The Cult Emperor wheels have garnered significant attention in the longboarding community, and for good reason. I recall browsing the Cult website, captivated by their videos and eager to experience their gear. However, the price tag on some of their wheels initially gave me pause. It seemed like a considerable investment for a set of wheels I hadn’t tested, despite endorsements from pro riders. Luckily, I received a set of Cult Emperors, and after riding them extensively, I can confidently say they’ve reshaped my perspective on freeriding, making slower-speed skating enjoyable again.
Cult Emperor Wheel Specs
- Diameter: 78mm
- Width: 53mm
- Contact Patch: 50.5mm
- Durometer: 78a
- Core Placement: Offset
Cult Wheels Emperor: A Detailed Review
Unexpectedly Slow Rolling
One of the first things I noticed about the Cult Emperor wheels was their sluggishness. I anticipated a fast roll due to their large core, but they felt surprisingly slow. This is likely due to the soft and squishy 78a urethane. While the core performs well, the softness of the urethane means the wheel rolls slower than expected. This isn’t a major issue at 71mm, but I suspect it might become more noticeable as the wheel wears down. This soft urethane does however contribute to the controllable slide.
For more information on urethane and wheel mechanics, check out our guide to longboard wheels for beginners.
Buttery Urethane Resists Icing Out
The Cult Emperor wheels slide exceptionally well, maintaining momentum without significant slowdown. You can perform slides at moderate speeds (15-30 mph) or execute extended slides without losing too much speed. These wheels have proven perfect for my local spots, where other freeride wheels tend to kill my speed prematurely.
Icing out is notably difficult with these wheels due to their soft yet slide-friendly urethane. This unique compound provides a slight grip during slides, preventing sudden catches that could throw you off balance. While you’ll feel the onset of icing out, it’s more manageable compared to other wheels, allowing you to maintain control even at high speeds. The slide feels like it’s on top of the pavement, offering exceptional control and slide distance.
Cult Emperor slip and slide
Predictable Hookup and Release
These wheels instilled a sense of confidence, enabling me to attempt slides at speeds I previously found daunting. The controllable hookup and release are major factors. Even if I initiated a slide poorly, the wheel was forgiving enough to avoid sudden throws. Similarly, over-kicking didn’t lead to immediate icing out. The consistent performance at both low and high speeds made initiating and maintaining slides feel secure.
The Large Core Enhances Performance
The large core likely stiffens the lips, facilitating a smooth transition from grip to slide. It also seems to promote even wear, ensuring consistent performance as the wheel wears. I’m a fan of large cores, especially on downhill wheels like the Seismic Alphas and Cult Raptures. They allow you to maximize urethane usage and optimize speed.
Not Ideal for Hands-Down Slides
While the Cult Emperors excel at stand-up slides, they aren’t my top choice for hands-down maneuvers. Their slide-friendly nature lacks the slowing power I prefer. I prefer wheels that grip strongly and require effort to break out. However, some riders might prefer the ease of breakout. This could be a matter of personal preference.
Who Should Ride Cult Emperors?
I wouldn’t recommend these wheels to beginners due to their susceptibility to flat spots. Beginners need durable wheels that can withstand abuse. The Cult Emperors are better suited for advanced riders looking to push their freeriding limits. They’re excellent for fast freeriding.
Worth the Price?
You can find these wheels at most European skate shops. Availability in the US and Australia might be limited, but plenty of great freeride alternatives exist. I think they’re worth the investment, especially for advanced riders seeking a quality freeride wheel. However, if you freeride regularly, consider buying them on sale due to their potential lack of durability for daily use.
Conclusion
Freeriding often doesn’t appeal to me because I usually skate spots where I need to tuck to gain enough speed. However, the Cult Emperor wheels have changed that. The ability to execute slides without significant slowdown and with no fear of icing out makes them special and worthwhile. Cult has created an exceptional wheel.
