Are you tired of your skateboard’s rattling and screeching noises as you ride? Do you feel embarrassed when your board attracts attention in all the wrong ways? Don’t let the annoyance of skateboard noise ruin your riding experience.
In this post, we’ll tackle the question on every rider’s mind: why does your skateboard make so much noise? From identifying the source to adjusting your hardware and components, we’ve got you covered. And trust me, this information is crucial—a noisy skateboard could lead to some awkward and potentially dangerous situations. So, let’s strap on our helmets, grab our boards, and dive right in!
Why does your skateboard make so much noise? Your skateboard can make noise due to various factors, including loose hardware, worn-out bearings, and poor-quality components. Proper maintenance and upgrades can reduce noise and create a smoother riding experience.
How can I tell which part of my skateboard is causing the noise?
The best way to determine which part of your skateboard is making noise is by thoroughly inspecting all its components. Start with the bearings and move on to the trucks, bushings, and wheels. Spin your wheels to observe which ones are making noise. If you’re still unsure, try riding your skateboard in a quiet area and pay attention to where the noise comes from.
Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard
Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard
Why does your skateboard make so much noise?
There are numerous reasons your board may be making noise. You must run down a checklist to pinpoint the problem. Below are some typical causes for why your skateboard makes so much noise.
1. The bushings are worn out.
If you hear strange noises from your skateboard trucks, there’s a high chance the bushings are causing all the hullabaloo. It’s quite common for the darn things to wear and tear, leading to that annoying squeaking sound that makes you want to rip your hair out. If that’s the case, then it’s time to replace them.
First, inspect those bushings for any squishing or signs of wear and tear. The weather conditions can be pretty harsh, so they might be overly weathered. A quick tip for spotting this issue is to check whether the washers are cutting into the bushings. If you notice that happening, it’s time to take some action!
Here’s what you need to do: unscrew that nut from the kingpin and carefully take out your bushings. Check for any cracks and ensure they’re not squashed. If they are, it’s time to get some new ones.
2. The bearings make a squeaky or rattling noise.
These little guys might seem insignificant, but bearings can make or break your skating experience. And let me tell you, nothing is worse than dealing with a noisy, inefficient set of bearings.
The reality is that bearings don’t last forever. They need regular maintenance to ensure that they run smoother than butter on a hot pan. So check your bearings by simply spinning your wheels and observing which ones are making a racket.
There are a few ways to clean your bearings, but the most effective method is to remove and lubricate them all. I highly recommend using a silicone-based lubricant instead. Trust me; it’s worth it.
3. There are loose screws
Do you hear that annoying squeaky noise coming from your skateboard? It might be because of loose screws. This is a common issue caused by one of the components of your truck. Just tighten your screws, and you should be good to go.
4. There are flat patches on your wheels
Flat patches can make your ride feel like you’re skating through a war zone, and let me tell you, it’s not a pleasant experience. They’re typically caused by power slides and can be a real pain in the butt to deal with. I know how frustrating it can be to ride on flat patches.
Unfortunately, you cannot do much about it except replace your wheel. You might try scraping it off and making the wheel even again, but this will result in smaller wheels, which will cause additional problems.
Flat patches on your wheels might be a pain, but they’re not the end of the world. Investing in high-quality wheels and staying on top of your maintenance routine ensures your ride is smooth and efficient every time you hit the streets.
5. The washer doesn’t fit on your kingpin
If you’re hearing clicking and creaking sounds when you lean on your board, it could be because the washer overlaps the kingpin and bushings and may shift from side to side when you lean on your skateboard. You might need a new washer if the old one doesn’t fit your kingpin properly.
If you need a quick fix, you can unscrew the kingpin nut and wrap the threads of your kingpin with Teflon tape or duct tape to make it thicker until it fits your washers. But beware, this will only work briefly, as the friction will cut your tape over time.
6. The wheel seats have gaps
Have you taken care of your bearings? I’ll be honest; I only pay a little attention to mine until they make noise, so I get it. But here’s the thing, the noise is likely coming from your wheel seats. It’s the space between the outer ring of your bearings and the inside of your wheels.
Now, the seating can develop gaps if you’ve been skating for a while and have yet to replace your wheels. And if your bearings can move in their seats, you found your problem. The bearings shift a little when you ride, but more so when you turn, which causes that annoying noise.
So, how do we fix this? First things first, get your lube ready. Then, clean your bearings (as mentioned earlier) and the inside of your wheels. Let them dry, and put some lube on your outer bearings and the core of your wheels. It won’t fix the shifting, but it will reduce the noise.
7. The riser pads are defective
If you have riser pads installed (those plastic pads that go between your trucks and your skateboard deck), ensure they are tight.
The trucks of your skateboard vibrate and cause friction against your deck. Risers are supposed to dampen the vibrations and prevent cracks. But, if they don’t work properly, they can cause tears and cracks in the wood. And in the long run, this will break your board. So, if you’re experiencing noise from your skateboard, it’s a good idea to inspect your risers.
8. Check your pivot cup
But what if the noise persists? It might be your pivot cup. This little guy can cause a lot of trouble if it is improperly maintained. For example, if there’s a little space between your hanger and the pivot cup, the noise is caused by the rotation of the rubber cup.
