To make your skateboard wheels faster, you should clean and lubricate them regularly. Ensure that there is no debris on the bearings and use a high-quality lubricant to keep them smooth.
Skateboarding is one of the most popular and thrilling activities, with a charm and appeal that attracts younger generations. However, slower skateboard wheels can put a damper on your riding experience and limit your speed. Luckily, you can easily remedy this problem by cleaning and lubricating your wheels regularly. Skateboard bearings accumulate dirt, grime, and dust over time, causing them to lose their smoothness and slow down. When skateboard wheels spin freely, they will not only make your ride smoother but also enable you to glide faster and further. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to make your skateboard wheels faster by cleaning and lubricating them.
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Understanding The Basics Of Skateboard Wheels
Skateboard wheels are an essential component of your skateboard. The right wheels can make all the difference in how fast you move. Understanding the basics of skateboard wheels is crucial if you want to make your skateboard faster. In this section, we’ll discuss the various types of skateboard wheels, the science behind these wheels, and the factors that influence speed.
Types Of Skateboard Wheels
Skateboard wheels are made of polyurethane, a type of plastic that can handle high impacts.
- street wheels: these wheels have a small diameter and are ideal for street and park skating. They provide better control for tricks and flips.
- cruiser wheels: these wheels are wider and have a larger diameter which makes them better for cruising and commuting.
- longboard wheels: these wheels are the largest and softest wheels and are specifically designed for downhill longboarding.
The Science Of Skateboard Wheels
The basic science behind faster wheels is the ratio of the wheel size to the bearing size. The larger the wheel, the faster it moves over rough terrain. Angled edges of the skateboard wheels help in better control. Abec ratings are also important to understand, as the higher the rating, the better the bearing’s efficiency.
The Impact Of Size, Shape And Hardness On Speed
The three critical factors that have an impact on the speed of skateboard wheels are size, shape, and hardness.
- size: smaller wheels are slower than larger wheels. The larger wheels have more travel distance per rotation, resulting in quicker movement.
- shape: the shape of the wheels affects the contact patch, i. E. , the part of the wheel that touches the ground. A larger contact patch translates to better grip and slower speed, while a smaller contact patch results in quicker speed and poorer grip.
- hardness: a hardness rating is given to skateboard wheels on the durometer scale. The higher the number, the harder the wheel. Hard wheels are faster than soft wheels. Contrarily, soft wheels grip better but are slower.
Recommended Wheels For Different Riding Terrains
Selecting the right wheel for the terrain you’re riding on is crucial to achieving maximum speed.
- street: 49-53mm, 99a-101a wheels provide better sliding and are better for technical tricks.
- cruiser: 54-59mm, 78a-85a wheels are ideal for cruising on rough terrain.
- longboard: 60mm or larger, 78a-85a wheels offer a smooth ride and better grip for downhill longboarding.
Understanding the basics of skateboard wheels is a must-have knowledge if you want to make your skateboard faster. By considering the size, shape, and hardness of the wheels, you can choose the right wheel for your type of riding. So go ahead, equip you skateboard with the right wheels and experience the speed!
Preparing Your Skateboard For Speed
Skateboarding is an exciting and thrilling sport. If you are looking to increase the speed of your skateboard, there are several things you can do to make it happen. In this blog post, we will explore how to prepare your skateboard for speed by cleaning, lubricating, adjusting, and aligning it to perfection with easy-to-follow guidelines.
Cleaning Skateboard Bearings
Dirty bearings will cause unwanted friction on your skateboard wheels, making them spin slowly and unevenly. Therefore, cleaning them is the first step to improving the speed of your skateboard.
- Remove the bearings from the wheels and keep them in a safe and clean space.
- Clean the outer surface of the bearings with a dry rag.
- Use a solvent such as a small amount of degreaser or rubbing alcohol to clean the inside of the bearings. Shake them well to remove all dirt and grime.
- Dry the bearings and then reassemble them into your wheels.
Lubricating Skateboard Bearings
After cleaning your bearings, the next step is to lubricate them. This helps to ensure smooth and fast wheel rotation.
- Take a small amount of lubricant oil and put a drop on each bearing. Do not over-lubricate as too much oil will attract dirt more easily.
- Spread the oil evenly throughout each bearing by spinning the wheel back and forth. This ensures that the lubricant is spread throughout the entire bearing.
Adjusting Skateboard Trucks
Skateboard trucks are the metal pieces that hold the wheels in place. Adjusting them helps with speed and stability.
- Tighten the kingpin bolt to make your trucks stiffer for higher speed. Loose trucks may tend to be unstable at high speeds.
- Adjust the bushings. Choose hard bushings for high speeds and soft bushings for better control.
Alignment Of Skateboard Wheels
The alignment of your wheels can also impact your skateboard’s speed. Make sure all four wheels are parallel and perpendicular to the ground.
- Loosen the nut that holds the wheel in place using a wrench.
