Tony Hawk, the legendary skateboarder, is known for his incredible talent and innovative tricks on a skateboard. However, many people are curious about the specific skateboard that Tony Hawk uses and why it is his preferred board. In this article, we will take a close look at the skateboard that Tony Hawk rides and explore its features and benefits.
Whether you are a skateboard enthusiast or a Tony Hawk fan, understanding the equipment that he uses can provide valuable insights into the technical aspects of skateboarding. Tony Hawk’s skateboard has been carefully designed to meet his specific needs and preferences as a professional skateboarder, and its unique features have contributed to his success on the ramp and in competitions. So, let’s dive in and explore the skateboard that Tony Hawk rides.
Tony Hawk’s Skateboard Setup: An Overview of the Basics
Tony Hawk, the legendary skateboarder, has been riding on a skateboard for over 40 years now. His skateboarding skills and style have inspired millions of people around the world to take up skateboarding. One of the most frequently asked questions about Tony Hawk is – what skateboard does he ride?
Tony Hawk’s skateboard setup comprises a deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, grip tape, and hardware. He prefers a 8.5-inch skateboard deck made of Canadian maple wood, which is known for its durability and strength. His trucks are Independent Stage 11 trucks, which are a popular choice for professional skateboarders for their stability and responsiveness. He rides on Bones Swiss bearings, which are known for their speed and durability. His wheels are usually Bones SPF (Skatepark Formula) wheels, which are formulated for sliding and maneuvering on concrete surfaces. The grip tape on his deck is standard black, and his hardware is also standard-sized.
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The Deck: What Makes Tony Hawk’s Board Stand Out?
Tony Hawk’s skateboard deck is one of the most talked-about aspects of his skateboard setup. Hawk rides a Birdhouse deck, the brand he co-founded in the 1990s. The deck is available in various sizes, but Hawk’s preferred size is 8.5 inches wide and 32.25 inches long. The deck’s width provides stability, and the length allows for a generous foot space providing him with greater control.
Another factor that sets Hawk’s deck apart is the construction. The Birdhouse deck is made of seven-ply hard rock maple, which is the industry standard for skateboard decks. However, what sets it apart is the additional reinforcement ply placed on the top and bottom of the deck. This innovative design gives the deck added strength and durability, making it a trusted choice among professional skateboarders. Tony Hawk’s choice of board is a testament to its superior design and performance, and aspiring skateboarders can take a cue from his preferences when selecting their own boards.
Sturdy and Reliable: The Importance of Trucks in Tony Hawk’s Skateboard
When it comes to skateboarding, the trucks play a crucial part in providing stability and control. Tony Hawk’s skateboard uses high-quality trucks that provide a sturdy and reliable base. The trucks connect the deck to the wheels and allow the skateboarder to turn, grind, and carve with precision. For Tony Hawk, who is known for his technical ability and effortless style, the importance of trucks cannot be overstated.
Tony Hawk uses Thunder Trucks, which are made from high-grade aluminum and come in a range of sizes to suit different skate styles. They are lightweight but strong, providing stability without sacrificing maneuverability. Thunder Trucks are renowned for their durability, and with proper maintenance, can last for years. For Tony Hawk, who puts his skateboard through rigorous use, having trucks that can withstand the wear and tear is important to his performance and safety.
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Wheels and Bearings: How Tony Hawk Customizes His Board for Optimal Performance
Tony Hawk might be known as one of the greatest skateboarders of all time, but it takes more than just skill to perform at such a high level. A crucial aspect of his success lies in his ability to customize his board according to his preferences, and this includes his wheels and bearings.
When it comes to wheels, Tony Hawk prefers larger sizes with a diameter of around 55 to 60mm. He also opts for a hardness range of between 99a to 101a, which offers the right balance between grip and slide. Additionally, Hawk often goes for wider wheels with rounded edges, which makes them ideal for performing tricks like grinds and slides.
