Philly Skateboard Care Guide: Bearings, Wheels & Boards

Skateboarding in Philly is more than a hobby; it’s a lifestyle fueled by passion and community. Whether you’re cruising the iconic Philly streets or hitting local skate parks, maintaining your skateboard is crucial for performance and safety. This Philly Skateboard Care Guide: Bearings, Wheels & Boards will equip you with expert advice and practical tips to keep your gear in top shape.

Bearings: The Heart of Your Skateboard’s Speed

Bearings play a vital role in how smoothly your skateboard rolls. In fact, professional skaters often say that quality bearings can shave crucial milliseconds off your speed, enhancing control. However, many overlook maintenance, which can drastically reduce bearing lifespan. Philly’s urban terrain, with its dust and grime, demands regular bearing care.

Statistics from Skateboard.com show that 70% of skateboarding injuries linked to equipment result from poor maintenance, especially worn bearings causing unexpected wheel lockups. Therefore, cleaning your bearings every 2-3 weeks is essential if you skate daily in Philly’s varied environments.

Start by removing the bearings carefully from the wheels. Use a specialized bearing cleaner or isopropyl alcohol, then dry them completely. Lubricate with a thin layer of bearing oil—avoid grease as it slows speed. This routine prevents rust and dirt build-up, extending the life of your bearings significantly.

Different opinions arise regarding sealed versus shielded bearings. Sealed bearings protect better from Philly’s debris but can trap moisture. Shielded bearings are easier to clean but more vulnerable to dust. Based on your skating style and local conditions, choose accordingly. For example, if you skate near the Schuylkill River or in wet conditions, sealed bearings may offer better protection.

Wheels: The Grip and Ride You Can Trust

Wheels directly influence how you glide over Philly’s diverse pavement—from smooth skate parks to rough streets. Their size and hardness matter greatly. Larger wheels (54mm and above) roll faster and handle cracks better but can be less responsive for tricks. Smaller wheels (50-53mm) offer better control but may get caught on debris more easily.

Philly’s skateboard trends lean towards medium hardness wheels (around 99A) that balance grip and speed. This choice suits street skating and park sessions well. Softer wheels offer more grip but wear faster, while harder wheels last longer but can be slippery on wet surfaces.

One common mistake skaters make is ignoring wheel wear patterns. Uneven wear leads to instability and potential falls. Rotate your wheels every few weeks to distribute wear evenly. Inspect wheels regularly for flat spots or cracks, which compromise safety and performance.

Additionally, cleaning wheels helps maintain grip. Use warm soapy water and a brush to remove dirt. Avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade the polyurethane material.

Boards: The Foundation of Your Ride

The skateboard deck endures the most stress and abuse. Philly skaters know this well, especially after a few heavy sessions on rough concrete or during urban street tricks. Maintaining your deck prevents costly replacements and enhances ride quality.

Start by checking the deck for cracks, chips, or delamination. Small chips may seem harmless but can quickly worsen, leading to structural failure. If you notice peeling layers, it’s time to consider repair or replacement.

Grip tape plays a crucial role in safety. Over time, dirt and grime reduce its effectiveness. Clean it with a grip tape cleaner or a firm brush regularly. For severe wear, replace the tape to maintain optimal traction.

Trucks, which connect wheels to the deck, need attention too. Tighten loose bolts and lubricate pivot points. Skaters often debate how tight trucks should be; tighter trucks offer stability for cruising, while looser trucks provide better maneuverability for tricks. Adjust based on your style.

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Philly’s Skateboard Trends and How Care Impacts Them

Skateboard trends in Philly constantly evolve, with many skaters shifting towards hybrid setups combining street and park elements. This means boards and components need to adapt. Regular care allows you to experiment with setups without worrying about sudden gear failure.

Local shops report a rise in custom decks and wheels designed to meet Philly’s rugged conditions. Skaters who maintain their gear well benefit from longer-lasting equipment, giving them a competitive edge.

Real Solutions to Common Skateboard Problems

• Noise from Bearings: Clean and lubricate bearings to reduce squeaks and roughness. Replace if rusted or pitted.
• Loose Trucks: Regularly check and tighten bolts; use thread-locking compounds if needed.
• Worn Grip Tape: Clean or replace to avoid slipping.
• Uneven Wheel Wear: Rotate wheels weekly and inspect for damage.
• Deck Cracks: Minor cracks can be repaired with wood glue, but serious damage requires replacement.

FAQs: Philly Skateboard Care Guide: Bearings, Wheels & Boards

1. How often should I clean my skateboard bearings?
   Cleaning every 2-3 weeks is ideal for frequent skaters, especially in dusty environments like Philly.
2. What wheel size is best for Philly streets?
   Medium-sized wheels (54-56mm) with hardness around 99A work well for varied terrain.
3. Can I skate with cracked decks?
   Small cracks can worsen; it’s safer to replace the deck to avoid accidents.
4. How do I choose between sealed and shielded bearings?
   Sealed bearings offer better protection in wet or dirty conditions common in Philly, but shielded bearings are easier to maintain.
5. How often should I replace grip tape?
   Replace grip tape when it loses traction, typically every 6 months to a year depending on use.
6. Is it necessary to rotate skateboard wheels?
   Yes, rotating wheels every few weeks ensures even wear and prolongs lifespan.
7. What’s the best way to store my skateboard?
   Keep it in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and moisture to prevent damage.

Final Thought

Maintaining your skateboard components isn’t just about extending gear life—it directly impacts your performance and safety. The Philly Skateboard Care Guide: Bearings, Wheels & Boards emphasizes a proactive approach that every rider should adopt. By understanding the unique demands Philly’s streets place on your setup, you can ride smoother, faster, and safer. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skater, these care routines will keep you ready for the latest skateboard trends and challenges.

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