Speed wobbles are unsettling for longboarders, usually caused by going too fast. Speed wobbles can occur when the forces of friction and inertia become out of balance, leading to uncontrollable shaking or oscillations in the board. Fortunately, you can take a few simple steps to avoid dealing with speed wobbles.
If you want to know about speed wobbles on a longboard, you can easily do this by slowing your speed, looking for weight distribution, setting up correctly, checking your speed, and doing many more steps. So if you want to know the whole process in detail, this blog will help you.
Step-By-Step Guide to Overcome Speed Wobbles
Step 1: Slow Down
The most crucial factor to remember is that speed wobbles become more likely the faster you go. The ideal way to avoid them is to slow down, especially when you’re just starting or changing direction. This will allow you to adjust your body position and get used to the board’s motion before reaching higher speeds.
Step 2: Stance & Weight Distribution
Your stance dramatically impacts how well you control your board and its stability at higher speeds.
Standing with both feet planted firmly on either side of the deck is essential, centred over the trucks. Also, ensure that your weight is evenly distributed across both feet. The slightest weight shift can cause instability and make speed wobble worse.
Step 3: Optimal Setup & Maintenance
Having the proper setup is essential for avoiding speed wobbles.
- Ensure your trucks are correctly tightened, and the bearings are greased so they can rotate smoothly without friction.
- If you notice any wear or damage on your wheels, replace them immediately to help reduce instability at higher speeds.
- Check your board periodically to ensure all components are secure and functioning correctly.
Step 4: Check Your Speed
Speed wobbles are more likely to occur as you reach faster speeds, so it’s essential to stay aware of how fast you’re going at all times.
If you start feeling unstable or your board starts shaking, slowing down until you regain control will help prevent further damage. It’s also a good idea to practice at lower speeds and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.
Step 5: Stay Relaxed
When riding, it’s essential to remain relaxed and not tense up. Tensing up can cause the board to respond differently than usual, making it more challenging to maintain control.
Focus on shifting your weight slightly forward or backwards to make minor turn adjustments instead of steering with your arms or legs. Staying relaxed will help you stay balanced and minimize discomfort from speed wobbles.
How To Avoid Speed Wobbles on A Longboard Skateboard
If you’re a longboard skateboard rider, you’ve probably experienced speed wobbles before. These uncontrolled oscillations can be quite scary and may cause you to lose balance and fall off your board. However, there are several steps you can take to avoid speed wobbles and stay safe while riding.
First and foremost, it’s important to choose the right longboard skateboard. Longer and wider boards with a lower center of gravity tend to be more stable at higher speeds, making them less prone to speed wobbles. So, if you’re a beginner, it’s better to start with a board that’s designed for stability rather than speed.
Once you have your board, make sure your hardware is properly adjusted. Your trucks should be tight enough to prevent wobbling, but not so tight that it inhibits smooth turning. Adjusting the bushings can help achieve the right balance between stability and manoeuvrability.
As you ride, gradually increase your speed over time and get comfortable with maintaining your balance at higher speeds. Keep your weight centered over the board and distribute it evenly between your front and back foot. Avoid leaning too far forward or back, which can cause the board to become unstable.
Proper foot placement is also important. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, with your front foot pointing towards the direction of travel and your back foot angled slightly outward. This provides better stability and control.
Bending your knees slightly can help absorb any bumps or vibrations in the road and maintain your balance. If you do start to feel the board wobbling, avoid over-correcting by making small adjustments to your weight distribution rather than jerking the board in the opposite direction.
FAQs
What should I do if I start experiencing speed wobbles?
If you start feeling unstable or your board begins to shake, the best thing to do is slow down until you regain control. It’s also good to check your setup and ensure everything is tight and adjusted adequately before continuing.
How often should I check my board for maintenance?
To ensure optimal performance, it’s recommended that you inspect your board every few weeks and make any necessary adjustments or replacements. This will help minimize speed wobbles while riding at higher speeds.
Are there any other tips for avoiding speed wobbles?
Aside from checking your setup, staying relaxed and shifting your weight forward or backwards instead of steering with your arms or legs can help reduce instability at higher speeds.
Conclusion
Speed wobbles are an unsettling experience for longboarders, but luckily, you can take a few simple steps to avoid them. By slowing down when starting or changing direction, ensuring your stance is correct, and ensuring your board is in optimal condition, you can have a much safer and more enjoyable experience on the longboard.
Checking your speed and staying relaxed is critical to avoiding speed wobbles, so keep these tips in mind before hitting the slopes. Now get out there and enjoy the ride, champions.
