Are you looking to transform your skateboard into a smooth-riding cruiser? Swapping out your regular skateboard wheels for longboard wheels might be exactly what you need.
Longboard wheels are larger and softer, offering a much smoother ride over rough streets and cracks. But before you jump in, it’s important to know how to install them properly and what to expect from this setup. In this guide, you’ll learn step-by-step how to put longboard wheels on your skateboard, what tools and parts you might need, and how this change will affect your ride.
Ready to make your skateboard roll easier and feel more comfortable? Keep reading, and let’s get started!
Credit: www.skateboardershq.com
Benefits Of Longboard Wheels
Longboard wheels bring several benefits when fitted onto a skateboard. They change how the board feels and performs. These wheels can improve your riding experience, especially on rough surfaces or long rides.
Choosing longboard wheels helps with comfort and control. They offer advantages that standard skateboard wheels may lack. Below are key benefits that show why many riders prefer these wheels.
Smoother Ride
Longboard wheels are larger and softer. This design helps absorb bumps and cracks on the road. It reduces vibrations felt through the board. You get a smoother and more comfortable ride. This is great for long distances or rough pavement. The wheels roll over small obstacles easily. This means less effort to keep moving forward.
Better Terrain Handling
These wheels handle different surfaces well. They grip better on rough or uneven ground. This gives you more control and stability. You can ride on streets, gravel, or grass paths. The increased traction helps prevent slipping. This makes longboard wheels ideal for cruising outside skate parks. They allow you to explore more places with confidence.
Challenges To Consider
Putting longboard wheels on a skateboard changes the ride in many ways. It can make the board smoother on rough ground. Yet, there are challenges to face before making this switch. Understanding these helps you prepare and avoid problems while riding.
Longboard wheels are bigger and softer than skateboard wheels. This size difference affects how the skateboard handles and performs tricks. Let’s explore the main challenges to consider when fitting longboard wheels on a skateboard.
Wheel Bite Risk
Bigger wheels take up more space. They can touch the skateboard deck during sharp turns. This is called wheel bite. Wheel bite stops the wheels from spinning and can cause falls. Adding riser pads can help create more space. Still, watch for wheel bite before riding fast or turning hard.
Higher Ride Height
Longboard wheels raise the skateboard deck higher from the ground. This higher ride height changes your balance. It makes the board feel less stable for tricks. Ollies and flip tricks become harder to do. You may need more practice to get used to the new height.
Impact On Tricks
Large wheels slow down trick execution. The board is heavier and less responsive. Tricks that need quick footwork may feel awkward. Grinding and slides might not work well. Riding with longboard wheels suits cruising better than park skating.
Slower Acceleration
Bigger wheels need more effort to start moving. Pushing takes more energy at first. You gain speed more slowly than with small wheels. Longboard wheels keep momentum better once rolling. They are great for smooth, steady rides but less for quick bursts.
Tools And Materials Needed
Before fitting longboard wheels onto a skateboard, gather the right tools and materials. This ensures a smooth installation and safe riding experience. Some parts help adjust the skateboard to fit larger wheels properly. Others keep the setup stable and prevent damage to the board.
Here are the key items you will need for this upgrade.
Riser Pads
Riser pads are thin pieces of plastic or rubber placed between the trucks and the skateboard deck. They raise the board slightly to avoid wheel bite, which happens when the wheels touch the deck during turns. This can stop your ride suddenly and cause falls. Riser pads give enough clearance for bigger longboard wheels to spin freely.
Longer Hardware
Installing riser pads increases the gap between trucks and the deck. Standard bolts may become too short. Longer hardware bolts ensure the trucks are securely attached through the added thickness. Using the right length avoids loose trucks or damage to the board. Check the size needed before buying.
Compatible Trucks
Not all skateboard trucks fit longboard wheels well. Wider trucks offer better support for large wheels and prevent wheel bite. Some trucks have higher hangers for more clearance. Choose trucks that match the width of your deck and the size of your longboard wheels. This improves balance and control.
Step-by-step Installation
Installing longboard wheels on a skateboard is simple with the right steps. This process improves your ride’s smoothness and helps roll over rough surfaces easily. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure a safe and effective setup.
Each step focuses on preparing your skateboard and fitting the new wheels correctly. Take your time and check every part as you go.
Remove Existing Wheels
Start by flipping your skateboard upside down on a flat surface. Use a skate tool or wrench to loosen the nuts on the current wheels. Remove the wheels carefully along with the bearings. Keep the nuts and washers safe; you will need them later.
Check Clearance
Place the longboard wheels next to your skateboard deck and trucks. Spin the wheels to see how close they are to the deck. Make sure there is enough space to avoid wheel bite during turns. If the wheels touch the deck, you will need riser pads.
Install Riser Pads
Riser pads add extra height between your deck and trucks. This prevents the wheels from hitting the deck when you turn. Place one riser pad on each truck mount on the deck. Align the holes and screw the trucks back tightly using the original screws or longer bolts if needed.
