Skateboard Anatomy 101
It is important to be selective when choosing the right equipment for skateboarding. Skateboards are made up of several different components. These components have technical differences for various types of terrain and styles of riding. Essentially, skateboards contain the following components:
- The skateboard deck,
usually made of laminated wood plys molded with concave and raised tail and
nose for functionality. They range in different sizes and lengths.
- Grip tape is applied to the top for traction and grip while riding.
- The trucks (qty 2) are metal casted components that mount to the underside
of the skateboards with hardware (nuts and bolts) and which the wheels are
attached to. The trucks are used for turning and are adjustable to turn at different
speeds and degrees.
- Wheels (qty 4) are compromised of urethane compounds and made with resiliency,
durability and traction at the focal point of attention. Different wheels are made
for different terrain and surfaces. They are critical to the quality, functionality
and safety of riding a skateboard.
- Two precision bearings are inserted into each wheel with a spacer between
and they are attached to the axle of the trucks with nuts. The precision bearings
are machine made products for highest quality for speed and durability. They are
available in different quality levels.
While you can by cheaper skateboards and components for your board you are also taking a dangerous risk in the reliability of your skateboard. Faulty low-grade products are not made to premium quality standards and are not safe. Do not sacrifice your health to dangerous products. Always buy quality merchandise from reputable brands. A $100.00 skateboard is much cheaper than a $1000 broken arm.