Can you put cruiser wheels on a skateboard? (Explanation with FAQs)

Regardless of whether you’re just starting out on a skateboard or an experienced rider, the wheels can make all the difference.

But have you ever considered putting cruiser wheels on a skateboard? Can it be done and is it worth doing?

In this article, we’ll explain why swapping standard wheels to cruiser ones may require some extra work but could actually benefit your skating experience.

We’ll also explore what kinds of cruisers are available so that you can decide for yourself if this is something worth trying.

Can I put cruiser wheels on a skateboard?

The short answer is yes, you can put cruiser wheels on a skateboard.

Cruiser wheels tend to be larger, softer and have more grip than regular skateboard wheels, making them ideal for commuting or traveling through rough terrain.

The issue with installing cruiser wheels on a skateboard is that they may not fit the mounting hardware that comes with most standard skateboards.

To address this problem you will need to check the diameter of your truck mount and make sure it matches the size of coasting wheel before purchasing any hardware.

If you don’t have the same size setup, your best option is to purchase custom boards built specifically for cruiser wheels as these will provide guaranteed compatibility.

Skateboard Wheels vs Cruiser Wheels: What’s the Difference?

Navigating the skateboard world can be tricky for those new to the sport. When it comes to wheels, it’s important to know the difference between skateboard wheels and cruiser wheels in order to roll with confidence.

Size & Durometer:

The size of cruiser wheels is typically larger than most skateboard wheel sizes.

Cruiser wheel sizes range from 50mm to 83mm while skateboard wheel sizes are typically around 53mm-60mm.

Cruiser wheels also tend to have a higher durometer (wheel hardness) rating compared to skateboard wheels, which makes them more durable and better suited for rougher surfaces like sidewalks or streets.

Shape & Profile:

Cruiser wheel shapes vary significantly compared to a skateboard wheel that has a traditional shape with round edges.

Cruiser wheels usually feature more angular edges that help it grip onto surfaces better when turning and cornering.

This makes them great for cruising on rough terrain. In addition, cruiser wheel profiles are often flat, allowing them to roll over cracks or small bumps without losing speed or momentum.

On the other hand, skateboard wheel profiles are often rounded out, making them better suited for tricks such as grinding or sliding on rails or ramps.

Material & Urethane:

Skateboard and cruiser wheels can be crafted from several materials, yet the most widely accepted material is urethane.

It glides effortlessly over slick surfaces such as concrete or wood while also dampening vibrations on uneven terrain.

Though some riders prefer plastic because of its stiffer structure, allowing them to carve corners more easily and perform tricks with greater stability than if they used a softer wheel made from urethane.

Wheel Core & Bearings:

The core of a wheel helps determine how responsive it will be when you turn or carve while riding your board; this is true for both cruiser and skateboard wheels alike.

Generally speaking, a harder wheel core provides more responsiveness while softer cores offer less resistance when turning corners but can make it more difficult to perform tricks like ollies (jumping off your board).

Additionally, both types of boards use bearings which affect the speed at which you can ride your board; faster bearings allow you to maintain your speed longer while slower bearings slow down faster but require less effort when pushing off in order to keep rolling forward. 

How do I put cruiser wheels on a skateboard?

Adding cruiser wheels to a skateboard is a considerable way to upgrade your ride.

However, below we will discuss the steps to ensure that you have a successful installation.

Step 1: The first step is to measure the diameter of your truck mount, which is usually between 5″ and 8″. This measurement will determine what size coasting wheel you can install on your board.

Step 2: Once you know the correct size for your mounting hardware, you can purchase the appropriate cruiser wheels to fit.

Step 3: Next, remove your existing wheels and install the new cruiser wheels. Make sure that the wheel nuts are tight and securely in place.

Step 4: Finally, take a test ride to ensure that everything is in working order before skating out on your new setup.

Step 5: You did it! Now it’s time to take your new setup out for a spin and enjoy the smooth ride that comes with having cruiser wheels on your board.

Benefits of cruiser wheels while using on skateboard

Increased Grip –

Cruiser wheels provide a higher level of grip than standard wheels, which is beneficial in many ways.

The increased traction helps reduce sliding when making sharp turns or during other difficult maneuvers.

It also reduces the likelihood of slipping on wet surfaces and makes it easier to control your speed. 

Enhanced Comfort –

Cruiser wheels offer a smoother ride than standard wheels, making it more comfortable for riders of all skill levels.

The softer material absorbs shock from bumps and imperfections in the road surface better than regular wheels, resulting in a smoother experience overall.

This is especially helpful for longboarding or cruising activities because you won’t feel as much vibration as you would with regular wheels. 

Quieter Ride –

If you’ve ever ridden on a skateboard with standard wheels, you know how loud they can be on some surfaces like concrete or asphalt.

With cruiser wheels, the noise is drastically reduced thanks to the softer material that absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials used for standard wheels.

This makes it easier to enjoy your ride without having to worry about being too loud or disturbing nearby neighbors or businesses with your skateboarding activities.  

More Durable –

Cruiser wheels are created to endure longer than your average wheel.

Crafted from a higher caliber of materials, they can withstand friction and other elements encountered in skating which would usually cause standard wheels to wear down quickly.

This ultimately will allow them to last much longer without the need for frequent replacements, saving you money over time by avoiding regular wheel purchases due to their enduring nature.

Easier Maintenance –

Standard wheel maintenance requires specialized tools and skills that not everyone has access to or knows how to use correctly.

But with cruiser wheels all you need is some basic cleaning supplies like soap and water, making it much easier for casual skaters who don’t have access to professional equipment or expertise.

To keep their board running smoothly without any hassle or stress involved in maintaining them regularly. 

Conclusion

It is possible to put cruiser wheels on a skateboard, but it’s not the most efficient solution.

Cruiser wheels tend to be heavier than traditional skateboard wheels and can make it harder to control the board and pop up for tricks.

Additionally, mounting cruiser wheels onto a skateboard deck could cause an imbalance that will make the setup less stable than an evenly weighted board with standard skateboard wheels.

Ultimately, if you want to incorporate cruiser wheels into your skating routine, the best option would be to buy a longboard or pintail specifically designed for them, as it will provide you with an all-around better riding experience.

FAQs

Can you put different wheels on a skateboard?

Yes, you can put different wheels on a skateboard. Since wheels help to determine the skateboard’s performance, it is important to select the right ones depending on your riding style and terrain. There are a number of factors to consider when choosing new wheels such as weight, size, shape, and durometer. Considering these factors will allow you to find the perfect set of skateboard wheels that will allow you to ride with confidence and style.

Can you Ollie on cruiser wheels?

The answer is yes, you can certainly Ollie on cruiser wheels. Skateboarding with cruiser wheels has become more and more popular as of late, these smaller and softer wheels helping riders to take on tricks. With a bit of practice and dedication, challenge yourself to master the Ollie even with the help of cruiser wheels. Just be sure to keep safety in mind and make sure you have the right equipment that fits your skillset!

Are cruiser wheels good for skating on ramps?

Cruiser wheels are designed for a more comfortable ride when skating on ramps, but are not as precise when navigating small turns. Larger cruiser wheels tend to handle the transition from flat ground to a ramp better, as they have more grip and are able to provide smoother rides.

Do cruiser wheels make it easier to do tricks on a skateboard?

Cruiser wheels can make it easier to do certain skateboard tricks, yes. The larger size of cruiser wheels means they have better stability and can provide more support as well as grip when taking sharp turns or switching directions. However, this is not necessarily the case for all tricks. Many tricks require extra speed, which cruiser wheels can make difficult to build up due to their more substantial weight.