Longboard wobbles can be unsettling, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider. A wobbly board can make it difficult to maintain balance and control, but thankfully, it’s usually an easy fix. This guide will explore the common causes of longboard wobbles and provide step-by-step solutions to get you back on track. Understanding these issues and how to address them will help you maintain a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
How to Fix a Wobbly Longboard
The most common reason for a wobbly longboard is loose trucks or soft bushings. To address this, you’ll need a skate tool or a wrench that fits the kingpin nut on your trucks. Start by slightly tightening the kingpin nut by turning it clockwise. Make small adjustments and test the board after each tweak. Avoid overtightening, as this can damage the bushings and affect the board’s responsiveness.
If tightening the kingpin doesn’t resolve the wobbles, you might need to consider your bushings. Bushings are the rubber or urethane pieces that sit around the kingpin and control the trucks’ turning response. Softer bushings allow for easier turning but can also make the board feel more unstable, especially at higher speeds. If you prefer a stable ride, opt for harder bushings.
To determine the appropriate bushing hardness, refer to the following chart, which provides recommendations based on the rider’s weight. Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and personal preference may vary.
| Weight (lbs) | Weight (kg) | Flexible | Medium | Hard (Stiff) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 – 100 | 22.5 – 45 | 65a | 78a | 81a |
| 75 – 125 | 34 – 56 | 80a | 83a | 85a |
| 100 – 145 | 45 – 66 | 85a | 87a | 88a |
| 125 – 175 | 56 – 79 | 88a | 90a | 93a |
| 145 – 195 | 66 – 88.5 | 90a | 93a | 94a |
| 175 – 220+ | 79 – 100+ | 91a | 93a | 100a |
Weight and Bushings Durometer Chart for Longboards
Weight and Bushings Durometer Chart for Longboards
Other Potential Causes of Longboard Wobbles
While loose trucks and soft bushings are the primary causes, other factors can contribute to a wobbly longboard. One issue to check is the hardware connecting your trucks to the board. Ensure that all four bolts and nuts are properly tightened. Riding with loose hardware can lead to instability and, in severe cases, damage to your longboard. If you find any bolts or nuts missing or stripped, replace them immediately.
Additionally, ensure the trucks are mounted correctly. Misaligned trucks can cause uneven weight distribution, resulting in wobbles. If you are having trouble, consider seeking help from a local skate shop.
Why are My Longboard Trucks So Loose?
New longboards, especially those from mass production, often come with softer bushings and looser trucks. This is partly to make turning easier for beginners. However, over time, bushings require a break-in period to function optimally. When they’re brand new, bushings may not offer the responsiveness they were designed for, which can feel like the trucks are too loose.
Avoid tightening brand-new bushings excessively right away. Instead, give them some time to break in. Tightening new bushings too much can crush them, leading to decreased responsiveness and performance. Let the bushings adapt to your riding style before adjusting the kingpin nuts.
Loose Longboard Trucks
Why Do My Longboard Trucks Lean To One Side?
A common issue with new longboards, even some of the best longboard trucks, is that they might lean to one side. This typically occurs as the bushings are breaking in. After some time, they should settle into place. If the leaning is significant, ensure the trucks are correctly positioned and that no parts are bent or damaged.
Old bushings can also cause your board to lean. Over time, they may become misshapen or lose their original form, leading to uneven pressure on the trucks and causing a lean. If this is the case, replacing your bushings is likely the solution.
Why Are My Longboard Trucks Squeaky?
Squeaky longboard trucks are often a minor annoyance rather than a serious problem. Typically, the culprit is either new or old bushings. New bushings might squeak until they are broken in, as they are still adapting to the movements of the trucks. With old bushings, the sound usually occurs when they’ve become dry, compressed or worn out.
Another reason for squeaking could be misaligned trucks, often resulting from a recent trick or fall. Typically, this will go away after some riding, as the bushings will adjust. If the squeak persists, consider lubing the bushings to reduce friction.
Also, check the pivot cups, which are the small plastic inserts in the baseplate that the truck hanger fits into. Sometimes they can cause squeaking due to friction. Applying a bit of candle wax or silicone lubricant to the pivot cups can often solve this problem. You’ll need to remove the truck hanger to do this properly.
Longboard Pivot Cup
Longboard Trucks Clicking Sound
If you hear a clicking sound coming from your longboard trucks, the issue might be the cup washers. They are small metal discs that sit against the bushings and may shift, causing the noise. To solve this, disassemble the trucks by removing the kingpin nut and the truck hanger. Make sure the bushings are correctly placed and the washers are tight enough to prevent movement.
If the washers don’t fit correctly, consider purchasing new ones from your local skate shop. These are inexpensive parts that can make a significant difference.
How To Replace Longboard Bushings
Replacing longboard bushings is straightforward, and if you have a skate tool, it will make the job even easier. Here are the steps involved:
- Remove the Kingpin Nut: Use your skate tool or wrench to unscrew the kingpin nut completely.
- Take Note of the Assembly: Pay close attention to how the bushings and washers are positioned so you can reassemble them correctly.
- Remove the Truck Hanger: Carefully take off the truck hanger to access the bushings.
- Replace Bushings and Washers: Remove the old bushings and replace them with new ones. Ensure that all washers are correctly positioned.
Replacing Longboard Bushings
Conclusion
A wobbly longboard is a common issue that can be caused by various factors, but it is almost always fixable. Whether it’s a simple adjustment or a full bushing replacement, understanding the causes and solutions will keep your longboard in optimal condition. Whether you like loose, responsive trucks or a more stable ride, keeping up with basic maintenance will enhance your overall riding experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment to find the best setup for you. Always remember, the key to a great ride is a well-maintained longboard.
Ruben Vee
