Are you a skateboarder looking to get the most out of your ride? If so, then you should familiarize yourself with spacers.
Spacers are an essential component of any skateboard and provide numerous benefits which can make your ride smoother and more enjoyable.
In this article, we’ll explain what spacers are, why they’re important, different types available, how to install them, how to replace worn ones, and maintenance tips.
By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with all the knowledge you need about skateboarding spacers!
What Are Spacers?
You may be wondering what spacers are. They’re essential components of skateboards that help keep the wheels spinning smoothly!
Spacers act as a cushion between the skateboard bearings and truck widths, allowing for a smooth ride. Without them, the wheel would rub against metal and cause friction, resulting in an uncomfortable ride.
Skateboard spacers also add stability to the board, preventing it from wobbling or shaking at high speeds. They come in various sizes and shapes to suit different types of skateboards.
So if you want your skateboard to perform its best, make sure you invest in quality spacers!
Why Are Spacers Important?
Spacers are an important component of a skateboard. They help to keep the board from absorbing shocks and impacts that could damage it. Additionally, spacers ensure that the ride is smooth by allowing for more efficient turning and maneuverability.
Without spacers, your skateboard would likely be less reliable and require more maintenance over time. So, make sure you have them installed correctly!
Avoiding Damage to the Board
Riding without spacers can put your skateboard at risk of serious damage. Here are 4 major risks to consider:
- Wheels could rub against the board, causing scratches and wearing down the board over time.
- The wrong size bearings or wheels could lead to an uneven distribution of weight, resulting in cracks in the board.
- If you don’t choose a bearing that fits with your wheel size correctly, it can cause vibration which weakens the grip on your trucks.
- Without spacers, wheels may not be fastened securely enough which makes them more likely to pop off when riding.
Choosing the right size bearings and wheels is essential for avoiding damage to your skateboard.
Ensuring a Smooth Ride
Having the right bearings and wheels is essential for ensuring a smooth ride on your skate!
To avoid wheel slippage, make sure to use proper-sized wheel bearing spacers that fit snugly in between the two wheels.
Applying skate lubricant to the bearing will also help reduce friction and provide a smoother ride.
Keep in mind that too much lubricant can attract debris and dirt, so go with just enough to keep your board running smoothly.
What Types of Spacers Are Available?
| Skateboarders have a variety of spacer options to choose from, including rubber, steel, and plastic. | Type | Material | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rubber | Soft Rubber Compound | Good shock absorption & cushioning | |
| Steel | Hardened Steel Alloy | Long-lasting durability & improved board stability | |
| Plastic | High-grade Plastic | Lightweight & consistent performance for tricks. |
How to Install Spacers
Installing spacers is easy and essential for ensuring a smooth ride and optimal performance. To install spacers, you’ll need the right tools, such as an Allen wrench, and your chosen materials for the job. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you out:
- Measure twice and mark once: Before you begin, make sure to measure the space between the skateboard trucks accurately. Mark the spot where you’ll be attaching the spacers.
- Use the Allen wrench: Take the Allen wrench and insert it into the bolts on the skateboard trucks. Loosen the bolts just enough to slide the spacers in.
- Attach the spacers: Slide the spacers onto the bolts, making sure they fit snugly between the skateboard trucks. Ensure that the spacers are aligned with the marked spot.
- Securely fasten the spacers: Tighten the bolts using the Allen wrench, ensuring that the spacers are securely fastened to the skateboard trucks. Double-check to make sure they are properly tightened.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your skateboard will be ready for a smoother experience. Take it for a spin and enjoy the improved performance!
How to Replace Worn Spacers
Now that you know how to install spacers, it’s important to understand the process of replacing them when they become worn. Replacing worn spacers is just as easy! Here’s what you need to do:
- Choose the right size spacer for your skateboard setup.
- Remove any old spacers from the truck axles.
- Insert new spacers and tighten nuts securely.
- Check that wheels are spinning evenly after installation.
There you have it – now you know how to replace worn spacers!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a spacer and a bearing?
Skilled riders use spacers and bearings for proper maintenance of their skateboards.
Spacers are cylindrical pieces of metal that fit between the truck and wheel to create more space. This ensures the wheel can spin freely on its axle without rubbing against the truck.
Bearings, on the other hand, are round balls enclosed in a metal casing which allow the wheels to rotate smoothly as you ride your skateboard.
Skilled riders understand how important it is to maintain both spacers and bearings in order to keep their skateboard running at optimal performance level.
How do spacers affect the performance of a skateboard?
You may be wondering how spacers affect the performance of a skateboard.
Spacers are important components that allow for adjustable truck alignment.
This alignment, in turn, affects the rolling technique of your board.
When a spacer is used between two bearings, it allows for better control and stability when turning or carving while maintaining speed.
The alignment of the truck also affects how responsive the board is during maneuvers like ollies and flips.
Therefore, spacers play an important role in ensuring optimal performance from your skateboard.
Are there any health and safety risks associated with using spacers?
Using spacers correctly is important for your health and safety when skateboarding. Without them, the truck bolts may become loose or misaligned, leading to potential injuries.
Wearing protective gear such as a helmet and knee pads can help reduce the risk of serious injury should you fall off your board.
Taking the time to learn and practice proper spacer installation techniques can ensure that your ride will be safe and enjoyable.
Additionally, always make sure that all nuts and bolts are properly tightened before riding; this will help keep spacers in place while you’re on the move.
Is it better to use spacers or wheels of different sizes?
It really depends on your preferences and skill level. If you’re a beginner, it’s probably better to use spacers for stability. Spacing the wheels evenly can help reduce speed wobbles and provide more control over your board.
On the other hand, if you’re an experienced rider looking for more speed, try using wheels of different sizes. This will allow you to customize the hardness and surface grip of each wheel to get just the ride feel you want.
Ultimately, it comes down to what works best for you!
How can I tell when spacers need to be replaced?
You may need to replace spacers if they become worn out or damaged.
When installing skateboard wheels, it’s important to use the proper techniques and use good quality spacers.
When checking your skateboard for maintenance, take a look at the spacers and look for any signs of wear. If you find any cracks or chips in them, it’s probably time to get some new ones.
To ensure that your ride stays smooth and safe, make sure to follow the proper installation techniques when replacing your spacers and make sure that they are properly tightened so that there is no vibration or wobble in your ride.
I’m John Peterson, a passionate skater, blogger, and lifelong enthusiast. I’ve been skating for over 9 years and have gone on to write a blog dedicated to the sport of skating and its culture. Through my blog, I strive to share my knowledge and experience of the sport with all who are interested. From beginner tips, tricks, and equipment reviews to interviews and event coverage, I cover it all. So read my blog as I explore the wonderful world of skating!