Table of Contents
When it comes to skateboarding, the right gear can make all the difference. Among the most crucial components are the wheels, and for many skaters, bones skateboard wheels are the gold standard. But with a wide array of options available, how do you choose the perfect set for your riding style and needs? This article will investigate deep into the world of Bones wheels, exploring their different types, technologies, and performance characteristics. We'll guide you through the selection process, offering practical advice on how to match wheels to your skating discipline, whether you're hitting the streets, shredding the park, or bombing hills. We'll also tackle maintenance tips to keep your Bones wheels rolling smoothly for years to come and compare them to other leading brands to help you make an informed decision. Get ready to open up the full potential of your skateboard with the ultimate guide to Bones skateboard wheels.
Understanding Bones Skateboard Wheels: Types and Technologies
When diving into the world of bones skateboard wheels, it's essential to understand the different types available and the technologies that set them apart. Bones Wheels offers a diverse lineup, each designed for specific skating styles and terrains.
One of the most popular types is the Bones STF (Street Tech Formula) wheels. These are known for their exceptional slide characteristics and resistance to flat spots, making them ideal for street skating and technical tricks. The STF formula provides a harder, faster ride on smooth surfaces, allowing skaters to maintain speed and control while performing slides and grinds.
For skaters who prefer a softer, more forgiving ride, Bones ATF (All-Terrain Formula) wheels are an excellent choice. These wheels are designed to handle a variety of surfaces, from rough streets to skate parks, providing a smooth and comfortable experience. The ATF formula offers increased grip and shock absorption, making them perfect for cruising, filming, or simply navigating uneven terrain.
Bones also offers SPF (Skate Park Formula) wheels, specifically engineered for skate park performance. These wheels are made with a high-rebound urethane that provides exceptional speed and grip on smooth concrete and wooden surfaces. The SPF formula is also highly resistant to heat and abrasion, ensuring long-lasting performance even under the most demanding conditions.
Beyond the different formulas, Bones Wheels incorporates several key technologies into their designs. One notable example is the V5 shape, which features a wider riding surface and a rounded edge for improved stability and slide control. This shape is popular among street skaters and transition riders who demand precision and responsiveness.
Another important technology is the Bones bearing seat, which is designed to provide a snug and secure fit for skateboard bearings. This helps to minimize friction and maximize speed, ensuring a smooth and efficient ride. The bearing seat is also engineered to withstand the stresses of hard landings and impacts, preventing bearing damage and extending the lifespan of your wheels.
Understanding these different types and technologies is crucial for choosing the right bones skateboard wheels for your individual needs and preferences. Consider your skating style, the types of terrain you typically ride, and the performance characteristics you value most. With the right knowledge, you can select a set of Bones wheels that will improve your skating to the next level.
Wheel Type | Formula | Best For |
|---|---|---|
STF | Street Tech Formula | Street skating, technical tricks |
ATF | All-Terrain Formula | Cruising, filming, rough terrain |
SPF | Skate Park Formula | Skate parks, smooth surfaces |
2. Choosing the Right Bones Skateboard Wheels for Your Style
Alright, so you're ready to pick out some bones skateboard wheels, but where do you even start? It's all about figuring out what kind of skating you're into. Are you a street skater, grinding ledges and popping ollies over gaps? Or are you more of a park rat, carving bowls and hitting ramps? Maybe you're a bit of both, or something else entirely! Knowing your style is the first step to finding the perfect wheels.
For street skaters, the Bones STF (Street Tech Formula) wheels are a classic choice. These wheels are designed to be hard and fast, with excellent slide characteristics. This means you can easily slide out of tricks and maintain control while grinding. Plus, they're super resistant to flat spots, which is a lifesaver when you're constantly skating on rough surfaces. Think of them as the workhorse of the Bones lineup, built to handle the abuse of street skating.
Street Skating Park Skating Cruising/Filming Bones STF Bones SPF Bones ATF
If you're more into skate parks, the Bones SPF (Skate Park Formula) wheels are where it's at. These wheels are made with a special high-rebound urethane that gives you incredible speed and grip on smooth concrete and wooden surfaces. They're also super durable, so you don't have to worry about them wearing down quickly. SPF wheels are all about maximizing your speed and control in the park, allowing you to hit those ramps and bowls with confidence.
Now, if you're someone who likes to cruise around and film, or just wants a smoother ride on rough terrain, the Bones ATF (All-Terrain Formula) wheels are the way to go. These wheels are softer and more forgiving than the STF or SPF wheels, providing better grip and shock absorption. This means you can roll over cracks, pebbles, and other obstacles without getting bounced around too much. ATF wheels are perfect for cruising, filming, or just getting around town on your skateboard.
