Longboarding is a thrilling and exhilarating experience, but you need to maintain your longboard to ensure longevity. The wheels are the most used component in your longboard. Over time, they get dirty and require cleaning to maintain their functionality and appearance. In this article, we will discuss how to clean longboard wheels and everything you need to know about it.
What Are Longboard Wheels Made Of?
Before we jump into the cleaning process, it is essential to know the material composition of longboard wheels. Longboard wheels are typically made of polyurethane, a rubber-like material that is durable and capable of enduring the wear and tear of regular usage. Polyurethane wheels come in various durometers or hardness levels, which affect their speed, grip, and slideability.
How to Tell If Your Wheels Need Cleaning?
There are different ways to tell if your longboard wheels require cleaning. One common sign is that the wheels appear darker than before, indicating dirt accumulation. Another sign is a reduction in the wheel’s performance, such as poor grip, less slide-ability, and slower speed. Therefore, you must clean your longboard wheels from time to time to maintain their performance.
How to Clean Longboard Wheels: The Process?
Cleaning longboard wheels may seem like a daunting task, but it’s relatively simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean your longboard wheels.
Step 1: Remove the Wheels
The first step to cleaning your longboard wheels is to remove them from the trucks. You can use a skate tool or a wrench to unscrew the nuts that hold the wheels in place. Use caution while removing the wheels to avoid damaging your longboard.
Step 2: Wipe the Wheels
After removing the wheels, use a dry cloth to wipe off any loose dirt and debris from the surface. Wiping helps to remove most of the dirt and prepare the wheels for the cleaning process.
Step 3: Prepare the Cleaning Solution
Next, prepare the cleaning solution by mixing warm water and dishwashing soap or a specialized longboard wheel cleaner. The mixture should be soapy but not too bubbly.
Step 4: Soak the Wheels
Soak the wheels in the cleaning solution for a few minutes. This helps to soften any dirt and debris present on the wheels. If the wheels are particularly dirty, you can use a toothbrush or a soft-bristled brush to scrub them gently.
Step 5: Rinse the Wheels
After soaking, rinse the wheels with clean water to remove the cleaning solution and dirt. Ensure that all the soap residue is removed from the wheels.
Step 6: Dry the Wheels
The final step is to dry the wheels using a clean and dry cloth. Ensure that you dry the wheels thoroughly before installing them on your longboard. Moisture can cause rusting in the bearings and reduce the wheel’s lifespan.
Can You Clean Longboard Wheels with a Power Washer?
Using a power washer to clean longboard wheels is not recommended. The high-pressure water jet can damage the wheels, bearings, and even the deck’s graphics. Also, the water could find its way into the bearings, resulting in rusting, reduced lifespan, and possible seizures.
How Often Should You Clean Your Longboard Wheels?
The frequency of cleaning your longboard wheels depends on usage frequency and terrain conditions. If you use your longboard regularly and on dusty terrains, you should clean the wheels weekly or biweekly. If you ride your longboard less frequently, you can clean the wheels monthly.
What Other Tips Should You Consider When Cleaning Your Longboard Wheels?
Here are some tips that could come in handy while cleaning your longboard wheels.
– Use a specialized longboard wheel cleaner rather than dishwashing soap. The specialized cleaner helps to strip away any dirt, grime, and grease accumulated on the wheels.
– While cleaning your longboard wheels, ensure that you do not soak the bearings or get them wet. Wet bearings could rust and lose their functionality.
– After cleaning your longboard wheels, apply some bearing lubricant to keep the wheels rolling smoothly.
– Avoid using abrasive or harsh cleaning materials that could scratch the surface of the wheels.
– Clean your longboard wheels in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling dust and debris.
Final Thoughts
Longboard wheels are a crucial component that requires regular cleaning to maintain their performance and longevity. Cleaning is simple and straightforward and does not require any sophisticated equipment or tools. If you want a smooth and safe longboarding experience, cleaning your longboard wheels should be a top priority. Follow the above steps and tips to have clean and fully functional longboard wheels.
