When we want to customize our skateboards, we come across the question: how to choose skateboard hardware? Choosing the right hardware for your skateboard can significantly impact both performance and durability, as well as customization for aesthetics. Each component, from the mount bolts to the kingpins, plays a crucial role in the skateboard’s overall functionality. Below, we’ll delve into the types of bolts and the effects of hardware choices on your skating experience, and we’ll touch on customization options provided by companies like BESPEED.
Types of Bolts and Comparisons
Mount Bolts: Phillips Head vs. Socket Head
- Phillips Head: Traditional, easy to find, and compatible with standard tools. However, they can strip more easily under high torque.
- Socket Head: Offers a more secure fit with an Allen key or hex driver, reducing the risk of stripping. They tend to provide a cleaner look and are preferred for their durability and tighter fit.
Special Mention: Combo Phillips/Hex Mount Bolts available on websites like BESPEED provide the versatility to use either tool, offering the best of both worlds.
Mount Bolts: Countersunk Head vs. Truss Head
- Countersunk Head: Sits flush with or below the surface of the skateboard, offering a sleek appearance and reducing the risk of snagging or scraping.
- Truss Head: Stands out from the surface, easier to install and adjust but may catch on objects or interfere with tricks.
Kingpin Bolts: Hex Head vs. Square Head vs. Round Head
- Hex Head: Most common, offering good torque and ease of adjustment with standard tools.
- Square Head: Less common, can be adjusted with a wrench, offering a unique aesthetic but might be harder to find compatible tools.
- Round Head: Offers a smooth profile that minimizes the risk of injury during tricks but can be more challenging to adjust without specialized tools.
Kingpin: Knurled vs. No Knurl
- Knurled Kingpin: Offers additional grip between the kingpin and the truck, reducing the likelihood of loosening during use. Ideal for aggressive skating.
- No Knurl Kingpin: Smoother, easier to adjust or replace, but may require more frequent tightening.
Impact of Hardware Choice on Performance and Durability
When considering How to Choose Skateboard Hardware, it’s crucial to understand the significant impact that your choices will have on the skateboard’s performance and durability. For instance, opting for socket head mount bolts can make a considerable difference in maintaining a secure fit over time, as they are less likely to strip than other types. This attention to detail ensures that the skateboard remains responsive and durable. Similarly, choosing trucks with knurled kingpins can greatly enhance the stability of your setup. Such decisions contribute not only to the overall performance but also to the longevity of the skateboard, effectively reducing wear and tear. Through careful selection of skateboard hardware, riders can achieve a balance between responsiveness, stability, and durability, embodying the essence of How to Choose Skateboard Hardware in their setup.
Customization Options for Performance and Aesthetics
Companies like BESPEED offer customization options that allow skaters to choose the best hardware according to their preferences for performance and aesthetics. From combo Phillips/Hex mount bolts that provide versatility and ease of use, to selecting the type of kingpin for the perfect balance between grip and adjustability. Custom colors, materials, and finishes can also add a personal touch to your setup, making your skateboard stand out.
In summary, the choice of hardware for your skateboard goes beyond mere aesthetics. It’s about finding the right balance between performance, durability, and personal style. By understanding the differences between bolt types and the impact of each hardware choice, you can tailor your skateboard to suit your skating style and needs, with customization options like those offered by BESPEED enhancing both performance and visual appeal. Feel free to Contact Us now if you would like more information about this.
