The Bustin Maestro has earned a reputation as a go-to longboard, especially for those new to the sport. It’s recognized as a pioneer in popularizing dropped decks for commuting, a style now commonly known as “pushing.” While it may not be the top choice for intense freeriding or long-distance endeavors, unlike its sibling the Sportster, the Maestro distinguishes itself as a highly effective pushing board, particularly considering its price point.
The Bustin Maestro shines as a versatile board suited for urban, rural, and suburban environments. It offers a unique blend of stability and comfort, perfect for riders seeking a bit of freestyle while commuting. However, it’s important to note that the Maestro does have certain limitations when compared to other push-focused boards. Understanding your riding style is crucial in determining if this board is the right fit for you.
This detailed review is provided by Michael, a seasoned longboarder. You can see more of his riding on his Instagram: @mc.longboard.
Riding Experience: Is the Bustin Maestro Good for Beginners?
Bustin Maestro longboard front and back view
The Bustin Maestro’s design immediately stands out, featuring an hourglass taper and a radial concave that spans the entire deck. This design results in what Bustin refers to as a “push camber.” While this may sound like a marketing buzzword, it does serve a purpose.
Earlier Maestro models featured an asymmetrical design with camber in the front. This unique design created a rebound effect when pushing, adding momentum to each stride. This springiness was a notable feature compared to other double-drop boards, although it may not be immediately noticeable to new riders.
However, current Maestro models feature rocker throughout the entire deck. While the push isn’t as springy as it was with the older cambered models, the flex combined with the rocker still offers a unique, carvy experience akin to pumping. This makes the board feel lively and responsive.
The Maestro stands out as a fast, carvy pushing board that’s excellent for beginners. Its low, symmetrical design is ideal for honing the basics like balancing, pushing at speed, foot braking, and riding switch. Furthermore, it’s a great platform for learning tricks, distinguishing it from other double-drop boards.
Let’s delve into the specs:
Key Specifications:
- Deck: 37.4 inches long, 9.4 inches wide, 25.7-26.3-inch wheelbase, 2.9-inch nose and tail
- Bushings: Cone/Barrel 90a
- Trucks: Bustin R1 177mm or Paris V3 180mm
- Wheels: Bustin Premier Formula 70mm
- Bearings: Bustin Options
Bustin has introduced their proprietary Bustin R1 trucks as the default option, though the board still supports Paris V3 trucks. While these trucks are functional, some critics suggest they aren’t particularly innovative or differentiated from other established brands. However, this shouldn’t deter beginners, as they’ll likely find the performance satisfactory without the context of comparison.
Bustin Maestro vs. Competitors: How Does It Stack Up?
Comparison of Bustin Sportster, Bustin Maestro, and Zenit AB 2.0 longboards
The Maestro’s status as a “true” double drop is often debated. While the deck is lowered, the drop is minimal compared to other boards from brands like Zenit, Pantheon, or Subsonic. Bustin advertises a 1-inch drop, which matches some of Pantheon’s and Zenit’s models, but the actual feel is less pronounced. It’s more of a micro-drop; it’s long and less sharp, almost like a traditional drop-through deck like the Landyachtz Drop Cat.
This subtle difference impacts the ride, particularly for more experienced riders who might miss the leverage and comfort that more pronounced drops provide. Although this effect is not significant, it’s certainly worth considering.
Questions arise when examining the marketing around the outdated push camber, proprietary parts, and the misrepresented 1-inch drop. Is the marketing misleading, or are the specs simply incorrect? Perhaps users are just misinterpreting the information? These are valid questions to consider.
Bustin Maestro longboard on a paved surface
One clear advantage the Maestro has over most double-drop boards is its 2.9-inch nose and tail. This allows riders to perform a variety of tricks and easily kick the board up on a curb. While it’s not a dedicated dancer or top-mount, the Maestro stands apart in the dropped deck category due to this unique feature.
The ability to hop curbs, while requiring practice, is highly useful for urban commuters. This feature also makes the Maestro more fun and versatile.
Limitations of the Bustin Maestro
Bustin Maestro longboard on rough pavement
The very features that distinguish the Maestro—the flex and the nose/tail—also limit it as a long-distance pusher. The flex improves comfort and speed during pushing, but it hinders its suitability for freeriding. While aftermarket wheels can enhance performance, the Maestro’s inherent design limits its customization options.
The Maestro is adequate for mild hills and lower speeds but not ideal for freeriding. Its flex and concave, although helpful for foot lock-in, can’t match the performance of stiffer freeride boards.
Side view of the Bustin Maestro longboard
If you live in a hilly area requiring sliding and speed control, the Maestro isn’t the best choice. You can learn speed checks and slides on it, but it won’t be as easy as with other comparable options.
Furthermore, the nose and tail limit truck and wheel size options. The reviewer mentions maxing out the setup with 75mm wheels, experiencing wheel bite with larger wheels, and having to reduce to 72mm wheels when switching to 165mm trucks.
These limitations will likely not affect beginners but become significant for those looking to explore long-distance pushing (LDP) or tackling rough terrain. The Maestro can’t match boards that accommodate larger wheels (85mm+) and small, nimble trucks.
Who Should Buy the Bustin Maestro?
The Bustin Maestro is a great choice for beginners looking for a versatile board that performs well on smooth surfaces. It is also perfect for experienced riders wanting a commuter board capable of freestyle tricks.
Who Should Avoid the Bustin Maestro?
If you primarily ride on rough terrain or in hilly areas, consider other options, perhaps Bustin’s Sportster. The Maestro also isn’t ideal for long-distance pushing, especially if you prefer wheels larger than 75mm.
Final Thoughts
Bustin Maestro longboard on a bench
Deciding if the Maestro is the right choice depends on your longboarding goals. It’s a fantastic freestyle/push hybrid but isn’t suitable for freeriding or long-distance pushing.
The Bustin Maestro is a stable, comfortable, fast commuter that is great for various environments, provided the roads aren’t too rough, and the hills aren’t too steep. It’s a fun, versatile board suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
Bustin offers customization options for graphics, a unique advantage. While there have been some concerns about finish quality, the value offered by the Maestro is still excellent, especially given its competitive pricing.
Performance Ratings:
- Cruising: 4/5 stars
- Freestyle: 3.5/5 stars
- Commuting: 3.5-4/5 stars (depending on terrain and distance)
- Freeriding/Downhill: 2/5 stars
Bustin frequently offers sales, making the Maestro an exceptional value purchase. Sign up for their newsletter to catch a deal!
Ruben Vee
Ruben Vee, author of the article
Ruben Vee is an experienced skateboarder with over 25 years in the sport. He’s a dedicated gear tester who shares his insights and findings.
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