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A longboard is a type of skateboard that is generally longer than a standard skateboard. A longboard is often used for transportation, cruising, and downhill racing. Longboards are also used in a variety of other skateboarding disciplines.
Longboards are a great way to get around, but they require a bit of maintenance to keep them running smoothly.
Do Longboards Need Maintenance?
Do longboards need maintenance? This is a question that is often asked by those new to the sport of longboarding. The simple answer is yes, but the level of maintenance will vary depending on how often you ride and the conditions you ride in.
For the most part, you will need to perform some basic maintenance tasks on your longboard on a regular basis. These tasks include cleaning the deck, trucks, and wheels; lubricating the bearings; and tightening the bolts.
Cleaning the deck, trucks, and wheels will help to keep your longboard in good condition and prevent dirt and grime from build-up. Lubricating the bearings will help to keep them spinning smoothly, and tightening the bolts will keep everything secure.
In addition to these basic tasks, you may also need to perform more advanced maintenance tasks on your longboard from time to time. These tasks can include replacing worn-out parts, such as bearings, wheels, or trucks; repairing damaged parts; or customizing your longboard to fit your riding style.
No matter how often you ride or what level of maintenance you need to perform, taking care of your longboard will help to ensure that it lasts for many years to come.
Read: The best way to put a skateboard on a backpack
Longboard Maintenance Kit
If you’re like me, you love your longboard. It’s your go-to transportation method and you take it everywhere with you. But like any good relationship, your longboard needs some TLC every now and then to keep it running smoothly. That’s where the Longboard Maintenance Kit comes in.
This handy little kit has everything you need to keep your longboard in tip-top shape. The kit includes:
- A set of Allen keys to tighten or loosen your trucks
- A set of wrenches to adjust your bearings
- A bearing cleaning kit to keep your bearings clean and running smoothly
- A set of replacement bushings to keep your trucks tight
- A set of replacement wheels to keep your ride smooth
- A set of replacement bearings to keep your longboard rolling fast
- A set of speed washers to keep your wheels spinning freely
- A set of replacement grip tape to keep your feet glued to the deck
- A set of replacement hardware to keep your longboard together
With this kit, you have everything you need to keep your longboard running like new. So don’t wait, get your Longboard Maintenance Kit today!
12 Tips For Longboard Maintenance
If you own a longboard, it is important to take care of it so that it lasts for a long time. Here are 12 tips for longboard maintenance:
1. Keep your longboard clean.
Just like any other type of skateboard, a longboard needs to be kept clean. You should wipe down your longboard after every skate session to remove dirt and grime. You can use a soft cloth or a brush to clean your longboard.
Your longboard is an investment. Like any other investment, you need to take care of it to keep it in good condition. This means cleaning it regularly.
Cleaning your longboard is important for two reasons. First, it will help to keep your board looking good. Second, it will help to keep your board performing at its best. A clean board will slide better and be more responsive than a dirty one.
So, how do you clean your longboard? The best way is to use a mild soap and a soft brush. You can also use a longboard cleaning kit. These kits usually come with a cleaning solution and a soft brush.
Start by removing any dirt or grime from the surface of your board. You can do this by wiping it down with a damp cloth. Once the surface is clean, you can move on to cleaning the trucks.
To clean the trucks, you will need to remove them from the board. This is easy to do – just unscrew the bolts that hold them in place. Once the trucks are removed, you can clean them with a brush and soapy water. Be sure to dry them completely before putting them back on the board.
The last step is to clean the bearings. To do this, you will need to remove the wheels from the trucks. Again, this is easy to do – just unscrew the bolts that hold the wheels in place. Once the wheels are off, you can clean the bearings with a brush and soapy water. Be sure to dry the bearings completely before putting the wheels back on the trucks.
That’s it! Once you’ve cleaned all the parts of your longboard, you can put it back together and enjoy riding it.
Read: Ways to clean skateboards
2. Inspect your longboard regularly.
Longboarding is a great way to get around, but it’s important to inspect your longboard regularly to make sure it’s in good condition. Here are a few things to look for:
- Check the deck for any cracks or damage. If you see any, it’s time to replace the deck.
