Longboard lovers can ride very spectacularly and even set records. However, a lot depends not only on the training of athletes, but also on the wheelbase. It's time to figure out what it can be and what it means in terms of practical skiing.
Value
That diameter is the first criterion that is important to evaluate both experienced athletes and amateurs. The industry mastered the production of wheels with an external cross section of 0.06 - 0.107 m; most often there are models with a diameter of 70, 80, 90, 100 mm. According to the laws of mechanics: the smaller this size, the lower the highest speed. However, it will be possible to achieve it in less time. Models with a small wheel are best chosen by inexperienced skaters or those engaged in technical slalom.
Important: in areas where there are many stones and other obstacles, small wheels cause a lot of problems.
Medium-sized propulsors belong to the universal category. If the consumer is confused and does not understand what to choose, preference must be given to them. Setting speed records will not work, but the feeling of constant braking disappears. You can ride almost everywhere without fear of a strong concussion from any random pebble. But the big wheels are suitable for those who want to achieve the highest results when riding.
Thanks to them, it will be possible to engage in freeride, downhill or go down the mountain at high speed. Sensitivity to obstacles is relatively low. Even small cracks in asphalt the longboarder will overcome without problems. But you need to consider not only the diameter - the width of the tire is also important. Increasing it allows you to ride on an uneven surface calmly, but the downside will be a drop in maneuverability; slides try to equip with narrower wheels.
Rigidity
A key requirement when choosing this indicator is the future use of a longboard. A less rigid wheel holds the trajectory more confidently. Therefore, it can be used in high-speed races. But for the slides that should slip, use more rigid wheels. Important: the most accurate information about this indicator can be found by marking the product itself.
The soft group includes models labeled from 73A to 79A. They are preferable for cruisers, that is, for longboards designed to ride on ordinary city streets. Warning: inexperienced riders do not make sense to choose wheels softer than 77A, and stiffer than 83A. Then it will turn out to work out at least at a minimum level the basic techniques and choose the right riding style. The toughest models now have indicators of 80–84A.
Other recommendations and use
You need to understand that the stiffness of the wheels must also be selected taking into account the body weight of the rider. For children and adolescents, it is advisable to use softer models. But when the load is 80–90 kg, the stiffness should be higher. Otherwise, it will be inconvenient to ride, and the longboard itself will often have to be fixed.
Another nuance is the choice of the shape of the wheel. When it is rectangular, the area of contact with the soil is very large. Grip even with a bad road improves. It is this option that is suitable for fans to accelerate and experience the thrill of complex maneuvers. Slides are usually equipped with round movers. As for the dimensions, when choosing them, the desired sport is also taken into account:
- dancing, freeride, leisurely walks - 0.07–0.076 m;
- downhill (descent at high speed) 0.07–0.1 m;
- slalom 0.065-0.077 m;
- carving 0.062 - 0.08 m;
- sliding - at least 0.06 m.
In giant slalom and cruising, wheels with an acute angle are optimal. Freeride and slide are much nicer when using a chamfer mover.
It is extremely important: in any case, it makes no sense to trust little-known manufacturers. Experienced athletes prefer products Restless, Landyachtz, Divine; and no one, following their example, complained much. Luminous wheels are valuable for those who want to ride a longboard on ordinary streets, especially in the dark.
The rebound is selected individually, taking into account the scope of the longboard and your own riding style. Because sometimes you have to change the shell when the experience is already gained. On long freeride spots on the asphalt, movers are used without a rebound.
Good to know how to tighten the slide wheels. Before the start of each season, their puff is checked very carefully so as not to become a victim of an accident.
When the wheel spins badly, it means that the bearing has corroded - it is time to replace it. Unscrew and tighten the nuts you need a special key, which is included in the package.
Important: do not tighten the bushings for greater rigidity - they are simply changed as needed.
Tightening the wheels on a longboard for a beginner should be as strong as possible, comfort and safety while riding depend on this. And of course, one must carefully read the instructions.
Longboard wheel tips can be found in the video below.
