Wheel Bite on a Skateboard – How to Fix It in 7 Simple Ways?

How to Fix Wheel Bite on a Skateboard?

Skateboarding is entertaining and exhilarating, but it’s challenging. One of the most common issues skateboarders face is wheel bite, which occurs when the skateboard wheels come into contact with the deck while turning or carving, causing the rider to lose control and potentially fall.

Wheel bite can be a frustrating and dangerous problem, but the good news is that there are several simple ways to fix it.

In this article, we’ll explain what wheel bite is, how to tell if you’re experiencing it, and provide seven simple ways to fix and prevent it from happening again.

What is Wheel Bite?

Wheel bite is a term used to describe the situation where your skateboard’s wheels come into contact with the deck. It can happen when carving, turning, or even just riding straight. When your wheels come into contact with the deck, they stop spinning suddenly, causing the board to stop moving and sending you flying off your board.

Why Does Wheel Bite Happen?

Wheel bite is a common problem when riding a skateboard or longboard. It happens when the wheel comes into contact with the deck, suddenly causing the rider to stop or lose control of the board. Wheel bites can be dangerous and lead to injuries, especially at high speeds.

Size of the Wheels and Height of the Board:

One of the most common causes of wheel bite is the wheel size concerning the board’s height. If the wheels are too large, they can touch the deck when turning or carving, which can cause the board to stop abruptly. Similarly, if the board is too low to the ground, the wheels may come into contact with the deck when making sharp turns.

Tightness of the Trucks:

Another cause of wheel bite is the tightness of the trucks. If the trucks are too loose, the board can wobble, and the wheels may contact the deck. On the other hand, if the trucks are too tight, the turning radius may be reduced, causing the wheels to rub against the deck.

Leaning and Shifting Weight:

Wheel bite can also happen if the rider leans too much or shifts their weight unevenly. This can cause the wheels to tilt and contact the deck.

How to Fix Wheel Bite

If you’re experiencing wheel bite on your skateboard, there are several simple ways to fix it. Here are seven methods you can try:

Tighten Your Trucks:

Tightening your trucks is one of the simplest and most effective ways to fix wheel bite on your skateboard. If your trucks are too loose, they can cause the wheels to come into contact with the deck, leading to instability and potential accidents. Tightening your trucks can reduce the amount of movement and prevent the wheels from touching the deck. To narrow your trucks, use a skate tool or a wrench to turn the kingpin nut clockwise. Make sure to tighten both trucks evenly to maintain balance and stability. However, be careful not to over-tighten your trucks, as this can make it difficult to turn and maneuver your board. Finding the right tightness for your trucks may take some trial and error, but with some adjustments, you can effectively prevent wheel bite and enjoy a smoother ride.

Loosen Your Trucks:

In some cases, loosening your trucks can also help fix wheel bite on your skateboard. If your trucks are too tight, they can cause the wheels to dig into the deck and increase the risk of wheel bite. Loosening your trucks can allow for more movement and reduce the pressure on your wheels. Use a skate tool or a wrench to turn the kingpin nut counterclockwise to facilitate your trucks. However, be careful not to loosen them too much, as this can make your board too unstable and affect your ability to control it. Find the right balance between tightness and looseness that suits your riding style and preferences.

Use Harder Bushings:

Using stiffer bushings can also help prevent wheel bite on your skateboard. Bushings are the rubbery cushions between the truck’s baseplate and hanger and help control the board’s turning and stability. Stiffer bushings can reduce the amount of movement and compression, preventing the wheels from touching the deck. However, remember that stiffer bushings can make your board less responsive and make turning more difficult. Finding the suitable hardness that suits your riding style and preferences is essential.

Use Risers:

Using risers can help increase the distance between your deck and wheels, preventing wheel bite on your skateboard. Risers are small plastic or rubber pads between the truck and the deck. They come in different sizes and thicknesses, and you can choose the one that fits your needs and preferences.

Change Your Wheels:

The size and shape of your wheels can also contribute to wheel bite. Softer, larger wheels are more likely to cause wheel bite, while more challenging, smaller wheels are less likely. Consider changing your wheels if you’re experiencing wheel bite regularly.

Adjust Your Riding Style:

Adjusting your riding style can also help prevent wheel biting on your skateboard. You may increase the risk of wheel bite if you lean too much during turns or carve too aggressively. Distribute your weight evenly and avoid relying too much upon one side. You can also practice your turns and cutting to find the right balance and avoid putting too much pressure on your wheels.

Get a Deck with Wheel Cutouts:

Finally, you can also consider getting a deck with wheel cutouts. These are specially designed to allow more clearance between the wheels and the deck, reducing the risk of wheel bite.

By trying these seven simple methods, you can fix wheel bite on your skateboard and enjoy a smoother, safer ride.

Final Thought

In conclusion, wheel bite can be a frustrating and dangerous problem for skateboarders, but it’s not impossible to fix. By understanding what wheel bite is and how to tell if you’re experiencing it, you can take steps to prevent it from happening again. The seven simple ways to fix wheel bite on your skateboard include:

• Adjusting your trucks, bushings, and wheels.
• Using risers.
• Changing your riding style.
• Getting a deck with wheel cutouts.

Additionally, following maintenance tips such as regular inspections, cleaning, lubricating, and proper storage can help prevent wheel bite and keep your skateboard in top condition. These steps allow you to enjoy a smoother, safer ride and get the most out of your skateboarding experience.

FAQS

What is wheel bite on a skateboard?

Wheel bite occurs when the skateboard’s wheels contact the deck, causing it to stop or slow down suddenly. This can happen when turning sharply or carving.

What causes wheel bite on a skateboard?

A combination of factors, including loose trucks, large or soft wheels, and a tight turning radius, causes wheel bite. Additionally, rider weight and skating style can also contribute to wheel bite.

How can I prevent wheel bite on my skateboard?

To prevent wheel bite, you can adjust the tightness of your trucks, choose smaller or harder wheels, and avoid sharp turns. You can also use riser pads or wheel wells to increase the clearance between the wheels and the deck.

Can wheel bite cause injuries?

Yes, wheel bites can cause injuries such as scrapes, bruises, and even broken bones if you fall off the skateboard. It’s essential to take preventive measures to avoid wheel bite while skating.

How do I know if my skateboard has a wheel bite?

You can usually tell if your skateboard has wheel bite, if you hear a scraping or grinding sound when turning or if the wheels leave marks on the deck. Additionally, you may feel a sudden stop or slow down when turning.