- Check the trucks for any cracks or damage. If you see any, it’s time to replace the trucks.
- Check the wheels for any cracks or damage. If you see any, it’s time to replace the wheels.
- Check the bearings for any damage. If you see any, it’s time to replace the bearings.
- Check the bolts for any damage. If you see any, it’s time to replace the bolts.
- Check the grip tape for any damage. If you see any, it’s time to replace the grip tape.
Taking the time to inspect your longboard regularly will help ensure that it stays in good condition and lasts for many years.
Read: How many calories do you burn longboarding?
3. Tighten your trucks.
Trucks are the metal parts of a longboard that attach the wheels to the deck. Over time, trucks can become loose and wobbly. This can cause your longboard to be less stable and can lead to accidents. To avoid this, you should check your trucks regularly and tighten them if they are loose.
Here’s a quick guide on how to tighten skateboard trucks.
What You’ll Need:
- Skateboard
- Trucks
- Hardware (bolts, nuts, washers)
- Tool for tightening/loosening hardware (socket wrench, Allen wrench, etc.)
- Skateboard grip tape
Instructions:
- Start by placing your skateboard on a flat surface. If you don’t have a skateboard ramp or something similar, you can just use a flat section of pavement or concrete.
- Next, take a look at your trucks and identify which parts need to be tightened. The two main areas you’ll want to focus on are the kingpin nut and the axle nut.
- Use your tool to loosen the kingpin nut until it’s loose enough to turn by hand. While you’re doing this, hold onto the skateboard so it doesn’t move around too much.
- Once the kingpin nut is loose, tighten the axle nut until it’s snug.
- Finally, retighten the kingpin nut until it’s tight enough that it won’t come loose, but don’t over-tighten it.
And that’s it! Just remember to check your trucks every so often to make sure they’re still tight. If they start to loosen up, simply follow the steps above to tighten them back up.
If you don’t have any skate tools, then follow the following steps:
Most skateboarders don’t carry around a skate tool with them when they’re skating, but that doesn’t mean that they can’t adjust their trucks when they need to. There are a few different ways that you can tighten your trucks without a skate tool, and we’re going to go over all of them here.
First, let’s start with the most common way to tighten your trucks without a skate tool: using a penny. This method is pretty simple – all you need is a penny and a pair of pliers. Just put the penny in between the kingpin and the hanger, and use the pliers to tighten the kingpin nut. This method works best if you have a new penny that’s in good condition, but you can also use an old penny if you don’t have a new one.
If you don’t have a penny, you can also use a butter knife or a flat-head screwdriver. Just put the butter knife or screwdriver in between the kingpin and the hanger, and use it to tighten the kingpin nut. This method is a little more difficult than using a penny, but it will still get the job done.
Another way to tighten your trucks without a skate tool is to use a piece of string. This method is similar to the penny method – all you need is a piece of string and a pair of pliers. Just put the string in between the kingpin and the hanger, and use the pliers to tighten the kingpin nut. This method is a little more difficult than using a penny, but it’s still a viable option.
The last way to tighten your trucks without a skate tool is to use a piece of paper. This method is similar to the string method – all you need is a piece of paper and a pair of pliers. Just put the paper in between the kingpin and the hanger, and use the pliers to tighten the kingpin nut. This method is a little more difficult than using a penny or a string, but it’s still a viable option.
So, there you have it – four different ways to tighten your trucks without a skate tool. Try out each of these methods and see which one works best for you.
4. Replace your wheels.
Wheels wear out over time and need to be replaced. You will know it is time to replace your wheels when they start to get flat spots. These flat spots will cause your longboard to vibrate and can make skating less enjoyable.
If you’re like most skateboarders, you probably don’t think too much about your skateboard wheels. But if you’re looking to improve your skating, or if you’re simply tired of your current wheels, it might be time for an upgrade.
There are a few things to consider when choosing new skateboard wheels. The first is size. Skateboard wheels range from 50mm to 60mm, and the size you need depends on your skating style and the kind of skateboard you have.
