Slap MessageBoards

Skateboarding => Shoes & Gear => Topic started by: Allez_Jambon on February 22, 2017, 10:35:51 AM

Title: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Allez_Jambon on February 22, 2017, 10:35:51 AM
Most people know what size width deck they prefer so it's easy to stay consistent with that, but I wasn't even familiar with the idea of a wheel base until like 2 years ago. It's often not even mentioned (or maybe it's more common now) so sometimes even stepping on a deck in a shop may not even be the best indicator of what I want.

I've had two Polar decks I absolutely loved and could feel the board much better, but when I buy the 8.25" shape, they seem too pointy and long for me. I have the Nick Boserio one right now and it feels too long, when I set up for nollie heel, it's too much in the pocket. I had the Joshua Tree Pontus 8.25 shape 2 years ago and it felt perfect. Er fuck, maybe it was the 8.125 Umbrella Disaster. Also I really loved the Julian Stranger shape years ago but am unsure if it's the same. Had the 8.125 mother lux deck with 14" WB and hated the shape. I think this is the first time I noticed the WB.

I can't figure this out. I feel like I'm fucked for a few months when I buy a board that isn't the right fit for me.

What does the difference in wheel base do? Sorry if this is a regular question.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: the snake on February 22, 2017, 12:38:19 PM
bye bye flip tricks if your wheelbase is too long or too short...
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Roisto on February 22, 2017, 01:13:23 PM
As a big guy: the more the merrier. 14" is way too little. 14.25" is doable, but i think I prefer 14.5". Hard to find anything between 14.5" and 15" though and 15" is rare also. Nowadays I refuse to buy decks I don't know the wheelbase of. Sadly I have to buy most of my stuff online and most shops don't list the wheelbases even if the company lists them on their website. And living in Europe, I can't trust that I'm getting the same decks as the good people of Yankistan so trusting measurements from the manufacturer is mostly out of the question. So, all in all it's tricky. Also, I'm drunk and my leg is broken. :P
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Noioso on February 22, 2017, 01:19:42 PM
Polar usually has the wheelbase on the board. I kept with Polar because they were the most consistent with not only including wheelbase in the measurements but also tail and nose as well, which can make a huge difference. Even if you can't find the exact measurements on the board, you can search the size/graphic online and find it pretty easily.

I actually didn't worry about this until a few years ago, either. It was a Polar board that made me investigate because it felt better than any board I'd skated in a long time. Once I figured it out, it dramatically improved my consistency and more importantly, I stopped breaking boards so frequently. I usually stick with 8.375x32,  N- 7, WB - 14.5, T - 6.625, shift sometimes.

Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: sharkin on February 22, 2017, 01:39:29 PM
I love skating normal popsicles with 14.75 or 15" wb

very few brands make them, and even fewer make them here in USA
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Noble Experiment on February 22, 2017, 03:30:58 PM
A board between 31.75 to 32 inches in length with a 14.25 inch wheelbase is pretty much perfect to me.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: thespacewolf on February 22, 2017, 03:51:15 PM
I really don't know/care about wheelbases either.

How do you guys measure out whats best? Is it like a personal thing or does it correspond with your trucks/wheels?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: micky682 on February 22, 2017, 05:04:47 PM
I really don't know/care about wheelbases either.

How do you guys measure out whats best? Is it like a personal thing or does it correspond with your trucks/wheels?
If your flip tricks feel really comfortable then the wheelbase you're riding is good for you.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: j....soy..... on February 22, 2017, 05:39:59 PM
If you don't care.......consider yourself lucky.....
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Xen on February 22, 2017, 09:44:07 PM
14.3x WB is dreamy, not too small, not too big.

Problem is DLX doesn't make the Ishod Twintail in a FULL shape yet...;) DLX people if you do ever make it a full, don't fuck with the dimenstions, it's exacclty what I want except not full =(

8.3, just under 32" and a 14.3 WB.

If the WB is too small I will feel cramped, constantly shuffling my feet around trying to get comfy.

If the WB is too long, it usually means the board is long and it's just big and boaty.

NHS makes some boards with 15" WB and DLX is starting to push them a bit longer too. Most Green Issue, Slave, Powell, Pocket Pistols at around 8.3 are usually pushing 14.5, if not 15"

WB and transition size can also be a factor my local feels way better on a 14.5-15+" WB than it does on a 14" based on the pockets.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Krooked antihero on February 22, 2017, 10:57:37 PM
A board between 31.75 to 32 inches in length with a 14.25 inch wheelbase is pretty much perfect to me.
Generator 8.125" ftw.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: DaSk8D00D on February 23, 2017, 09:12:35 AM
bye bye flip tricks if your wheelbase is too long or too short...


Pretty much this.

I prefer a longer wheelbase (currently riding a real 8.38 Full w/ a 14.62" wheelbase) because I have broad shoulders and if the wheeelbase is too short, it's harder for me to center myself over the board. With a longer wheelbase I square my shoulders with the bolts better and it makes a world of a difference. I first really started to pay attention to wheelbase when I skated an anti hero logo board that was perfect for me then skated something with a similar shape but noticeably smaller wheelbase right after and all my flip tricks were thrown off and I wasn't catching or landing on the board how I usually do. It's all a personal preference thing but it definitely affects your skating a bit
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: j....soy..... on February 23, 2017, 02:47:38 PM
I think as long as your board isn't going off axis ie straight flip tricks it's arguably better because it's more stable.....but yah a 3 flip it feels like a longboard.....
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: redux on February 24, 2017, 09:19:46 PM
Don't forget that the trucks you ride alter the factory wheelbase. Based on how the axle and kingpin geometry are designed Thunder gives you the longest and Indy the shortest wheelbase. Venture is in between. I do not have measurements in front of me. I have no idea what any of the other trucks do for your wheelbase. I think how your trucks turn is most important so just size your wheelbase based on how the trucks you like change what comes from the factory.

FWIW I like an 8.5 PS Stix with a 14.25 wb with Thunder but don't like how Thunder turn/balance at that width. So I went to Indy for the same board. I love the turn/balance but the wheelbase isn't the best. If I go up to an 8.5 with 14.5 wb everything feels good. I also like a long nose and tail which tosses another ting into the mix.

I'm 5'9" and wear 10 or 10.5 adidas. I have a friend who is 6'1" and wears 10.5-11 in Nike. We both like the same trucks and wheelbase. However, he likes BBS and is a lot heavier then me. I ride my trucks factory right and he cranks his down so it feels like I have to tic tac to turn and he gets wheel bite on my board on an ollie.

TLDR? Figure it out via trial and error.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: j....soy..... on February 24, 2017, 10:40:20 PM
Ace....even smaller wheelbase....

Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Jud Nestorkins on February 24, 2017, 11:45:19 PM
I love skating normal popsicles with 14.75 or 15" wb

very few brands make them, and even fewer make them here in USA
You can have your long ass wheelbase haha.

I had a Dathwish 8.5 with a 14.25 inch wheelbase and loved it. Then got an 8.4 flip popsicle, didn't even think about the WB and found out it had a 15 inch wheelbase, while I got used to it over time it at first (and sort of of stil, does), feel like a longboard.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: McJagger on February 27, 2017, 07:16:10 PM
If you don't care.......consider yourself lucky.....

I remember those days.  They were good days, in a simpler time, and they seem so far away now....
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Gray Imp Sausage Metal on February 27, 2017, 09:09:12 PM
Expand Quote
If you don't care.......consider yourself lucky.....
[close]

I remember those days.  They were good days, in a simpler time, and they seem so far away now....
I remember those days too, days before I started reading the gear thread on SLAP. I'm on 14.75 at the moment and it's LOOONG
fun as fuck to ride but you're not exactly going to do tech street lines on it!
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Krooked antihero on February 27, 2017, 09:55:34 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
If you don't care.......consider yourself lucky.....
[close]

I remember those days.  They were good days, in a simpler time, and they seem so far away now....
[close]
I remember those days too, days before I started reading the gear thread on SLAP. I'm on 14.75 at the moment and it's LOOONG
fun as fuck to ride but you're not exactly going to do tech street lines on it!
I'm on 14.75" too at the moment, way too long for me but I got that board as a gift so i decided to give it a chance. I like how stable it is to ride but any ollie-based tricks are pain in the ass to do, needs so much effort... can't wait to get back on 14.25" .
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Gray Imp Sausage Metal on February 27, 2017, 11:20:41 PM
Quote from: Krooked antihero  link=topic=94518.msg2614513#msg2614513 date=1488261334
I'm on 14.75" too at the moment, way too long for me but I got that board as a gift so i decided to give it a chance. I like how stable it is to ride but any ollie-based tricks are pain in the ass to do, needs so much effort... can't wait to get back on 14.25" .
and once again we are slap brothers from another mother ;)
I have a lot of fun on said board but yeah, my street game is lacking atm. I imagine on vert it would feel like a dream. tricks off the nose work a lot better I've found. what 14.25 are you eyeing up?
 
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Krooked antihero on February 27, 2017, 11:46:21 PM
Quote from: Krooked antihero  link=topic=94518.msg2614513#msg2614513 date=1488261334
Expand Quote
I'm on 14.75" too at the moment, way too long for me but I got that board as a gift so i decided to give it a chance. I like how stable it is to ride but any ollie-based tricks are pain in the ass to do, needs so much effort... can't wait to get back on 14.25" .
[close]
and once again we are slap brothers from another mother ;)
I have a lot of fun on said board but yeah, my street game is lacking atm. I imagine on vert it would feel like a dream. tricks off the nose work a lot better I've found. what 14.25 are you eyeing up?
 
(http://www.socialskateboarding.com/assets/products/370822/full/1dskmsmoclb800u.jpg)
I have this one waiting in my closet, not that stoked on graphics but it was cheap ;) 8" x 32" w/ 14.25" wb. At the moment I'm skating 8.38" Palace, way too big board for me in every possible way.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Gray Imp Sausage Metal on February 28, 2017, 12:20:37 AM
8.38 w 14.75 is ridics :o
you'll just have to get your nostalgia on to deal with that graphic, perhaps it would help if you threw up gang signs after you land your tricks and maybe try and source a of S.A.G pants?
http://www.skatewarehouse.com/Anti_Hero_Beres_Sprack_Eagle_Deck/descpage-AHRBSE828DK.html (http://www.skatewarehouse.com/Anti_Hero_Beres_Sprack_Eagle_Deck/descpage-AHRBSE828DK.html)
looks like a lot of fun but I'm thinking of jumping back over to magenta because their boards are so crispy
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: alraunen on February 28, 2017, 04:11:41 AM
Yesterday I broke my Isle board (was fantastic btw) it was 8,5 and 14,50, I was used to riding boards with 14,75 and at the beginning feel weird but I get way better doing flat tricks (I'm still terrible, but I can do heelflips like a fucking robot).

So now I have a Polar 8,6 14,375 waiting for the weekend, can't wait
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Betaphenylethylalamine on February 28, 2017, 05:52:41 AM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
If you don't care.......consider yourself lucky.....
[close]

I remember those days.  They were good days, in a simpler time, and they seem so far away now....
[close]
I remember those days too, days before I started reading the gear thread on SLAP. I'm on 14.75 at the moment and it's LOOONG
fun as fuck to ride but you're not exactly going to do tech street lines on it!

My last board is a 14.75 and fuck yeah it's long. Like comically long. So fun to ride though

I roll with two boards or maybe even three these days. Some boards are just flat out better for different  stuff.

Try riding some banks etc on the 14.75, feels awesome. But flip tricks feel waaa?y off

Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Allez_Jambon on February 28, 2017, 07:28:43 AM
So what companies give all measurements? Length, Width, WB? What else, concave or nose and tail size?

Polar , DLX , Isle , Sk8Mafia , ... Just looking at some of the examples. Maybe they all do it now but aren't listed on the sticker at the shop or on a web retailer.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: micky682 on February 28, 2017, 08:30:37 AM
So what companies give all measurements? Length, Width, WB? What else, concave or nose and tail size?