Attach Trucks With Longer Bolts
Longboard wheels are thicker and may require longer bolts for secure attachment. Remove the trucks again and replace the bolts with longer ones. Tighten the bolts well to keep the trucks stable. This step ensures the wheels spin freely without wobbling.
Mount Longboard Wheels
Insert bearings into each longboard wheel. Press them firmly until they fit snugly. Slide the wheels onto the truck axles. Secure the wheels by tightening the nuts, but do not over-tighten. The wheels should spin smoothly without too much play.
Adjusting Your Setup
After installing longboard wheels on your skateboard, adjusting your setup is crucial. Proper adjustment ensures smooth rides and prevents common issues like wheel bite. Small tweaks can improve control and comfort. Focus on testing wheel bite, fine-tuning truck tightness, and adjusting bushings as needed. These steps help your board perform well with the new wheels.
Test For Wheel Bite
Wheel bite happens when the wheels touch the deck during sharp turns. This can stop your board suddenly and cause falls. To test, turn your trucks fully left and right while standing on the board. Check if the wheels hit the deck or riser pads. If you feel any rubbing or sudden stops, your setup needs adjustment.
Fine-tune Truck Tightness
Truck tightness affects how your board turns. Loose trucks turn easily but may feel unstable. Tight trucks offer stability but are harder to turn. Adjust the kingpin nut with a skate tool. Turn it clockwise to tighten and counterclockwise to loosen. Find a balance that lets you turn smoothly without wobbling.
Adjust Bushings If Needed
Bushings cushion the trucks and affect turning and stability. Soft bushings make turning easier but can feel loose. Hard bushings provide more control but require more effort to turn. Swap bushings if your ride feels too stiff or too loose. Test different hardness levels to match your riding style and the new wheels.
Credit: vandemlongboardshop.co.uk
Best Uses For This Setup
Putting longboard wheels on a skateboard creates a unique setup. It changes how the board rides and feels. This setup works best for certain activities. Understanding these helps you get the most out of your board.
Commuting And Cruising
Longboard wheels make the ride smoother on rough roads. They absorb bumps better than standard wheels. This makes them great for riding to school or work. You can cover longer distances with less effort. The larger wheels roll over cracks and stones easily. This setup is perfect for casual rides around town.
Mini-cruiser Board
Using longboard wheels on a small skateboard turns it into a mini-cruiser. The board stays light and easy to carry. It is great for quick trips or just cruising the neighborhood. The wheels give a soft, stable ride. It works well on sidewalks and streets. This setup suits riders who want a simple, fun board for daily use.
Avoiding Technical Tricks
Longboard wheels make doing tricks harder. The bigger wheels sit higher and slow down flips. This setup is not for skatepark tricks or street skating. It is better to avoid ollies and kickflips. Instead, focus on smooth, flowing rides. This setup is ideal for riders who prefer cruising over technical skating.
Maintenance Tips
Maintaining your skateboard with longboard wheels is key to a safe and smooth ride. Regular checks keep your setup working well and lasting longer. Simple care steps help avoid damage and improve performance.
Checking Wheel Wear
Look at the wheels often for flat spots or cracks. Uneven wear can affect balance and control. Replace wheels if they show heavy wear or damage. This keeps your ride stable and safe.
Bearing Care
Clean bearings regularly to remove dirt and grime. Use a bearing cleaner or soak them in rubbing alcohol. Dry fully before reassembling. Lubricate bearings lightly to keep them spinning smoothly.
Hardware Tightening
Check all bolts and nuts frequently. Loose hardware can cause wobbling or accidents. Tighten trucks, wheels, and riser pads as needed. Use the right tools for a secure fit without over-tightening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Put Longboard Wheels On A Regular Skateboard?
Yes, you can put longboard wheels on a skateboard for a smoother ride and better rough terrain handling. Use riser pads to prevent wheel bite. Expect higher ride height and harder tricks. This setup suits cruising, not technical street skating.
How To Put On Longboard Wheels?
Remove old wheels, insert bearings into longboard wheels, place wheels on truck axles, secure with axle nuts, and tighten properly.
Can I Use Longboard Trucks On A Skateboard?
Yes, you can use longboard trucks on a skateboard, but they may affect turning and trick performance. They suit cruising better than technical skating.
Are Longboard And Skateboard Wheels The Same?
Longboard wheels differ from skateboard wheels in size, softness, and purpose. They offer smoother rides but reduce trick performance.
Conclusion
Swapping longboard wheels onto a skateboard changes how it rides. Expect smoother movement and easier rolling over rough surfaces. Watch out for wheel bite by adding riser pads if needed. The board will sit higher, so tricks may feel harder.
Use longer bolts to fit everything securely. This setup suits cruising and comfortable rides more than technical tricks. Enjoy a fresh feel with your hybrid skateboard and experiment safely.
