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Faizan
Longboards are a longer version of skateboards that have larger and softer wheels than those of a skateboard. The design of a longboard provides a smoother riding experience. Just like skateboards, longboards provide transportation, recreation, fitness and sporting opportunities. When setting up your first deck you have a variety of options in riding styles, deck lengths, tricks and bearings. With so much to choose from it may seem overwhelming. It's best to find out what the best setup options are for beginners
Riding Styles
You'll find three main styles of longboards -- freeride, downhill and cruising. Downhill longboards are for advanced riders. They're used for high-speed skating and require advanced maneuvering and precision. Freeride longboards are for intermediate to advanced riders and are used for performing technical tricks while riding downhill. Cruising longboards are the best option for beginners and are designed for all-purpose riding as a form of transportation and fun.
Deck Length
Longboards come in a variety of lengths, which can make it confusing to know which length is best for you. In general, the best range for new riders is between 28 and 46 inches. Within that range, a mid-sized longboard that measures 32 to 42 inches falls right in the middle, making it the best option for all riding types starting out. Smaller or younger riders may do best with a board on the shorter end of the spectrum -- 28 to 32 inches.
Flexible or Stiff
You have the option of choosing a flexible cruising board or a stiff one. The flexible option is good for beginners since it gives you a lower center of gravity, making it easier to push and balance. It also provides some shock absorption, which helps relieve pressure on your knees and ankles when riding over rough terrain. However, as a personal preference, some riders prefer a stiff board because it offers a better feel of stability. Test both and choose the one that feels most comfortable.
Trucks, Wheels and Bearings
Trucks are the metal axles that hold the wheels and influence how your board rides. There are two basic truck lengths to choose from, 150 millimeter or 180 millimeter. The best option for your longboard is the one that is closest to the width of your deck. As for wheels, they correspond with the deck size. For a mid-size board measuring 34 to 42 inches, choose a medium wheel size that is 68 to 72 millimeters. For short decks, select smaller wheels and for large boards choose larger wheels. Bearings allow the wheels to spin freely. All bearings are the same size regardless of wheel size. You don't have to break the bank on bearings. The best budget bearings for cruising are Bones Reds, according to Muirskate Longboard Shop. They're durable, will last a long time and are easy to clean and replace.
Riding Styles
You'll find three main styles of longboards -- freeride, downhill and cruising. Downhill longboards are for advanced riders. They're used for high-speed skating and require advanced maneuvering and precision. Freeride longboards are for intermediate to advanced riders and are used for performing technical tricks while riding downhill. Cruising longboards are the best option for beginners and are designed for all-purpose riding as a form of transportation and fun.
Deck Length
Longboards come in a variety of lengths, which can make it confusing to know which length is best for you. In general, the best range for new riders is between 28 and 46 inches. Within that range, a mid-sized longboard that measures 32 to 42 inches falls right in the middle, making it the best option for all riding types starting out. Smaller or younger riders may do best with a board on the shorter end of the spectrum -- 28 to 32 inches.
Flexible or Stiff
You have the option of choosing a flexible cruising board or a stiff one. The flexible option is good for beginners since it gives you a lower center of gravity, making it easier to push and balance. It also provides some shock absorption, which helps relieve pressure on your knees and ankles when riding over rough terrain. However, as a personal preference, some riders prefer a stiff board because it offers a better feel of stability. Test both and choose the one that feels most comfortable.
Trucks, Wheels and Bearings
Trucks are the metal axles that hold the wheels and influence how your board rides. There are two basic truck lengths to choose from, 150 millimeter or 180 millimeter. The best option for your longboard is the one that is closest to the width of your deck. As for wheels, they correspond with the deck size. For a mid-size board measuring 34 to 42 inches, choose a medium wheel size that is 68 to 72 millimeters. For short decks, select smaller wheels and for large boards choose larger wheels. Bearings allow the wheels to spin freely. All bearings are the same size regardless of wheel size. You don't have to break the bank on bearings. The best budget bearings for cruising are Bones Reds, according to Muirskate Longboard Shop. They're durable, will last a long time and are easy to clean and replace.
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