Even though skateboarding has been around for more than half a century, it hasn’t always been as mainstream as it is today. In fact, the sport was only invented in the middle of the last century. Before then, skaters would improvise by rolling downhill on flat surfaces or hills.
Skateboarding evolved from this and became its own subculture with its own specific language, apparel, accouterments, and customs. If you want to learn how to put wheels on a skateboard, check out this article.
How to Put wheels on a Skateboard?
Follow these steps to attach the wheels to your skateboard:
- Place the skateboard on a flat surface.
- Insert the wheel bearings into the holes on the inside of the skateboard wheels.
- Place an axle washer on each axle, followed by a locking nut or speed ring.
- Repeat this process for each wheel.
- Once all four wheels are attached, you can now attach the skateboard trucks.
- To do this, first, insert the hanger bolt through the hole in the baseplate.
- Then screw on the kingpin nut until it is tight.
- Repeat this process for the other truck.
- Your skateboard is now ready to ride. You can optionally add risers to the trucks to change the riding experience.
What Tools and Materials Do You Need to Put Wheels on a Skateboard?
Below are the tools and materials needed in order for you to put wheels on your skateboard.
- Skateboard
- Wheel bearings
- Axle washers
- Locking nuts or speed rings
- Skateboard trucks
- Kingpin nut
- Hanger bolt
- Baseplate
- Risers (optional)
How Often Should You Change Your Skateboard Wheels?
You should change your skateboard wheels every few months, or whenever they start to show signs of wear. Look for cracks, chips, or flat spots on the wheels. If you ride on rough surfaces, you may need to change your wheels more often.
How Do You Know If Your Skateboard Wheels Are Too Small?
Your skateboard wheels are too small if they don’t fit snugly on the axle of your skateboard trucks. Small wheels can cause the trucks to loosen and can make turning difficult.
Which Way Do Skateboard Wheels Face?
The wheels on a skateboard should face forward. This will ensure that your skateboard rides smoothly and doesn’t veer off to one side.
Do All Skateboard Wheels Have Bearings?
No, not all skateboard wheels have bearings [1]. Some skateboard wheels are made without bearings, but these types of wheels are not as common. Wheels without bearings are harder to ride and are not as smooth.
Should Skateboard Wheels Be Tight?
Skateboard wheels should be tight on the axle, but not too tight. You should be able to spin the wheels without them coming off of the trucks.
Do All Wheels Fit All Skateboards?
No, not all wheels fit all skateboards. Skateboard wheels come in different sizes, and you will need to make sure that you get the right size for your skateboard.
Can You Flip Skateboard Wheels?
Some skateboarders do flip their wheels, but it is not necessary. Flipping your wheels will not make your skateboard go faster. In fact, it can actually make riding your skateboard more difficult.
What Are the Best Skateboard Wheels for Beginners?
The best skateboard wheels for beginners are usually larger wheels. Larger wheels provide a smoother ride and are easier to control. Smaller wheels are better for tricks and skateboarding on rougher surfaces.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to put wheels on a skateboard, you can get out there and start riding. Don’t forget to change your wheels every few months, and to choose the right size wheels for your skating needs.
