Stable Sports

Knowing the skateboard components and upgrades will help any skater enjoy every ride, do some tricks and stunts, and keep the skateboard in top condition at all times. Here are the major parts of a skateboard and the upgrades that you can easily do to make the equipment perform better.

The Deck

The deck of the skateboard is the flat board where the rider stands or crouches when skateboarding. A skateboard deck comes in several sizes. These are the 7.5-8.0 inches for adults; 7.3 inches deck while those aged 6 to 8 years old will find the 7.0 inches for teenagers; 7.0 inches while 6.5-6.75 inches for small children.

Grip tape

The grip tape is a tape with gritty surface and helps your shoes stay firmly on the board. Without the grip tape, you will slide and fall from the skateboard. Some people who skateboard buy grip tape with colorful and lovely designs. It can also help riders identify the nose and the tail of the skateboard.

Trucks

A skateboard has metal trucks to keep the wheels and the bearings attached to the deck. This is responsible for the movement of the skateboard. The trucks keep the rider stable and are important in doing the tricks and stunts in the skateboard. It is important to have stable and strong trucks to prevent accidents while riding the board.

Wheels

The wheels of the skateboard keep it running. The quality of ride and speed is affected by the size of the wheels. Big wheels can make the board run fast and ride over surfaces with cracks or debris smoothly. Although small-wheeled skateboards are quick to respond, they are slower than those with big wheels.

Bearings

The bearings attach the wheels to the axle and are responsible for the way the wheels turn, Bearings must be lubricated properly so that the wheels can turn smoothly. If they are corroded or sticky, you will have difficulty making the skateboard move. There are cleaning kits for the bearing that can be purchased in the market.

Skateboard Upgrades

Some skateboard owners prefer to customize their equipment and update them. Here are the most common updates that you can easily do by yourself.

Changing the Wheels

For a smooth and safe ride on the skateboard at all times, changing wheels when the old ones show signs of wear and tear is important. You can choose wheels in your favorite color and apply some designs for a unique wheel. You can also change wheel sizes if you prefer to reach higher speeds.

Update the grip tape

Grip tape may lose its adhesion as time passes by. When the grits are not as rough anymore as when you bought your skateboard, you can easily lose your balance and slip or slide. Replace the grip tape as soon as its surface is becoming smooth.

Change the trucks

Too old trucks can result in accidents as they might separate from the board. Replace them once you notice signs of wear and tear. Using colorful trucks will enhance the attractiveness of your skateboard and you will enjoy it more.

By knowing the skateboard components and updates of your equipment, you will continue enjoying each ride. The skateboard will be safer to ride and will last longer if they are updated when signs of wear and tear become visible.