Polar , DLX , Isle , Sk8Mafia , ... Just looking at some of the examples. Maybe they all do it now but aren't listed on the sticker at the shop or on a web retailer.
Concave should be listed, Baker does it. I hate when you have to roll the dice on a board and get a steep concave/the one you don't want.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Level 60 Dwarf Paladin on February 28, 2017, 09:27:30 AM
Quote from: Krooked antihero  link=topic=94518.msg2614540#msg2614540 date=1488267981
Expand Quote
Quote from: Krooked antihero  link=topic=94518.msg2614513#msg2614513 date=1488261334
Expand Quote
I'm on 14.75" too at the moment, way too long for me but I got that board as a gift so i decided to give it a chance. I like how stable it is to ride but any ollie-based tricks are pain in the ass to do, needs so much effort... can't wait to get back on 14.25" .
[close]
and once again we are slap brothers from another mother ;)
I have a lot of fun on said board but yeah, my street game is lacking atm. I imagine on vert it would feel like a dream. tricks off the nose work a lot better I've found. what 14.25 are you eyeing up?
 
[close]
(http://www.socialskateboarding.com/assets/products/370822/full/1dskmsmoclb800u.jpg)
I have this one waiting in my closet, not that stoked on graphics but it was cheap ;) 8" x 32" w/ 14.25" wb. At the moment I'm skating 8.38" Palace, way too big board for me in every possible way.
You should feel proud that you had the good sense to support Smolik. Don't be ashamed of that board.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Krooked antihero on February 28, 2017, 10:23:48 PM
Quote from: Krooked antihero  link=topic=94518.msg2614540#msg2614540 date=1488267981
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Quote from: Krooked antihero  link=topic=94518.msg2614513#msg2614513 date=1488261334
Expand Quote
I'm on 14.75" too at the moment, way too long for me but I got that board as a gift so i decided to give it a chance. I like how stable it is to ride but any ollie-based tricks are pain in the ass to do, needs so much effort... can't wait to get back on 14.25" .
[close]
and once again we are slap brothers from another mother ;)
I have a lot of fun on said board but yeah, my street game is lacking atm. I imagine on vert it would feel like a dream. tricks off the nose work a lot better I've found. what 14.25 are you eyeing up?
 
[close]
(http://www.socialskateboarding.com/assets/products/370822/full/1dskmsmoclb800u.jpg)
I have this one waiting in my closet, not that stoked on graphics but it was cheap ;) 8" x 32" w/ 14.25" wb. At the moment I'm skating 8.38" Palace, way too big board for me in every possible way.
[close]
You should feel proud that you had the good sense to support Smolik. Don't be ashamed of that board.

What i meant was that i don't like the graphic itself, never been a fan of cartoon graphics. There's nothing wrong to ride a Lord Pillage board, fulfill the dream was one of the first skate videos i saw so Smolik gets a pass for life. My only concern is that how can i skate that board because I'm still unable to nollie heel outta noseslide ;D
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: JumpManShorty on March 07, 2017, 11:03:01 PM
I'm a short short dude and don't get me wrong, I still like a longer board. Just bought a new anti hero board with a 14.5 wheel base then saw this thread and now I have anxiety. Fuckin slap  :-\
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Bumpovertrash on March 08, 2017, 05:06:22 AM
I had a krooked full shape a 8.25 sebo I hated that thing felt like a fuckin longboard. I'm constantly riding different boards and experimenting with wheelbase but I'm getting tired of it nothing feels as good as a 8 1/8 5boro I don't know the wheelbase but I had several and they were all good.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Gray Imp Sausage Metal on March 08, 2017, 05:30:15 PM
I'm a short short dude and don't get me wrong, I still like a longer board. Just bought a new anti hero board with a 14.5 wheel base then saw this thread and now I have anxiety. Fuckin slap  :-\
Hey, if it works with you then roll with it (literally)
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rob on September 20, 2017, 12:03:09 AM
What are the benefits of a longer wheelbase?

From what I've noticed the standard short 14" wheelbase feels better, more control and turn

I know boards got wider but why did wheelbase get so much longer?? I got an 8.18 real with a 14.25 wheelbase or maybe it was 14.38
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Esquivel on September 20, 2017, 12:26:57 AM
a longer wheelbase helps for boardslides, i am sure

Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: quaintly on September 20, 2017, 01:54:07 AM
I believe it's the most crucial dimension on a board hands down, And  it's directly proportional to your height and leg length. I ride about 14 1/8 on street , I'm about 5'11".
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Esmith5488 on September 20, 2017, 08:52:42 AM
For years, maybe a decade I thought I was a 14.25 wheelbase guy, thinking length was the issue when I wasn't happy with my setup.. went to a 14 inch wheelbase and it's such a diffence I've been learning new shit and feeling better than I have in years. Wheelbase is the most important  measurement for sure. I'm a short ass 5'7"
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: j....soy..... on September 20, 2017, 09:31:20 AM
Your height and wheelbase is like foot size and width....it can matter but how you skate and just your preference is what counts....

Skating flat I think overall shorter works....but if you want to feel stable longer is good....

You never wanna size up or down over a quarter inch unless you've thought it through.....
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Firebert on September 20, 2017, 09:41:16 AM
For years, maybe a decade I thought I was a 14.25 wheelbase guy, thinking length was the issue when I wasn't happy with my setup.. went to a 14 inch wheelbase and it's such a diffence I've been learning new shit and feeling better than I have in years. Wheelbase is the most important  measurement for sure. I'm a short ass 5'7"
Same here. Went from 8.25 with a 14.25 wb to 8.00 with 14' wb and I've felt more comfortable and in more control ever since. I am also a short ass 5'7"
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Cherb on September 20, 2017, 10:07:31 AM
Expand Quote
For years, maybe a decade I thought I was a 14.25 wheelbase guy, thinking length was the issue when I wasn't happy with my setup.. went to a 14 inch wheelbase and it's such a diffence I've been learning new shit and feeling better than I have in years. Wheelbase is the most important  measurement for sure. I'm a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Same here. Went from 8.25 with a 14.25 wb to 8.00 with 14' wb and I've felt more comfortable and in more control ever since. I am also a short ass 5'7"
Greetings my fellow short ass 5'7 guys. 14 is also my favorite but holy shit is it a hard one to find.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: patrick c. on September 20, 2017, 10:37:57 AM
it can matter but how you skate and just your preference is what counts....
This. 
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: the snake on September 20, 2017, 11:56:55 AM
Don't forget that the trucks you ride alter the factory wheelbase. Based on how the axle and kingpin geometry are designed Thunder gives you the longest and Indy the shortest wheelbase. Venture is in between.
^this
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: j....soy..... on September 20, 2017, 12:01:09 PM
as mentioned ACE is even narrower.....
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: DaSk8D00D on September 20, 2017, 12:45:11 PM
Expand Quote
Don't forget that the trucks you ride alter the factory wheelbase. Based on how the axle and kingpin geometry are designed Thunder gives you the longest and Indy the shortest wheelbase. Venture is in between.
[close]
^this


I could've sworn that venture was the one that pushed your wheelbase out the furthest, they even LOOK like they push it out moreso than most trucks but I could be mistaken. Theeve is almost dead set in the center.

Interesting to see people's preferences in here.  I'm about 5'6 with size 10 feet and broad shoulders so the 14.62" wheelbase on the DLX 8.38 Full shapes is perfect for me. Even when I dropped down to an 8.3 w/ 14.4 wheelbase I noticed the difference, but I was able to manage it when I switched from thunders to ventures. Like I said I have broad shoulders so if I'm tryna land square with my knees/feet/shoulders on a shorter board it's very awkward feeling and unnatural to me. Ventures on the 8.38 Full were okay but when I switched to theeves on that size, I was immediately catching all my fliptricks better. Must be my sweet spot with the trucks/wheelbase combo
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: the snake on September 20, 2017, 12:55:52 PM
...and the ocd kept growing, growing till we all got mad, broad shouldres mads and narrow shoulders mads...
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: tzhangdox on September 20, 2017, 01:34:24 PM
Am 6 5 with size 13 feet. Have been skating boards with wheelbases from 14.5 to almost 15(the quasi shape) inches for the past while. Usually 14.5 or 14.6 ish from DLX. Feels really nice and stable, good all round. The only downside was some flat tricks like bigspins take more effort. 180ing into grinds etc requires you to pop further away from the ledge too.

For some reason I decided it would be a good idea to try a super short 14 inch wheelbase. Bigspins are easier, sw back 180s are easier for some reason. Everything else just awful, slipping out of literally every trick even if I land properly. Can't wait to go back to a longer wheelbase, dunno what I was thinking.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Xen on September 20, 2017, 05:32:28 PM
After going through deck after deck, forcing myself to ride 14.25" WBs (industry standard it seems) I knew I needed 14.3x/14.5"+ - BUT it took forever to find out that Tumyeto pumps out 31.75" L x 8.25" W with a 14.5" WB (they have shorter noses, which I desire); they're amazeballs, if a bit flat on concave and kick =(

FWIW I'm 5'11'/175lbs/US 10

Shape-wise it isn't as full (but it's not pointy either) or steep (as mentioned) as I prefer but it's the best I can find; decks are nice and light/poppy for being pstix.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: ducky darnsworth on September 20, 2017, 05:42:31 PM
the closest i can get to 15" or higher is how i buy my shit.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: DaSk8D00D on September 20, 2017, 06:14:15 PM
...and the ocd kept growing, growing till we all got mad, broad shouldres mads and narrow shoulders mads...

All these years on SLAP fucked my head up (http://www.thecoli.com/styles/default/xenforo/smilies/sadcam.png)


a nigga can't even buy a deck anymore without doing this shit
(https://media0.giphy.com/media/l44QkVjrTiBgettq8/giphy.gif)
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rob on September 20, 2017, 06:38:55 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
For years, maybe a decade I thought I was a 14.25 wheelbase guy, thinking length was the issue when I wasn't happy with my setup.. went to a 14 inch wheelbase and it's such a diffence I've been learning new shit and feeling better than I have in years. Wheelbase is the most important� measurement for sure. I'm a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Same here. Went from 8.25 with a 14.25 wb to 8.00 with 14' wb and I've felt more comfortable and in more control ever since. I am also a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Greetings my fellow short ass 5'7 guys. 14 is also my favorite but holy shit is it a hard one to find.

Same here, 5'7/5'8 skating best with a 14"

I think primitive decks are the only decks in plenty with 8^ sizes with a 14" wheelbase besides crail boards
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: johnes on September 20, 2017, 06:59:33 PM
For some reason i cant manual for crap on my 14' wheelbase welcome anthem shape, i don't like it much, I had been riding Moonttrimmer 2.0 which has a 14.6" wheel base and i was loving that, i'm 5'8 so i dont think my height really matters for me.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Krooked antihero on September 23, 2017, 01:04:57 AM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
For years, maybe a decade I thought I was a 14.25 wheelbase guy, thinking length was the issue when I wasn't happy with my setup.. went to a 14 inch wheelbase and it's such a diffence I've been learning new shit and feeling better than I have in years. Wheelbase is the most important� measurement for sure. I'm a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Same here. Went from 8.25 with a 14.25 wb to 8.00 with 14' wb and I've felt more comfortable and in more control ever since. I am also a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Greetings my fellow short ass 5'7 guys. 14 is also my favorite but holy shit is it a hard one to find.
[close]

Same here, 5'7/5'8 skating best with a 14"

I think primitive decks are the only decks in plenty with 8^ sizes with a 14" wheelbase besides crail boards
Thank you for this, I just ordered my first ever Primitive board,from sale of course, just to see how wheelbase that short would skate. 8.25 x 31.75 w/ 14 wb, looks good on paper atleast.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Chuck Gender on September 23, 2017, 09:51:06 AM
Quote from: Krooked antihero  link=topic=94518.msg2689896#msg2689896 date=1506153897
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
For years, maybe a decade I thought I was a 14.25 wheelbase guy, thinking length was the issue when I wasn't happy with my setup.. went to a 14 inch wheelbase and it's such a diffence I've been learning new shit and feeling better than I have in years. Wheelbase is the most important� measurement for sure. I'm a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Same here. Went from 8.25 with a 14.25 wb to 8.00 with 14' wb and I've felt more comfortable and in more control ever since. I am also a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Greetings my fellow short ass 5'7 guys. 14 is also my favorite but holy shit is it a hard one to find.
[close]

Same here, 5'7/5'8 skating best with a 14"

I think primitive decks are the only decks in plenty with 8^ sizes with a 14" wheelbase besides crail boards
[close]
Thank you for this, I just ordered my first ever Primitive board,from sale of course, just to see how wheelbase that short would skate. 8.25 x 31.75 w/ 14 wb, looks good on paper atleast.

