4 Essential Tips to Keep Your Longboard

Longboarding is all about the thrill of the ride, but like any gear you use regularly, your longboard needs some care to keep it running smoothly and safely. Spending just a few minutes checking and maintaining your board before each ride can save you from issues later on. Here are four simple maintenance tips to help keep your longboard in great shape.

1.Always Check Your Longboard Before Every Ride

The first thing you do before heading out is a quick check-up. A few moments to inspect your board can prevent problems and make sure you’re riding safely.

Wheels: Spin your wheels and see if there is a ton of debris or wear on them. If they are getting flat spots, or are packed with dirt, clean them off, or replace them. Worn-out wheels make for a pretty bumpy ride.
Trucks: Make sure all the bolts are tightened. A loose truck invites wobbling and loosely controlled movements, especially during carving and going down hills.
Deck: The deck should be checked for any cracks or chips, mainly around the point where the trucks are mounted. A cracked deck may break during a ride; better to find out early.
Bearings: Spin the wheels and listen for that strange grinding noise. If the bearings sound coarse, time to clean or replace them.
A quick inspection only takes a few minutes but saves you from bigger issues while riding.

2.Clean and Maintain Your Bearings

Bearings are what keep your wheels spinning smoothly, so it’s important to clean and care for them regularly. Dirt and moisture can clog them up, making your ride slower and bumpier.

* Cleaning: Take the wheels off and remove the bearings. Soak them in rubbing alcohol-or a bearing cleaner-for a few minutes to loosen the dirt. Dry them off afterward with a cloth.

* Lubrication: When dry, add a drop or two of bearing lubricant to keep them spinning smoothly. Replacement: If cleaning and then lubricating don’t bring back that smoothness, then it could well be time for replacement. New bearings will make your ride feel faster and more responsive. The regular maintenance of the bearings will keep them in good condition and keep your board rolling smoothly for a longer period of time.

1.Always Check Your Longboard Before Every Ride

The first thing you do before heading out is a quick check-up. A few moments to inspect your board can prevent problems and make sure you’re riding safely.

Wheels: Spin your wheels and see if there is a ton of debris or wear on them. If they are getting flat spots, or are packed with dirt, clean them off, or replace them. Worn-out wheels make for a pretty bumpy ride.
Trucks: Make sure all the bolts are tightened. A loose truck invites wobbling and loosely controlled movements, especially during carving and going down hills.
Deck: The deck should be checked for any cracks or chips, mainly around the point where the trucks are mounted. A cracked deck may break during a ride; better to find out early.
Bearings: Spin the wheels and listen for that strange grinding noise. If the bearings sound coarse, time to clean or replace them.
A quick inspection only takes a few minutes but saves you from bigger issues while riding.

2.Clean and Maintain Your Bearings

Bearings are what keep your wheels spinning smoothly, so it’s important to clean and care for them regularly. Dirt and moisture can clog them up, making your ride slower and bumpier.

* Cleaning: Take the wheels off and remove the bearings. Soak them in rubbing alcohol-or a bearing cleaner-for a few minutes to loosen the dirt. Dry them off afterward with a cloth.

3.Adjust and Maintain Your Trucks

Trucks affect how your board handles, so it’s important to keep them tight and responsive to suit your style of riding.

* Tightness: Check that the kingpin bolts are snug. If they’re too loose, your board might feel wobbly. For cruising, a little looseness is fine, but if you’re riding downhill, you’ll want them tighter for stability.

* Bushings: The bushings in your trucks are made of rubber and have a tendency to wear out. If your board seems to turn too stiffly or too loose, that means it is due for a set of softer or harder bushings, depending on your riding style.

* General Check: Have a fast look to see whether the truck hanger or baseplate has any crack or wear. In case any of these conditions occur, try to replace your part for safety.

Changes to your truck and worn bushings replacement will greatly enhance your riding and make it very stable.

4.Care for Your Deck

Your deck takes the most abuse, so keeping it clean and protected is vital to making it last longer and to having safer rides.

Clean the Deck: With time, dirt, moisture, and grime can wreak havoc on your deck-especially if your board gets wet. Wipe it down with a soft cloth and a mild cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals, which can ruin the wood or the finish.
Grip Tape: If your longboard has grip tape, then replace it when it starts to lose texture or peels off. New grip tape keeps your feet from slipping and offers better control. If your board does not have grip tape, as with some SCOPS longboards, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for treating the surface. They may recommend applying a special product to maintain grip and protect the material.
Protect the Deck: If you ride in wet conditions or store your board outdoors, consider applying a water-resistant coating or wood protectant. This will go a long way in maintaining your deck, especially when exposed to rainy or highly humid weather.

Caring for your deck will help it not get cracked, split, or damaged from the elements.

With these easy tips for maintenance, you’ll be able to keep your longboard in excellent condition and at the same time develop your riding experience. A little time used for regular checks, cleaning of bearings, adjusting trucks, and taking care of the deck will grant years of smooth riding to your board. Take care of your board, and it’ll take care of you!