Skateboarding is a thrilling activity that requires proper gear and equipment for a smooth ride and safety. One of the essential gear items is the skateboard riser pads, also known as risers, which are placed between the skateboard deck and the trucks. But, what do risers do on a skateboard exactly?
In this article, we’ll take a deeper look at the importance of risers on a skateboard. From what they’re made of to their varying sizes and how they affect your ride, you’ll gain a better understanding of what riser pads do and how they can enhance your skating experience. Whether you’re a seasoned skateboarder or just starting out, this guide on skateboard riser pads is essential for anyone looking to optimize their setup for the best ride.
Understanding the Purpose of Riser Pads on Skateboards
When it comes to skateboarding, understanding the purpose of riser pads is crucial for those looking to get the most out of their boards. Riser pads are designed to add height between the skateboard deck and the trucks, providing several benefits to riders. Firstly, riser pads help reduce stress on the board by absorbing impact and vibration while riding, thereby improving overall ride quality. This is important not only for comfort but also to prevent damage to the skateboard deck and trucks.
Secondly, riders who use larger wheels on their skateboards often need to use riser pads to avoid wheel bite. Wheel bite is when the skateboard wheels come into contact with the deck, causing the rider to lose balance and potentially fall. By adding riser pads, the skateboard is lifted higher off the ground, allowing riders to use larger wheels without the risk of wheel bite. Overall, understanding the purpose of riser pads is important for skateboarders of all skill levels looking to improve their ride experience and avoid potential injuries.
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Types of Riser Pads: Which Ones Are Right for You?
When it comes to purchasing skateboard riser pads, you will find that they come in various types. The type of riser pad that you choose will depend on a few factors, including your level of experience, personal preference, and the type of skateboard you have.
One common type of riser pad is the soft or hard riser pad. Soft riser pads are made from rubber and are great for absorbing vibrations for a smoother ride. Hard riser pads, on the other hand, are made from plastic or other hard materials and provide more stability and energy transfer. Other types of riser pads include angled riser pads, which are great for correcting the angle of your trucks, and shock absorber riser pads, which provide additional cushioning. Ultimately, finding the right type of riser pad for you is all about assessing your individual needs and preferences.
How to Install Riser Pads on Your Skateboard
Installing riser pads on your skateboard is a quick and easy process and can make a significant difference in your skating experience. Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary equipment: riser pads, skateboard, a Phillips head screwdriver, and mounting hardware.
Firstly, remove the bolts from your skateboard using a screwdriver. Then, place the riser pad on the skateboard with the screws facing downward. You can align the holes on the riser pad with the holes on your skateboard. After that, insert the screws and tighten them with a screwdriver. It is important to make sure you do not overtighten the screws as this may damage your skateboard. After you have installed the riser pads, you can re-attach the trucks to your skateboard using the mounting hardware in the same way.
In conclusion, installing riser pads on your skateboard is easy, quick, and can make a significant impact on your skating experience. It is a great option to consider if you want to protect your board and absorb impacts while riding on rough surfaces. With the right steps and equipment, you can install the pads yourself at home without any help from a professional.
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The Benefits of Using Riser Pads on Your Skateboard
Riser pads provide multiple benefits when it comes to skateboarding. First and foremost, they help to reduce the overall shock and vibrations that your skateboard deck encounters while cruising over rough terrains or landing tricks. This makes your ride smoother and more comfortable, preventing any potential injuries or strains that may arise from extended periods of skateboarding.
Additionally, the added height created by the riser pads lets you fit larger wheels onto your skateboard, without the risk of wheel-bite. This can be especially beneficial when cruising over rough surfaces as larger wheels provide more stability and improve your control. In summary, using riser pads on your skateboard not only enhances performance and comfort but also helps protect your skateboard deck and other components, making it a crucial investment for any serious skateboarder.
Common Mistakes When Using Riser Pads and How to Avoid Them
Skateboard riser pads are an essential component for skateboarders that help absorb shocks, prevent wheel bite and enhance stability. However, there are a few common mistakes that beginner riders might make when using riser pads.
One of the most common mistakes is using the wrong size riser pad. Using riser pads that are too thick can alter the balance of the board and make it difficult to control. On the other hand, using pads that are too thin might not provide enough cushioning, which can lead to serious injuries. Therefore, it is crucial to choose the right size and thickness of riser pads that suits your style of skateboarding. Additionally, it’s important to check the placement of the riser pads. If they’re not evenly spaced and aligned, it can also impact your balance and cause problems. As you develop your skating skills and get more comfortable with your board, you’ll be able to choose the right riser pads for your needs.
Maintenance and Cleaning Tips for Riser Pads
Maintenance and Cleaning Tips for Riser Pads
As with any skateboard components, riser pads need maintenance and cleaning to keep them in good shape. One of the most important things is to regularly check the riser pad bolts and make sure they’re tightened properly. Loose bolts can lead to riser pads shifting or falling off, which can be dangerous while riding.
When it comes to cleaning, the easiest way is to use a damp cloth and wipe down the riser pads every once in a while. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as this can damage the pads. If there’s any dirt or grime that won’t come off with a simple wipe, you can use mild soap and water to gently scrub the surface. It’s also a good idea to remove the riser pads occasionally and clean the deck underneath to prevent any buildup of dirt or debris. By keeping your riser pads well-maintained and clean, you can ensure your skateboard rides smoothly and safely.
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Riser Pads vs. Shock Pads: Understanding the Difference.
Riser pads and shock pads are two different things, though they may be used interchangeably. Shock pads are thinner and made of softer material – typically rubber or foam. Riser pads, on the other hand, are thicker and made of harder material like plastic.
Shock pads absorb impact vibrations while riser pads protect the deck from wheel bite. They elevate the height between the truck and deck, giving more clearance for bigger wheels. Unlike shock pads, riser pads are essential for all skateboarders, especially those with bigger wheels. It’s essential to understand the difference between these two to pick the right one for your needs, and sometimes a combination of both pads might be necessary to optimize a skateboard’s performance.
Wrapping Up
Risers might seem insignificant, but they play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride for skateboarders. They reduce the vibrations caused by rough terrains, absorb shock, and increase clearance between the wheels and the board. This makes it easier for skateboarders to glide over cracks, pebbles, and other obstacles they might encounter.
In addition to enhancing comfort, risers also contribute to a rider’s stability and control. They help skateboarders to maintain their balance by providing a wider surface area, making it easier for them to land tricks and maneuvers. Given their importance, every skateboarder should consider investing in a quality set of risers to experience a more enjoyable and safer ride.