Are you tired of riding a slow skateboard and not understanding why? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many beginner skateboarders struggle with this issue. The difference between a fast and slow skateboard is more than just a matter of pride. It can impact your safety.
In this blog post, we will explore the various reasons why your skateboard might be slowing you down and what you can do about it. We’ll cover all the basics, from wheels to trucks, so you can enjoy a smooth and speedy ride.
Why is your skateboard slow? There could be a few reasons why your skateboard is slow. Some common factors that affect skateboard speed include the hardness and size of the wheels, the trucks’ tightness, and the rider’s weight. It’s important to consider these factors and make adjustments to ensure a smooth and speedy ride.
What affects the speed of a skateboard?
Your skateboard speed can be hindered by several factors, including your weight, the terrain you’re riding on, and even wind resistance. You’ll naturally travel faster than your lighter counterparts if you’re on the heavier side.
But your speed will slow down if you deal with rough terrain or a strong headwind. But fear not. With a little determination, you can overcome these obstacles and return to cruising at top speed. So, the next time you struggle to keep up, remember you’re not alone. Embrace the challenge, and let’s see what you’ve got!
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Why your skateboard is slow
There are a few reasons why your skateboard might be slow.
1. The wheels are overly tight
Ah, the trials and tribulations of a skateboarder! You gear up, hit the pavement, and suddenly your once-smooth ride becomes a frustrating crawl. The culprit is overtightened axle nuts.
These annoying things can put too much pressure on the bearings, making it hard for the wheels to spin freely. A squeaky rubbing sound that gets louder with each slow turn indicates that the screw is too tight.
The solution is simple. First, make sure all the parts are there and can be found. Then, slide one washer down the axle and add the wheel with the bearings inside.
Add the second washer and tighten until secure with a wrench, giving a few side-to-side hand movements on the wheel to listen for any clicking noises. Voila! Your wheels are back in top form, ready for the next adrenaline-fueled ride.
2. Dirty bearings
It may be time to give your trusty steed a good, deep cleaning—yes, even the tiny, seemingly insignificant parts like the bearings. That’s right, my friend, the grit, grime, and grease buildup from daily shredding can take a toll on your board’s performance. But fear not! A quick and easy solution is just a few household items away.
And let me tell you, the difference will be night and day. The smoothness, speed, and joy of flying down the street will all come rushing back like a burst of fresh energy. Trust me, I’ve been there. So invest a mere 15 to 30 minutes of your time and give your skateboard the TLC it deserves.
3. Type of wheels
Each skateboard wheel is available in various shapes, hardness levels, and sizes. This is the first component of a setup that increases speed and performance as your weight increases. We can break down which wheels are appropriate based on skill level and terrain type. Learning to balance is difficult for a beginner.
Narrow wheels have less ground contact and are less stable at high speeds. Soft wheels maximize traction, allowing for excellent shredding through uneven terrain and over fractures.
Although hard wheels are recommended, a soft 72A (52mm) may work well. The terrain necessitates appropriate wheels to avoid premature damage or sacrificing riding quality. Narrow wheels have less ground contact and are less stable at high speeds. Soft wheels maximize traction, allowing for excellent shredding through uneven terrain and over fractures.
4. Damaged Trucks
Breaking in new trucks takes time, and adapting with time unlocks desired turning capabilities. Transition skating with tight trucks is tricky. Medium- and tight-load trucks work well. Tight trucks provide better board control when jumping on and off obstacles, but loose trucks are difficult to balance. They can also be misaligned, which causes more friction on the wheels.
5. Cheap skateboard
Every other kid gets a bad skateboard from their parents, even though the parents thought they bought a great skateboard because it had 5 stars on Amazon. If your skateboard was wrapped in plastic, you are one of the victims who received a cheap $30 skateboard. You will have to replace the parts one by one or buy a new skateboard.
Begin saving money and gradually replace the remaining skateboard parts. After you’ve changed your skateboard deck, burn the awful knockoff. That’s probably the most enjoyment you’ll get out of it. Don’t buy the worst brands of skateboards. Riding a bad skateboard can be very annoying and dangerous.
6. Improper pushing
The way the body controls a skateboard has a considerable impact on speed. Concentrate on these top three to get up to speed with your board. Always keep your knees bent! It lowers your center of gravity, improving balance and board control. The dominant foot should be placed beneath the front bolts, facing around 35–45 degrees, with the back foot over the bolts behind your front foot.
Remember to keep your knees bent! Keep your back straight and work on your posture to look better and avoid getting hurt. Many aspects of skating will improve with exercise.
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How to make a skateboard faster?
Speed on a skateboard is a holy goal that represents the freedom that draws many of us to the sport. But for many, the struggle to reach those lightning-fast speeds can be personal. To rule the streets and rails, you must fiddle with your setup and look for every advantage you can.
I’ve learned that to maximize speed, consider upgrading your wheels. Bigger is better, but don’t sacrifice stability. Experiment with wheel durometers, finding the sweet spot between traction and slide. And don’t forget your bearings—smoother spinning means faster rolling.
But one final piece to the puzzle is keeping your board clean and maintained. A clean setup is a fast setup, starting with the little things. Take pride in your gear, and watch as it returns the favor in spades.
If you want even more tips and insights, watch this video called “Skateboarding Tricks & Maintenance : How to Fix a Slow Skateboard” from the ExpertVillage Leaf Group YouTube channel.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Do you still have questions about slow skateboards? Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about why your skateboard is slow:
What are some common reasons a skateboard may be slow?
Some common reasons for a slow skateboard may include poor deck quality, worn or worn-out bearings, and old or worn-out wheels.
How can I determine if my skateboard is slow?
You can determine if your skateboard is slow by doing a simple speed test on a flat surface or comparing your speed to other skateboarders.
What can I do to make my skateboard faster?
You can make your skateboard faster by upgrading your deck, bearings, and wheels. You can also maintain your equipment regularly to ensure it is in good condition.
Is it possible to make a slow skateboard fast again?
Yes, it is possible to make a slow skateboard fast again by following the above steps. Upgrading your deck, bearings, and wheels is the best way to improve the speed of your skateboard.
What are the reasons for slow bearings on a skateboard?
Slow bearings on a skateboard can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, wear, and poor maintenance. Over time, dirt, grime, and moisture can get into the bearings, causing them to degrade and become slow.
How can I maintain my skateboard bearings to prevent slowdowns?
To prevent slowdowns, you should clean your bearings regularly and replace them when they show signs of wear. You can also protect them by storing them in a dry place and keeping them away from moisture.
Conclusion
Let’s wrap this up and hit the pavement with our new skateboarding knowledge! Remember, if you’re looking to pick up the speed on your skateboard, try upgrading your wheels, keeping your bearings in tip-top shape, and keeping your board clean. And, if you’re still feeling a bit slow, just remember: “The slower you go, the faster you’ll get there.” (Just make sure you’re not going too slow, or you’ll be stuck in one place!)
Do you have any questions or concerns about why your skateboard is slow? And did I cover everything you wanted to know? Let me know in the comments section below, I read and reply to every comment. If you found this article helpful, share it with a friend, and check out my full blog for more tips and tricks on skateboarding. Thanks for reading, and happy skateboarding!
Key takeaways
This article covered why your skateboard is slow. Here are some key takeaways:
- Factors that can affect the speed of a skateboard include weight, wheels, bearings, deck, and trucks.
- To improve the speed of your skateboard, you can consider lightening the weight, upgrading your wheels and bearings, choosing the right deck and trucks, and maintaining them regularly.
- Practicing proper riding technique can also help increase your skateboard speed.
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