Would love to try but Primitive, nah. Who else got these measurements?  What's the wheelsbase of those Antihero 8.18 x 3.84 decks (e.g. Gerwer Star Charts)?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: the snake on September 23, 2017, 10:07:16 AM
Expand Quote
...and the ocd kept growing, growing till we all got mad, broad shouldres mads and narrow shoulders mads...
[close]

All these years on SLAP fucked my head up (http://www.thecoli.com/styles/default/xenforo/smilies/sadcam.png)


a nigga can't even buy a deck anymore without doing this shit
(https://media0.giphy.com/media/l44QkVjrTiBgettq8/giphy.gif)
true, and Real just added a new equation with the 4 different concaves lol
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: yatallfreak on September 23, 2017, 12:05:36 PM
you guys know which brands usually offer boards with longer wheelbases? I'm 6'3" and after reading this thread I wanna try a longer wheelbase and actually know I'm skating a board with a longer wheelbase. I just had the Polar Kevin Rodrigues two fine boys board and absolutely loved the shape. Now Im thinking it might've been cause of a longer wheelbase
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: micky682 on September 23, 2017, 12:46:00 PM
you guys know which brands usually offer boards with longer wheelbases? I'm 6'3" and after reading this thread I wanna try a longer wheelbase and actually know I'm skating a board with a longer wheelbase. I just had the Polar Kevin Rodrigues two fine boys board and absolutely loved the shape. Now Im thinking it might've been cause of a longer wheelbase
All Polar boards have stickers saying their dimensions/wheelbase.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: tzhangdox on September 23, 2017, 12:54:38 PM
you guys know which brands usually offer boards with longer wheelbases? I'm 6'3" and after reading this thread I wanna try a longer wheelbase and actually know I'm skating a board with a longer wheelbase. I just had the Polar Kevin Rodrigues two fine boys board and absolutely loved the shape. Now Im thinking it might've been cause of a longer wheelbase

I'm 6 5 and when I wanted a longer wheelbase, the 8.62 dlx shape was fantastic. 14.75 inch wheelbase. Quasi also makes a great 8.5 shape with a petty hearty wheelbase.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: full of jerks on September 23, 2017, 01:10:14 PM
Mini logo has 15" wheelbase in 8.75 and 8.5.  I haven't looked at their smaller boards.  Their concave is cool too.  lots of flat behind the truck before the tail kicks up.  makes for more wheel bite clearance and quicker tail touch down.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: yatallfreak on September 23, 2017, 01:40:39 PM
Expand Quote
you guys know which brands usually offer boards with longer wheelbases? I'm 6'3" and after reading this thread I wanna try a longer wheelbase and actually know I'm skating a board with a longer wheelbase. I just had the Polar Kevin Rodrigues two fine boys board and absolutely loved the shape. Now Im thinking it might've been cause of a longer wheelbase
[close]
I'm 6 5 and when I wanted a longer wheelbase, the 8.62 dlx shape was fantastic. 14.75 inch wheelbase. Quasi also makes a great 8.5 shape with a petty hearty wheelbase.
I've loved every Quasi shape I've had but havent had a dlx board in a bit so I'm definitely gonna check out the 8.62
Expand Quote
you guys know which brands usually offer boards with longer wheelbases? I'm 6'3" and after reading this thread I wanna try a longer wheelbase and actually know I'm skating a board with a longer wheelbase. I just had the Polar Kevin Rodrigues two fine boys board and absolutely loved the shape. Now Im thinking it might've been cause of a longer wheelbase
[close]
All Polar boards have stickers saying their dimensions/wheelbase.
Yeah I just peeled mine off before gripping it so I didnt even look at the wheelbase or anything. I looked up another Kevin Rodrigues board and the wheelbase was 14.5 so it was probably the same on mine
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rob on September 23, 2017, 01:43:18 PM
Mini logo has 15" wheelbase in 8.75 and 8.5.  I haven't looked at their smaller boards.  Their concave is cool too.  lots of flat behind the truck before the tail kicks up.  makes for more wheel bite clearance and quicker tail touch down.

Damn now your making me really consider this mini logo deck I been eye balling cause I know they know how to make good shapes and my previous experience the deck was nice and stiff and popped really well, the shape was very unique too. Good Concave where it counted and flat at the pop areas
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: tzhangdox on September 23, 2017, 03:37:29 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
you guys know which brands usually offer boards with longer wheelbases? I'm 6'3" and after reading this thread I wanna try a longer wheelbase and actually know I'm skating a board with a longer wheelbase. I just had the Polar Kevin Rodrigues two fine boys board and absolutely loved the shape. Now Im thinking it might've been cause of a longer wheelbase
[close]
I'm 6 5 and when I wanted a longer wheelbase, the 8.62 dlx shape was fantastic. 14.75 inch wheelbase. Quasi also makes a great 8.5 shape with a petty hearty wheelbase.
[close]
I've loved every Quasi shape I've had but havent had a dlx board in a bit so I'm definitely gonna check out the 8.62
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
you guys know which brands usually offer boards with longer wheelbases? I'm 6'3" and after reading this thread I wanna try a longer wheelbase and actually know I'm skating a board with a longer wheelbase. I just had the Polar Kevin Rodrigues two fine boys board and absolutely loved the shape. Now Im thinking it might've been cause of a longer wheelbase
[close]
All Polar boards have stickers saying their dimensions/wheelbase.
[close]
Yeah I just peeled mine off before gripping it so I didnt even look at the wheelbase or anything. I looked up another Kevin Rodrigues board and the wheelbase was 14.5 so it was probably the same on mine

Yup, if you don't mind the width of the 8.62, I would highly recommend it, honestly a really good, all round shape. Don't know anyone who didn't like it. If it's too wide, I believe there is an 8.5 full shape that has a 14.6 wheelbase which is also great. Two of my favourite DLX shapes.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Thrash-trash on September 24, 2017, 08:08:14 AM
So many variables in WB from board length to the size of the skater, its almost a crap shoot till you find what is good for you. Although, all really good skaters can ride any shape or size board, most of the normal folk needs as much help as possible. I tried to be a vert skater for a bit and went up to 8.5" by 32.5" with a 15" wheelbase. It was stable on big vert ramps, but sucked on mini or even ramps up to 7'-8'. Even trying to street ollie for me made the nose hit the side of my leg. So I went back to an ATV 8.4" by 32" with a 14.5" WB. Its pretty much the best size for me at 6.0" tall. I feel a shorter board and wheel base might help with a higher Ollie, but I dont think it could handle a fast bowl over 6' deep. So i just balanced it out with what I ride now.

Interesting that ACE gives you a shorter wheelbase through truck design, as mentioned earlier. I'd like to investigate that a bit further.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: mynameisnotjeff on September 24, 2017, 10:58:42 AM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
For years, maybe a decade I thought I was a 14.25 wheelbase guy, thinking length was the issue when I wasn't happy with my setup.. went to a 14 inch wheelbase and it's such a diffence I've been learning new shit and feeling better than I have in years. Wheelbase is the most important� measurement for sure. I'm a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Same here. Went from 8.25 with a 14.25 wb to 8.00 with 14' wb and I've felt more comfortable and in more control ever since. I am also a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Greetings my fellow short ass 5'7 guys. 14 is also my favorite but holy shit is it a hard one to find.
[close]

Same here, 5'7/5'8 skating best with a 14"

I think primitive decks are the only decks in plenty with 8^ sizes with a 14" wheelbase besides crail boards
Same, my only problem is I like the wider space. Might have to pick up a Primitive
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: tzhangdox on September 24, 2017, 12:57:20 PM
So many variables in WB from board length to the size of the skater, its almost a crap shoot till you find what is good for you. Although, all really good skaters can ride any shape or size board, most of the normal folk needs as much help as possible. I tried to be a vert skater for a bit and went up to 8.5" by 32.5" with a 15" wheelbase. It was stable on big vert ramps, but sucked on mini or even ramps up to 7'-8'. Even trying to street ollie for me made the nose hit the side of my leg. So I went back to an ATV 8.4" by 32" with a 14.5" WB. Its pretty much the best size for me at 6.0" tall. I feel a shorter board and wheel base might help with a higher Ollie, but I dont think it could handle a fast bowl over 6' deep. So i just balanced it out with what I ride now.

Interesting that ACE gives you a shorter wheelbase through truck design, as mentioned earlier. I'd like to investigate that a bit further.

Definitely makes a difference. I like wheelbases of about 14.5 to 14.75 with my aces. If I'm skating Thunders, that wheelbase becomes a bit too much effort at times.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Esmith5488 on September 25, 2017, 01:04:55 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
For years, maybe a decade I thought I was a 14.25 wheelbase guy, thinking length was the issue when I wasn't happy with my setup.. went to a 14 inch wheelbase and it's such a diffence I've been learning new shit and feeling better than I have in years. Wheelbase is the most important� measurement for sure. I'm a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Same here. Went from 8.25 with a 14.25 wb to 8.00 with 14' wb and I've felt more comfortable and in more control ever since. I am also a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Greetings my fellow short ass 5'7 guys. 14 is also my favorite but holy shit is it a hard one to find.
[close]

Same here, 5'7/5'8 skating best with a 14"

I think primitive decks are the only decks in plenty with 8^ sizes with a 14" wheelbase besides crail boards
[close]
Same, my only problem is I like the wider space. Might have to pick up a Primitive

i actually just set up a 8.25 primitive, the pendelton series and i like it a lot.. this is coming from a guy who doesn't like crailtap and has only been on dlx and baker boards the last few years with the exception of roger and program boards.. I'm not the typical demographic for that company but i like the shape of their 8.25, good size nose and I've beaten the shit out of that thing and it still feels good..
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rob on September 25, 2017, 07:21:40 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
For years, maybe a decade I thought I was a 14.25 wheelbase guy, thinking length was the issue when I wasn't happy with my setup.. went to a 14 inch wheelbase and it's such a diffence I've been learning new shit and feeling better than I have in years. Wheelbase is the most important� measurement for sure. I'm a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Same here. Went from 8.25 with a 14.25 wb to 8.00 with 14' wb and I've felt more comfortable and in more control ever since. I am also a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Greetings my fellow short ass 5'7 guys. 14 is also my favorite but holy shit is it a hard one to find.
[close]

Same here, 5'7/5'8 skating best with a 14"

I think primitive decks are the only decks in plenty with 8^ sizes with a 14" wheelbase besides crail boards
[close]
Same, my only problem is I like the wider space. Might have to pick up a Primitive
[close]

i actually just set up a 8.25 primitive, the pendelton series and i like it a lot.. this is coming from a guy who doesn't like crailtap and has only been on dlx and baker boards the last few years with the exception of roger and program boards.. I'm not the typical demographic for that company but i like the shape of their 8.25, good size nose and I've beaten the shit out of that thing and it still feels good..