If you’re a street skater, you’ll want smaller wheels, around 50mm. These wheels are easier to maneuver and are better for doing tricks.
If you’re a cruiser or longboarder, you’ll want larger wheels, around 60mm. These wheels roll faster and are better for cruising and going long distances.
The second thing to consider is hardness. Skateboard wheels are measured in a durometer, and the higher the number, the harder the wheel. Harder wheels are better for street skating because they maintain speed and are less likely to flat spot. Softer wheels are better for cruising and longboarding because they absorb bumps and are more comfortable to ride.
The third thing to consider is material. Skateboard wheels are made of either polyurethane (PU) or urethane (UR). PU is the most common type of wheel, and it’s what you’ll find on most skateboards. UR is a harder, faster type of wheel, and it’s best for experienced skaters who know how to handle the speed.
Once you’ve decided on the size, hardness, and material you want, it’s time to choose a brand. There are dozens of skateboard wheel brands out there, and it can be tough to know which one to choose.
The best way to find the right brand for you is to ask your friends what they ride and to read online reviews. Once you’ve narrowed it down to a few brands, it’s time to hit the skate shop and try out some wheels!
When you’re at the skate shop, pay attention to how the wheels feel when you’re riding. Do they roll fast? Do they feel smooth? Do they make your skateboard feel alive?
Once you’ve found the perfect wheels, it’s time to install them. This is a pretty easy process, but if you’ve never done it before, you might want to ask a friend for help.
- Start by removing the old wheels from your skateboard. You’ll need a skateboard tool or a regular Phillips head screwdriver to do this. Simply unscrew the bolts that hold the wheels in place.
- Once the old wheels are removed, take a look at the bearings. If they’re in good condition, you can reuse them. If not, you’ll need to replace them as well.
- To install the new wheels, simply line up the bearings with the holes in the wheels and screw them in place.
- Once the new wheels are installed, give them a spin to make sure they’re on tight. And that’s it! You’ve successfully replaced your skateboard wheels.
5. Lubricate your bearings.
Bearings are the metal parts of the wheels that spin. Over time, bearings can become dry and dusty. This can cause your longboard to be less smooth and can make skating less enjoyable. To avoid this, you should lubricate your bearings regularly with a bearing lubricant.
There are a few different ways to lubricate skateboard bearings, but we recommend using a light oil or lubricant specifically designed for bearings. You can find these at most skate shops or online.
To lubricate your bearings, start by removing the wheels from your skateboard. Next, using a clean rag or paper towel, wipe away any dirt or debris from the bearings. Once they’re clean, apply a few drops of oil or lubricant to each bearing, being careful not to overdo it.
Now, put the wheels back on your skateboard and spin them to work the lubricant into the bearings. You’re ready to ride!
Just like with anything else, it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance on your skateboard bearings. A good rule of thumb is to lubricate them every few months, or more often if you ride frequently in wet or dirty conditions.
Taking care of your skateboard bearings will help prolong the life of your skateboard and ensure a smooth ride every time.
6. Store your longboard in a cool, dry place.
It is important to store your longboard in a cool, dry place when you are not using it. This will help to avoid damage to the deck, wheels, and bearings.
If you are a beginner longboarder, you may be wondering how to store your longboard when you are not using it. There are a few things to consider when storing your longboard, such as where you will store it and how to store it so that it does not get damaged.
Where to store your longboard?
The first thing to consider when storing your longboard is where you will store it. You want to make sure that the location is not too humid or too dry, as this can damage the longboard. If you live in an area with high humidity, you may want to consider storing your longboard in a climate-controlled storage unit.
If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, you will want to store your longboard inside your home to avoid any damage from the elements.
How to store your longboard?
Once you have found the perfect location to store your longboard, you will need to figure out how to store it. The best way to store a longboard is to hang it on a wall using longboard wall hangers. This will keep the longboard off the ground and away from any potential damage.
If you do not have a wall to hang your longboard on, you can also store it on a longboard rack. There are many different types of longboard racks available, so you will need to find one that best suits your needs.
