turns.
• Wood or metal: wooden or metal surfaces may be slippery, especially when wet, making it harder to maintain control of the skateboard.

Tips For Adjusting To Different Riding Surfaces

Knowing how different riding surfaces affect your skateboard can help you adjust and adapt your riding style accordingly.

• Practice: the more you practice riding on different surfaces, the more comfortable you will become with adjusting to new conditions.
• Adjust your trucks: adjusting the tightness of your trucks can make a big difference in your ability to stay stable and execute turns.
• Choose the right wheels: different wheels can be better suited for different surfaces – softer wheels are better for rough terrain, while harder wheels are more suited to smooth surfaces.
• Be cautious: always use caution when riding on unfamiliar surfaces – take your time to assess the surface, and adjust your riding style accordingly.

By taking the time to understand how different surfaces impact your skateboard, and adapting your riding style accordingly, you can improve your stability, control, and overall performance on any terrain!

9. Bearings

It can be quite frustrating when your skateboard turns on its own, especially when you’re trying to maintain your balance or execute a particular trick. One possible reason for this problem is the skateboard’s bearings. In this section, we’ll be taking a closer look at this crucial skateboard component, its role in board movement, and how dirty or worn-out bearings can cause the skateboard to turn on its own.

The Purpose Of Bearings In A Skateboard

Bearings serve as the connection between the wheels and the axle of your skateboard. They allow the wheels to spin freely around the axle and dictate how fast or slow your skateboard goes. You can think of bearings as the tiny, crucial parts that make your skateboard functional.

How Dirty Or Worn-Out Bearings Can Cause The Skateboard To Turn On Its Own

When bearings become dirty, they can’t roll or rotate smoothly, and this often leads to the skateboard turning on its own. Dirt and dust that get into the bearings have an abrasive effect, which ultimately wears them out over time.

The following are some signs that you may have dirty or worn-out bearings:

• The wheels don’t spin as freely as they used to
• Your skateboard produces a loud noise when moving
• Vibrations or rough movements
• Your skateboard turns on its own.

Tips For Cleaning Or Replacing Bearings

Cleaning or replacing your skateboard bearings is a natural part of maintaining the skateboard. Doing so will help to keep your skateboard in good condition and prolong its lifespan.

Cleaning Bearings

To clean your skateboard bearings, follow these steps:

• Remove the wheels from the skateboard using a skate tool.
• Remove the bearings from the wheels using a bearing puller or axel.
• Soak the bearings in a cleaning solution such as isopropyl alcohol for about 15-20 minutes.
• Swish the bearings carefully in the solution, ensuring that you remove all the dirt and grime inside.
• Take the bearings out of the cleaning solution and dry them thoroughly using a clean, dry cloth.
• Once dry, place a small amount of bearing oil or lubricant on each bearing to ensure that they move smoothly.

Replacing Bearings

If your bearings are too old or too damaged to clean, replacing them is the best option.

• Remove the wheels from the skateboard using a skate tool.
• Use a bearing puller or an axel to remove the old bearings from the wheels.
• Insert the new bearings into the wheel.
• Re-attach the wheel to the skateboard using a skate tool.

Bearings play a crucial role in your skateboard’s performance and movement. If you want to prevent your skateboard from turning on its own, keep your bearings clean or replace them when necessary. With clean bearings, your skateboard will ride smoothly and give you the best tricks and riding experience possible.

10. Speed

How Speed Affects Skateboard Turning

Skateboarding is all about speed, and the faster you go, the harder it is to control your board.

• The faster you go, the more difficult it is to make sharp turns.
• When you ride at high speeds, your skateboard becomes less stable and more unpredictable.
• Turning at high speeds requires more force, which can make it difficult to maintain balance.
• The momentum of your skateboard can overpower your ability to control it, resulting in involuntary turns.

Why Excessive Speed Can Cause The Skateboard To Turn On Its Own

Excessive speed can cause the skateboard to turn on its own because at high speeds, the skateboard becomes less stable and harder to control.

• When you ride too fast and lean too far into a turn, your wheels may lose traction and slide out, causing you to lose control.
• As you increase your speed, the amount of force required to turn increases, making it more difficult to control.
• At high speeds, the slightest movement or shift in weight can cause the board to turn, making it difficult to maintain balance.

Tips For Controlling Speed On A Skateboard

Controlling your speed on a skateboard is essential for maintaining control and preventing the board from turning on its own.

• Focus on your foot placement and posture. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, bend your knees, and keep your weight centered over the board.
• Start slowly and work your way up. Build your speed gradually instead of jumping straight into high speeds.
• Learn how to brake effectively. Knowing how to slow down or stop quickly is essential for controlling your speed.
• Practice turning and carving at slower speeds. This will help you develop good turning form and prepare you for high-speed turns.
• Avoid riding on steep hills or in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic. These conditions make it difficult to control your speed and maneuver around obstacles.