Same here, primitive the brand isn't my thing but they know how to get their boards done for those who want bbs/generator quality wood with the right dimensions. Sadly deluxe has such long wheelbases even on 8-8.2, my first 8.18 real was a 14.25 wb and the second was a whopping 8.18 with 14.38wb and I mean it has a feel to it but I can't get my feet in that super controlled feel where I can blast a kickflip off the call easy, I gotta get eased into it and just feel it out and see if what I'm feeling is a good kickflip or a fluke
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Esmith5488 on September 26, 2017, 02:33:20 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
For years, maybe a decade I thought I was a 14.25 wheelbase guy, thinking length was the issue when I wasn't happy with my setup.. went to a 14 inch wheelbase and it's such a diffence I've been learning new shit and feeling better than I have in years. Wheelbase is the most important� measurement for sure. I'm a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Same here. Went from 8.25 with a 14.25 wb to 8.00 with 14' wb and I've felt more comfortable and in more control ever since. I am also a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Greetings my fellow short ass 5'7 guys. 14 is also my favorite but holy shit is it a hard one to find.
[close]

Same here, 5'7/5'8 skating best with a 14"

I think primitive decks are the only decks in plenty with 8^ sizes with a 14" wheelbase besides crail boards
[close]
Same, my only problem is I like the wider space. Might have to pick up a Primitive
[close]

i actually just set up a 8.25 primitive, the pendelton series and i like it a lot.. this is coming from a guy who doesn't like crailtap and has only been on dlx and baker boards the last few years with the exception of roger and program boards.. I'm not the typical demographic for that company but i like the shape of their 8.25, good size nose and I've beaten the shit out of that thing and it still feels good..
[close]

Same here, primitive the brand isn't my thing but they know how to get their boards done for those who want bbs/generator quality wood with the right dimensions. Sadly deluxe has such long wheelbases even on 8-8.2, my first 8.18 real was a 14.25 wb and the second was a whopping 8.18 with 14.38wb and I mean it has a feel to it but I can't get my feet in that super controlled feel where I can blast a kickflip off the call easy, I gotta get eased into it and just feel it out and see if what I'm feeling is a good kickflip or a fluke

Dude the same, every time i look at a dlx i check the dimensions and they are just wild, super long with long wheelbases for the most part.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: art hellman on September 28, 2017, 12:48:38 PM
im 5'8 and 14.375 - 14.5 WB is fine for me... on indys
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Xen on September 29, 2017, 08:16:11 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
For years, maybe a decade I thought I was a 14.25 wheelbase guy, thinking length was the issue when I wasn't happy with my setup.. went to a 14 inch wheelbase and it's such a diffence I've been learning new shit and feeling better than I have in years. Wheelbase is the most important� measurement for sure. I'm a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Same here. Went from 8.25 with a 14.25 wb to 8.00 with 14' wb and I've felt more comfortable and in more control ever since. I am also a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Greetings my fellow short ass 5'7 guys. 14 is also my favorite but holy shit is it a hard one to find.
[close]

Same here, 5'7/5'8 skating best with a 14"

I think primitive decks are the only decks in plenty with 8^ sizes with a 14" wheelbase besides crail boards
[close]
Same, my only problem is I like the wider space. Might have to pick up a Primitive
[close]

i actually just set up a 8.25 primitive, the pendelton series and i like it a lot.. this is coming from a guy who doesn't like crailtap and has only been on dlx and baker boards the last few years with the exception of roger and program boards.. I'm not the typical demographic for that company but i like the shape of their 8.25, good size nose and I've beaten the shit out of that thing and it still feels good..
[close]

Same here, primitive the brand isn't my thing but they know how to get their boards done for those who want bbs/generator quality wood with the right dimensions. Sadly deluxe has such long wheelbases even on 8-8.2, my first 8.18 real was a 14.25 wb and the second was a whopping 8.18 with 14.38wb and I mean it has a feel to it but I can't get my feet in that super controlled feel where I can blast a kickflip off the call easy, I gotta get eased into it and just feel it out and see if what I'm feeling is a good kickflip or a fluke
[close]

Dude the same, every time i look at a dlx i check the dimensions and they are just wild, super long with long wheelbases for the most part.

DLX is all over the map with big ass Wheelbases these days =D

I prefer 8.25 (full shaped) or 8.3" decks with 14.3x/14.5" WB, under 32" (otherwise I scrape my lead ankle when olling anything above 2.5') - 31.75 is the shizzle with shorter noses, I don't need a fucking 6.7/7" nose. Sadly these are stupid hard to come by. Tum Yeto, some NHS, and Blood Wizard makes an amazing 8.3...wish NHS didn't stop making the 8.3 shape =(

If DLX would make the 8.25" full with the 14.38 WB they use on some of the (mainly krooked) 8.25s, it's all I'd ride.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rob on September 30, 2017, 10:44:11 AM
Has anyone been crazy enough to just drill new holes to make your own wheelbase yet? Thinking about trying it on my old real deck
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Cherb on October 01, 2017, 01:42:04 AM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
For years, maybe a decade I thought I was a 14.25 wheelbase guy, thinking length was the issue when I wasn't happy with my setup.. went to a 14 inch wheelbase and it's such a diffence I've been learning new shit and feeling better than I have in years. Wheelbase is the most important� measurement for sure. I'm a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Same here. Went from 8.25 with a 14.25 wb to 8.00 with 14' wb and I've felt more comfortable and in more control ever since. I am also a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Greetings my fellow short ass 5'7 guys. 14 is also my favorite but holy shit is it a hard one to find.
[close]

Same here, 5'7/5'8 skating best with a 14"

I think primitive decks are the only decks in plenty with 8^ sizes with a 14" wheelbase besides crail boards
[close]
Same, my only problem is I like the wider space. Might have to pick up a Primitive
[close]

i actually just set up a 8.25 primitive, the pendelton series and i like it a lot.. this is coming from a guy who doesn't like crailtap and has only been on dlx and baker boards the last few years with the exception of roger and program boards.. I'm not the typical demographic for that company but i like the shape of their 8.25, good size nose and I've beaten the shit out of that thing and it still feels good..
[close]

Same here, primitive the brand isn't my thing but they know how to get their boards done for those who want bbs/generator quality wood with the right dimensions. Sadly deluxe has such long wheelbases even on 8-8.2, my first 8.18 real was a 14.25 wb and the second was a whopping 8.18 with 14.38wb and I mean it has a feel to it but I can't get my feet in that super controlled feel where I can blast a kickflip off the call easy, I gotta get eased into it and just feel it out and see if what I'm feeling is a good kickflip or a fluke
[close]

Dude the same, every time i look at a dlx i check the dimensions and they are just wild, super long with long wheelbases for the most part.
[close]

DLX is all over the map with big ass Wheelbases these days =D

I prefer 8.25 (full shaped) or 8.3" decks with 14.3x/14.5" WB, under 32" (otherwise I scrape my lead ankle when olling anything above 2.5') - 31.75 is the shizzle with shorter noses, I don't need a fucking 6.7/7" nose. Sadly these are stupid hard to come by. Tum Yeto, some NHS, and Blood Wizard makes an amazing 8.3...wish NHS didn't stop making the 8.3 shape =(

If DLX would make the 8.25" full with the 14.38 WB they use on some of the (mainly krooked) 8.25s, it's all I'd ride.
I bought one of the Real Full SE decks and that was the most beautiful boards I've ever had the grace to put my shitty feet upon.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: m477 on October 01, 2017, 06:45:55 PM
14" wb for me. I struggle with anything 14.25 or higher.

Does any company make an 8.5 with 14 wb?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: shredder sequel on October 01, 2017, 07:31:52 PM
14" wb for me. I struggle with anything 14.25 or higher.

Does any company make an 8.5 with 14 wb?

I had a Scumco with those measurements.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: tzhangdox on October 01, 2017, 07:43:34 PM
14" wb for me. I struggle with anything 14.25 or higher.

Does any company make an 8.5 with 14 wb?

A lot of pennswood boards do I think. Just skated an 8.5 14wb from pennswood. Wood was fantastic but hated the tiny wheelbase.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: givecigstosurfgroms on November 08, 2017, 07:43:28 AM
  I had been skating for half a year and I bought the thrasher with the Phillips high on acid cover.  Inside was a sequence of the gonz ollieing over a pool.  It's hard to find now but would stand up today.  His ollies were amazing at this point in his career, his board would go past vertical and his front foot was gnarly.  Anyway recently, I was surprised to learn that his model at the time had a 16 and a quarter wheelbase!  I figure back before noses, to do ollies without you're foot slipping off, extra wheelbase/extra front truck swing weight would prolly help.  I think between 86 to 90 the wheelbases went from 16 to 14.   But yah first handrail 50-50 was on a 16.25 wb.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: ChuckRamone on January 07, 2018, 11:19:08 AM
anyone else ever gone up .25 inches in wheelbase and not like it much? 14.25 is my max. 14.5 was too much for this manlet.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: micky682 on January 07, 2018, 11:25:45 AM
anyone else ever gone up .25 inches in wheelbase and not like it much? 14.25 is my max. 14.5 was too much for this manlet.
What trucks you riding? Your wheelbase changes depending on the brand.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: tzhangdox on January 07, 2018, 12:19:59 PM
Expand Quote
anyone else ever gone up .25 inches in wheelbase and not like it much? 14.25 is my max. 14.5 was too much for this manlet.
[close]
What trucks you riding? Your wheelbase changes depending on the brand.

Yeah, aces shrink your wheelbase significantly compared to Thunders, even a little bit compared to Indys. So if you need to shrink your wheelbase in another way you can switch up the trucks.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: colt cannon lunchbox on January 07, 2018, 01:28:35 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
For years, maybe a decade I thought I was a 14.25 wheelbase guy, thinking length was the issue when I wasn't happy with my setup.. went to a 14 inch wheelbase and it's such a diffence I've been learning new shit and feeling better than I have in years. Wheelbase is the most important� measurement for sure. I'm a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Same here. Went from 8.25 with a 14.25 wb to 8.00 with 14' wb and I've felt more comfortable and in more control ever since. I am also a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Greetings my fellow short ass 5'7 guys. 14 is also my favorite but holy shit is it a hard one to find.
[close]

Same here, 5'7/5'8 skating best with a 14"

I think primitive decks are the only decks in plenty with 8^ sizes with a 14" wheelbase besides crail boards
[close]
Same, my only problem is I like the wider space. Might have to pick up a Primitive

Actually all palace and traffic 8.25 boards have a 14” wheelbase
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Xen on January 07, 2018, 02:21:45 PM
anyone else ever gone up .25 inches in wheelbase and not like it much? 14.25 is my max. 14.5 was too much for this manlet.

 
I can do 14.25" with thunders and most 14.5 feel too big because they are on longer boards (but there are so few with short lengths and long WB).

Once I get through the few decks I have left I'm going to get a fickle build to my specs:

Full shape

31.9
8.28
wb 14.35
NOSE 6.75
TAIL 6.625

Basically the old NHS 8.2" shape but a but wider
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: ChuckRamone on January 07, 2018, 08:42:18 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
anyone else ever gone up .25 inches in wheelbase and not like it much? 14.25 is my max. 14.5 was too much for this manlet.
[close]
What trucks you riding? Your wheelbase changes depending on the brand.
[close]

Yeah, aces shrink your wheelbase significantly compared to Thunders, even a little bit compared to Indys. So if you need to shrink your wheelbase in another way you can switch up the trucks.

I skated two different decks with the same set of aces and the 14.5" wb deck felt weird to me, especially for flip tricks.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Krooked antihero on January 07, 2018, 11:57:07 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
For years, maybe a decade I thought I was a 14.25 wheelbase guy, thinking length was the issue when I wasn't happy with my setup.. went to a 14 inch wheelbase and it's such a diffence I've been learning new shit and feeling better than I have in years. Wheelbase is the most important� measurement for sure. I'm a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Same here. Went from 8.25 with a 14.25 wb to 8.00 with 14' wb and I've felt more comfortable and in more control ever since. I am also a short ass 5'7"
[close]
Greetings my fellow short ass 5'7 guys. 14 is also my favorite but holy shit is it a hard one to find.
[close]

Same here, 5'7/5'8 skating best with a 14"

I think primitive decks are the only decks in plenty with 8^ sizes with a 14" wheelbase besides crail boards
[close]
Same, my only problem is I like the wider space. Might have to pick up a Primitive
[close]

Actually all palace and traffic 8.25 boards have a 14” wheelbase
Not true,there’s Traffic 8.25 boards with 14.2” wb aswell. And those Palace 8.25 are super short,like 31.5”
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Paul Cicero on January 08, 2018, 12:32:35 AM
I’ve never actually looked into what WB I ride, but is it safe to say that a shorter wheelbase makes flip tricks easier? I ride an 8.25 with 149 thunders, what board brands can you recommend, asking for a friend...
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: micky682 on January 08, 2018, 06:52:15 AM
I’ve never actually looked into what WB I ride, but is it safe to say that a shorter wheelbase makes flip tricks easier? I ride an 8.25 with 149 thunders, what board brands can you recommend, asking for a friend...
If you want a short wheelbase then a Baker/Deathwish or FA/Hockey. They are usually 14.25.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Thomas on January 08, 2018, 07:57:45 AM
I'm currently skating a 8.25" Nick Jensen Isle board.
The shape seem to work perfectly for me.

It's a Generator board, but how can I know the WB ? Measuring ?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: micky682 on January 08, 2018, 08:10:54 AM
I'm currently skating a 8.25" Nick Jensen Isle board.
The shape seem to work perfectly for me.

It's a Generator board, but how can I know the WB ? Measuring ?
SkateparkofTampa.com Skatewarehouse.com has the dimensions. Don't know if either of those sell Isle though.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Nallid on January 08, 2018, 08:29:08 AM
I'm currently skating a 8.25" Nick Jensen Isle board.
The shape seem to work perfectly for me.

