Are you a longboarder looking for the best wheels for cruising? You’ve come to the right place! There are a few factors to consider when choosing longboard wheels, including size, hardness, and shape.
To get the most out of your longboarding experience, it’s important to understand which type of wheel is best suited for your needs. In this article, we’ll discuss different types of longboard wheels and how they affect performance while cruising.
We’ll also cover tips on how to choose and care for the ideal set of cruiser wheels. Get ready to learn all about what sets apart an excellent cruising wheel from one that will leave you disappointed!
Factors to Consider
When choosing the right wheels for cruising, there are a few factors to consider – let’s take a look!
- Wheel size is important as larger wheels typically provide more speed and smoother rides.
- The hardness of the wheel also matters, as softer wheels grip better and absorb shock better than harder ones.
- Softer wheels tend to wear out faster, while harder ones are more durable but don’t handle bumps as well.
Ultimately, it depends on your preferences in terms of speed, comfort, and durability.
Different Types of Longboard Wheels
Choosing the right wheels for your ride is an important decision. It affects your board’s speed, grip, and overall performance. Longboard wheels come in a variety of sizes and hardness levels, giving you options depending on your riding style.
If you’re looking for cruising, softer wheels with large contact patches are ideal. They provide maximum grip while also reducing vibration.
For doing sliding tricks, you’ll need harder wheels. These wheels can handle higher speeds while still providing enough grip.
Whatever type of wheel you choose, make sure its size corresponds to the width of your deck and axle size. This will ensure a smooth ride.
Cruising Wheels
For cruising, softer wheels with large contact patches provide the perfect grip and smooth ride. Wheels with a hardness rating of 78A-83A will give you just enough traction control while still maintaining a comfortable and controlled ride.
With their larger surface area, these types of wheels also absorb road obstacles better than harder wheel varieties, making for an enjoyable and stress-free experience.
Choose cruising wheels to ensure your journey is smooth and comfortable!
Benefits of Cruising Wheels
You’ll love the smooth ride and excellent grip that cruising wheels offer! With the right riding technique, you’ll be able to feel in control while carving down hills.
Cruising wheels come in different sizes, each offering its own advantages:
- Small Wheels:
- Quick acceleration
- Easier to maneuver around tight corners
- Large Wheels:
- Increased stability at higher speeds
- Smoother ride on rough terrain
Choosing the Right Wheels for Your Longboard
Deciding which set of wheels is right for ya can be tricky, but it’s key to ensuring a successful ride! Consider your stance and trucks setup when making the selection.
Softer wheels offer more grip, so they’re great for cruising but not ideal for tricks.
Harder wheels provide more speed and are better suited for tricks or downhill riding.
Don’t forget to check the wheel’s diameter, size of contact patch, and lip profile too – all these factors affect how your longboard rides.
Choose wisely!
Caring for Your Wheels
Taking care of your wheels is essential for an enjoyable ride. Regular maintenance will keep them running smoothly. To ensure the perfect cruise, here are some tips:
- Wheel Maintenance:
- Clean and lubricate bearings regularly to prevent rusting.
- Tighten axles & nuts if they become loose.
- Replace worn or cracked wheels.
- Grip Tape:
- Make sure it covers the whole board evenly.
- Clean away dirt and debris from grip tape periodically.
- Apply new layers of grip tape when necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between longboard wheels and skateboard wheels?
Longboard wheels and skateboard wheels have some key differences.
Firstly, longboard wheels are generally softer than skateboard wheels. This softness provides more grip and shock absorption on rough surfaces.
In contrast, skateboard wheels often come in harder varieties. These harder wheels offer less grip but make it easier to perform tricks like slides and grinds.
Secondly, longboard wheels are typically larger in size compared to skateboard wheels. The bigger size of longboard wheels allows for better maneuverability and control over uneven terrain.
Lastly, longboard wheels usually have a larger contact patch area. This larger area increases traction and stability while cruising.
What is the best way to maintain longboard wheels?
Maintaining your longboard wheels is essential for keeping them in good shape and prolonging their durability. To ensure the best care, start by cleaning with a dry cloth to remove dust and dirt from the surface of each wheel.
Then, use a damp cloth to clean off any remaining residue, being sure not to get any water inside the bearings.
Finally, apply some lubricant or bearing oil onto the bearings so they spin smoothly.
These simple steps will help keep your wheels in good condition for cruising!
How much do cruising wheels usually cost?
Cruising longboard wheels can vary in cost based on their size and quality. Typically, the price range for these wheels is between $15 and $50 per wheel. However, if you’re looking for high-end wheels for road trippin’ or hill climbing, you can expect to pay a bit more, around $45 to $80 per wheel.
When choosing a wheel, it’s essential to consider your specific needs. Quality materials and a durable urethane are crucial for a smooth ride and long-lasting performance. Cheaper alternatives may not provide the same level of durability or performance. Therefore, it’s important to conduct thorough research before making a purchase.
Are longboard wheels interchangeable with skateboard wheels?
No, longboard wheels are not interchangeable with skateboard wheels.
Longboard wheels are designed to be larger and softer than skateboard wheels, providing a smoother ride and better grip when cruising.
Sliding techniques also require different types of longboard wheels to stay in control. The softness of the wheel helps your grip tape last longer, giving you more control over your board while sliding.
It’s important to buy the appropriate size and hardness for your longboarding needs so that you can enjoy a smooth ride and perform advanced tricks safely.
Are cruising wheels suitable for downhill riding?
No, cruising wheels are not suitable for downhill riding.
Cruising wheels have a soft bushing hardness and rounded wheel shape that is ideal for smooth, comfortable rides but can be dangerous when going downhill.
Harder bushings provide more grip and control on slick surfaces while sharper edges on the wheel allow for quicker turns in tight spaces.
To safely ride downhill, you’ll need wheels with harder bushings and more aggressive wheel shapes to help keep you stable and in control at high speeds.
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!