What Are Longboard Bushings

Are you looking to upgrade your longboard setup? Look no further than longboard bushings!

Longboard bushings are an important part of any skateboard setup. They provide cushioning and stability, allowing for greater control and smoother runs on the board.

This guide will give you a better understanding of what longboard bushings are, different types available, how to install them, and maintenance tips so you can get the most out of your ride.

By the end of this article, you’ll be an expert in all things related to longboard bushings!

Overview of Longboard Bushings

Longboard bushings are small, but essential components of your setup. They make a big difference in how you ride!

Bushing hardness levels range from soft to medium and hard, allowing for different levels of responsiveness.

Additionally, bushing shapes come in round or cone-shaped varieties. Round bushings provide more stability while conical ones grant greater turning and carving ability.

Choose wisely as the right bushing can significantly improve your riding experience.

Types of Longboard Bushings

Skateboarders often look for various types of bushings to customize their ride experience and achieve the ideal setup. Longboard bushings are available in different shapes, sizes, and hardness levels.

Compression Bushings:

• Soft: Durometer ratings range from 80A to 95A.
• Hard: Durometer ratings range from 95A to 100A+.

Barrel Bushings:

• Soft: Durometer ratings range from 70A to 80A.
• Hard: Durometer ratings range from 85A to 90A.

Benefits of Longboard Bushings

Swapping out your existing bushings can give you the customization you need to find the perfect ride setup for your style of skating.

Longboard bushings offer a variety of benefits that go beyond skate style preferences, including enhanced safety considerations and improved response time when carving or turning.

Bushings also provide dampening, helping reduce vibration and creating a smoother ride.

Their flexibility allows riders to adjust their board’s responsiveness according to their specific needs.

With longboard bushings, you have the ability to customize your board for optimum performance and an enjoyable experience while riding!

Choosing the Right Bushing for Your Longboard

Selecting the ideal bushing for your longboard is crucial for achieving a comfortable and responsive ride. There are several factors to consider when making this decision, including durometer ratings, bushing shapes, and the weight of your board. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose the right bushing:

1. Determine your board weight by either weighing it or checking its specifications online. Knowing the weight of your board will help you select bushings that can handle the load effectively.
2. Select a bushing shape that fits your truck baseplate. The two most popular options are conical and barrel-shaped bushings. Each shape offers different riding characteristics, so choose the one that suits your style and preferences.
3. Consider the durometer rating of the bushings you’re interested in. Durometer ratings indicate the hardness of the bushings, typically measured on a scale from 1 to 100. Softer bushings, such as those with a lower durometer rating like 78a, provide greater stability but may sacrifice some responsiveness. On the other hand, harder bushings, with a higher durometer rating, offer more control but can be less comfortable when riding at high speeds.
4. Seek advice from your local skate shop. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on their experience and knowledge. They will be able to help you select bushings that work best with your specific longboard setup.

Remember, finding the right bushings may involve some trial and error. It’s important to experiment and fine-tune your setup until you find the perfect combination that suits your riding style and preferences.

How to Install Longboard Bushings

Changing your board’s bushings can make a big difference in your ride, so let’s get started! Installing longboard bushings is easy and only requires a few tools. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Remove the existing bushing using pliers or a screwdriver, depending on the material.
2. Place the new bushing into your truck by hand or with a mallet if necessary.
3. Use a spacer between your kingpin nut and truck baseplate to ensure even pressure on both sides of your board.

By following these steps and using high-quality bushing materials, you’ll be ready to hit the streets in no time.

How to Maintain Your Longboard Bushings

Once you have your bushings installed, you’ll need to keep them in good shape for a smooth ride. Proper lubrication and preventive maintenance are key to keeping your longboard bushings performing optimally.

Make sure to check your bushings regularly for signs of wear or damage, and apply lubricant if needed.

To extend the life of your bushings, make sure to clean out any dirt or debris that could be clogging up the mechanisms. A quick swipe with a damp cloth can go a long way in making sure all parts are running smoothly!

Troubleshooting Tips for Longboard Bushings

If your ride isn’t as smooth as it should be, you might need to troubleshoot your bushings. Here are some tips to help you out:

• Check for proper lubrication and inspect the bushing hardness.
• Make sure the bushings are correctly tightened onto the baseplate of the longboard.
• Also, check that no dust or dirt has accumulated inside the bushing’s barrels, as this could cause discomfort while riding.
• If it’s been a while since you’ve replaced them, consider changing out your bushings for new ones to ensure a smoother ride.

Remember, proper maintenance and care of your longboard bushings can greatly improve your riding experience. So, don’t overlook these troubleshooting tips!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do longboard bushings affect turning?

The selection of longboard bushings affects the turning action of your trucks setup. Bushings come in various shapes and sizes, each with different levels of stiffness and rebound.

A softer bushing will compress more under pressure, allowing for greater turn radius. A harder bushing provides a tighter turning response since it won’t compress as much.

Ultimately, the type of bushings you choose will depend on how much control you want over your board’s turning action.

What is the best way to lubricate longboard bushings?

The best way to lubricate longboard bushings is with a light machine oil, such as 3-in-1 oil. Applying the light oil will ensure lubricating benefits while avoiding build-up and other issues associated with thicker oils.

To apply, use an eyedropper or small brush to apply a thin layer of oil onto the bushings. Make sure to wipe off any excess so that it doesn’t collect dirt or debris which could damage your board.

When applying the oil, be sure to move your board around in all directions so that the lubricant reaches every part of the bushing.

As part of regular maintenance, remember to lubricate your bushings at least once every few months for optimal performance.

Are longboard bushings durable?

Yes, longboard bushings are generally quite durable. However, their longevity will depend on how they’re installed and maintained.

If you install them correctly and customize your setup to fit your riding style, then the bushings should last a good while. Make sure that you use the right size washers when installing, as using too big of washers can damage the bushings over time.

Also, make sure to check for wear every few months to ensure that everything is still in good condition. Taking these steps will help ensure that your longboard bushings stay durable for many rides to come!

How often should I replace my longboard bushings?

It’s important to determine when your longboard bushings need to be replaced. Generally, you should check them every few months for signs of wear and tear. If they have become too soft, it may be time to upgrade them. Look out for cracks in the urethane or any other deformities that could affect performance.

You may also need to replace them if they feel too loose or too tight when you turn the board. Ultimately, how often you should change your bushings depends on the kind of terrain and riding style you’re doing.

What is the difference between soft and hard longboard bushings?

When choosing bushings for your longboard, it is important to consider the hardness of the material. Soft bushings, made from flexible rubber, respond quickly to shifts in weight and pressure. This flexibility makes them ideal for carving and turning, as they offer more maneuverability compared to hard bushings.

On the other hand, hard bushings are typically made from urethane and remain rigid regardless of the amount of pressure applied. They provide greater stability at higher speeds but may not be as suitable for making tight turns and carves as easily as soft bushings.

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity of both types of longboard bushings.