Arbor Longboards 101: Everything You Need to Know to Ride with Confidence

Arbor is a brand that has been producing high-quality longboards for over two decades. They have a rich history of creating durable and high-performance boards that are perfect for cruising, carving, commuting, and freeriding.

In this blog post, we will provide you with everything you need to know about Arbor longboards, including their benefits, components, riding techniques, maintenance, and safety tips. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, this guide will help you choose the right Arbor longboard and ride with confidence.

What are Arbor Longboards?

Arbor longboards are a type of skateboard designed for cruising, carving, and freeriding. They are longer and wider than traditional skateboards, providing more stability and comfort for riders. Arbor longboards come in different shapes and sizes, making them versatile and suitable for various riding styles. From commuters to downhill racers, Arbor longboards cater to riders of all skill levels and preferences.

Benefits of Riding Arbor Longboards

There are numerous benefits to riding Arbor longboards. Firstly, they are highly durable, made from high-quality materials such as maple, bamboo, and fiberglass. This means they can withstand the wear and tear of regular use and last for years.

Secondly, Arbor longboards are designed with performance in mind, providing riders with maximum control, stability, and speed.

Thirdly, Arbor longboards are environmentally friendly, made from sustainable materials and eco-friendly manufacturing practices. Lastly, Arbor longboards come in a variety of styles and designs, allowing riders to express their individuality and stand out from the crowd.

Choosing the Right Arbor Longboard

Choosing the right Arbor longboard can be a daunting task, given the variety of boards available. However, by understanding your riding style, preferences, and skill level, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect board for you. Here are the different types of Arbor longboards and their respective features:

Types of Arbor Longboards

Cruisers

Cruiser boards are designed for short distance commutes and cruising around town. They are typically shorter than longboards but longer than traditional skateboards, providing riders with more stability and comfort. Cruiser boards have soft wheels, making them ideal for rough surfaces and uneven pavement. They are perfect for casual riders who want to enjoy a smooth and comfortable ride.

Downhill Boards

Downhill boards are designed for speed and performance. They are longer and wider than other Arbor longboards, providing riders with maximum stability and control at high speeds. Downhill boards have stiffer decks, larger wheels, and reverse kingpin trucks, making them ideal for downhill racing and freeriding. They are suitable for experienced riders who want to push their limits and test their skills.

Commute Boards

Commute boards are designed for riders who need to get around town quickly and efficiently. They are lightweight and portable, making them easy to carry on public transportation or store in a backpack. Commute boards have soft wheels, making them ideal for rough surfaces and uneven pavement. They are perfect for riders who want to avoid traffic and enjoy a stress-free commute.

Free-ride Boards

Free-ride boards are designed for riders who want to ride in style and perform tricks. They are versatile and suitable for various riding styles, including cruising, carving, and freeriding. Free-ride boards have a symmetrical shape, allowing riders to ride in either direction. They have softer wheels and reverse kingpin trucks, making them ideal for sliding and carving. They are perfect for riders who want to express their creativity and have fun.

Dancers

Dancer boards are designed for riders who want to perform dancing and freestyle tricks. They are longer than other Arbor longboards, providing riders with more foot space and stability. Dancer boards have a symmetrical shape, allowing riders to ride in either direction. They have soft wheels and reverse kingpin trucks, making them ideal for carving and performing tricks. They are perfect for riders who want to showcase their skills and creativity.

Arbor Longboard Components

Arbor longboards are made up of different components that work together to provide riders with the best possible riding experience. Here are the different components of Arbor longboards:

Deck Styles and Materials

Arbor longboard decks come in various styles and materials. The most common materials used are maple, bamboo, and fiberglass. Maple provides durability and stiffness, making it ideal for downhill racing and freeriding. Bamboo provides flexibility and lightness, making it ideal for cruising and carving. Fiberglass provides strength and rigidity, making it ideal for dancing and performing tricks. The most common deck styles are pintail, drop-through, and top-mount. Pintail decks are ideal for cruising and carving, drop-through decks are ideal for downhill racing and freeriding, and top-mount decks are ideal for dancing and performing tricks.

Trucks and Wheels

Arbor longboard trucks and wheels come in various sizes and shapes, depending on the type of riding you prefer. Trucks are responsible for turning and stability, while wheels are responsible for grip and speed. The most common truck sizes are 150mm, 180mm, and 200mm. The most common wheel sizes are 65mm, 70mm, and 75mm. Softer wheels provide more grip and comfort, while harder wheels provide more speed and durability.

