Skateboarding is a fun and exhilarating experience, but it can also take a toll on your body. Skateboard risers are a small yet important component that can greatly improve your riding experience. These simple accessories can help reduce the impact of landing tricks and provide extra clearance for your trucks and wheels.
In this article, we will explore what skateboard risers are, how they work, and the different types available in the market. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skater, read on to learn how these small additions can make a big difference in your riding experience.
The purpose of skateboard risers
Skateboard risers are small plastic or rubber pads that are inserted between the skateboard deck and the trucks. Their primary purpose is to increase the height of the skateboard deck from the ground. This added height prevents wheel bite, which is a common problem that occurs when the wheels of the skateboard scrape against the deck during sharp turns or sudden stops.
Skateboard risers act as shock absorbers by reducing the vibrations and impact felt by riders when riding on rough surfaces. They also provide additional space between the deck and trucks, allowing riders to customize their ride height and maneuverability. The choice of material used for skateboard risers plays a significant role in their functionality. Soft risers are better at absorbing shocks and lessening vibrations, while hard risers provide stabler handling and improved energy transfer. Experienced skaters often use skateboard risers to fine-tune their board’s performance according to their specific riding style and preferences.
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Types of skateboard risers
Skateboard risers may look like an insignificant part of the skateboard, but they play an essential role in improving the rider’s experience. There are two major types of skateboard risers: hard and soft risers. Hard risers are typically made of hard plastic or aluminum and are often used for downhill skateboarding. They provide extra stability and absorb vibrations and shocks, making the ride smoother and easier on the feet and knees.
On the other hand, soft risers are made of rubber or foam and are perfect for street skating and cruising. They are more pliable and absorb shock and vibrations much better than hard risers. Soft risers also come in different thicknesses, ranging from 1/8 inches to 1/2 inches. They are ideal for skaters who want to prevent wheel bite, reduce road noise, or add more cushioning for landings. Understanding the difference between hard and soft risers will help you choose the best option for your riding style and preferences.
How to choose the right riser for your skateboard
When it comes to choosing the right skateboard riser, there are a few key factors to consider. First, you need to determine the size of the riser you need. The size of your wheels will play a big role in this decision, as larger wheels generally require larger risers to prevent wheel bite. Consider the height of the riser as well, as higher risers can provide more shock absorption but can also change the feel and response of your board.
Next, consider the material of the riser. While most risers are made from durable plastic, some may be made from harder materials like metal or carbon fiber for added durability or stiffness. Finally, take into account any additional features that a particular riser may offer, such as added grip or pressure distribution. With these factors in mind, you should be able to choose the perfect riser for your needs, helping you to enjoy a smoother, more comfortable ride.
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Installing skateboard risers
Installing skateboard risers is a simple and straightforward process that can significantly improve your riding experience. First, you will need to gather a few tools, including a skateboard tool, risers, and screws. You can choose between different types of risers based on their thickness, material, and design.
Next, remove your trucks from your skateboard deck and place the riser between the truck baseplate and the deck. Make sure the riser’s holes align with the truck’s holes and insert the screws through the riser and the deck. Tighten the screws with a skateboard tool, ensuring the riser is securely attached to the deck.
By adding risers to your skateboard, you will increase the distance between your trucks and your deck, creating additional clearance for wheels and reducing the risk of wheel bite. This will enable you to ride more smoothly over cracks and bumps on the road while improving your stability and control.
The benefits of using skateboard risers
Using skateboard risers can offer numerous benefits to improve your riding experience. Firstly, installing risers can help avoid wheel bite. Wheel bite is when the wheels make contact with the skateboard deck, causing the rider to lose control and potentially fall off. Risers raise the deck and increase the clearance between the wheels and the deck, reducing the risk of wheel bite.
Secondly, skateboard risers can absorb shock and vibration while cruising on rough terrain. This helps to reduce the amount of stress placed on the rider’s joints and feet, leading to a more comfortable ride. Additionally, risers can also improve the stability of the board, making it easier to control. With the use of risers, the rider can feel more confident while performing tricks, allowing them to progress and push their limits in their riding skills. Ultimately, investing in skateboard risers can enhance the overall experience of riding and improve the longevity of your skateboard setup.
How skateboard risers impact your riding experience
Skateboard risers are small pieces of rubber or plastic padding that are placed between the skateboard deck and the trucks. These risers have a significant impact on a rider’s experience and can make a considerable difference in their skating performance.
One of the critical benefits of using skateboard risers is that they reduce the amount of vibration that passes through the board and into the rider’s feet. This is crucial because it prevents excessive pressure and strain on a rider’s feet, ankles, and knees, especially during long rides or when performing challenging tricks. Additionally, skateboard risers can provide a smoother ride by dampening the impact of rough terrain and bumps on the road. This helps to maintain stability and balance, leading to a more enjoyable and comfortable skating experience.
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Common misconceptions about skateboard risers
Skateboard risers often get a bad rap due to the numerous misconceptions surrounding them. One popular belief is that risers are only beneficial to skateboarders who prefer a looser feel to their trucks. However, this is far from the truth as risers have benefits beyond just loosening your trucks.
Another common misconception about skateboard risers is that they are only necessary for larger skateboard wheels. This is not completely true as risers of varying thickness can be added to any setup to improve the ride quality. Overall, it is important to do your research and understand the various benefits of skateboard risers before assuming they are unnecessary or only serve a single purpose. In fact, by selecting the right riser pads or shock pads for your skateboard, you can enjoy a smoother and more comfortable ride, regardless of your riding preferences or setup.
Verdict
In conclusion, skateboard risers are an essential piece of gear for skateboarders. They provide many benefits, including preventing wheel bite, reducing shock, and allowing for better turns. Risers come in different shapes, sizes, and materials, making it easy to find the best options that fit your riding style.
If you want to add more efficiency and safety to your skateboarding, skateboard risers can be a great investment. They are affordable and easy to install, making it a convenient upgrade for any skateboard. With the help of risers, you can push your limits and reach new heights in your skateboarding abilities while ensuring your safety at the same time. So why wait? Get your skateboard risers today and start enjoying the new and improved ride!