It's a Generator board, but how can I know the WB ? Measuring ?
You already have the board, jut measure it...
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rob on January 08, 2018, 01:00:16 PM
I'm currently skating a 8.25" Nick Jensen Isle board.
The shape seem to work perfectly for me.

It's a Generator board, but how can I know the WB ? Measuring ?

Supposedly you can take a tape measure and line it up with the center of the back bolt hole to hole and find out but idk if I’m stupid or doing it wrong cause I’ll have a board that says 14” and it’ll measure a bit over
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Paul Cicero on January 08, 2018, 04:56:54 PM
Expand Quote
I’ve never actually looked into what WB I ride, but is it safe to say that a shorter wheelbase makes flip tricks easier? I ride an 8.25 with 149 thunders, what board brands can you recommend, asking for a friend...
[close]
If you want a short wheelbase then a Baker/Deathwish or FA/Hockey. They are usually 14.25.

Thanks lad. ;D
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Gray Imp Sausage Metal on January 08, 2018, 06:41:04 PM
anyone else ever gone up .25 inches in wheelbase and not like it much? 14.25 is my max. 14.5 was too much for this manlet.
I think I went from 14" on indys to 14.75 on thunders and it was so fucking extreme. I couldn't even ollie for my first few skates. I eventually got used to that board (and had tonnes of fun on it) but flipping it was out of the question in most cases. I'm imagining 14.25 ish is my sweet spot and is actually why I was avoiding buying boards with 14.5 even though I liked the shape of them.

Suit up, ignorance is bliss, please don't get wheelbase madness
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Monkey_Mcpott on January 08, 2018, 07:14:05 PM
Been on a 14.25 wheelbase for a while now because of the B16 shape I've been skating for years and its pretty much perfect. I am now curious to try a 14 wheelbase but don't want a skinnier board. I've been skating my cruiser a lot lately which is the Grosso 9.25 board which i think has a 15 wheelbase and surprisingly I could still flip the board without much of a difference. My foot has began getting more and more comfortable with the bigger boards and I now feel like I'm tippy toeing on anything smaller than an 8.5 board. I'm pretty sure my next board will be the chico big board.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rob on January 08, 2018, 08:42:59 PM
I truly do believe in the shoe size to board being a good guide to get more out of skating but in the end it’s all preference but I think like the shoe size to board size correlation I believe in the height/leg length  to wheelbase correlation is best to follow but hey in the end it’s allllllllways preference

Cause yeah, idk I’m a short 5’8/5’9 and a 14” wb feels like it has more control and response to me while anything longer there is more space and comfort to even out, balance and land or whatever I still prefer control and response over stability
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: sweet pee on January 09, 2018, 04:12:55 AM
The Chico Brenes 9" wide Big Boy decks all seem to have a 14" wheelbase. Noses and tails are pretty long too, for those of you into that  ;)

http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=83861 (http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=83861)

http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=81299 (http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=81299)
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: micky682 on January 09, 2018, 06:57:14 AM
The Chico Brenes 9" wide Big Boy decks all seem to have a 14" wheelbase. Noses and tails are pretty long too, for those of you into that  ;)

http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=83861 (http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=83861)

http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=81299 (http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=81299)
Crailtap wood is what is keeping me from ever buying one. if Real, Baker, Isle can spend the money to make quality decks what's stopping Rickk and Mike?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Gray Imp Sausage Metal on January 09, 2018, 04:32:24 PM
Expand Quote
The Chico Brenes 9" wide Big Boy decks all seem to have a 14" wheelbase. Noses and tails are pretty long too, for those of you into that  ;)

http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=83861 (http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=83861)

http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=81299 (http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=81299)
[close]
Crailtap wood is what is keeping me from ever buying one. if Real, Baker, Isle can spend the money to make quality decks what's stopping Rickk and Mike?
This! It's gone on for too long now. Every indy company out there is using at least PS Stix
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: JusticeAbberdash on January 09, 2018, 11:08:28 PM
Expand Quote
The Chico Brenes 9" wide Big Boy decks all seem to have a 14" wheelbase. Noses and tails are pretty long too, for those of you into that  ;)

http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=83861 (http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=83861)

http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=81299 (http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=81299)
[close]
Crailtap wood is what is keeping me from ever buying one. if Real, Baker, Isle can spend the money to make quality decks what's stopping Rickk and Mike?

Bolshevism! Sheer bolshevism!
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Beeker on January 11, 2018, 08:50:32 PM
Expand Quote
The Chico Brenes 9" wide Big Boy decks all seem to have a 14" wheelbase. Noses and tails are pretty long too, for those of you into that  ;)

http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=83861 (http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=83861)

http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=81299 (http://socalskateshop.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=81299)
[close]
Crailtap wood is what is keeping me from ever buying one. if Real, Baker, Isle can spend the money to make quality decks what's stopping Rickk and Mike?

The Welcome Atheme shape is PS Stix 8.8 with a 14" WB and pretty similar to the Crail Big Boy (Jr.) with just slightly shorter nose and tail.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: j....soy..... on January 11, 2018, 10:48:42 PM
Crail wood is apparently better now...I'm gonna assume crail has a few more expenses than those smaller brands.....
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: micky682 on January 12, 2018, 05:47:53 AM
Crail wood is apparently better now...I'm gonna assume crail has a few more expenses than those smaller brands.....
Supposedly it is still Chinese wood. I'd like to think that a company like Baker or Krooked has similar expenses to Crailtap and they still sell generator/bbs decks.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Beeker on January 12, 2018, 08:14:46 AM
I really hope the new one-offs are the old wood because I set up my Brenes Big Boy "bialetti" (which seems like it has a different type of glossy top finish than normal) just to do ollies in my basement while the weather is bad and it already has pressure cracks on the bolts and a pressure crack on the curve of the tail. Maybe it's the weather, but it was indoors for a couple weeks before I set it up. The one I'm skating now is from like a year ago and has lasted fine.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Lonechicken on January 12, 2018, 08:40:45 AM
Crail wood is apparently better now...I'm gonna assume crail has a few more expenses than those smaller brands.....

I'm riding a Chocolate right now and it's perfectly fine.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Horsemeat on January 12, 2018, 12:46:03 PM
Anyone know of any 8.25 boards with 14" wheelbase?

I've only seen chocolate boards but I don't want shitty wood for a good wheelbase.

People that have tried a bunch of different wheelbases, would the differences between 14.25, 14.125, and 14 actually matter? I don't want to spazz out but if it makes a difference I'll try it. I'm 5' 7" if that matters.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Roisto on January 12, 2018, 01:12:08 PM
Anyone know of any 8.25 boards with 14" wheelbase?

I've only seen chocolate boards but I don't want shitty wood for a good wheelbase.

People that have tried a bunch of different wheelbases, would the differences between 14.25, 14.125, and 14 actually matter? I don't want to spazz out but if it makes a difference I'll try it. I'm 5' 7" if that matters.

0.25" makes a significant difference IMO. 14" feels way too short for me, 14.25" doable, but still short and 14.5" feels alright. Haven't tested longer wheelbases properly cuz they're not that easy to come by without sizing up a whole bunch in width.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rob on January 12, 2018, 06:34:36 PM
Crail wood is apparently better now...I'm gonna assume crail has a few more expenses than those smaller brands.....

How so better? I been wanting to try another crail but hmmm....


Anyone know of any 8.25 boards with 14" wheelbase?

I've only seen chocolate boards but I don't want shitty wood for a good wheelbase.

People that have tried a bunch of different wheelbases, would the differences between 14.25, 14.125, and 14 actually matter? I don't want to spazz out but if it makes a difference I'll try it. I'm 5' 7" if that matters.

Primitive
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Horsemeat on January 13, 2018, 01:27:02 PM
Damn so chocolate and primitive are my dudes  :'(
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: spanyard on January 14, 2018, 06:53:08 AM
Damn so chocolate and primitive are my dudes  :'(

Looks like FA/Hockey have mostly 14" WB on their 8-8.25s.  I just got a wknd that measures 8.25 and 14 WB.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Krooked antihero on January 14, 2018, 09:13:09 AM
Anyone know of any 8.25 boards with 14" wheelbase?

I've only seen chocolate boards but I don't want shitty wood for a good wheelbase.

People that have tried a bunch of different wheelbases, would the differences between 14.25, 14.125, and 14 actually matter? I don't want to spazz out but if it makes a difference I'll try it. I'm 5' 7" if that matters.
I just got Doom Sayers 8.28x32 with 14 wheelbase.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rob on January 14, 2018, 11:17:58 AM
Wheelbase matters definitely!

Just got done with my krooked 8.06 that had a 14.25 or 14.38 wb and went to a flip 8.13 with 14.12 wb and it definitely feels better pop wise, less drag and more response

I guess like Ben degros I’m just gonna have to swap trucks depending on deck Cause that krooked was cool but it did feel long and had a lot of drag moments but felt a little better when I had Indy’s on instead of thunders
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Gray Imp Sausage Metal on January 14, 2018, 05:12:15 PM
Damn so chocolate and primitive are my dudes  :'(
northern co. too no?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rob on January 14, 2018, 05:33:21 PM
Probably spamming or double posting or whatever but guys guy guys!

I haven’t felt a pop and response with such crispyness in a deck like this since my 7.8 days and it’s cause damn, this shorter flip deck is wayyyyyyyyyyy better than my krooked

I can do everything I use to and more, the krooked had its moments or lots with being too long feeling and I had to really try for certain tricks or just casual speedy pop up curbs and such

Basically a wheelbase that works with our height or whatever(me being 5’8) this shorter wheelbase responds and pops wayyyyyyyy better
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: JusticeAbberdash on January 14, 2018, 06:02:23 PM
Probably spamming or double posting or whatever but guys guy guys!

I haven’t felt a pop and response with such crispyness in a deck like this since my 7.8 days and it’s cause damn, this shorter flip deck is wayyyyyyyyyyy better than my krooked

I can do everything I use to and more, the krooked had its moments or lots with being too long feeling and I had to really try for certain tricks or just casual speedy pop up curbs and such

Basically a wheelbase that works with our height or whatever(me being 5’8) this shorter wheelbase responds and pops wayyyyyyyy better

I'm 6'1 with size 12 feet and I love the feel of 7.78-7.8 decks! They feel like they're a part of your feet, as apposed to riding on top of something.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rob on January 14, 2018, 06:05:19 PM
Expand Quote
Probably spamming or double posting or whatever but guys guy guys!

I haven’t felt a pop and response with such crispyness in a deck like this since my 7.8 days and it’s cause damn, this shorter flip deck is wayyyyyyyyyyy better than my krooked

I can do everything I use to and more, the krooked had its moments or lots with being too long feeling and I had to really try for certain tricks or just casual speedy pop up curbs and such

Basically a wheelbase that works with our height or whatever(me being 5’8) this shorter wheelbase responds and pops wayyyyyyyy better
[close]

I'm 6'1 with size 12 feet and I love the feel of 7.78-7.8 decks! They feel like they're a part of your feet, as apposed to riding on top of something.

Damn a 7.8 to you is probably like a zip zinger nano to me
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: VHS ERA on January 14, 2018, 06:13:35 PM
Never thought about wheelbase is my life. I wonder if I’m fuckin up
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: JusticeAbberdash on January 14, 2018, 06:16:27 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Probably spamming or double posting or whatever but guys guy guys!

I haven’t felt a pop and response with such crispyness in a deck like this since my 7.8 days and it’s cause damn, this shorter flip deck is wayyyyyyyyyyy better than my krooked

I can do everything I use to and more, the krooked had its moments or lots with being too long feeling and I had to really try for certain tricks or just casual speedy pop up curbs and such

Basically a wheelbase that works with our height or whatever(me being 5’8) this shorter wheelbase responds and pops wayyyyyyyy better
[close]

I'm 6'1 with size 12 feet and I love the feel of 7.78-7.8 decks! They feel like they're a part of your feet, as apposed to riding on top of something.
[close]

Damn a 7.8 to you is probably like a zip zinger nano to me

Its fun but doesn't feel safe for anything with consequences lol
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: the snake on January 14, 2018, 09:24:36 PM
Expand Quote
Anyone know of any 8.25 boards with 14" wheelbase?

I've only seen chocolate boards but I don't want shitty wood for a good wheelbase.

