For longboarding enthusiasts, the exhilarating rush of speed is a sensation that can take your ride to new heights. Whether you’re an experienced rider or just starting out, the desire to push the limits and unlock the full potential of your longboard is a common pursuit. Fortunately, there are various techniques and modifications you can implement to maximize your board’s speed and unleash the thrill of the ride.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the art of making your longboard faster. From refining your technique and optimizing your setup to understanding the role of equipment and maintenance, we will delve into the key factors that contribute to achieving higher speeds on your board. Whether your aim is to cruise smoothly down hills, navigate tight turns with precision, or compete in exhilarating races, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to enhance your longboarding experience.
Upgrade your bearings
One of the easiest and most effective ways to increase the speed of your longboard is to upgrade your bearings. Bearings play a crucial role in how smoothly your wheels spin, and high-quality bearings can dramatically improve your board’s speed and overall performance.
When shopping for bearings, look for ones with a high ABEC rating (ideally ABEC-9 or higher) and made from high-quality materials like steel or ceramic. Additionally, it’s important to keep your bearings clean and well-maintained to ensure optimal performance.
Choose the right wheels
Another key factor in longboard speed is your choice of wheels. Different wheels are designed for different riding styles, so it’s important to choose ones that match your needs.
If you’re looking for speed, narrow and harder wheels are the way to go. Look for wheels with a durometer of 85a or higher, and a small contact patch (the area where the wheel meets the ground). This will reduce friction and increase your board’s speed.
Adjust your trucks
The trucks (the metal parts that attach your wheels to your deck) can also affect your longboard speed. Tighter trucks will provide more stability and control, but looser trucks can increase your speed.
To make your longboard faster, try loosening your trucks slightly. However, be careful not to go too loose, as this can make your board unstable and difficult to control.
Find the right stance
Your stance can also play a role in your longboard speed. For maximum speed, it’s important to find a stance that allows you to distribute your weight evenly across the board.
Try standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, with your toes pointing slightly outward. This will help you maintain balance and control, which can translate to greater speed.
Reduce weight
Weight can also have an impact on your longboard speed. The heavier your board (and your body), the more difficult it will be to accelerate and maintain top speeds.
To make your board faster, try reducing the weight as much as possible. This can be done by choosing lighter components (such as a lighter deck or trucks), or by losing weight yourself (if applicable).
Practice, practice, practice
Finally, the most important factor in longboard speed is practice. The more you ride and develop your skills, the more confident and comfortable you’ll be at higher speeds.
Try practicing on different kinds of terrain, from smooth pavement to steep hills, to build your speed and control. With time and practice, you’ll be able to achieve faster speeds and take your longboarding to the next level.
Conclusion
In conclusion, enhancing the speed of your longboard requires a combination of various factors and a focused approach towards optimization. By considering key elements such as choosing the right equipment, maintaining a proper stance and posture, improving your technique, and regularly practicing, you can significantly increase your longboard’s speed.
Selecting a longboard with suitable characteristics, such as a lightweight and aerodynamic design, low rolling resistance wheels, and high-quality bearings, forms the foundation for achieving greater speed. Additionally, ensuring that your longboard is well-maintained by keeping the bearings clean and lubricated, replacing worn-out wheels, and regularly checking for any loose components, can help maximize its performance.
Equally important is adopting a correct stance and posture while riding. By positioning your body in a streamlined manner, reducing wind resistance, and maintaining a balanced and centered posture, you can effectively minimize unnecessary drag and gain extra speed. Additionally, mastering techniques like pumping and carving, which allow you to generate and maintain momentum, can greatly enhance your overall speed and control on the longboard.
