What are bushings on a skateboard? (A Quick Guide!)

Have you ever been skating and heard someone talking about something called a “bushing”?

It’s likely that you had no idea what they were referring to, but not to worry; in this guide we’ll be exploring the mysterious world of bushings on skateboards.

Bushings are just one of many important elements needed for a great ride, so whether you’re an experienced skater or completely new to the game, it pays to know your stuff when it comes down to finding out how these crucial pieces of equipment can help ensure that your skating experience is as smooth as possible.

Keep reading if you want to learn more.

Quick Info: Bushings are small pieces of rubber or urethane that fit around the kingpin of your trucks and help absorb shock and provide stability.

What are bushings on a skateboard?

Skateboard bushings are a crucial part of a skateboard.

They are inserted into the hanger, or truck, to provide cushioning and act as shock absorbers in response to the pressure of turning and doing tricks.

A softer bushing will result in a lower turning resistance, while a harder one will give more stability. The shape of skateboard bushings also plays an important role in the way a board handles – some riders prefer conical-shaped bushings while others opt for barrel-shaped ones.

Whether you’re using standard stock bushings or aftermarket options, having a good set of bushings is essential for controlling your board’s movement with precision and style.

How do bushings affect the ride of a skateboard?

Bushings on a skateboard are rubber rings that fit between the baseplate of the truck and the hanger.

They act as a cushion to absorb shocks, vibrations, and impacts when riding. Bushings come in different shapes and sizes to accommodate different riding styles.

For example, softer bushings provide more flexibility for tricks like ollies, while harder bushings offer more stability for cruising.

Bushings also help to adjust the turning radius of your skateboard by allowing you to tighten or loosen them depending on how much resistance you want from your trucks.

This can be especially helpful for beginner skaters who are still learning how to control their board.

How do I choose the right bushings for my skateboard?

Choosing the right bushings for your skateboard depends on a few factors.

First, consider your style of riding and the types of tricks you’ll be doing. If you’re a street skater who loves to do ollies, then softer bushings are ideal for maximum flexibility.

If you prefer carving or cruising, then harder bushings provide better stability.

You should also take into account the size of your skateboard. Larger boards require stiffer bushings, while smaller boards can use softer ones.

Finally, consider the weight of the rider; heavier riders will need stiffer bushings to help support their weight and provide enough resistance for turning without feeling too loose.

Do skateboard bushings make a difference?

Yes, skateboard bushings can make a big difference in how your skateboard rides.

Bushings act as shock absorbers and help to adjust the turning radius of your board. Soft bushings are great for tricks like ollies while harder bushings provide more stability when carving or cruising.

The size of your board and the weight of the rider can also influence the type of bushings you should choose.

Taking all these factors into consideration will help you find the perfect set of bushings for your skateboard.

Should I get soft or hard bushings?

The type of bushings you should get will depend on your style of riding and the types of tricks you’ll be doing.

Softer bushings are better for street skating and doing ollies, while harder bushings provide more stability when carving or cruising. The size of your board and the weight of the rider can also influence the type of bushings you should choose.

It’s important to experiment with different types of bushings to find a balance between stability and flexibility that is comfortable for your skateboarding style. Once you have found the perfect set, enjoy the improved performance and smoother ride.

Final Thoughts

Bushings are an essential component of the skateboard and are fundamental to the overall performance.

Without them, the skateboard wouldn’t feel as smooth or turn as easily. Bushings come in a variety of shapes, sizes and durometers to fit different skateboard styles and rider preferences.

They act as a cushioning mechanism that provides stability and helps dampen vibrations while riding.

Choosing the right bushings for your skateboard requires experimentation and depends on factors such as the size of your board, weight of the rider and style of riding.

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