Once you have your longboard stored safely, you will need to make sure that it is clean before you put it away. The best way to clean a longboard is to use a mild soap and water solution. You can also use a longboard wax to protect the longboard from any potential damage.
When you are ready to store your longboard, make sure that you follow these tips to ensure that your longboard is stored properly and will be ready to ride when you are.
7. Avoid extreme heat and cold.
Extreme heat and cold can damage your longboard. Avoid leaving your longboard in direct sunlight or in a hot car. Also, avoid riding your longboard in freezing temperatures.
8. Don’t ride your longboard in the rain.
Water can damage your longboard. Avoid riding your longboard in the rain or in other wet conditions.
When it rains, the ground gets wet and slippery. Riding your longboard in the rain is dangerous because you could slip and fall. You could also get hit by a car if you’re not careful.
Longboarding is a fun and exciting way to get around, but it’s not always the best option when the weather is bad. If you must ride in the rain, be extra careful and take your time. Watch out for slippery surfaces and be visible to drivers. Wear bright clothing and use lights if necessary. And always ride with caution.
9. Don’t stand on your longboard when you are not skating.
Longboarding is a great way to get around, but there are certain dangers that come with it. One of those dangers is standing on your longboard when you are not skating. This can lead to serious injury, and it is something that you should avoid at all costs. Here are some of the reasons why you should never stand on your longboard when you are not skating:
- It is extremely dangerous. Standing on your longboard when you are not skating is like standing on a skateboard without wheels. You are balanced on a very small surface area, and one wrong move can send you flying.
- You could seriously injure yourself. If you fell off of your longboard while standing on it, you could sustain some serious injuries. You could break a bone, or worse, you could hit your head and suffer a concussion or even worse.
- It is illegal in some places. In some cities and states, it is actually against the law to stand on your longboard when you are not skating. So not only is it dangerous, but you could also get in trouble with the law.
- It is not necessary. There is no reason to stand on your longboard when you are not skating. If you need to stop for a minute, just sit down on the ground. It may not be as comfortable, but it is a lot safer.
- It is not cool. Sure, standing on your longboard might look cool, but it is not worth the risk. It is much cooler to stay safe and skate another day.
So, there you have it. These are just a few of the many reasons why you should never stand on your longboard when you are not skating. It is dangerous, it is illegal, and it is not necessary. Just sit down and enjoy the ride.
10. Inspect the deck for cracks or splinters.
When you’re inspecting your longboard deck for cracks or splinters, you’ll want to pay close attention to the edges and corners. These are the areas where the deck is most likely to crack or splinter.
If you see any cracks or splinters, you’ll want to take care of them right away. Cracks can worsen over time and splinters can be painful.
To repair a crack, you’ll need to get a hold of some deck sealant. Apply the sealant to the crack, making sure to fill it in completely. Once the sealant is dry, you’ll want to sand the area smooth.
For a splinter, you’ll want to use a sharp knife to carefully remove it. Once the splinter is out, you can sand the area smoothly.
If you take care of any cracks or splinters right away, you’ll be able to prevent them from getting worse. Inspecting your deck regularly will help you keep it in good condition for years to come.
11. Don’t forget to lube the pivot cups.
Lubricating your longboard’s pivot cups is an important part of maintaining your board and keeping it in good condition. Pivot cups are the small, round cups that the trucks’ kingpins sit in. Over time, these cups can become dry and brittle, which can cause the trucks to become loose and wobble. Lubricating the cups will help keep them in good condition and prevent the trucks from becoming loose.
To lubricate the pivot cups, you will need a small amount of lubricant. You can use any type of lubricant that is safe for plastic. We recommend using light lubricating oil, such as 3-in-1 oil.
Apply a small amount of lubricant to the outside of the pivot cup. Use your finger to spread the lubricant around the cup. You don’t need to use a lot of lubricants, just enough to coat the outside of the cup.
Now, take the truck and place the kingpin into the pivot cup. You may need to wiggle the kingpin a bit to get it to seat properly in the cup. Once the kingpin is seated, spin the truck back and forth a few times. This will help spread the lubricant around the inside of the cup.
