The Comet Orbiter has made a significant impact in the longboarding scene, sparking both excitement and debate. This review delves into its performance, design, and whether it lives up to the hype. Let’s explore what makes this high-end longboard complete stand out.
Orbiter Specs and Components
This board boasts a meticulous selection of components, designed for peak performance.
Deck
- Length: 35 inches
- Width: 9.25 inches (tapered)
- Construction: 7-ply recycled maple with top and bottom fiberglass sheets
- Mounting: In-built 3* flush mounting wedge
- Concave: Mellow with rocker
- Wheelbase: 22.875 inches, 25 inches
Trucks
- Brand: Rogue 2020 Slaloms
- Baseplate Angles:
- Front: 50* (53* with wedge)
- Rear: 20* (23* with wedge)
- Truck Width:
- Front: 106mm
- Rear: 116mm
Bushings and Washers
- Front Truck:
- Bushings: 73/78a Venom HPF
- Washers: Flat RS, no BS
- Insert Bushing: 93a Venom HPF
- Rear Truck:
- Bushings: 95/97a Venom HPF
- Washers: Cupped RS, no BS
- Insert Bushing: 95a Venom HPF
Additional Components
- Wheels: 74a Venom Magnums
- Bearings: Zealous steel
- Griptape: 60 grit Bluefire (or Seismic 60 grit Lokton)
- Footstop: Comet “C” footstop
- Risers: 1/4 inch
- Torque Block: Yes
- Price: $645 (or $613 with the “downhill254” discount code)
- Availability: Next available in summer 2021
Performance Summary
The Comet Orbiter is an exceptional longboard, offering a stable, confidence-inspiring ride that performs at its peak. It provides a fantastic platform for riders to advance their skills and tackle challenging terrains.
Notably, the Orbiter doesn’t have any significant drawbacks, making it a worthwhile investment. It’s designed for those looking to experience modern downhill slalom boarding, differing from traditional setups, which makes it suitable for a wide range of riders.
The main challenge is its price, but the cost reflects high-quality components, which would be more expensive if bought individually. The wait time, which can range from weeks to months after purchase, is the main downside. But is it worth the wait? Absolutely.
The Orbiter provides an excellent option for those wanting a modern DH slalom board without the hassle of extensive customization.
Interview with Comet Skateboards
Why create the Orbiter?
Comet: “We designed the Orbiter to simplify the setup process for modern downhill skateboarding. Many riders struggle to find reliable information to properly equip their boards for high speeds and intensity. While consensus is growing, the advice can be incomplete, and much gear is still outdated. We aim to eliminate setup concerns, allowing riders to focus on their downhill path.”
Who is the Orbiter for?
Comet: “The Orbiter suits anyone wanting to skate fast, whether a beginner seeking reliable equipment or an experienced rider upgrading their setup. It’s designed to perform right out of the box, like a high-quality bicycle.”
What makes the Orbiter special?
Comet: “Despite the lack of 2020 events to showcase the board, we’ve enjoyed seeing riders use it effectively. Similar to our Cruiser, the Orbiter is ready to go, allowing riders to push their limits on a new setup. Its versatility is also noteworthy. It remains playful in urban settings. The kicktail, deep wheel wells, and risers provide a playful yet secure ride.”
Adjustments for new owners?
Comet: “We recommend experimenting with truck mounting options to match your stance. Taller riders can use the inner mounting to lengthen the wheelbase. The rear mount is designed for the upcoming Aurora setup. While not ideal for slalom trucks, 145-155mm trucks would be perfect here.”
Purpose of the torque block?
Comet: “The torque block serves dual functions, acting as a kicktail. It enhances the board’s usability in diverse riding conditions. In urban areas, it enables riders to navigate cracks and curbs safely. Positioned further back, it provides support when leaning into the heel and is ideal for comfortable stand-up slides.”
Availability and turnaround?
Comet: “The next batch of boards will align with the next truck production, hopefully in the summer of 2021.”
What is the Aurora setup?
Comet: “The Aurora setup is designed for fast freeride and will use the rear mounting holes on the deck. It features wider trucks and narrower wheels, offering a stable platform for shoulder-width stand-up slides.”
More affordable models on the horizon?
Comet: “In 2021, we’re reintroducing our classic 9-ply maple construction with a simple top mount, cast trucks, and round lip wheels. This will be perfect for riders seeking speed and sliding on a budget of under $300.”
Thanks to Comet for their insights!
The Orbiter Controversy
Why the initial backlash?
The Orbiter stood out from the beginning, as a high-end downhill skateboard designed to be perfect right out of the box. This concept caused some friction in the community.
Many were upset, creating memes and complaining, feeling that Comet had strayed off course. The core reason was that downhill skateboards are typically highly personalized, with every detail, from bushings to footstop, customized to the rider’s preference. A one-size-fits-all approach seemed illogical.