- Adjust the wheel’s alignment accordingly by rotating it until it’s parallel and perpendicular to the ground.
- Tighten the nut back in place.
These are simple yet effective ways to prepare your skateboard for speed. By following these guidelines, you can achieve optimal performance and enjoy faster rides with improved stability. Happy shredding!
How to change skateboard bearings and wheels EASILY
Improving Skateboard Wheel Performance
Skateboarding is an excellent way to keep fit and experience the thrill of an adrenaline rush. As a skateboarder, you want to make sure that your skateboard performs at its best, and one of the most prominent factors is skateboard wheel speed.
The faster your skateboard wheels, the smoother and more effortless the ride. In this article, we’ll discuss how to improve skateboard wheel performance and make your skateboard wheels faster.
Upgrading Your Skateboard Bearings
One of the simplest ways to improve your skateboard wheel speed is to upgrade your skateboard bearings. The bearings are responsible for wheel rotation and can dramatically affect your skateboard’s speed. High-quality skateboard bearings have minimal friction, resulting in smoother and faster wheel rotation.
- Choose bearings with an abec rating of 7 or higher
- Look for bearings made of high-quality materials such as ceramic or titanium
- Ensure that the bearings have proper lubrication to avoid rust and wear
- Replace your bearings regularly to maintain maximum performance
Choosing The Right Skateboard Wheels For Speed
Skateboard wheels also play a vital role in skateboard wheel speed. Different wheels come in varying sizes, shapes, and hardness, each impacting your skateboard’s performance in different ways.
- Choose wheels with a diameter of 55mm or more for faster speed
- Look for wheels made of high-quality urethane material
- Choose wheels with a hardness rating of 85a or higher for more speed and less grip
- Avoid large, soft wheels as they tend to be slower
Proper Wheel Maintenance Techniques
Proper wheel maintenance techniques can also contribute to faster skateboard wheel speed. Keeping your wheels clean and well-maintained helps reduce friction, allowing for smoother and faster rotation.
- Clean your wheels regularly with soap and water to prevent dirt buildup
- Use a bearing lubricant to keep the bearings well-lubricated and rust-free
- Avoid riding on rough surfaces as they can damage the wheels and decrease speed
- Keep your skateboard stored in a cool, dry place to avoid wheel deformity and flat-spotting
Essential Skateboard Wheel Accessories
Essential skateboard wheel accessories, such as spacers and bearing washers, can improve your skateboard wheel speed and performance.
- Use spacers to reduce friction between the bearings and wheels
- Consider using bearing washers to reduce friction and improve lifespan
- Look for high-quality accessories made of durable materials such as aluminum or steel
Improving skateboard wheel speed and performance takes a combination of upgrading your skateboard bearings, choosing the right wheels, proper maintenance techniques, and essential accessories. With these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to a faster, smoother, and more outstanding ride.
Advanced Techniques To Increase Speed
Skateboarding enthusiasts are always looking for ways to enhance their experience and increase the speed of their wheels. You may have tried basic techniques such as tightening your trucks or investing in high-quality bearings to speed up your ride. However, if you’re looking to take things to the next level, here are some advanced techniques you can use to increase your skateboard’s speed.
Pumping Techniques
Pumping is all about generating energy and momentum by using your body weight to make your board go faster.
- Shift your weight back and forth on your board to gain speed.
- Lean into turns to generate more speed and maintain momentum.
- Use your arms to pump when transitioning between ramps or inclines.
Power Sliding Techniques
Power sliding involves using your skateboard wheels to slide and drift to maintain speed and control.
- Shift your weight on the board to initiate the slide.
- Bend your knees and tilt your board in the direction you want to slide.
- Use your shoulders and arms to maintain balance and control.
Energy Transfer Techniques
Energy transfer techniques are all about efficiently transferring your body weight and momentum onto the skateboard.
- Use your upper body to generate force and transfer energy onto the board.
- Push off the ground to gain momentum and maintain speed.
- Use your legs to absorb shock from bumpy roads or uneven surfaces.
Ollie Techniques For Speed
Ollies can be an effective way to increase your skateboard’s speed and momentum.
- Use a rolling ollie technique for more speed.
- Ollie in the direction you want to go to maintain momentum.
- Practice timing your ollies with your pumping and carving movements.
These advanced techniques will help you accelerate your skateboard and take your riding to the next level. With some practice and patience, you’ll be able to master these techniques and enjoy a faster, more exhilarating ride.
Safety And Skateboard Wheel Speed
Skateboarding is an incredibly thrilling sport loved by many, but it can also pose certain risks, especially when it comes to skateboard wheel speed. If you’re eager to learn how to make your skateboard wheels faster, it is essential first to understand the risks associated with high-speed skateboarding.
Additionally, it is important to know how to stay safe while attempting to increase your skateboard’s wheel speed. In this article, we will cover some crucial safety tips and common mistakes to avoid.
Understanding The Risks Associated With Skateboard Wheel Speed
Skateboard wheel speed increases come with several risks that skateboarders need to be aware of.
