A drop through longboard is a type of longboard skateboard that has the trucks mounted through the deck, lowering the rider’s center of gravity. This design makes it easier to push, brake and carve.
Longboarding is a popular sport that originated in hawaii as a way to surf on pavement when the waves were not high enough to surf on the ocean. Drop through longboards are a popular type of longboard skateboard that has become increasingly popular with riders of all experience levels. This style of longboard features trucks mounted through the deck instead of on top of it, which lowers the rider’s center of gravity. This design makes it easier to push, brake, and carve. In addition, the lower center of gravity provides more stability and control, making it a good option for downhill riding. Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile and stable longboard, a drop through longboard may be the right option for you.
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Understanding The Basics Of Drop Through Longboards
Drop through longboards are becoming increasingly popular among longboard enthusiasts. They are unique and offer a different riding experience than traditional longboards. As the name suggests, drop-through means that the trucks are attached through the board rather than on top.
Understanding the basics of drop-through longboards is essential if you want to enjoy a comfortable and smooth ride.
Definition Of A Drop Through Longboard
A drop-through longboard is a type of longboard where the trucks are mounted through the deck rather than on top. This design lowers the center of gravity of the rider, providing a more stable and comfortable ride. The shape of the board allows for more flexibility, making it easier to slide and carve.
Historical Origins Of Drop Through Longboards
The concept of drop-through longboards originated in the 1990s when riders experimented with various ways to mount their trucks. The first drop-through longboard was designed by the seminal longboarder, steve toma, in the early 2000s. Since then, the design has evolved and become more common in the longboarding community.
How Drop Through Longboards Differ From Traditional Longboards
Drop-through longboards differ from traditional longboards in several ways.
- Lower center of gravity: the trucks are mounted through the board, which lowers the rider’s center of gravity. This makes the board more stable and easier to ride.
- Greater stability: the lower center of gravity provides greater stability, allowing for better balance when carving and sliding.
- Less fatigue: the design of the drop-through longboard reduces leg fatigue, making it easier to ride longer distances.
- More flexibility: the shape of the board provides more flexibility, allowing riders to carve and slide with ease.
- More control: drop-through longboards offer more control and can handle higher speeds. They are perfect for downhill races and sliding.
Drop-through longboards are a great choice for riders who want to enjoy a more comfortable, stable, and smooth ride. They offer many benefits over traditional longboards and are an excellent addition to any longboarder’s collection.
Advantages Of Using A Drop Through Longboard
Longboarding is an incredibly fun activity, whether you’re cruising down the street or bombing hills. But finding the right type of board for your riding style can make all the difference. One popular choice is the drop through longboard, which has a unique design that sets it apart from traditional longboards.
In this post, we’ll delve into the advantages of using a drop through longboard, looking specifically at enhanced stability and balance, increased speed and control, improved turning capabilities, and why these boards are so well-suited to downhill and freeriding.
Enhanced Stability And Balance
One of the most significant benefits of using a drop through longboard is that it offers enhanced stability and balance. This is because the deck is mounted lower to the ground than on a traditional longboard, which improves your centre of gravity and makes it easier to maintain your balance.
As a result, riders can cruise at higher speeds with increased confidence, and less fear of wobbling out. This is particularly beneficial for beginners who are still getting the hang of longboarding and want to reduce their chances of wiping out.
Increased Speed And Control
Another benefit of using a drop through longboard is the increased speed and control that comes with the design. Because the deck is closer to the ground, riders have more control over their speed and are less likely to experience speed wobbles at high speeds.
Additionally, the lower centre of gravity makes it easier to carve at high speeds, giving riders more freedom to explore the limits of their boards.
Improved Turning Capabilities
Drop through longboards also boast improved turning capabilities, again thanks to the lower deck position. When carving, riders can lean more easily into their turns, making it easier to execute tight and controlled turns. Additionally, the lower deck position reduces the chances of wheel bite- a phenomenon where the wheels rub against the deck when making a turn.
Ideal For Downhill And Freeriding
Drop through longboards are particularly well-suited to downhill and freeriding. Their enhanced stability and balance, increased speed and control, and improved turning capabilities make them a popular choice for riders who want to hit the slopes or go off the beaten track.
Plus, the lower deck position makes it easier to slide and drift the board for more advanced tricks.
All in all, drop through longboards offer a range of advantages that make them an attractive option for longboarders of all levels. By providing increased stability and balance, enhanced speed and control, improved turning capabilities, and versatility for downhill and freeriding, these boards have cemented their place as a top choice for riders looking to take their skills to the next level.
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Components Of A Drop Through Longboard
Whether you are an experienced rider or a beginner, a drop through longboard can offer an unparalleled riding experience. These longboards are designed to provide maximum stability and a smooth ride, making them perfect for cruising around town or carving down hills.
In this article, we will explore the components of a drop through longboard, including the deck, trucks and wheels.
Deck
The deck of a drop through longboard is what you stand on while riding.
- Drop through decks sit lower to the ground than traditional longboard decks, providing greater stability and ease of pushing.
- They typically have a symmetrical shape, which makes them easier to ride in either direction.
- The majority of drop through decks are made from maple wood, which provides a great balance between strength and flexibility.
- The length and width of the deck will depend on your riding style and personal preference.
Trucks
The trucks on a drop through longboard are mounted through the deck, providing a lower center of gravity and greater stability.