Comet was also selling the Orbiter exclusively as a complete, which meant that the deck was unavailable separately, further frustrating some long-time fans.
Many Comet enthusiasts felt left out because the brand hadn’t produced downhill decks for a long time. They were eager to buy a Comet board for nostalgia’s sake or experience their take on modern DH skateboards.
The price tag of $725 (with a $625 pre-order option) also raised concerns, seen as not competitive despite its high-quality components.
Justifying the Orbiter’s Existence
Despite the criticism, the Orbiter’s creation was well-justified.
The “One-Size-Fits-All” Approach
While custom setups are common for traditional downhill boards, the landscape is different with slalom downhill boards. They often feature similar specs, such as wheelbases between 21-23 inches, 50* front and 20* rear trucks, and 73/78a front and 95/97a rear bushings.
Slalom setups tend to converge around this configuration, making the Orbiter’s design more universally applicable. This has led to greater appreciation for the Orbiter as more riders adopt slalom DH trends.
It will be interesting to see how Comet approaches their 2021 freeride board, as that market requires more customization.
Reasonable Pricing
The $625 price point is very reasonable for the quality of components. Factoring in manufacturing, expertise, and assembly, the Orbiter is a bargain. Even if the bushings aren’t perfect, a small adjustment doesn’t negate the value.
Addressing the “Left Out” Feeling
It’s understandable why some fans felt neglected when Comet shifted focus. However, it seems the brand’s intention has changed due to industry shifts and a desire for innovation.
Comet will likely reconnect with their die-hard fans when the time is right, but their focus is currently on other projects. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide if they accept this direction.
The Orbiter’s Purpose
The Orbiter simplifies the transition to modern setups. Instead of the trial-and-error with traditional downhill boards, riders get a ready-to-go setup that works well from the start. This saves time in the dialing-in process.
Comet Orbiter Review: Detailed Breakdown
Value for Money?
A component breakdown reveals the worth of the Orbiter’s price tag:
- Trucks: Rogue 2020 Slaloms – $396
- Insert Bushings: Extra 95a set – $6
- Wheels: Venom Magnums – $65
- Bearings: Zealous steel – $14
- Griptape: Seismic 60 grit Lokton – $30
- Risers: Muirskate shockpad – $4.50
- Bolts: $5
Subtotal: $520.50
Estimating the rest:
- Deck: Fiberglass, maple – $175
- Footstop: Comet “C” footstop – $25
- Torque Block: $10
Total: $730 (or $700 rounded up)
The $625 price is great value for the components you are getting.
Performance Out of the Box?
The Orbiter performs excellently right out of the box. Even with new Magnums, riders can skate fast, pre-drift, and take tight lines confidently. It may take a couple of runs, but it’s ready for racing once you get a feel for it.
Aggressive Riding Style
You need to be aggressive to get the best performance. If you’re used to sliding race wheels you will be fine, but if you aren’t familiar, feathering the deck won’t give you the best performance.
Consider using scrubbed wheels until you are comfortable. However, competent riders will be able to manage fresh Magnums.
Weight Placement
Turning and leaning should primarily be done with the front foot, as this provides the best performance, stability, and turning response.
Ease of Riding
The Orbiter is intuitive, with a comfortable stance and natural feel. It strikes a good balance of stability, being neither too rigid nor too loose. Sliding is smooth, and it gradually approaches the edge of grip before breaking into a controllable slide. It also gently pulls you back into traction. Riders can comfortably push their limits without fear of sudden slips.
Grip vs. Slide
The Orbiter provides a balanced grip-to-slide transition, which is good for control but might not maximize the braking power of the wheels. This is acceptable for everyday riding but might be a concern for racing. The control the board provides makes up for a lack of slow down power, allowing for excellent racing lines.
Adding a 95a insert to the front truck can increase grip but requires more control. This is ideal for heavier riders seeking a stiffer front truck.
Stability at Speed
The Orbiter is exceptionally stable, even on rough roads, thanks to the vibration dampening from the Rogue trucks and 74a Magnums. It inspires confidence at high speeds, with potential for 70 mph given the opportunity. The trucks offer a strong center point, requiring deliberate input to turn, meaning that they will stay steady.
Cornering and Lines
The Orbiter takes great race lines with effortless transitions. It feels like the trucks respond directly to the rider, inspiring confidence.
Toeside turns can be challenging due to the Rogue trucks. Heelside turns are easier because it is more natural to apply weight there. Grabbing the rail helps with tight toeside turns. Switching to double pink (73a) barrels upfront may also help, but it will bring other issues.
Deck Stiffness and Concave
The deck is stiff with a minimal amount of torsional flex and a comfortable, mellow concave. There is a slight rocker, but it’s barely noticeable. The board’s sharp rails are still comfortable. The design is based on the old Comet Takeover and is very comfortable to ride.
