The Magneto Mini Cruiser has gained popularity as an affordable option for those looking to get into cruising. But does its low price tag mean a compromise on quality and performance? I purchased this board myself to give you an unbiased, in-depth review. I’ve taken it apart, analyzed each component, and put it to the test on the streets. This article will provide a comprehensive look at the Magneto Mini Cruiser, covering everything from its build to its ride quality, so you can decide if it’s the right board for you.
Pros and Cons of the Magneto Mini Cruiser
Before diving deep, let’s summarize the main advantages and disadvantages of this mini cruiser.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry.
- Surprisingly smooth ride on varied surfaces.
- Responsive and quick turning capabilities.
- Versatile design featuring a double kicktail and medium concave.
- Budget-friendly price point.
- Decent grip tape for secure footing.
- Suitable for younger riders under 13.
Cons:
- Struggles to maintain speed, mainly due to low-quality bearings.
- Equipped with subpar trucks.
- Not ideal for taller or heavier individuals.
- Very soft bushings leading to instability.
- Narrow deck can feel cramped.
- Not designed for downhill riding.
- Mediocre wheels impacting ride quality.
First Impressions of the Magneto Mini Cruiser
My initial reaction upon receiving the Magneto Mini Cruiser was its compact size. Unboxing it, I couldn’t help but notice the striking similarities to the popular Landyachtz Dinghy. The shape of the deck, the wheel size, and even the trucks all seemed to be inspired by it. This made me wonder whether it was a cheap imitation, but I was also intrigued to see how it would perform.
Despite the similarities, the board felt solid, with no signs of warping or major defects. The minimalist design, with its simple graphics and transparent grip tape, also caught my eye. While the wheels didn’t spin freely at first, I didn’t consider this a major issue initially.
Magneto Mini Cruiser Specifications
- Length: 27.5 inches
- Width: 7.5 inches
- Wheelbase: 18.5 inches
- Deck: 7-ply Canadian maple with wheel wells
- Tail: Double kick tails
- Grip: Sand grit finish
- Wheels: 63mm (hardness not specified)
- Bearings: ABEC 11 608
- Spacers: 4 metal spacers
- Trucks: Unbranded
- Hardware: Allen key screws and bolts
- Riser Pads: 1/8-inch
Closer Inspection of the Components
Disassembling the board was straightforward, which allowed me to examine the individual parts more closely. While the ABEC 11 bearings might sound impressive, their performance doesn’t reflect their rating. The deck, however, feels sturdy and well-made, a highlight of this mini cruiser. The transparent grip tape also adds to its aesthetic appeal. Its stiffness is typical for mini cruisers, and the sand grit texture provides good traction.
magneto mini cruiser disassembled
Noteworthy Imperfections
The trucks, being unbranded, raised concerns about their durability. The bushings, initially very soft, may improve over time. Minor imperfections on the trucks, which appear to have been scraped off, are a sign of lower quality control. While these issues might not affect the ride drastically, they are worth noting. The wheels, estimated to be between 76A and 80A, have a large contact patch for stability but appear to be made from less refined materials. The lack of air bubbles suggests cheaper plastics were used in the manufacturing process. This contrasts with high-quality soft wheels, which typically have air bubbles due to the melting process and better quality materials.
magneto cruiser imperfections
Testing the Magneto Mini Cruiser’s Ride Quality
To evaluate the Magneto Mini Cruiser’s performance, I compared it to my Landyachtz Dinghy and Arbor Pilsner. It’s clear the Magneto falls short in terms of stability and agility, especially when compared to these more high-end cruisers. However, for beginners, this might not be a significant drawback, as the lack of speed might actually be beneficial for learning.
During my initial rides, I immediately noticed the loose trucks and the amount of effort needed to maintain speed. The low-quality bearings and wheels were primarily responsible for this. The board requires frequent pushing, which might be helpful in building up the pushing muscles but can become frustrating for experienced riders. After adjusting to the board’s quirks and limitations, I managed to cruise, but it was apparent that this board was meant to be a beginner-friendly option.
The most significant issue with the Magneto is the effort required to maintain speed. The low-quality wheels and bearings hinder its ability to glide, necessitating more frequent pushes. Upgrading these components significantly improves the board’s performance. It’s crucial to remember that the Magneto Mini Cruiser is designed as an entry-level board, and it reflects in its components and overall performance.
Deck Analysis
The deck is a standout element of this board. Its solid feel, combined with a comfortable transparent grip and medium concave, make it easy to control foot placement. The wheel wells prevent wheel bite, and the 7-ply maple construction is standard for cruisers. At 7.5 inches wide, it’s on the narrower side, which may not be comfortable for taller riders.
magneto deck top and bottom
Trucks and Bushings Examination
The trucks are the weakest link of the Magneto Mini Cruiser. Made from low-quality materials and displaying manufacturing imperfections, their performance is far from satisfactory. The soft bushings, although adjustable, don’t offer the responsiveness and stability needed for more advanced riding.
magneto cruiser trucks
Bearings Review
The ABEC 11 bearings are a letdown. Despite the rating, their performance is subpar, requiring constant pushing to maintain momentum. They quickly lose speed, making the ride significantly less enjoyable than higher-quality bearings.
Wheel Performance
The 63mm wheels are adequate but unremarkable. They handle gravel and minor cracks but don’t provide the buttery smooth ride you might expect from higher-quality wheels. I also suspect they will wear out faster and aren’t made for sliding.
Who Should Buy the Magneto Mini Cruiser?
This board is best suited for kids and beginners who want to explore cruising without spending a lot of money. It’s a decent introduction to the sport, offering a gentle learning curve due to its lower speed. If you’re on a tight budget or unsure if cruising is for you, the Magneto Mini Cruiser is an affordable option to get started. The parts can be upgraded as you progress and learn what you need in a board.
Who Should Avoid the Magneto Mini Cruiser?
Experienced riders should avoid this board. Its low speed, narrow profile, and soft bushings make it unsuitable for those who are already skilled. Taller or heavier riders will also find it difficult to maintain balance on this board. If you know you like to ride, you are better off investing in a higher-quality cruiser from brands like Arbor, Landyachtz, or Sector 9.
Magneto Mini Cruiser Compared to Other Cruisers
The Magneto Mini Cruiser does not compare well to higher-end cruisers. It lacks the responsiveness and smoothness of boards from brands like Arbor or Landyachtz. While these other boards can be more expensive, they are worth the investment for serious riders looking for a better ride.
arbor dinghy and magneto cruisers next to each other
Upgrading the Magneto Mini Cruiser
Swapping out the stock bearings and wheels can significantly improve the Magneto’s performance. However, this will increase the overall cost, potentially making it more expensive than buying a higher-quality complete cruiser in the first place. While some parts can be upgraded, the trucks remain a point of concern.
Final Verdict
The Magneto Mini Cruiser is a budget-friendly option for beginners and kids. It’s a decent starter board, but you will likely outgrow it quickly as you become a more experienced rider. Its lower speed is good for learning, and the board is durable enough for basic cruising. However, if you’re a more experienced rider, you’ll find its limitations frustrating.
For experienced riders looking for a smoother, faster ride, a higher-quality cruiser from a reputable brand is a better choice. While they may be more expensive, the performance and durability justify the higher cost, especially if you plan to ride frequently.
Check for prices on Amazon.
Ruben Vee