How can you reduce noise from your skateboard?
Now, I know all too well the struggles of dealing with these issues. And let me tell you, it can be a real mood-killer, especially if you’re trying to focus on your tricks and your equipment is holding you back. While it’s impossible to stay completely silent while skateboarding, you can definitely reduce the noise.
1. Get softer wheels.
If you’re skating on asphalt or cracked pavements, you’re gonna make some noise. It’s just a fact of life. If the noise is really bothering you, there’s a simple solution: get softer wheels. These are perfect for you if you’re more of a cruiser type.
It’s hard to find soft, silent wheels that still allow you to pop kickflips and varials comfortably.
But if you want to take your skating to the next level and learn ollies and flips, you need to get used to a bit of noise. It’s a trade-off, really. It’s hard to find soft, silent wheels that still allow you to pop kickflips and varials comfortably.
But here’s the good news: Some skaters ride soft wheels and still pop their tricks like it’s nobody’s business. It takes a bit of practice to get used to it. And for those who prefer more aggressive street skating, harder wheels make it a lot easier.
2. Use wax and lube to reduce the noise.
Applying wax and lube isn’t a permanent solution, but it works like a charm. And if you find yourself constantly reapplying the wax or lubricant, it might be time to replace the parts.
Let me warn you—don’t go cheap on the lube. Cheap lube attracts dirt and dust, and that’s the last thing you want in your bearings. Instead, go for a high-quality silicone-based lubricant. Trust me, it’s worth the investment.
3. Regularly maintain and replace parts as needed.
Regular maintenance can prevent your skateboard’s components from wearing out prematurely. It can also help ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience. Checking and tightening the bolts, nuts, and screws can prevent your skateboard from falling apart or losing its components during a ride, which can be dangerous.
As a skateboarder myself, I’ve had my fair share of frustrating moments where I couldn’t figure out what was causing that god-awful noise. It can be a real bummer, especially if you’re trying to focus on your tricks and your equipment is holding you back. By staying on top of your maintenance routine and investing in high-quality parts, you can ensure your skateboard is always performing at its best.
What sounds should your skateboard be making?
It’s normal for skateboards to produce sound, given that its wheels will traverse tough terrains such as concrete, warped wood, and even gravel. If you’re riding your longboard on a greenway, you might hear a soft hiss and clatter. On the other hand, if you’re doing tricks with your street board, you might hear ripping, hollow scrapes, a creak, or a crack.
But if your skateboard is making an unusually loud or rattling noise, there might be a problem. Numerous things can go wrong with bearings, wheels, screws, washers, and bushings. A board can even produce a lot of noise simply because the deck is loose.
If you need help figuring out what’s wrong, take your board to a skate shop. They’ll be able to address your problem quickly. Some of these noises are natural, such as the buzz of wheels on pavement. You should be concerned when you hear noises that are louder than this.
If you want even more tips and insights, watch this video called “Why Is Your Skateboard Squeaking?” from the Drayfair YouTube channel.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Do you still have questions? Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about why your skateboard makes so much noise.
Can I prevent my skateboard from making noise?
It’s hard to completely prevent your skateboard from making noise, especially riding on rough surfaces. However, you can reduce the noise by regularly maintaining your skateboard by cleaning and lubricating its parts and replacing worn-out components.
Is it normal for skateboard wheels to squeak?
Yes, it’s normal for skateboard wheels to make noise, including squeaking, especially if you’re riding on rough surfaces. However, if the noise is excessive or you hear clicking, grinding, or rattling sounds, it could indicate a problem with one or more components of your skateboard.
Can a skateboarder fix the noise problem on their own?
Yes, a skateboarder can fix the noise problem on their own by conducting regular maintenance on their skateboard and replacing any worn-out components. However, if the problem persists, it may be best to take the skateboard to a professional for further inspection and repair.
Conclusion
Well, folks, there you have it. I hope I helped you figure out why your skateboard makes so much noise. Remember, skateboarding is all about fun, and nothing is more annoying than an overly squeaky board.
Now you have all the tools and knowledge to diagnose and fix the issue, from cleaning your bearings to replacing your bushings. Don’t let those annoying sounds get you down. As skateboarders, we’re all in this together, and we know the struggle.
If you’re a skateboarder, have you experienced excessive noise while riding? Did you find the information in this article helpful? Let me know in the comments section below. I read and replied to every comment. If you found this article useful, share it with a friend who might benefit from it. And be sure to check out my full blog for more tips and tricks on skateboarding. Thanks for reading, and happy skating!
Key Takeaways
This article covered “Why Does Your Skateboard Make So Much Noise?” and provided a comprehensive guide for beginners on addressing excessive skateboard noise. Here are some key takeaways:
- A skateboard normally makes noise, but excessive noise can signal a problem.
- Common causes of excessive skateboard noise include loose hardware, worn-out bearings, and poor-quality components.
- Proper maintenance and upgrades can help reduce noise and create a smoother riding experience.
- Choosing the right skateboard bearings can contribute to a quieter ride.
- If you need help addressing noise issues, seek professional help.
