The Ultimate Guide to Building a Custom Skateboard with Online Parts

Building a skateboard by purchasing parts online can be a highly rewarding and personalized experience. From selecting the right deck to choosing skateboard trucks, wheels, wheels, bearings, and grip tape, every part plays a crucial role in defining your ride. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you craft your dream skateboard.

Determine Your Skateboarding Style

Your skateboarding style will dictate the type of skateboard you should build. Consider your preferences for street, park, or cruising to choose the appropriate deck and trucks.

Street: Focus on tricks and technical skills. Opt for a smaller deck (7.5" to 8.0") for agile maneuvers. Park: Wider decks (8.5" to 9.0") are better for stability on ramps and ledges. Cruising: Longer boards (9.0" and above) or longboards are ideal for smooth, long-distance rides.

Choose the Right Parts

The quality of your parts will significantly impact the performance and longevity of your skateboard. Here’s a breakdown of each component:

Deck

Choose from an assortment of options based on material and size:

Material: The most common material is 7-ply maple for durability. Size: Typically, the size ranges from 7.5" to 9.5".

Trucks

Trucks are essential for adjusting the angle and rotation of your skateboard:

Width: Trucks should be about 1 inch narrower than the deck. Height: Low trucks for stability and better control; high trucks for tricks and better clearance.

Wheels

The durometer and size of your wheels will determine the type of riding you do:

Durometer: Softer wheels (78A-87A) are ideal for cruising, while harder wheels (88A-101A) are better for street and park skating. Size: Smaller wheels (50-54mm) work well for street skating, while larger wheels (55-60mm) are better for cruising.

Bearings

Nice bearings can significantly enhance your riding:

ABEC Ratings: Higher ABEC ratings indicate faster rotation, but consider durability and quality as well.

Grip Tape

Essential for traction, grip tape comes in various colors and patterns:

Hardware

You’ll need screws and nuts to attach the trucks to the deck:

Research and Purchase Parts

To ensure you get high-quality parts, follow these steps:

Reputable Retailers

Choose trusted online skate shops for purchasing your parts:

Amazon Skate Warehouse Tactics CCS

Check Reviews

Read customer reviews to find the best quality and performance:

Compare Prices

Look for deals or bundles to save money. Websites often offer discounts and special deals for bulk purchases or multiple items.

Assembly Tools

You’ll need a variety of tools to assemble your skateboard:

Skate Tool or Wrench Phillips Screwdriver Razor Blade for Cutting Grip Tape (if needed)

Assemble Your Skateboard

Follow these steps to put your new skateboard together:

Apply Grip Tape

Apply a layer of grip tape to the top of the deck, cutting off excess with a razor blade for a clean finish.

Attach Trucks

Align the trucks with the holes on the deck, and secure them with screws and nuts.

Insert Bearings

Push bearings into the wheels and ensure they spin freely to guarantee smooth rotation.

Attach Wheels

Slide the wheels onto the trucks and secure them with nuts.

Final Check

Ensure all parts are tightly secured and the board is stable. Do a final visual and tactile check to make sure everything is in place.

Test Your Setup

Take your new skateboard for a test ride in a safe area. Adjust any loose parts or make fine-tuning adjustments as needed. Tighten or loosen the trucks to get the feel you want.

Maintain Your Skateboard

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your skateboard in top condition:

Check Hardware Tightness: Regularly ensure all hardware is tight. Clean Bearings: Maintain the performance of your bearings. Replace Worn Parts: Replace worn wheels or grip tape when needed.

Customization Tips

Feel free to customize your skateboard to make it uniquely yours. Consider adding stickers, decals, or a custom painting design.

Safety Gear

Always prioritize safety while skating:

Helmet Elbow Pads Knee Pads Mouth Guard (Optional)

By following these steps, you can build a skateboard that perfectly suits your style and preferences. Enjoy the process of assembling your custom ride as much as you enjoy riding it!