People that have tried a bunch of different wheelbases, would the differences between 14.25, 14.125, and 14 actually matter? I don't want to spazz out but if it makes a difference I'll try it. I'm 5' 7" if that matters.
[close]

0.25" makes a significant difference IMO. 14" feels way too short for me, 14.25" doable, but still short and 14.5" feels alright. Haven't tested longer wheelbases properly cuz they're not that easy to come by without sizing up a whole bunch in width.
came from a 14.5 to a 14.25, and I feel the difference, more response but a lil too short to be comfortable with (only 3 sessions now), 14.5 felt good since the beginning, always had 14.38 before that
crazy how 4mm can change everything 
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Krooked antihero on January 15, 2018, 05:47:47 AM
Went from 14.75" down to 14" (14.75-14.38-14.25-14)and I can tell you that wheelbase makes difference, my flip game is on point with this 14"wb but my transition game is suffering. Long wheelbase for tranny and short for street is my choice.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: dstrytruitt on January 16, 2018, 11:57:48 AM
Long wheelbase for tranny and short for street is my choice.

This.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Xen on January 16, 2018, 01:17:19 PM
Went from 14.75" down to 14" (14.75-14.38-14.25-14)and I can tell you that wheelbase makes difference, my flip game is on point with this 14"wb but my transition game is suffering. Long wheelbase for tranny and short for street is my choice.

Yup.

That's why I try and stick with 14.3x right in the middle...tho narrow boards with long WBs feel weird, just long wide decks with short ones.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: full of jerks on January 17, 2018, 05:41:06 PM
When you calculate the moment of inertia of something, like a skateboard pivoting about its rear axle, the effect of the bits is a function of their radius from the pivot point raised to the fourth power (i.e. x^4).  That is big.

If you are swapping parts around and trying to analytically determine which has the biggest effect you might want to look at the amount of angular rotation the board has to go through before the tail hits the ground.  This is like agonizing over the height of the board with 56 mm and a riser vs. 54 mm no riser and shit like that.  When you make those typed of changes you might see 3 degrees of difference on a value of about 35 degrees or so.

Run the numbers on these two factors and you can "prove" that the wheelbase makes a much bigger difference than the other thing.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rob on January 17, 2018, 06:38:16 PM
When you calculate the moment of inertia of something, like a skateboard pivoting about its rear axle, the effect of the bits is a function of their radius from the pivot point raised to the fourth power (i.e. x^4).  That is big.

If you are swapping parts around and trying to analytically determine which has the biggest effect you might want to look at the amount of angular rotation the board has to go through before the tail hits the ground.  This is like agonizing over the height of the board with 56 mm and a riser vs. 54 mm no riser and shit like that.  When you make those typed of changes you might see 3 degrees of difference on a value of about 35 degrees or so.

Run the numbers on these two factors and you can "prove" that the wheelbase makes a much bigger difference than the other thing.

If your saying wheel base matters more than the height of trucks I would say that’s true, cause even when I swapped over to the flip with a smaller wheelbase and used the old krooked to see if my Indy low would help get what’s left out of the krooked the long wheel base still feels off even with these super low quick pop Indy lows

This kinda turns me off of deluxe stuff cause idk, I like it a lot when my board actually responds the way I want with a shorter wheelbase
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Sedition on January 18, 2018, 01:40:46 AM
I usually ride the 32" 8.25" Deluxe shape which has a 14.38" wheel base (Indys, & I'm 5'11"). I recently tried the 31.8" 8.28" shape with a 14.1" wheel base. Wow. What a difference. Flip tricks were flying all over the place. But on any trick where my feet did not leave the board (anything from a ollie to 50/50, to gap ollies, 360 ollies, etc.), every time I landed, my front foot was waaay too far forward over the nose--to the point where I ended up nose manualing out of some tricks. Conversely, on tranny, if I ride anything over 32.5" with over a 14.5" wheels base, I feel like my stance is waaay to wide, esp. on type of nose stall / nose slide, etc. type tricks. Stability on everything else, however, feels totally on point. Moral:#wheelbaselivesmatter   
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rob on January 18, 2018, 10:09:17 AM
I usually ride the 32" 8.25" Deluxe shape which has a 14.38" wheel base (Indys, & I'm 5'11"). I recently tried the 31.8" 8.28" shape with a 14.1" wheel base. Wow. What a difference. Flip tricks were flying all over the place. But on any trick where my feet did not leave the board (anything from a ollie to 50/50, to gap ollies, 360 ollies, etc.), every time I landed, my front foot was waaay too far forward over the nose--to the point where I ended up nose manualing out of some tricks. Conversely, on tranny, if I ride anything over 32.5" with over a 14.5" wheels base, I feel like my stance is waaay to wide, esp. on type of nose stall / nose slide, etc. type tricks. Stability on everything else, however, feels totally on point. Moral:#wheelbaselivesmatter   

I’m sad, all my deluxe boards(1real and 2 krooked all 8.06) with a freaking 14.38 wb

Why???  Why deluxe why
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: the snake on January 18, 2018, 11:22:13 AM
I’m sad, all my deluxe boards(1real and 2 krooked all 8.06) with a freaking 14.38 wb

Why???  Why deluxe why
probably some fucked up 8.25s they slimmed down to 8 ^^
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Sedition on January 18, 2018, 12:22:18 PM
Expand Quote
I usually ride the 32" 8.25" Deluxe shape which has a 14.38" wheel base (Indys, & I'm 5'11"). I recently tried the 31.8" 8.28" shape with a 14.1" wheel base. Wow. What a difference. Flip tricks were flying all over the place. But on any trick where my feet did not leave the board (anything from a ollie to 50/50, to gap ollies, 360 ollies, etc.), every time I landed, my front foot was waaay too far forward over the nose--to the point where I ended up nose manualing out of some tricks. Conversely, on tranny, if I ride anything over 32.5" with over a 14.5" wheels base, I feel like my stance is waaay to wide, esp. on type of nose stall / nose slide, etc. type tricks. Stability on everything else, however, feels totally on point. Moral:#wheelbaselivesmatter   
[close]

I’m sad, all my deluxe boards(1real and 2 krooked all 8.06) with a freaking 14.38 wb

Why???  Why deluxe why

They do make 14.1 and 14.25 wheel bases...
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rob on January 18, 2018, 07:04:05 PM
Expand Quote
I’m sad, all my deluxe boards(1real and 2 krooked all 8.06) with a freaking 14.38 wb

Why???  Why deluxe why
[close]
probably some fucked up 8.25s they slimmed down to 8 ^^

I hope so snake, I hope so
Cause then I’ll just power through it...with one of them and see how it goes and if it’s bad I’m gonna have to sell the other one

I don’t get the fondness of a longer wheel base on a narrow size. It makes sense on anything 8.25 and up but anything lower seems non sense

Expand Quote
Expand Quote
I usually ride the 32" 8.25" Deluxe shape which has a 14.38" wheel base (Indys, & I'm 5'11"). I recently tried the 31.8" 8.28" shape with a 14.1" wheel base. Wow. What a difference. Flip tricks were flying all over the place. But on any trick where my feet did not leave the board (anything from a ollie to 50/50, to gap ollies, 360 ollies, etc.), every time I landed, my front foot was waaay too far forward over the nose--to the point where I ended up nose manualing out of some tricks. Conversely, on tranny, if I ride anything over 32.5" with over a 14.5" wheels base, I feel like my stance is waaay to wide, esp. on type of nose stall / nose slide, etc. type tricks. Stability on everything else, however, feels totally on point. Moral:#wheelbaselivesmatter   
[close]

I’m sad, all my deluxe boards(1real and 2 krooked all 8.06) with a freaking 14.38 wb

Why???  Why deluxe why
[close]

They do make 14.1 and 14.25 wheel bases...

They do but I already have these decks/purchased them and have them on hold until I run through my current deck

The only possible thing is to probably see if the shop would let me exchange the same size for a smaller wheelbase but then they’ll think I’m a kook

So far though this flip is amazing, 14.1 with thunders too and it responds so well
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: theloniousmonk on January 18, 2018, 08:39:21 PM
I redrilled and reshaped a board last weekend thanks to this thread. It was a 15” wheelbase clutch distribution deck, one of the skate warehouse fast white decks that they were selling for $20. It is supposed to be a mellow shape, but that thing was just long and massive. Somebody would like that shape, but I was down to redrill it to a 14.25” wheelbase.

I used an Indy 6 hole baseplate, and mounted the extra (old school) holes on the 2 mounting holes nearest the nose. That shortened the wheelbase by 3/8”.then I did the tail awe well, for a total reduction of 3/4”. I did the nose and tail both so that I’d get more of f the flat space between the trucks and where the tail/nose curve up. Then, I did my best to trace and cut the baker b16 nose and tail onto the new wheelbase dimensions. I never really noticed that I really like a pointy nose and tail until I rode a b16, and now this deck skates so much better, it was a pretty massive full cut, and now it’s almost like a football shape. Anyway it was fun getting weird and I might do the same with a 9” creature this weekend.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: JusticeAbberdash on January 19, 2018, 03:37:57 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
I’m sad, all my deluxe boards(1real and 2 krooked all 8.06) with a freaking 14.38 wb

Why???  Why deluxe why
[close]
probably some fucked up 8.25s they slimmed down to 8 ^^
[close]

I hope so snake, I hope so
Cause then I’ll just power through it...with one of them and see how it goes and if it’s bad I’m gonna have to sell the other one

I don’t get the fondness of a longer wheel base on a narrow size. It makes sense on anything 8.25 and up but anything lower seems non sense

Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
I usually ride the 32" 8.25" Deluxe shape which has a 14.38" wheel base (Indys, & I'm 5'11"). I recently tried the 31.8" 8.28" shape with a 14.1" wheel base. Wow. What a difference. Flip tricks were flying all over the place. But on any trick where my feet did not leave the board (anything from a ollie to 50/50, to gap ollies, 360 ollies, etc.), every time I landed, my front foot was waaay too far forward over the nose--to the point where I ended up nose manualing out of some tricks. Conversely, on tranny, if I ride anything over 32.5" with over a 14.5" wheels base, I feel like my stance is waaay to wide, esp. on type of nose stall / nose slide, etc. type tricks. Stability on everything else, however, feels totally on point. Moral:#wheelbaselivesmatter   
[close]

I’m sad, all my deluxe boards(1real and 2 krooked all 8.06) with a freaking 14.38 wb

Why???  Why deluxe why
[close]

They do make 14.1 and 14.25 wheel bases...
[close]

They do but I already have these decks/purchased them and have them on hold until I run through my current deck

The only possible thing is to probably see if the shop would let me exchange the same size for a smaller wheelbase but then they’ll think I’m a kook

So far though this flip is amazing, 14.1 with thunders too and it responds so well

To be fair, that does seem like classic-old school kook behaviour.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Eds_gallerist on March 23, 2018, 05:53:32 AM
Does anyone know the dimensions including wheelbase of Sour boards in 8.25?  They should be manufactured by HLC for the euro market. Any comments are appreciated.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Roisto on March 23, 2018, 06:17:32 AM
Does anyone know the dimensions including wheelbase of Sour boards in 8.25?  They should be manufactured by HLC for the euro market. Any comments are appreciated.

https://www.tactics.com/sour-skateboards/foil-825-skateboard-deck/blue-stain

14.25" on Tactics. Dunno if Sour does different boards for Euro and Yankland though.

Titus has that same board with a 31.875" length, while the one on Tactics is listed as 31.75".
https://www.titus-shop.com/en_GB/product/119325-Sour-Skateboards-Sour-Foil-Deck-blue.html

Could be a typo, could be different. Who knows. All I know is that I refuse to buy boards I don't know the wheelbase of. I think all brands and shops should list all the dimensions, but that's sadly not the case.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: oneOone on March 23, 2018, 06:23:07 AM
Had the first run of Sour 8,1 (Bareback) and then a HLC one, different graphic but also 8,1. The shape was completely different and shit, was the first run they did with HLC.

Had a HLC Habitat and compared it to the same PS Stix one, the shape was a little bit different but the WB the same.

Why not write a mail to Sour?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Eds_gallerist on March 23, 2018, 06:25:04 AM
Thanks. I kind of did the same research and got annoyed by the different dimensions given online for the same product. And yeah, all brands should forward the info to the shops to list them. I will def buy at my local but want to get the specs beforehand.

