When Should You Replace Your Skateboard Wheels? (Tips for longevity)

Are your skateboard wheels looking a little worn out? Can you barely feel the vibration under your feet as you cruise around town?

Is your speed gradually starting to decrease despite pushing off with all of your might? If you are experiencing any of these issues, it may be time for a wheel replacement – but don’t worry, even if they need replacing, swapping out some fresh new ones doesn’t have to break the bank.

In this article we will explore when it is necessary to replace skateboard wheels and how to find great replacements without spending too much.

Whether you’re an avid skater or just getting into the sport, read on so that you can pick up valuable knowledge and take care of those wheels.

When do skateboard wheels need to be replaced?

As any seasoned skateboarder knows, one of the most important components of the skateboard is the wheels.

Over time, however, skateboard wheels can become worn and lose their grip, making them less reliable for high-speed maneuvers. So when is it time to replace your wheels?

Generally speaking, most skateboarders should replace their wheels every 2 or 3 months or so depending on usage and wear and tear.

Paying attention to the condition of your wheels is crucial for optimal performance and safety. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

How can you tell if your skateboard wheels need to be replaced?

To determine if your skateboard wheels need to be replaced, look out for the following signs:

Wear and Tear:

• Check the overall condition of the wheels for any visible signs of wear and tear.
• Look for flat spots or uneven wear on the surface of the wheels.
• Inspect the edges of the wheels for excessive chipping or chunking.

Wheel Hardness:

• Consider the hardness of the wheels. Skateboard wheels are typically rated on a durometer scale (usually from 78A to 101A or higher).
• Softer wheels (78A-87A) are more suitable for cruising and rough surfaces, but they wear down faster.
• Harder wheels (88A and above) are better for tricks and smooth surfaces, but they may feel less grippy.

Wheel Shape:

• Check the shape of the wheels. Over time, wheels can become conical due to repeated use and grinding.
• If the wheels have a pronounced conical shape, they may affect your stability and balance while riding.

Performance:

• Pay attention to how the skateboard feels while riding. Are you experiencing reduced speed or difficulty maintaining control?
• If you notice a decrease in performance, such as reduced speed or a lack of grip, it may be a sign that the wheels need replacement.

Bearings:

• Inspect the bearings that are housed inside the wheels. If they are dirty, rusted, or not spinning smoothly, it may affect the overall performance of the wheels.
• Clean or replace the bearings if necessary, as this can impact the ride quality.

Remember, the lifespan of skateboard wheels can vary depending on factors like usage, terrain, and personal preference. It’s important to regularly assess the condition of your wheels and replace them when needed to ensure a safe and enjoyable skateboarding experience.

What are the consequences of not replacing your skateboard wheels?

Not replacing your skateboard wheels when necessary can have several consequences that can impact your skateboarding experience and safety. Here are the potential consequences explained in detail:

Decreased Performance:

As skateboard wheels wear down, their overall performance deteriorates.

The grip and traction on the wheels diminish, making it harder to maintain control while riding.

This can lead to difficulty executing tricks, reduced speed, and compromised maneuverability.

It may also affect your ability to ride smoothly on different surfaces, especially if the wheels have developed flat spots or uneven wear.

Safety Hazards:

Worn-out skateboard wheels pose safety risks. When the grip of the wheels is compromised, you are more likely to experience wheel slippage, especially during turns or tricks.

This can result in accidents, causing you to lose balance and potentially fall off your skateboard.

Uneven wear patterns or flat spots on the wheels can create instability, making it harder to maintain control while riding, increasing the chances of accidents and injuries.

Increased Friction and Slower Speed:

As skateboard wheels wear down, they tend to develop a rougher surface.

This increased friction can slow down your ride and make it more difficult to maintain higher speeds.

It can also make tricks and maneuvers feel sluggish and less responsive.

Also, the increased friction can lead to uneven wear on other skateboard components, such as the bearings, further affecting the overall performance.

Damage to Skateboard and Components:

Worn-out wheels can have a negative impact on other parts of your skateboard.

The decreased shock absorption of worn wheels can transfer more impact and vibration to the skateboard deck and trucks, potentially leading to cracks, chips, or damage.

Morely, the increased friction caused by worn wheels can accelerate the wear and tear of bearings, leading to reduced performance and the need for premature replacement.

Tips to Make Your Skateboard Wheels Last Longer

To make your skateboard wheels last longer, here are some tips you can follow:

Rotate Wheels Regularly:

• Rotate your skateboard wheels regularly to ensure even wear. Switch the wheels’ positions by moving the back wheels to the front and vice versa.
• This helps distribute the wear more evenly across all the wheels, extending their lifespan.

Avoid Rough Surfaces:

• Try to avoid riding your skateboard on excessively rough or abrasive surfaces, such as gravel or extremely rough pavement.
• Rough surfaces can accelerate the wear and tear on your wheels, causing them to deteriorate faster.
• Opt for smoother and well-maintained skate spots or skate parks whenever possible.

Choose the Right Wheels for Your Riding Style:

• Select skateboard wheels that are suitable for your riding style and the type of terrain you usually skate on.
• Softer wheels are generally better for cruising and rough surfaces, while harder wheels are more durable for tricks and smoother surfaces.
• Choosing the right wheels for your needs can help prolong their lifespan.

Avoid Excessive Powerslides:

• Powersliding, which involves sliding the wheels sideways, can be fun and stylish, but it puts significant strain on the wheels.
• Excessive powerslides can cause flat spots or wear down the wheels faster.
• Try to minimize powerslides or practice them in moderation to preserve your wheels.

Maintain a Clean Skateboard:

• Keep your skateboard clean, especially the wheels, to prevent dirt, debris, and small rocks from getting stuck in the wheels.
• Regularly wipe the wheels with a cloth or use a skate tool to remove any build-up that can affect their performance and longevity.

Avoid Excessive Brake Use:

• Using your skateboard’s brakes excessively can wear down the wheels faster.
• Try to rely on other methods, such as foot braking or controlled slides, to slow down and reduce the strain on the wheels.

By following these tips, you can help extend the lifespan of your skateboard wheels, saving you money and ensuring a better skateboarding experience. Remember to regularly inspect your wheels for signs of wear and replace them when necessary to maintain optimal performance and safety.

How much does it cost to replace skateboard wheels?

The cost of replacing skateboard wheels can vary depending on several factors, including the brand, material, and quality of the wheels. Generally, you can expect to pay between $20 to $60 for a set of four skateboard wheels.

Here are some factors that can influence the cost:

• Brand: Well-known skateboard brands may have higher prices due to their reputation and quality.
• Material: Wheels made from different materials, such as urethane or softer compounds, may vary in price.
• Quality: Higher-quality wheels designed for specific skateboarding disciplines, such as street skating or downhill riding, might have higher price points.
• Size: Larger or specialty wheels may cost more than standard-sized wheels.
• Bearings: In some cases, skateboard wheels are sold with bearings included. The price may be higher if the bearings are of higher quality.

It’s worth noting that prices can differ between local skate shops and online retailers. Shopping around and comparing prices from different sources can help you find the best deal.

Final Verdict:

Replacing your skateboard wheels is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.

To determine if it’s time to replace the wheels, look out for signs of wear and tear, check the hardness rating, inspect the bearings, and consider their performance. Therefore you must need to replace wheels after every 2-3 months.

Generally, you can expect to pay between $20-$60 for a set of four new wheels. Shop around and compare prices from different retailers to get the best deal.

Remember, replacing your skateboard wheels regularly will help you stay safe while riding and maintain a smooth skateboarding experience.