3. Bones Skateboard Wheels: Performance, Durability, and Maintenance
so you've got your Bones wheels picked out, now it's time to talk about keeping them in top shape. Performance, durability, and maintenance are key to getting the most out of your investment. Let's investigate into what makes Bones wheels perform so well, how to keep them rolling for years, and what to do when they start to show their age.
Understanding Performance and Durability
Bones skateboard wheels are known for their performance, but that performance comes from a combination of factors. The urethane formula, the shape of the wheel, and the bearing seat all play a role in how the wheel feels and performs. The harder the wheel, the faster it will roll and the easier it will slide. The softer the wheel, the more grip it will have and the smoother it will ride. The shape of the wheel affects how it locks into grinds and how stable it feels at high speeds. The bearing seat ensures that your bearings stay in place and spin freely. All of these factors contribute to the overall performance and durability of Bones wheels.
Durability is another key factor to consider when choosing skateboard wheels. Bones wheels are made with high-quality urethane that is designed to resist wear and tear. However, even the best wheels will eventually wear down over time. The amount of wear you experience will depend on your skating style, the surfaces you skate on, and how well you maintain your wheels. Street skaters who do a lot of sliding and grinding will typically wear down their wheels faster than park skaters who primarily ride smooth surfaces.
Maintaining Your Bones Wheels
Proper maintenance is essential for extending the life of your Bones skateboard wheels and keeping them performing at their best. Here are a few simple tips to keep your wheels rolling smoothly:
- **Rotate your wheels regularly:** This helps to distribute wear evenly and prevents flat spots from forming.
- **Clean your bearings:** Dirty bearings can slow you down and damage your wheels. Clean them regularly with a bearing cleaner and lubricate them with a bearing lubricant.
- **Avoid skating in wet conditions:** Water can damage your bearings and cause your wheels to wear down faster.
- **Inspect your wheels for damage:** Check for cracks, chips, or flat spots. If you notice any damage, replace your wheels immediately.
By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your Bones wheels rolling smoothly and extend their lifespan. Remember, a little bit of maintenance can go a long way in preserving the performance and durability of your wheels.
Maintenance Task | Frequency | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
Wheel Rotation | Every 1-2 weeks | Even wear, prevents flat spots |
Bearing Cleaning | Every 2-4 weeks | Faster rolling, longer bearing life |
Inspection | Before each session | Early detection of damage |
4. Comparing Bones Skateboard Wheels to Other Brands
So, you're considering Bones wheels, which is a solid choice, but it's always smart to see what else is out there. The skateboard wheel market is packed with brands, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Let's break down how Bones stacks up against some of the other big names in the game.
Bones vs. Spitfire: The Classic Showdown
Bones and Spitfire are often considered the two giants in the skateboard wheel world. Spitfire is known for their high-performance formulas and their association with many top pro skaters. Both brands offer a variety of wheel types, but they cater to slightly different preferences. Bones tends to focus on specific formulas for different terrains, like the STF for street and SPF for parks, while Spitfire offers a wider range of durometers and shapes within their core formulas. Ultimately, the choice between Bones and Spitfire often comes down to personal preference and the specific feel you're looking for in a wheel.
Bones vs. Ricta: Value and Versatility
Ricta is another popular brand that offers a good balance of performance and value. They're known for their versatile wheels that perform well in a variety of conditions. Ricta wheels often come in at a slightly lower price point than Bones, making them a great option for skaters on a budget. While Bones may have a slight edge in terms of specific formulas for different terrains, Ricta offers a solid all-around option that won't break the bank. If you're looking for a reliable wheel that can handle a bit of everything, Ricta is definitely worth considering.
Brand | Strengths | Weaknesses | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
Bones | Specific formulas for different terrains, high-quality urethane | Can be more expensive than other brands | Skaters who want specialized wheels for their specific style |
Spitfire | Wide range of durometers and shapes, associated with top pros | Can be difficult to choose the right wheel from the many options | Skaters who want a high-performance wheel with a proven track record |
Ricta | Good balance of performance and value, versatile | May not have the same level of specialization as Bones or Spitfire | Skaters on a budget who want a reliable all-around wheel |
Final Thoughts on Bones Skateboard Wheels
Choosing the right skateboard wheels can significantly impact your skating experience. Bones skateboard wheels have earned their reputation for quality and performance, offering a range of options to suit various styles and preferences. Ultimately, the best Bones wheels for you will depend on your individual needs and the type of skating you enjoy. Consider the factors we've discussed, experiment with different wheels, and find what feels right for you. With the right set of Bones under your feet, you'll be well on your way to pushing your limits and enjoying the ride.