Hey there, fellow skaters!
Matt, your go-to skate enthusiast, brings you another insider’s guide to keeping your skateboard in top-notch condition.
Today, let’s dive deep into the world of maintaining one of the most critical elements of our beloved boards – the wheels.
Nothing beats the feeling of cruising on a smoothly gliding skateboard; we must pay attention to our wheels to achieve that.
In this post, I’ll share my tried-and-true methods for cleaning skateboard wheels, ensuring you always ride style efficiently.
The Necessity of Clean Wheels
Before cleaning, let’s discuss why keeping your skateboard wheels clean is crucial.
Over Time, dirt, grime, and debris can accumulate on your wheels, leading to decreased performance, reduced traction, and a less enjoyable skating experience.
Clean wheels not only enhance your ride but also contribute to the longevity of your skateboard.
Dirty wheels can negatively impact your skating style and tricks.
Imagine attempting a kickflip with wheels clogged by mud – not ideal, right?
So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get those wheels looking and performing their best.
Gathering Your Cleaning Arsenal
Cleaning Materials You’ll Need
To start the cleaning process, gather the following materials:
- Soap or Dish Detergent: Mild soap or dish detergent works well to break down grease and grime.
- Old Toothbrush or Small Brush: Perfect for scrubbing those hard-to-reach areas between the wheel spokes.
- Water: A simple yet essential element for the cleaning process.
- Rag or Paper Towels: To wipe away excess water and debris.
- Bearing Cleaner (Optional): If you want to go the extra mile, invest in a bearing cleaner for a more thorough wheel cleaning.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
1. Remove Wheels from the Trucks
Begin by taking off your skateboard wheels.
This step makes the cleaning process more accessible, allowing you to clean every nook and cranny of the wheels.
2. Preliminary Dusting
Dust your wheels well before applying water or soap to remove loose dirt and debris.
Use a brush or your fingers to get into the crevices.
3. Soapy Soak
Create a soapy solution by mixing water and mild soap or dish detergent in a container.
Soak your wheels in this solution for a few minutes, allowing the soap to break down stubborn dirt.
4. Scrub-a-Dub-Dub
Take that old toothbrush or small brush and start scrubbing.
Pay close attention to the areas between the spokes and engraved wheel designs.
A bit of elbow grease at this stage goes a long way.
5. Rinse and Repeat
After scrubbing, rinse the wheels thoroughly with clean water.
Ensure that all soap residues are washed away. If your wheels still look dirty, repeat the scrubbing and rinsing process until they shine.
6. Drying Time
Once your wheels are squeaky clean, pat them dry with a rag or paper towel.
Ensure they are scorched before putting them back on your skateboard.
7. Reassemble and Roll Out
With your wheels cleaned and dried, reattach them to the trucks.
Tighten them securely, and you’re ready to hit the streets with wheels that feel and perform like new.
Tips and Tricks for Wheel Maintenance
Proper Storage
Store your skateboard in a cool, dry place when you’re not using it.
This prevents dust and debris from settling on the wheels and bearings.
Regular Inspections
Make it a habit to inspect your wheels regularly.
Catching any issues early on can save you from more extensive cleaning or even wheel replacement later.
FAQs
How do you whiten skateboard wheels?
To whiten skateboard wheels, paste baking soda and water, apply it to the wheels, scrub gently, and rinse thoroughly.
Is it wrong for skateboard wheels to get wet?
Getting your skateboard wheels wet is not ideal, as it can adversely affect the bearings, board, trucks, and bolts.
The presence of water can lead to issues like hydroplaning, compromising your control over the skateboard.
To maintain the longevity and performance of your skateboard, it’s best to avoid skating in the rain or through puddles. Keep your gear dry and enjoy a smoother ride.
Do skateboard wheels need oil?
Skateboard wheels don’t require oil; only the bearings need some lube.
Over-oiling can attract dirt, affecting performance.
Keep the Skateboard wheels clean for a smoother ride.
Can you put WD 40 on skateboard wheels?
Not!
WD-40 is a degreaser; using it on skateboard wheels is not recommended.
It may strip away essential lubrication, leading to decreased performance and potential damage to the bearings.
Stick to proper skateboard-bearing lubricants for optimal results.
Summary Table: Key Takeaways
| Step | Key Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Remove Wheels from the Trucks |
| 2 | Preliminary Dusting |
| 3 | Soapy Soak |
| 4 | Scrub-a-Dub-Dub |
| 5 | Rinse and Repeat |
| 6 | Drying Time |
| 7 | Reassemble and Roll Out |
In Conclusion
By following these simple yet effective steps, you can ensure your skateboard wheels stay in peak condition, allowing you to enjoy a smoother, more responsive ride.
Regular cleaning not only enhances performance but also extends the life of your wheels.
So, gear up, grab your cleaning supplies, and let’s keep rolling in style!
