How Fast Can a Longboard Go? Exploring Top Speeds and Factors

Are you considering longboarding as a quicker alternative to walking or even for commuting? Understanding the speeds you can achieve is a key consideration. This article dives into the typical speeds of longboards, factors influencing those speeds, and how to push your limits safely.

Generally, a longboard’s speed ranges from 8-12 mph for cruising. However, downhill longboarding can reach astonishing speeds of 50-65 mph. Several factors impact this, including rider skill, board setup, and terrain.

Longboard vs. Skateboard Speed: What’s the Difference?

Longboards are specifically designed for cruising and distance, which sets them apart from skateboards. Longboards are typically longer, ranging from 35 to 60 inches, and wider, about 9-10 inches, offering more stability. This increased size, combined with larger wheels, typically results in higher average speeds.

While skateboards might be preferred for tricks, longboards shine in speed and stability. The larger wheelbase (distance between trucks) and bigger wheels on longboards contribute to their faster cruising speeds. Expect average cruising speeds of 6-14 mph on a longboard, compared to 5-12 mph on a skateboard.

Exploring Downhill Longboarding Speeds

Downhill longboarding takes speed to the extreme. This discipline is all about maximizing velocity, with riders often reaching 50-65 mph. The commitment, technical skill, and focus required for downhill longboarding are significant.

Experienced downhill riders are safety-conscious athletes who are passionate about pushing their limits. They understand the risks involved and take the necessary precautions to ensure safety while achieving top speeds.

The highest recorded speed on a longboard is 91.17 mph, set by Peter Conolly in 2017, showcasing the incredible potential of downhill longboarding.

Longboarder speeding downhillLongboarder speeding downhill

Factors Influencing Longboard Speed

Several factors play a crucial role in how fast you can go on a longboard. Let’s explore these key elements:

Terrain and Environment

The riding surface directly impacts your average speed. Smooth surfaces allow for maximum speed, while rough terrains, cracks, and potholes will reduce it. Urban areas can pose challenges with traffic, curbs, and stairs, significantly impacting speed. Consider the amount of inclines, declines, and flat surfaces on your route.

Rider Experience and Skill

Your skill level has a strong correlation with your speed. Beginners often start at walking speed, but as their skills improve, they can attain speeds close to, or sometimes exceeding, that of a bicyclist. Pushing skills, including frequency, intensity, and effectiveness, are essential for flat terrain speeds. More experienced riders also typically have increased fitness and endurance, enabling faster speeds for longer distances.

Longboard Setup: Wheels and Bearings

The setup of your longboard significantly contributes to speed potential. Larger wheels roll faster than smaller ones. Softer wheels provide a better grip and shock absorption, allowing you to smoothly ride over obstacles.

Wheels with a diameter of 65mm or more and a durometer between 78A and 85A are suitable for urban riding. This combination provides the right balance of speed and comfort for various terrains. High-quality bearings will also improve roll speed and efficiency.

Different sized longboard wheelsDifferent sized longboard wheels

Tips to Increase Your Longboard Speed

If your goal is to increase your speed on a longboard, consider these practical tips:

  • Enhance Your Skills: Practice regularly to improve your balance, pushing technique, and overall comfort on the board.
  • Select Favorable Routes: Opt for routes with smooth surfaces and fewer inclines. Rural areas with declines are ideal for achieving higher speeds.
  • Upgrade Your Setup: Consider larger, softer wheels and higher-quality bearings to enhance your board’s performance.
  • Improve Fitness: Focus on building the strength and endurance required for powerful and sustained pushing.
  • Practice Braking: Master your braking techniques to maintain control and ensure safety when traveling at higher speeds.

Conclusion

Longboarding provides a much quicker mode of transportation compared to walking. While cruising speeds often range from 8-12 mph, downhill riders can achieve speeds up to 65 mph. By considering the impact of terrain, rider skills, and the longboard setup, you can improve your speed and enjoy longboarding to the fullest. Remember to prioritize safety, especially when pushing your limits.

This information is intended to be informative and educational for longboarding enthusiasts. Always practice safe riding techniques.

Ruben Vee

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LongboardsGuide Team

Hi guys! We are LongboardsGuide team, welcome to our blog. We are here to help you choose the right gear to ride safely, together with Tom creating helpful tutorials and guides for beginners. Everyday I try to share my knowledge about it with all of you.