That rattling, clattering noise following you down the street? You’re not alone. Many skateboarders wonder, “why is my skateboard so loud?” It’s a common issue that can impact your enjoyment and even draw unwanted attention. Let’s dive into the reasons behind the noise and explore practical solutions to achieve a smoother, quieter ride.
Understanding the Culprits: Why Your Skateboard Makes Noise
Several factors contribute to a noisy skateboard. Pinpointing the exact cause is the first step towards a quieter experience.
Worn-Out Wheels: The Primary Suspect
- Hardness: Harder wheels (higher durometer) naturally produce more noise, especially on rough surfaces.
- Flat Spots: Uneven wear, known as flat spots, causes a rhythmic thump with each rotation.
- Material: Some urethane formulas are inherently louder than others.
Loose Trucks: Rattling and Vibrations
- Trucks that aren’t tightened properly allow for excessive movement. This leads to rattling and vibrations, amplified by uneven terrain.
- Worn bushings can also cause truck noise.
Bearings: The Silent Screamers
- Lack of Lubrication: Dry or dirty bearings create a grinding or squeaking sound.
- Damaged Bearings: Bent or broken bearings produce a distinct clicking or rattling noise.
- Bearing shields: Loose or damaged bearing shields can rattle.
Hardware and Deck Issues
- Loose hardware, such as bolts and kingpins, can vibrate and create noise.
- A cracked or damaged deck can also create unwanted noise.
- Risers that are not properly secured.
Keep Focusing on the Skill of Electric Skateboard Maintenance.
Steps to Silence Your Skateboard: Practical Solutions
Now that we’ve identified the potential causes, let’s explore effective solutions to quiet your ride.
1. Wheel Upgrades and Maintenance
- Softer Wheels: Consider switching to softer wheels (lower durometer) for a smoother, quieter ride, especially if you primarily skate on rough surfaces.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your wheels regularly to remove dirt and debris.
- Wheel Rotation: Rotate your wheels periodically to ensure even wear and prevent flat spots.
- Inspect for Flat Spots: Regularly check for flat spots. If found, replace the wheels.
2. Truck Adjustments and Bushing Replacement
- Tighten Trucks: Use a skate tool to tighten your trucks, ensuring they are snug but not overly tight.
- Replace Bushings: If your bushings are worn, replace them with new, high-quality bushings. Consider softer bushings for a quieter ride.
- Check Kingpin: Ensure the kingpin is tight and not damaged.
3. Bearing Maintenance and Replacement
- Clean and Lubricate Bearings: Regularly clean and lubricate your bearings with a skateboard-specific lubricant.
- Replace Damaged Bearings: If your bearings are damaged, replace them immediately.
- Check Bearing Shields: Ensure the bearing shields are properly seated and not damaged.
- Quality Bearings: Invest in high quality bearings. They often run more quiet and smooth.
4. Hardware Checks and Deck Inspection
- Tighten Hardware: Regularly check and tighten all hardware, including bolts and kingpins.
- Inspect Deck for Damage: Regularly inspect your deck for cracks or damage. If found, repair or replace the deck.
- Riser Pads: Make sure riser pads are correctly installed.
5. Surface Considerations
- Smooth Surfaces: Skate on smoother surfaces whenever possible. This will significantly reduce noise.
- Avoid Rough Terrain: Minimize skating on rough terrain, such as cracked sidewalks or gravel.
Choosing the Right Components for a Quiet Ride
Selecting the right components can make a significant difference in reducing skateboard noise.
- Soft Urethane Wheels: Choose wheels with a durometer rating of 78A-90A for a quieter ride.
- Quality Bearings: Invest in high-quality bearings from reputable brands.
- Soft Bushings: Opt for softer bushings for a smoother, quieter ride.
- Riser Pads: Shock absorbing riser pads can help reduce vibrations.
Troubleshooting Common Noises
Here’s a quick guide to troubleshooting common skateboard noises:
| Noise | Possible Cause(s) | Solution(s) |
| Rattling | Loose trucks, hardware, or bearings | Tighten trucks and hardware, clean or replace bearings |
| Squeaking | Dry bearings or bushings | Lubricate bearings and bushings |
| Thumping | Flat spots on wheels | Rotate or replace wheels |
| Clicking | Damaged bearings | Replace bearings |
| Grinding | Dirty or worn bearings | Clean and lubricate or replace bearings |
Maintenance Tips for a Long-Lasting Quiet Ride
Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your skateboard quiet.
- Clean your skateboard regularly.
- Lubricate your bearings and bushings periodically.
- Check and tighten hardware before each ride.
- Inspect your wheels for wear and tear.
- Store your skateboard in a dry place.
Conclusion: Enjoy a Smoother, Quieter Skate
Understanding “why is my skateboard so loud” and implementing these solutions will significantly reduce noise and enhance your skateboarding experience. By choosing the right components, performing regular maintenance, and addressing specific issues, you can achieve a smoother, quieter ride.
Don’t let a noisy skateboard dampen your enthusiasm. Take action today! Inspect your skateboard, identify the noise sources, and implement the solutions outlined in this guide. Share your quiet ride experiences in the comments below!