Wheelbite and Risers
The 1/4-inch risers effectively prevent wheelbite. Even without risers, deep wheel wells provide ample clearance. The risers also provide more leverage, making it easier to compress the bushings.
Torque Block Functionality
The torque block serves more as a heel support than a traditional push-against point, so it is best used when coming out of a tuck, as opposed to pushing against it whilst riding. It’s comfortable and works well when coming out of a tuck and gives a great reference point for the back foot. However, it’s not as steep as other torque blocks and is not great to push against in tuck.
When using a freeride setup, moving the footstop back to the innermost mounting option allows for good use of the torque block for slides.
The torque block is more of a gradual extension of the board, rather than a rigid point.
Torque Block Footage:
See Zak MG using the torque block in tuck positions here. (0:27 to 0:48) https://web.facebook.com/thanemonsters/videos/447865686438871/
Griptape Grip
The 60-grit griptape offers enough grip, especially when combined with the mellow concave and truck setup. It’s worth noting that these findings are based on using shoes with brake soles, so results may vary.
Freeride Capabilities
The Orbiter is also a great freeride board. Using the 25-inch wheelbase with different trucks, bushings, and wheels allows for fast standies and big toeside slides.
A post shared by Downhill254-KenyanLongboarding (@downhill254)
It is very practical for trips, allowing you to switch between hands-down and stand-up freeride setups using the same deck.
Kicktail Usability
The kicktail is useful for de-weighting the board for kick turns, lifting the board or maneuvering over obstacles.
Footstop Comfort and Function
The Comet “C” footstop is comfortable and effective, with an optimal design that encourages riders to place their toes over the wheels.
Component Quality
The 2020 Rogue trucks are among the best available for downhill skating, with the narrow front and wide rear offering control.
The setup is ideal out of the box, but Rogue trucks also have an 8-hole mounting pattern for customization. The bushings are also quite good, however, Zak Mill-Goodwin in Australia uses 73/73a front and 95/97a rear inserts without risers.
Venom Magnums are fast, absorb road vibrations, slide smoothly, and provide controlled slowdowns. They are top-tier wheels but are prone to chunking.
See a detailed review of the Venom Magnums here.
Modifications Made
Despite being great out of the box, some adjustments were made for experimentation.
Risers Removed
Removing the risers resulted in a stiffer, more stable ride and smoother transitions between gripping and slipping. But it decreased leverage over the trucks and affected the hookup. The stock setup is best but reducing the ride height is worth exploring.
1/8-inch risers did not feel as good as the stock 1/4 inch, so the original setup is preferred.
Bushing Changes
Switching to 73/73a bushings in the front truck provided more turn and lean, ideal for slower hills. However, stability and the center point were compromised. The 73/78a combo is better overall.
Insert Changes
A 95a insert in the front truck resulted in more stiffness and stability. It also made the slides feel grippier but decreased control. The stock 93a insert was better.
The stock setup was the best overall for the board’s design purpose.
Drawbacks
Bolts
The Orbiter uses Allen key bolts, which aren’t preferred over Phillips head screws for frequent adjustments.
Board Size
The extra wheelbase and length make the board look longer than preferred. The minimalist might consider cutting the tail for a more compact design.
Griptape Chipping
The griptape on the tail chips with contact.
Taper
The taper is minimal and doesn’t affect riding.
Turnaround Time
The made-to-order production results in a long wait time. However, the wait is worth it.
Where to Buy
The Orbiter is available at the Comet website. Use the code “downhill254” for a 5% discount.
What if You Dislike the Orbiter?
Even if the stock setup isn’t perfect for a specific user, the Orbiter provides an ideal starting point for further customization. The stock setup allows for a controlled experiment with modifications to find the perfect custom set up.
The Appeal of the Orbiter
The Orbiter is great as an introduction into slalom DH boards, which are very different from traditional downhill boards.
Challenges with Slalom DH Boards
Learning slalom DH boards can be difficult and require time, unlike the more common traditional longboards. Dialing in, knowing how to set up the board, where to put the footstop, and what washers to use can be a headache and can lead to a lot of trial and error.
Why the Orbiter is a Good First Slalom Setup
The Orbiter offers a plug-and-play experience, requiring very little adjustment. After a few runs, the rider is comfortable and confident.
It offers a guided approach, setting the rider up for success with ideal foot placement, bushings, etc., which makes learning/adjusting to a slalom DH board significantly easier.
The Fun and Headache of Trial and Error
While the trial-and-error process can be enjoyable, sometimes a rider just wants to ride without having to deal with constant adjustments and tweaks.
This ease of use is the biggest appeal of the Orbiter.
Is the Orbiter Right for You?
If you’re an experienced downhill skater who is looking to try modern boards, then the Orbiter is worth considering. It is an excellent board and investment for those who want a high quality, high performance complete.
Thank you to all patrons for supporting the creation of this review!
