Skate with Longboard Wheels: Can You & How To

Alright, so you’re thinking about slapping some longboard wheels on your skateboard? It’s a question that pops up a lot, especially when you see folks like Braille Skateboarding experimenting with all sorts of setups. Now, the idea of increased roll speed, an attribute valued by downhill skateboarding enthusiasts, makes the swap appealing. But before you go full send and potentially end up eating pavement, there are definitely some things to consider, particularly regarding trucks’ compatibility and whether the setup suits your style. So, can you actually skate with longboard wheels, and more importantly, how should you go about it? Let’s dive in and figure out if this experiment is right for you.

Okay, here’s an in-depth explanation of the best structure for an article titled "Skate with Longboard Wheels: Can You & How To," designed to be informative and helpful, but also setting realistic expectations and acknowledging potential limitations.

Skate with Longboard Wheels: A Go or a No-Go?

The burning question: can you actually put longboard wheels on a regular skateboard? The short answer is yes, you generally can. But just because you can doesn’t always mean you should. Let’s unpack that, because the devil’s in the details, right?

Why You Might Want To: The Appeal of Larger Wheels

So, what’s the draw? Why would someone even consider slapping some longboard wheels onto their skateboard? Several reasons actually:

• Smoother Ride: This is the big one. Larger, softer wheels simply roll over cracks and pebbles easier. If you’re skating on rougher surfaces, the difference can be night and day.
• Increased Speed: Bigger wheels cover more ground with each rotation. This can lead to faster speeds, but that also comes with considerations we’ll address later.
• Cruising Capabilities: A skateboard with longboard wheels becomes more of a hybrid – capable of basic tricks and comfortable cruising.

The Catch: Compatibility and Potential Problems

Okay, so it sounds amazing, right? A magic skateboard that can handle anything! Well, hold on a second. There are some significant drawbacks and compatibility issues to consider very carefully.

• Wheel Bite: This is the biggest concern. Wheel bite happens when your wheel rubs against the board during a turn, causing you to abruptly stop, and usually eat pavement. Longboard wheels are larger in diameter. Therefore, your board is likely going to experience wheel bite. This is a big safety consideration.
• Riser Pads are Essential: To combat wheel bite, you absolutely need riser pads. These little plastic pieces sit between your trucks and your deck, lifting the board to create more clearance. The size of the riser pads you need depends on the wheel size. Expect to potentially need substantial risers.
• Truck Compatibility: Are your trucks wide enough to comfortably accommodate larger wheels? Too much wheel overhang can affect stability.
• Board Feel: The feel of your board changes dramatically. It’ll be higher off the ground, which affects pop, board feel, and overall control. Tricks will feel different, and it might take some getting used to.
• Weight: Longboard wheels are heavier than standard skateboard wheels. This can make your board feel sluggish and harder to flip.

Gearing Up: What You’ll Need and How To Install

If you’re still determined to give it a try, here’s a rundown of what you’ll need:

1. Longboard Wheels: Choose wheels in the 60-70mm range to start. Softer durometer (78a-85a) is generally recommended for cruising comfort.
2. Riser Pads: Get a variety of sizes. You’ll likely need to experiment to find the right height to eliminate wheel bite. Start with 1/4" or 1/2" risers and work your way up as needed.
3. Longer Hardware: The stock hardware that came with your skateboard won’t be long enough to accommodate the riser pads. Purchase longer bolts and nuts.
4. Skate Tool: For removing and installing the wheels and trucks.

Installation Steps:

1. Remove your existing wheels and trucks.
2. Place the riser pads between the deck and the trucks.
3. Attach the trucks to the deck using the longer hardware.
4. Mount the longboard wheels onto the trucks.
5. Test thoroughly for wheel bite. Lean hard in both directions. If you experience wheel bite, add thicker riser pads. Repeat until wheel bite is eliminated.
6. Re-tighten all hardware before use.

Safety First: Important Considerations

• Wear a Helmet: Always, always, always wear a helmet. Especially when experimenting with new setups.
• Start Slow: Get a feel for the board in a safe, controlled environment before attempting any tricks or high-speed runs.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to the road surface and potential hazards.
• Consider Your Skill Level: This modification is generally better suited for skaters with some experience. Beginners might find it more challenging to control.

Alternatives: Exploring Other Options

Before you commit to longboard wheels on your skateboard, consider these alternatives:

• Hybrid Wheels: These are smaller, harder wheels designed for both tricks and cruising. They offer a compromise between the two.
• Cruiser Boards: If you primarily want to cruise, a dedicated cruiser board is a better option. They’re designed for comfort and stability.
• Longboards: If you want the full longboard experience, get a longboard!

Here’s a quick comparison table:

Feature	Skateboard with Longboard Wheels	Hybrid Wheels	Cruiser Board
Smoothness	Excellent	Good	Excellent
Speed	High	Moderate	High
Trick Capability	Limited	Good	Very Limited
Stability	Moderate	Good	Excellent
Cost	Moderate	Low	Moderate-High

So, there you have it! Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of whether you can skate with longboard wheels and how to go about it safely. Experiment, find what feels right for your riding style, and most importantly, have fun out there! Just remember to always prioritize safety gear and be mindful of your surroundings. Happy skating!