By learning how to control your speed, you can prevent your skateboard from turning on its own, ensure your safety, and improve your overall skating experience.

11. Weather Conditions

The Impact Of Weather Conditions On Skateboard Turning

Weather conditions, such as wind, rain, and temperature, can have a massive impact on how your skateboard turns. Understanding how these weather conditions affect your skateboard’s stability can help you prepare for a smooth ride regardless of the weather.

How Wind, Rain, And Temperature Affect Skateboard Stability

Wind

Wind is one of the most significant weather conditions that can impact your skateboard’s stability. Strong winds can make your skateboard unstable by blowing it off course, especially when riding at high speeds.

• Try to ride in areas with a lower wind exposure, such as sheltered paths between buildings or foliage-covered areas.
• Lean into the wind and keep your weight over the front wheels to keep your skateboard balanced.
• If the wind is too strong, avoid riding and wait for better weather conditions.

Rain

Rain can also impact your skateboard’s stability, making it more difficult to control and maneuver. Wet conditions can reduce traction and grip, causing your skateboard to slip and slide more.

• Use grippier wheels with wider contact surfaces to increase traction and prevent slipping.
• Try to avoid riding in puddles or on surfaces that may collect water, which could reduce traction and make it difficult to control your skateboard.
• Make sure to dry off your skateboard and trucks immediately after riding in the rain to avoid rust and other maintenance issues.

Temperature

Temperature can also affect your skateboard’s performance. Extreme heat or cold can change the behavior and stiffness of the skateboard’s deck, impacting overall stability.

• In cold weather conditions, consider using softer wheels to maintain proper traction and grip.
• In hot weather conditions, you could use harder wheels to prevent excessive wear and tear caused by the softer wheels in high temperatures.

Tips For Modifying Your Skateboard For Different Weather Conditions

To increase your skateboard’s stability when riding in various weather conditions, consider modifying your board to suit different weather conditions.

• In wet conditions, consider using a waterproof grip tape to prevent slipping and sliding.
• Use wider trucks and softer bushings to enhance stability when riding in windy conditions.
• Choose skateboard wheels of different sizes and hardness to suit different temperature conditions and increase grip and traction.

By preparing your skateboard for various weather conditions, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable ride regardless of the weather outside.

12. Rider Skill Level

How Rider Skill Level Affects Skateboard Stability

Skateboarding is a fun and thrilling activity that can be difficult to master. As with any skill, skateboarding requires constant practice and dedication to improve. The skill level of a rider can significantly impact their skateboard’s stability.

Here are a few things to consider:

• Beginner riders may struggle with maintaining balance on their skateboards, leading to wobbling or unintentional turns.
• Intermediate riders have a stronger foundation in the basics of skateboarding, allowing them to maintain more stability and control.
• Advanced riders are highly skilled and have achieved excellent control over their skateboards.

Tips For Improving Your Skateboarding Skills

If you want to improve your skateboarding skills and stabilize your skateboard, here are a few tips to consider:

• Take lessons with a professional skateboarder or coach to learn proper techniques and form.
• Practice often, preferably in a safe and controlled environment, to gain confidence and improve overall skill level.
• Master the basics, such as pushing off, balancing, turning, and stopping, before attempting more advanced tricks.
• Learn to adjust your stance and weight distribution to maintain balance and stability on your skateboard.

How Rider Confidence Can Impact Skateboard Performance

Skateboarding is not only about physical skill but also psychological confidence. Rider confidence can significantly impact skateboard performance. If a rider lacks confidence, they may struggle with stability, leading to unintended turns and wobbling.

Here are a few things to consider:

• Lack of confidence can cause a rider to tense up, leading to a loss of balance and ultimately, less stability.
• Overconfidence can lead to risky behavior, causing accidents that can injure the rider and damage their skateboard.
• Maintaining a healthy level of confidence can improve overall performance and stability on a skateboard.

A rider’s skill level and confidence can significantly impact their skateboard’s stability. By following these tips and practicing often, riders can improve their skills and gain confidence, ultimately achieving more stability on their skateboards. Remember, skateboarding is a fun and thrilling activity, but it requires diligence, patience, and practice to master.

Conclusion

There are various reasons why your skateboard may turn on its own. It could be due to an unevenly tightened truck, worn bearings, a warped deck, or even riding on rough surfaces. Checking and fixing these issues can help eliminate any unwanted turning movements and improve your overall ride.

Additionally, adjusting your stance and weight distribution can also prevent sudden movements and maintain control over your board. Remember to regularly maintain your skateboard to ensure a smooth and safe ride. By identifying and addressing the cause of your skateboard’s turning, you can avoid any accidents and enjoy a smooth ride every time.

Keep onboarding!