As for his bearings, Tony Hawk likes to use Bones Swiss bearings, which are renowned for their durability and speed. These bearings are made from high-quality materials like chrome steel and feature specialized lubricants to ensure a smooth and long-lasting performance. With these customizations, Tony Hawk’s skateboard is dialed in for the optimal performance, allowing him to push the limits of what’s possible on four wheels.
From Vert to Street: How Tony Hawk’s Skateboard Accommodates Different Terrains
Tony Hawk is known for being a pro skater in both vert and street disciplines. His skateboard is designed to accommodate the different terrains he skates on. Hawk tends to use a board with a slightly wider shape, allowing for more stability and control when skating vert. The wider board also helps to provide a larger surface area for his feet, which is essential when performing tricks on a ramp or in a bowl.
When skating on the street, Hawk will typically use a narrower shaped board. This allows for easier maneuverability when navigating through tight spaces and performing technical tricks. Additionally, his street board will have a different wheel setup, with smaller and harder wheels that are better suited for sliding and grinding on rails and ledges. Overall, Tony Hawk’s skateboard is incredibly versatile, allowing him to showcase his skills on a variety of terrains and in a variety of disciplines.
Tony Hawk’s Favorite Skateboard Brands: A Review of What He Tries and Trusts
Tony Hawk has been skateboarding professionally for over three decades, and during this time, he has tested and trusted numerous skateboard brands. Hawk is known for his unique and innovative style of skateboarding, which requires a board that is both durable and flexible. Over the years, he has developed an affinity for a few skateboard brands that have met his expectations and helped him perform at his best.
Some of Tony Hawk’s favorite skateboard brands include Powell Peralta, Birdhouse, and Baker. Powell Peralta is one of the world’s oldest skateboard brands and has been around since the 1970s. The brand is known for its high-quality decks made of maple wood, which provide excellent strength and flexibility, perfect for Hawk’s style of skateboarding. Birdhouse is another brand that has worked well for Hawk. The brand is particularly known for its bird-themed graphics, and its boards are designed to be lightweight to allow for better agility and control. Lastly, Baker is a brand that focuses on creating boards for street and park skaters, and Hawk has expressed his love for the brand’s designs and high-quality materials.
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Trying It Out: How You Can Build a Skateboard That’s Similar to Tony Hawk’s.
Trying It Out: How You Can Build a Skateboard That’s Similar to Tony Hawk’s
If you are a fan of Tony Hawk and want to experience what it is like to ride a skateboard similar to what he uses for his performances, you can build one yourself. The good news is that you don’t need to be a pro to build one and you can customize it to fit your style and preferences.
To build a skateboard similar to Tony Hawk’s, you will need to purchase the right components such as a Powell-Peralta Tony Hawk Skull skateboard deck, Independent stage 11 standard trucks, Bones Super Reds bearings, and Spitfire Formula Four wheels. You can also accessorize the skateboard with grip tape, bolts, and stickers of your choice. Once you have all the components, it’s time to put them together. You can either put it together yourself or have a local skate shop do it for you. With a little bit of effort and time, you can have a skateboard that resembles Tony Hawk’s and get closer to experiencing what it’s like to ride like a pro.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, Tony Hawk has ridden and sponsored many different skateboard brands throughout his career. However, he is most commonly associated with riding Birdhouse Skateboards. This brand has been a staple in the skateboarding industry for over two decades and has produced some of the most iconic skateboard designs. Hawk has been a key figure in promoting the brand and has helped it become a household name among skateboarders around the world.
Whether you are a professional skateboarder or just a casual fan, understanding what skateboard Tony Hawk rides can provide valuable insight into the skateboarding industry. While his preference may change over time, it is clear that he is always on the cutting edge of skateboard technology and aesthetics. With his continued influence on the sport, Tony Hawk is sure to inspire new generations of skateboarders and push the boundaries of what is possible on a skateboard.