Let’s be honest—worn-down wheels suck 👎. I used to think I could ride mine into the ground, but trust me, that’s a fast track to loud, bumpy rides. So, how do you know when it’s time to say goodbye to your trusty rollers?
You might be wondering, “Do I really need to replace my wheels? Can’t I just keep shredding until they fall apart?” Well, stick around, and you’ll find out exactly when and why you should swap them out. Ready to get rolling? Let’s dive in!
If you’re a visual learner, check this out.
A video titled ‘When & How to Change Your Skateboard Wheels | Tactics‘ from the Tactics Boardshop YouTube channel.
Key takeaways
- Replace your skateboard wheels every 3 to 6 months or when worn down to less than 50 mm in diameter.
- Watch for flat spots and uneven wear; they indicate it’s time for a replacement.
- Skateboard wheels last longer on smoother surfaces compared to rough terrain.
- Maintain your wheels by cleaning and rotating them regularly for even wear.
The Importance of wheel maintenance
First things first: taking care of your wheels isn’t just about looks—it’s about performance and safety. Think of your wheels as the foundation of your ride. Just like you wouldn’t run a marathon in worn-out shoes, you shouldn’t skate on wheels that have seen better days. If you’re skating on worn-down wheels, you’re not getting the most out of your setup. Plus, you’re putting yourself at risk for accidents.
Here are the key drawbacks:
- Uneven riding surface due to flat spots and uneven wear patterns, resulting in bumpy and unstable rides
- Reduced grip and traction, making it harder to maintain control and increasing the risk of accidents
- Decreased board height from reduced wheel diameter, which can lead to more frequent wheel bite incidents where the wheel contacts the deck
- Compromised structural integrity when wheels develop cracks or deep cuts, potentially leading to complete wheel failure
- Poor performance during tricks and maneuvers, as worn wheels can affect your board’s balance.
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When should you replace your skateboard wheels?
Alright, let’s get down to business. When is it time to swap out those wheels?
General Rule of Thumb
- Every 3 to 6 months, depending on how often you skate.
- When they’ve worn down to less than 45mm in diameter.
But let’s be honest, not everyone tracks the months or measures their wheels regularly. So here are some telltale signs it’s time to swap them out:
- Flat Spots: If you’re feeling bumps or hearing weird noises while rolling, you might have flat spots from powerslides or abrupt stops.
- Uneven Wear: Notice one side of the wheel is more worn than the other? That’s uneven wear, and it’s bad news for balance.
- Reduced Diameter: Smaller wheels mean less speed and more effort to push. If they look tiny, it’s time.
- Visible Cracks or Cuts: These can lead to wheel failure at the worst possible moment.
- Loss of Grip: If you’re sliding out on turns or can’t stick your landings, worn wheels might be the culprit.
Dos and don’ts of wheel maintenance
Here’s a quick rundown to keep your wheels in top shape:
Dos
- Do rotate your wheels regularly.
- Do clean your wheels to remove debris.
- Do invest in quality wheels suited to your style.
- Do check your wheels for cracks and damage.
- Do store your skateboard in a cool, dry place.
Don’ts
- Don’t ignore signs of wear like flat spots.
- Don’t skate on rough terrain unnecessarily.
- Don’t neglect other parts that affect wheel performance, like bearings.
- Don’t mix different wheel sizes or hardness levels.
- Don’t expose your wheels to extreme temperatures.
But can’t I just keep skating until they disintegrate? You could, but why risk a nasty fall or a subpar session? And boy do they sound so bad when when they are worn out! Everyone can hwar it, man. The sound of sqared off wheels is so loud! 😅
Quick Tip: Rotate Your Wheels
Rotating or flipping your wheels every few weeks can promote even wear and extend their lifespan. Rotate wheels every 2-3 months depending on usage. Check wheels regularly for signs of uneven wear, and don’t just flip wheels over – change their position too
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Why do skateboard wheels wear out?
Understanding why your wheels wear can help you make them last longer. If you’re into street skating with lots of ollies and kickflips, your wheels might wear differently compared to someone who cruises or skates bowls. Check out our guide on How to Ollie to make sure you’re landing those tricks smoothly.
Factors That Cause Wear
- Friction and Abrasion: Constant contact with the ground wears down the urethane.
- Terrain Surface: Rough surfaces like asphalt eat away at wheels faster than smooth concrete or wood.
- Riding Style: Aggressive tricks, slides, and heavy braking accelerate wear.
- Weight and Conditions: Heavier riders and harsh conditions contribute to quicker degradation.
- Wheel Hardness (Durometer): Softer wheels grip better but wear out faster. Harder wheels last longer but offer less grip.
But let’s be honest here. It’s the power slides. The power slide so it’s eating your wheels. That’s gonna be the case for 90% of y’all.
Quick Tip: Invest in Quality Wheels
Spending a little extra on wheels can save you money in the long run. They last longer and perform better. Your future self will thank you! For a deeper dive, check out our Skateboard Wheels Buyer’s Guide
How to Measure Wheel Wear
Wondering if your wheels are below that 45mm threshold?
- Use a Ruler or Caliper: Measure the diameter from edge to edge.
- Compare to a New Wheel: If you have spare wheels, compare their sizes.
- Visual Inspection: If they look noticeably smaller than when you bought them, it’s probably time.
How to Make Your Skateboard Wheels Last Longer
Who doesn’t want to get the most bang for their buck? Here’s how to stretch the life of your wheels:
Maintenance Tips
- Regular Cleaning: Keep them free from dirt and debris.
- Wheel Rotation: Swap the wheels between different axles to even out wear.
- Avoid Rough Surfaces: Stick to smooth terrain when possible.
- Check Your Setup: Ensure your bearings and trucks aren’t causing additional wear.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
If you feel a repetitive thumping while rolling or notice your board isn’t as smooth, you might have flat spots. Visually inspect your wheels; flat areas will be noticeable.
Mixing different wheel sizes isn’t recommended. It can throw off your balance and make controlling your board more difficult. Stick to a full set of matching wheels for optimal performance.
Consider the durometer (hardness) and size. Softer wheels (78a-87a) are better for cruising and rough surfaces, while harder wheels (95a-101a) are ideal for street and park skating.
Final thoughts
Don’t let worn-out wheels hold you back from your best performance. Regular maintenance not only enhances your ride but also keeps you safer on the board.
So next time you’re gearing up for a session, take a quick look at your wheels. Need to swap them out? Now you know when and why. Keep shredding, and stay safe out there!
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