Bearings and Hardware

Arbor longboard bearings and hardware are essential components that ensure smooth riding and safety. Bearings are responsible for the movement of the wheels, while hardware secures the trucks to the deck. The most common bearing rating is ABEC-7, which provides a balance between speed and durability. The most common hardware size is 1.25″, which fits most Arbor longboards.

Riding Techniques for Arbor Longboards

Learning how to ride Arbor longboards requires practice, patience, and dedication. Here are some beginner and advanced riding tips to help you improve your skills:

Beginner Riding Tips

Stance and Balance

When riding Arbor longboards, it’s important to maintain a stable stance and balance. Place your feet shoulder-width apart on the deck, with your toes pointing forward. Keep your knees slightly bent and your weight centered over the board. This will provide you with maximum control and stability.

Pushing and Stopping

Pushing and stopping are essential skills for any rider. To push, place one foot on the ground and use the other foot to push off the ground, propelling yourself forward. To stop, apply pressure to the tail of the board with your back foot, causing the board to slow down and eventually stop.

Turning

Turning is an essential skill for carving and cruising. To turn, shift your weight in the direction you want to go, while leaning your body slightly in that direction. Use your toes and heels to initiate the turn, while keeping your knees bent for maximum control.

Advanced Riding Tips

Sliding

Sliding is an advanced skill that requires practice and technique. To slide, shift your weight to the back of the board, while kicking out the back wheels with your back foot. This will cause the board to slide sideways, allowing you to change directions and perform tricks.

Jumping

Jumping is an advanced skill that requires strength and coordination. To jump, crouch down and use your legs to propel yourself off the ground, while lifting the board with your feet. This will allow you to jump over obstacles and perform tricks.

Racing

Racing is an advanced skill that requires speed and precision. To race, tuck your body into a compact position, while using your weight to steer the board. Use your toes and heels to make sharp turns, while maintaining maximum speed.

Arbor Longboard Maintenance

Maintaining your Arbor longboard is crucial for ensuring a smooth and safe riding experience. Regular maintenance will also prolong the life of your board and its components. Here are some tips for keeping your Arbor longboard in top condition:

Cleaning Your Board

Regularly clean your Arbor longboard to remove dirt, dust, and debris that can affect performance. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the deck, trucks, and wheels. For stubborn dirt, use a soft brush to gently scrub the affected areas. Be sure to dry the board thoroughly after cleaning to prevent rust and damage.

Replacing Parts

Over time, certain components of your Arbor longboard may need to be replaced due to wear and tear. Regularly inspect your board for signs of damage or wear, such as cracks in the deck, worn-down wheels, or loose hardware. Replace any damaged or worn parts as needed to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Storage and Transportation

Proper storage and transportation of your Arbor longboard are essential for preserving its condition. Store your board in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture, which can cause warping and deterioration. When transporting your board, use a longboard bag or backpack to protect it from scratches, dents, and other potential damage.

Arbor Longboard Safety

Riding Arbor longboards can be an exhilarating and enjoyable experience, but it’s important to prioritize safety at all times. Here are some tips for staying safe while riding:

Protective Gear

Always wear appropriate protective gear when riding your Arbor longboard, including a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards. These items will help protect you from injuries in the event of a fall or collision. Ensure that your protective gear fits correctly and is in good condition.

Riding Etiquette

When riding your Arbor longboard, always be respectful of other riders, pedestrians, and vehicles. Obey traffic laws and signals, stay in designated riding areas, and yield to pedestrians and other riders when necessary. Maintain a safe speed and distance from others, and never ride recklessly or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Risk Management

Before attempting any new tricks or riding techniques, assess the potential risks involved and ensure you have the necessary skills and experience to safely execute the maneuver. Practice advanced techniques in controlled environments, such as skate parks, before attempting them in public spaces. Always ride within your skill level and gradually progress as you become more confident and proficient.

Conclusion

Final Thoughts on Riding Arbor Longboards

Arbor longboards are high-quality, versatile, and stylish boards that cater to riders of all skill levels and preferences. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a smooth cruising experience or an experienced rider seeking downhill thrills, there’s an Arbor longboard perfect for you. By understanding the different types of Arbor longboards and their components, as well as practicing proper riding techniques, maintenance, and safety measures, you’ll be well-equipped to ride with confidence and enjoy the many benefits that Arbor longboards have to offer.