Edit: thanks oneOone.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Dad you're embarrassing me on March 24, 2018, 04:25:51 AM
I had found my happy place with a ps popsicle 8.5 / 14.25 on thunders. Now I’ve swapped to ace the wb is too short, moving up to a 14.5.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: ChuckRamone on June 25, 2018, 11:07:42 PM
been skating 14.25” wb for the last couple years. I noticed a lot of polar are 14.125”. would that be noticeable? I wanna try one of their decks. maybe it could be good. I mostly skate flat and ledges/curbs.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: baustin on June 26, 2018, 06:54:57 AM
been skating 14.25” wb for the last couple years. I noticed a lot of polar are 14.125”. would that be noticeable? I wanna try one of their decks. maybe it could be good. I mostly skate flat and ledges/curbs.

I think you'd be alright. I usually skate 14" but I can go up to 14.125" and not get thrown off. Polar boards have always treated me well too.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ziad on October 23, 2018, 04:45:19 PM
This thread is fucking me up I'm 5'9, skinny, shoe size 10 and I ride Tensor 6.0 reg my next board is going to be either a Real Low Pro 8.43 with a 14.75 wheelbase or a habitat 8.5 with a 14.25 wheelbase which is better and how are tensors going to affect the wheelbase on either one? please if anyone can help me out
Measure wheelbase with trucks, where do I put the measuring tape? bolts? kingpin? and what measures do I know it's too much or too little or just right?
This bothered me before and after reading this thread I must choose the best wheelbase lol please help, thank you.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Smartass on October 23, 2018, 07:20:21 PM
This thread is fucking me up I'm 5'9, skinny, shoe size 10 and I ride Tensor 6.0 reg my next board is going to be either a Real Low Pro 8.43 with a 14.75 wheelbase or a habitat 8.5 with a 14.25 wheelbase which is better and how are tensors going to affect the wheelbase on either one? please if anyone can help me out
Measure wheelbase with trucks, where do I put the measuring tape? bolts? kingpin? and what measures do I know it's too much or too little or just right?
This bothered me before and after reading this thread I must choose the best wheelbase lol please help, thank you.

Which Tensors are you using? If you're using the new ATG ones they should shorten the wheel base.

From my experience:
Shorter wheelbase = quicker pop, less effort, tends to feel less stable, normally smaller deck length
Longer wheelbase = more stable pop, more effort to pop, easier to float, nice and stable for grinds, tends to have longer deck length

The point where you'd be measuring with the trucks are on is the center of the axel to the center axel on the other truck.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: cosmicgypsies on October 24, 2018, 04:05:20 AM
This thread is fucking me up I'm 5'9, skinny, shoe size 10 and I ride Tensor 6.0 reg my next board is going to be either a Real Low Pro 8.43 with a 14.75 wheelbase or a habitat 8.5 with a 14.25 wheelbase which is better and how are tensors going to affect the wheelbase on either one? please if anyone can help me out
Measure wheelbase with trucks, where do I put the measuring tape? bolts? kingpin? and what measures do I know it's too much or too little or just right?
This bothered me before and after reading this thread I must choose the best wheelbase lol please help, thank you.

just skate
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: saltusnaut on October 24, 2018, 04:07:34 AM
Expand Quote
please if anyone can help me out
Measure wheelbase with trucks, where do I put the measuring tape? bolts? kingpin?
[close]


The point where you'd be measuring with the trucks are on is the center of the axel to the center axel on the other truck.

Yes that would give you the "true" wheelbase but don't get that confused with what's listed as a boards wheelbase.
Seems like deck brands list the length between the inner truck mounting holes as wheelbase.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ziad on October 24, 2018, 04:38:15 AM
Expand Quote
This thread is fucking me up I'm 5'9, skinny, shoe size 10 and I ride Tensor 6.0 reg my next board is going to be either a Real Low Pro 8.43 with a 14.75 wheelbase or a habitat 8.5 with a 14.25 wheelbase which is better and how are tensors going to affect the wheelbase on either one? please if anyone can help me out
Measure wheelbase with trucks, where do I put the measuring tape? bolts? kingpin? and what measures do I know it's too much or too little or just right?
This bothered me before and after reading this thread I must choose the best wheelbase lol please help, thank you.
[close]

Which Tensors are you using? If you're using the new ATG ones they should shorten the wheel base.

From my experience:
Shorter wheelbase = quicker pop, less effort, tends to feel less stable, normally smaller deck length
Longer wheelbase = more stable pop, more effort to pop, easier to float, nice and stable for grinds, tends to have longer deck length

The point where you'd be measuring with the trucks are on is the center of the axel to the center axel on the other truck.

Thanks a lot man, I really appreciate it. The Tensors I'm riding are the REG Aluminium 6.0 clear black trucks  :)
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Gray Imp Sausage Metal on October 24, 2018, 06:28:19 AM
14.75 wheelbase is fucked if you aren’t used to it, fun to cruise round on but not for street skating (unless you’re pro for welcome)
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Smartass on October 24, 2018, 07:43:02 AM
14.75 wheelbase is fucked if you aren’t used to it, fun to cruise round on but not for street skating (unless you’re pro for welcome)

As someone who is skating a 14.81, this is very true. You get used to it after a while, but those first few sessions will have you questioning all of your life's decisions.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Gray Imp Sausage Metal on October 24, 2018, 06:22:33 PM
Expand Quote
14.75 wheelbase is fucked if you aren’t used to it, fun to cruise round on but not for street skating (unless you’re pro for welcome)
[close]

As someone who is skating a 14.81, this is very true. You get used to it after a while, but those first few sessions will have you questioning all of your life's decisions.
yeah, film your first ollie on a 14.75 for me please, I don't even think I landed mine...
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: givecigstosurfgroms on October 26, 2018, 03:45:18 PM
 I got a custom popsical stick with 15.75.   I'm porportionally like a short person skating a regular wheel base I feel. 
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: tzhangdox on October 26, 2018, 11:01:37 PM
14.75 wheelbase is fucked if you aren’t used to it, fun to cruise round on but not for street skating (unless you’re pro for welcome)

The only good thing they are good for streetwise is tricks that are prone to over rotation (fakie tres etc) coz the board is so bloody long takes so much effort to spin. But very comfortable to ride on and just feels safe and solid to do tricks on even though its harder usually.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Esmith5488 on November 25, 2018, 06:37:10 AM
Currently thinking about going from my 8.3 scumco with a 14 inch wb to a roger with a 14.5 which I know is a bad idea but I’m kinda itching to get back on a roger. I’m 5’7” for reference. Am I going to hate myself?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ziad on November 25, 2018, 08:42:26 AM
https://scontent-cai1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/44800702_10156078935647893_4722217147818835968_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&_nc_ht=scontent-cai1-1.xx&oh=c3db1ece3bc9baaf7f526b4650ebdff4&oe=5C6B6534
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Hash Slinging Slasher on November 25, 2018, 09:16:38 AM
just wanna chip in and say 14.375 wb with ventures is a dream. maybe i'm crazy or maybe you should try it.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Sedition on November 25, 2018, 09:26:11 AM
Am I going to hate myself?
Yes.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Esmith5488 on November 25, 2018, 09:32:05 AM
just wanna chip in and say 14.375 wb with ventures is a dream. maybe i'm crazy or maybe you should try it.
Currently on indys but I was kinda eyeing some ventures awhile ago
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Esmith5488 on November 25, 2018, 09:33:39 AM
Anyone know how much exactly independents shorten up the feel of the wheelbase ?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Sedition on November 25, 2018, 09:52:46 AM
Anyone know how much exactly independents shorten up the feel of the wheelbase ?
That is a relative question. If compare to Thunders, Indys are about .25 shorter. Compared to Aces, Indys have a longer wheelbase.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: nosneb on November 25, 2018, 10:06:29 AM
Ventures with 14.25-375 wheelbase is perfect for me. Im 5ft9 inches size us 9 shoes
Going from 14 in to 14.5 you willl feel a difference maybe you might like it?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Arto Saari on November 25, 2018, 10:08:53 AM
Didnt really know or care what wheelbase was until I got my current board. Habitat, 8.125 x 32 with 14.25 wheelbase. I have given up on kickflips. I never fucking pop the board so they rocket like crazy. Its a safety hazard at this point. All other tricks are fine.. Never experienced this in my almost 20 years of skating

I recently switched to venture trucks. Do they lengthen or shorten wheel base?

For reference im 5'6 and wear size 7 shoes :o
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: hey pickle on November 25, 2018, 11:59:33 AM
Didnt really know or care what wheelbase was until I got my current board. Habitat, 8.125 x 32 with 14.25 wheelbase. I have given up on kickflips. I never fucking pop the board so they rocket like crazy. Its a safety hazard at this point. All other tricks are fine.. Never experienced this in my almost 20 years of skating

I recently switched to venture trucks. Do they lengthen or shorten wheel base?

For reference im 5'6 and wear size 7 shoes :o

14.25 is the 8.25 of wheelbases. and venture lengthen your wheelbase, either the same
amount or incredibly close to how thunders do
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Sedition on November 25, 2018, 12:54:59 PM
I recently switched to venture trucks. Do they lengthen or shorten wheel base?

Asking what impact "Truck X" has on wheelbase, alone, is an unanswerable: it is only relative to other trucks. To answer this question you also have to indicate what trucks you switch from

Also, I am 5'10 with a size 10 foot. I ride an 8.25 deluxe with 14.38 wheelbase and Indys. I find that when I ride 14.25 wheelbase that my stance feels really cramped. If do something like an ollie to 50/50 grind, my front foot always ends up a bit too far up the the nose. Also, when doing ollies, it feel like I cannot fully tap the power of the pop (like trying to swing a baseball bat with your hands really far up the bat). This often seem to rocket my kickflips because it feels like my front foot does not have enough time to fully tap the ollie mechanics before front foot is in the pocket of those nose starting the kickflip. I do not have this problem (as much) on 14.38wb.  Moreover, all of these problems seem worse when on 14.1 or 14wb.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Arto Saari on November 25, 2018, 02:59:18 PM
Expand Quote
I recently switched to venture trucks. Do they lengthen or shorten wheel base?
[close]

Asking what impact "Truck X" has on wheelbase, alone, is an unanswerable: it is only relative to other trucks. To answer this question you also have to indicate what trucks you switch from

I rode ace trucks before the ventures. I would love to go back to ace, but the axel slip was insane so Im hesitant..
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: palelight on November 25, 2018, 03:55:49 PM
If your deck has the same wheelbase, going from Ace to Venture is the biggest increase in wheelbase you can make. To the order of like 5/8ths of an inch. That's going to take some getting used to for sure.

Quick reference (so long as you have the same deck wheelbase), shortest WB to longest: Ace/Theeve > Indy > Thunder > Venture. Having forged/cast plates can skew the numbers a bit either way, but more or less the same.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: emchen on November 26, 2018, 09:23:25 AM
I've noticed lots of DLX boards have huge wheelbases. Does this mean the entire REAL team is like, really strong?

I've only ridden 14" wb boards and I still whiff fakie tricks all the time and I'm 5'11". Makes me think I won't even be able to ollie on a 14.38" wb.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Roisto on November 26, 2018, 11:04:28 AM
I've noticed lots of DLX boards have huge wheelbases. Does this mean the entire REAL team is like, really strong?

I've only ridden 14" wb boards and I still whiff fakie tricks all the time and I'm 5'11". Makes me think I won't even be able to ollie on a 14.38" wb.

I don't think the wheelbase makes that much of a difference with the pop. I had a board with a 14" wheelbase and I ghost popped a lot more with it than a deck with 14.25" wheelbase that I had before. The 14" was just way too uncomfortable for me. There's much more to it than just wheelbase. Tail & nose lengths and angles, amount of flat before the bend of both and wheelbase. I feel way more comfortable popping properly on 14.5" than I do on 14" or 14.25" and thus get much better pop with those. 14.75" works too as does 15" but those I do notice requiring a bit more force to pop. Still, even with 14.5" there can be massive differences between boards.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Xen on November 26, 2018, 11:05:21 AM
Expand Quote
I recently switched to venture trucks. Do they lengthen or shorten wheel base?
[close]

Asking what impact "Truck X" has on wheelbase, alone, is an unanswerable: it is only relative to other trucks. To answer this question you also have to indicate what trucks you switch from

Also, I am 5'10 with a size 10 foot. I ride an 8.25 deluxe with 14.38 wheelbase and Indys. I find that when I ride 14.25 wheelbase that my stance feels really cramps. If do something like an ollie to 50/50 grind, my front foot always ends up a bit too far up the the nose. Also, when doing ollies, it feel like I cannot fully tap the power of the pop (like trying to swing a baseball bat with your hands really far up the bat). This often seem to rocket my kickflips because it feels like my front foot does not have enough time to fully tap the ollie mechanics before front foot is in the pocket of those nose starting the kickflip. I do not have this problem (as much) on 14.38wb.  Moreover, all of these problems seem worse when on 14.1 or 14wb.