- Falls: one of the most common risks associated with high-speed skateboarding is falls. Skateboarders are at risk of losing balance or control and ending up with serious injuries.
- Collisions: when moving at high speed, skateboarders might collide not only with other skaters but also with obstacles, vehicles, or pedestrians.
- Road conditions: uneven or slippery road surfaces can cause skateboarders to lose control, leading to falls or collisions.
- Equipment failure: finally, high-speed skateboarding puts a lot of pressure on your skateboard, which can lead to equipment failure, such as wheel or truck breakage.
Safety Gear Recommendations For High-Speed Skateboarding
The key to staying safe when trying to increase your skateboard wheel speed is proper safety gear.
- Helmet: always wear a helmet to protect your head from injuries in case of falls or collisions.
- Knee and elbow pads: protect your joints from serious injuries by wearing knee and elbow pads.
- Gloves: wearing gloves can prevent some of the abrasions and scratches that might happen in case of falls.
- Shoes: make sure to wear proper skateboarding shoes with good grip to minimize the risk of slipping.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Trying To Increase Skateboard Wheel Speed
Now that we’ve covered some essential safety tips, let’s look at some common mistakes skateboarders make when trying to increase their wheels’ speed.
- Over tightening trucks: skateboarders might think that tightening their trucks will increase speed. However, this can actually make it harder to control your skateboard, leading to falls or collisions.
- Skating downhill without practice: skating downhill at high speeds can be exhilarating, but it’s crucial to have enough experience and practice before attempting it to minimize the risks of falls or collisions.
- Neglecting maintenance: keeping your skateboard in good condition is essential when attempting to increase your wheel speed. Neglecting maintenance can lead to equipment failure, jeopardizing your safety.
- Not wearing safety gear: finally, the most crucial mistake to avoid is not wearing proper safety gear. As we’ve mentioned above, helmets, knee and elbow pads, gloves, and skateboarding shoes are essential protective gear items that can keep you safe while skateboarding.
Skateboarding is a fun and exciting sport loved by many, but safety should always be a top priority. Understanding the risks associated with high-speed skateboarding, wearing proper safety gear, and avoiding common mistakes are essential steps to ensure safe and enjoyable skateboarding experiences.
Recap Of Key Takeaways
Skateboarding can be an exciting activity, especially if you love speed and quick maneuvers. However, for a fulfilling skateboarding experience, you need to understand the function of your skateboard’s wheels. Proper maintenance of these wheels is also crucial, as is practicing safe skateboarding practices.
In this section, we will recap the key takeaways regarding skateboard wheels, maintenance, advanced techniques to increase speed, and safe practices.
The Importance Of Understanding Skateboard Wheels
- Skateboard wheels come with different sizes, materials, and densities, all of which have an impact on speed and performance.
- The size and shape of your skateboard wheels affect how fast or slow you can go, as well as how stable your skateboard is when riding at high speeds.
- The hardness of your skateboard wheels also plays a significant role in how fast or slow you can ride. Harder wheels are faster but less comfortable, while softer wheels provide a smoother ride but are relatively slower.
The Benefits Of Proper Skateboard Wheel Maintenance
- Regularly cleaning and lubricating your skateboard’s wheels enhances their longevity and performance.
- Check frequently for wear and tear, and replace wheels that have worn out or damaged to maintain optimal performance.
- Proper inflation also improves the quality of your ride.
Advanced Techniques To Increase Skateboard Wheel Speed
- Switching to ceramic bearings can significantly improve the speed of your skateboard wheels.
- Lubricating your bearings with speed cream can reduce friction, leading to faster speeds.
- Regularly rotating your wheels can help distribute wear and tear evenly, leading to increased speed.
Safe Skateboarding Practices For Increased Speed
- Always wear protective gear, including helmets, elbow, and knee pads, to protect yourself from falls or injuries.
- Follow traffic rules and regulations when skateboarding on public roads or in parks.
- Practice safe speed-riding techniques to prevent accidents or injuries.
Knowing how to make your skateboard wheels faster requires an understanding of the importance of skateboard wheels, proper maintenance, and safe skateboarding practices. Implementing advanced techniques such as switching to ceramic bearings and lubricating wheels with speed cream can also enhance the speed of your wheels.
Understanding these key takeaways will help you achieve greater speeds and a more fulfilling skateboarding experience while ensuring your safety.
Conclusion
Skateboarding is all about speed and thrill, and nothing can dampen the excitement than slow wheels. Luckily, there are several ways to make skateboard wheels faster without having to spend a fortune. From proper maintenance to upgrading to better quality wheels, maximizing speed requires dedication and commitment.
As we’ve seen, it all begins with choosing the right wheels that are best suited for your needs. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and proper adjustments can keep your skateboard running smoothly and safely. Remember to keep an eye on the condition of your wheels and replace them whenever necessary.
Therefore, follow these tips to make your skateboard wheels faster and enjoy the ride to the fullest.