Repeat this process for the other pivot cup. Once you’re finished, spin the trucks back and forth a few times to make sure the lubricant is evenly distributed. Your longboard is now ready to ride!
12. Take care of your longboard and it will take care of you.
By following these tips, you can help to extend the life of your longboard. Taking care of your longboard will help you to enjoy skating for many years to come.
FAQs
1. What are the best ways to clean my longboard?
The best ways to clean your longboard are to use a soft brush or cloth to remove any dirt or debris, and to use a mild soap and water solution to remove any stubborn dirt or grime. You can also use a commercial deck cleaner, but be sure to read the instructions carefully before using it.
2. How often should I wax my longboard?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on a number of factors, including the type of longboard you have, the conditions you ride in, and your personal preference. However, as a general rule of thumb, you should aim to wax your longboard at least once a month.
3. What are the best ways to store my longboard?
Assuming you are asking about how to store a longboard when not in use, the best ways to store a longboard are to either hang it on a wall hook or to lay it flat on the ground. If you have the space, you can also store your longboard in a longboard deck bag or box. Whichever way you choose to store your longboard, make sure that it is in a cool, dry place where it will not be damaged by moisture or sunlight.
4. How can I prevent my longboard from warping?
You can prevent your longboard from warping by regularly maintaining it and keeping it clean. You should also avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures and humidity. If you notice any warping, you can try to fix it by sanding down the affected area and then applying a new layer of paint or varnish.
5. What are the best ways to repair my longboard if it gets damaged?
The best ways to repair your longboard if it gets damaged are to either replace the damaged parts or to repair the damage itself. If you replace the damaged parts, you will need to purchase new parts from a longboard shop, or online. If you decide to repair the damage yourself, you will need to sand down the area around the damage, and then use a filler to fill in the damage. Once the filler is dry, you will need to sand it down again and then paint it over the area.
6. How often should I clean my longboard?
For general maintenance, it is recommended that you clean your longboard once a month. However, if you live in a particularly dusty or dirty area, you may need to clean it more often. If you ride your longboard in the rain, you should also clean it as soon as possible afterward to prevent rusting.
7. What can I use to clean my longboard?
There are a few things you can use to clean your longboard. A soft cloth or sponge with some soapy water can be used to wipe down the deck and remove any dirt or grime. You can also use a putty knife or something similar to scrape off any stubborn dirt or grime. If you want to give your longboard a more thorough cleaning, you can use a deck cleaner or a power washer. Just be sure to use a low setting on the power washer and hold it at least 12 inches away from the board to avoid damaging it.
8. How do I remove dirt and grime from my longboard?
To remove dirt and grime from your longboard, you will need to use a mild soap and water solution. You can use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the board. If you need to, you can use a mild abrasive such as sandpaper to remove any stubborn dirt or grime.
9. How do I protect my longboard from the elements?
You can protect your longboard from the elements by applying a clear coat of deck sealant. This will help to seal out moisture and protect the deck from dirt, grime, and sunlight.
10. How do I transport my longboard?
There are a few different ways that you can transport your longboard. The most common way is to just carry it with you. This is fine if you’re just going a short distance, but if you’re going to be walking for a while or going up and downstairs, it can be a bit of a pain.
Another option is to get a longboard bag. These are designed to make it easy to carry your longboard around with you. They often have straps to wear them like a backpack, and some even have wheels so you can roll them along behind you.
If you’re going to be traveling with your longboard, you’ll want to invest in a good-quality longboard case. These are designed to protect your longboard during transport and can even be used as storage when you’re not using it.
11. How often should I lubricate my longboard bearings?
It is generally recommended to lubricate your longboard bearings every few months, or more often if you ride in wet or dusty conditions.
12. What can I do to extend the life of my longboard?
There are a few things you can do to extend the life of your longboard. First, you can try to avoid riding in wet conditions as much as possible. Second, you can try to avoid riding on rough surfaces. Third, you can regularly maintain your longboard by cleaning it and keeping the bearings lubricated. Finally, you can invest in a good-quality longboard that is designed to last.
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