- Drop through trucks are designed to be wider than traditional longboard trucks, providing extra stability and maneuverability.
- They typically have a reverse kingpin design, which makes it easier to turn and carve.
- The size of the truck (measured in millimeters) will depend on the size of your deck and your personal preference.
- The angle of the truck (measured in degrees) will also affect the turnability of your longboard.
Wheels
The wheels on a drop through longboard are an essential component that affects speed, grip and ride.
- Wheels come in various sizes, usually ranging from 60mm to 80mm in diameter.
- The durometer (hardness) of the wheel affects the speed, grip, and ride of the longboard. Softer wheels (less than 80a) provide more grip and a smoother ride, while harder wheels (above 80a) are faster but provide less grip and a rougher ride.
- Wheel shape affects performance as well. Round lip wheels offer a smooth and predictable ride while sharp lip wheels are great for sliding and drifting.
Overall, a drop through longboard is a unique and exciting way to experience the thrill of longboarding. Understanding the components of the board will help you get the most out of your ride.
How To Choose The Right Drop Through Longboard
A drop-through longboard is a popular longboard style known for its low center of gravity and stability, making it an excellent choice for cruising and downhill riding. But with so many different drop-through longboards on the market, with various deck styles, trucks, and wheels, it can be challenging to decide which one is right for you.
In this section, we will discuss essential factors to consider when choosing the right drop-through longboard.
Deck Considerations
The deck is the foundation of a longboard, and it’s critical to choose one that suits your riding style.
- Deck shape: the right shape depends on your riding preferences. A symmetrical deck has the same shape on both ends, making it ideal for freestyle riding. In contrast, a directional deck has different nose and tail shapes, providing more stability and better control when riding at high speeds.
- Deck material: most drop-through longboards are made from bamboo or maple. Bamboo is more flexible, comfortable to ride, and suitable for carving, while maple is stiffer, providing more stability and better for downhill riding.
- Deck size: decks come in various sizes, ranging from around 36 to 45 inches long. Taller riders and those with larger feet may prefer a more oversized deck for more comfortable riding.
Trucks And Wheels
Trucks and wheels play a vital role in the performance and ride quality of a drop-through longboard.
- Truck width: the truck’s width should match the deck width. A wider truck provides more stability and is ideal for downhill riding.
- Truck height: low trucks decrease the longboard’s overall height, making it easier to push and more stable at high speeds. High trucks increase the overall height of the board, making it more suitable for carving and cruising.
- Wheel size: larger wheels offer a smoother ride and roll over cracks and bumps more comfortable. Smaller wheels provide more grip and control, ideal for carving.
- Wheel hardness: softer wheels provide a smooth ride, grip well, and excel at carving, while harder wheels are more durable and suitable for sliding and freestyle riding.
When choosing a drop-through longboard, pay attention to the deck style, trucks, and wheels, carefully considering your riding preferences and goals. With the right combination of these elements, you can experience an enjoyable and comfortable ride.
Maintaining And Care For Your Drop Through Longboard
Riding a drop through longboard is an excellent way to explore the outdoors and stay active. However, to keep your board in good condition and elongate its lifespan, you need to follow some maintenance and care tips. In this section, we will elucidate on cleaning techniques, maintenance tips, and storage and transportation advice for your drop through longboard.
Cleaning Techniques
Cleaning your drop through longboard should be a part of your regular maintenance routine. It is crucial to keep it clean to prevent dirt accumulating on the deck and wheels, which can affect its performance.
- Use a dry cloth or soft-bristled brush to remove dirt and debris from your board’s deck and wheels.
- For tough dirt, you can use some water and mild detergent to clean your board.
- Ensure that you rinse the board thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
- Avoid using strong chemicals or harsh detergents as they can damage your board’s grip tape and bearings.
Maintenance Tips
Maintenance is essential to keep your drop-through longboard operating smoothly.
- Check your board’s wheels, bearings and trucks regularly.
- Keep the bearings lubricated to ensure smooth ride performance.
- Tighten loose trucks to prevent wheel wobbling.
- Rotate the wheels regularly to prevent flat spots developing on one particular spot.
- Replace the deck or wheels if they show signs of severe wear or damage.
Storage And Transportation Advice
It’s important to store and transport drop-through longboards correctly to keep them in optimal condition.
- Store your board in a dry place away from moisture.
- Avoid exposing your board to direct sunlight for extended periods as it can cause the deck to warp or crack.
- Use a board bag to transport your board safely.
- When transporting your board in a car, make sure it is not bouncing around in the trunk and causing damage to its wheels or deck.
Following the above tips, you can keep your drop-through longboard in great shape and ensure it provides you with smooth, enjoyable rides for years to come.
Conclusion
Overall, a drop through longboard is an excellent choice for those seeking an easy-to-use and stable board. With its lowered center of gravity, riders can enjoy increased stability and control, making it a popular choice for downhill riding, freeriding, and cruising.
Additionally, the design allows for better turning, making it a versatile board for various riding styles. When choosing a drop-through longboard, it is crucial to consider factors such as size, flex, and weight, as these attributes can significantly impact your riding experience.
This board type is an excellent investment for riders of all skill levels, and by keeping in mind your personal riding preferences, you can find a drop-through longboard that is the perfect fit for you. Happy riding!