Skatesynergy brosef.

I'm 5'10", US10, prefer 8.25" with that 14.3x WB (Indy/ACE/Theeve); anything smaller and I feel exactly like what you listed, I can get used to 14.25 with thunders but it still feels off.

It fucks up my ollies like you mentioned and skating tranny my front foot needs to be a bit into the front pocket, well over bolts.

What's worse? A 14.5" changes it the other way....we're talking fractions of a fucking inch, but I can feel it.

But you know why I want that damn 14.38 wb on a 8.25 full ;)
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Fredonskateboard on November 26, 2018, 12:43:32 PM
Wheelbase is one thing. There can also be a slight flatspot between the bolts and where the tail/nose actually starts to curve/go up. I cant skate DLX boards with indy,s cause I just feel like I dont get the same leverage as with thunders. Which is exactly what happens anyway, with indys giving a shorter wheelbase.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Sedition on November 26, 2018, 03:56:17 PM
Skatesynergy brosef.

I'm 5'10", US10, prefer 8.25" with that 14.3x WB (Indy/ACE/Theeve); anything smaller and I feel exactly like what you listed, I can get used to 14.25 with thunders but it still feels off.

It fucks up my ollies like you mentioned and skating tranny my front foot needs to be a bit into the front pocket, well over bolts.

What's worse? A 14.5" changes it the other way....we're talking fractions of a fucking inch, but I can feel it.

But you know why I want that damn 14.38 wb on a 8.25 full ;)

100%, esp. on tranny! If I have a 14.25 or smaller, it ALWAYS feels like I am about to nose wheelie or something because my foot is too far forward (and if you lift those back wheels at all on tranny, you're going to wreck hard). Likewise, if I have 14.5, everything starts feeling really sluggish, esp on any type of 1/2 cab type trick (e.g. half-cab to railslide, half-cab to feeble to fakie, etc.). It's crazy how it's such a small difference in WB, but it seems to have really substantial difference in board feel/performance. The 14.38 feels just perfect to me. (I' ride an 8.5 FULL with a 14.6WB on full-size ramps/bowls, however). 

Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Willie on September 27, 2019, 06:35:13 AM
So I randomly resurrected one of the myriad wheelbase threads for this question but I wanted to see if anyone knows if anybody is selling longer wheelbase decks with 8" width?

I really like the DLX 8.06 Full but I don't see them often. Something close to or just under 14.5" that I can ride on 8" trucks.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Mr. Stinky on September 27, 2019, 10:21:15 AM
So I randomly resurrected one of the myriad wheelbase threads for this question but I wanted to see if anyone knows if anybody is selling longer wheelbase decks with 8" width?

I really like the DLX 8.06 Full but I don't see them often. Something close to or just under 14.5" that I can ride on 8" trucks.

Never tried one, but I heard somewhere Madness usually has shapes with crazy long wheelbases, maybe check them out. 
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: chappers on September 27, 2019, 12:30:26 PM
hockey has an 8.18 with an 14.8 wheelbase
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ok on September 27, 2019, 01:30:29 PM
hockey has an 8.18 with an 14.8 wheelbase

917 has some long ones listed as well. 8.18x14.8 I just assumed that was misprint.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Idk on September 27, 2019, 02:04:56 PM
Expand Quote
hockey has an 8.18 with an 14.8 wheelbase
[close]

917 has some long ones listed as well. 8.18x14.8 I just assumed that was misprint.
Is it? Asking for a friend.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: spanyard on September 27, 2019, 03:40:56 PM
The recent FA/HOCKEY release with the listed 14.81 wb: it's a misprint. Supposed to say 14.18. verified by the boys at familia skate shop.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: hillbilly shifty on September 27, 2019, 04:15:32 PM
is there a standard on how companies measure WB?
i would measure on center. but by doing that, not a lot of decks match their stated wheelbase
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ok on September 27, 2019, 10:11:03 PM
The recent FA/HOCKEY release with the listed 14.81 wb: it's a misprint. Supposed to say 14.18. verified by the boys at familia skate shop.


Seems much more in line with their regular dimensions. Anyone know off top what the....baseplate adds to the total length? The companies that i want to checkout, don’t have those measurements up (wb, length, aaaaand width). Deluxe is the best, but they boards are usually too long for me. I’ll ride anything, but have the most fun from around 7.8 to 8.25. The bigger the board the shorter the wb needs to be tho. I think. But I could be convinced otherwise. Because I’m pathetic in that any promise of a day with easy 3flips aaaaaand kickflips is slipping away
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: j....soy..... on September 27, 2019, 10:25:24 PM
I haven't found a company which uses generator/BBS that runs regularly wheelbases less than 14.25. You're lucky if you even get 14.25.....I think DLX may run a board or two but yes, commonly long wheelbase.  This is one of the few reasons to skate crail or even dwindle, better dimensions.  I still suck it up and skate generator boards. 
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Krooked antihero on September 28, 2019, 01:13:50 AM
I haven't found a company which uses generator/BBS that runs regularly wheelbases less than 14.25. You're lucky if you even get 14.25.....I think DLX may run a board or two but yes, commonly long wheelbase.  This is one of the few reasons to skate crail or even dwindle, better dimensions.  I still suck it up and skate generator boards.
I feel you, would love to skate bbs boards but I feel like even 14.25 is too long for me nowadays, 14” wb ftw!
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: FrozenIndustries on September 28, 2019, 06:12:41 AM
Expand Quote
I haven't found a company which uses generator/BBS that runs regularly wheelbases less than 14.25. You're lucky if you even get 14.25.....I think DLX may run a board or two but yes, commonly long wheelbase.  This is one of the few reasons to skate crail or even dwindle, better dimensions.  I still suck it up and skate generator boards.
[close]
I feel you, would love to skate bbs boards but I feel like even 14.25 is too long for me nowadays, 14” wb ftw!

AWS uses BBS and has some shorter WBs. Their 8.5 shape has 14.125, and they've definitely had some with a 14.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ok on September 28, 2019, 07:06:38 AM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
I haven't found a company which uses generator/BBS that runs regularly wheelbases less than 14.25. You're lucky if you even get 14.25.....I think DLX may run a board or two but yes, commonly long wheelbase.  This is one of the few reasons to skate crail or even dwindle, better dimensions.  I still suck it up and skate generator boards.
[close]
I feel you, would love to skate bbs boards but I feel like even 14.25 is too long for me nowadays, 14” wb ftw!
[close]

AWS uses BBS and has some shorter WBs. Their 8.5 shape has 14.125, and they've definitely had some with a 14.

Good call FI.
14.25 means only Indy’s for me. Dunno why. And it’s still not ideal.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: FrozenIndustries on September 28, 2019, 07:22:08 AM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
I haven't found a company which uses generator/BBS that runs regularly wheelbases less than 14.25. You're lucky if you even get 14.25.....I think DLX may run a board or two but yes, commonly long wheelbase.  This is one of the few reasons to skate crail or even dwindle, better dimensions.  I still suck it up and skate generator boards.
[close]
I feel you, would love to skate bbs boards but I feel like even 14.25 is too long for me nowadays, 14” wb ftw!
[close]

AWS uses BBS and has some shorter WBs. Their 8.5 shape has 14.125, and they've definitely had some with a 14.
[close]

Good call FI.
14.25 means only Indy’s for me. Dunno why. And it’s still not ideal.

See, I'm super tall and always used to insist more WB is better. Now I like 14.38-14.75 with independent but will go with whatever as long as the board is at least like 32.25. That 8.5 AWS with the short WB felt just fine to me.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: j....soy..... on September 28, 2019, 07:30:07 AM
The thing about wheelbase is that if you skate a board with say a bit more nose or tail, you have a bad day, and suddenly you just break into a tantrum screaming....'fuck this longboard!!!!'

Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ok on September 28, 2019, 10:15:10 AM
The thing about wheelbase is that if you skate a board with say a bit more nose or tail, you have a bad day, and suddenly you just break into a tantrum screaming....'fuck this longboard!!!!'

Also true. I’m super not tall, 32 is my max, prefer less. I think.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: AssFlea on September 29, 2019, 12:01:29 AM
Expand Quote
The recent FA/HOCKEY release with the listed 14.81 wb: it's a misprint. Supposed to say 14.18. verified by the boys at familia skate shop.
[close]


Seems much more in line with their regular dimensions. Anyone know off top what the....baseplate adds to the total length? The companies that i want to checkout, don’t have those measurements up (wb, length, aaaaand width). Deluxe is the best, but they boards are usually too long for me. I’ll ride anything, but have the most fun from around 7.8 to 8.25. The bigger the board the shorter the wb needs to be tho. I think. But I could be convinced otherwise. Because I’m pathetic in that any promise of a day with easy 3flips aaaaaand kickflips is slipping away

base plate ad length to wheelbase? Do you mean re drilling or something?

Also straight trick like kickflips and  heelflips are better with a longer WB. Tre not so much though.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: thebacker on September 29, 2019, 12:45:35 AM
14.75 is really fun honestly. 10/10 would recommend
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: lou dawg on September 30, 2019, 06:56:33 AM
I currently have a 14.2, a 14.6, and a 15. All set up for the random shit I skate at FDR.

If you want to charge into things like curbs, coping, and pool coping, the longer ones are great.

For ledges and street, that 14.2 is perfect.

It's hard for me to only skate one thing. So I just mess around with shapes and wheelbases. It can be frustrating but it totally matters.

I went almost 20 years with old heads telling it didn't matter and that it was all on me to make the board work.

I would also try to figure out whether you like hi or lo trucks and take it from there.

Otherwise, fuck that boomer ass logic about "You just don't want it enough" or "you're not trying hard enough".

Figure out what you like and go from there. This shit can be too expensive for you to hate what you have.

If the board company doesn't provide that info, maybe they suck.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: yourbreakfsat on September 30, 2019, 12:49:46 PM
is there a standard on how companies measure WB?
i would measure on center. but by doing that, not a lot of decks match their stated wheelbase

It's the center of the inside mounting hole to the other inside mounting hole.

This picture shows how a wheelbase is measured.

(https://www.warehouseskateboards.com/images/help/skateboard-decks-deck-features.jpg)
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Yesterdays-pop on September 30, 2019, 06:57:37 PM
14.75 is good for me now but I skate a 14@ here and there just fine.
Feel like I’ve wasted a lot of money throughout my life buying boards with favorite pros names on them only to not be able to kickflip for a couple days because I was changing wheelbases every deck.
Figure out what works and stick with it and don’t think about it.
On another note, I feel like Girl actually has really good board width to wheelbase ratios. I think they have good good and good concave. I like the cardiel/Cory shape they have and girl wood lasts and feels no different than dlx, just better(more mellow) concave and 14.75 wheelbase on girl, 14.8 on dlx.
Rode a 14.25 a month ago and focused after I couldn’t land anything for 20minutes also threw New Balances I was wearing away
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: hillbilly shifty on September 30, 2019, 07:19:25 PM
Expand Quote
is there a standard on how companies measure WB?
i would measure on center. but by doing that, not a lot of decks match their stated wheelbase
[close]

It's the center of the inside mounting hole to the other inside mounting hole.

This picture shows how a wheelbase is measured.

(https://www.warehouseskateboards.com/images/help/skateboard-decks-deck-features.jpg)

yes, exactly. measure on center. but half the time the actual measurements don't match the listed/printed specs.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: yourbreakfsat on September 30, 2019, 07:48:44 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
is there a standard on how companies measure WB?
i would measure on center. but by doing that, not a lot of decks match their stated wheelbase
[close]

It's the center of the inside mounting hole to the other inside mounting hole.

This picture shows how a wheelbase is measured.

(https://www.warehouseskateboards.com/images/help/skateboard-decks-deck-features.jpg)
[close]

yes, exactly. measure on center. but half the time the actual measurements don't match the listed/printed specs.

Yeah sometimes the woodshop fucks up, or the description has typos. FA still copy-pastes their 14.18" WB as 14.81"

What matters more to me, and should be to everyone, is the distance between the baseplate and where the tail starts. The difference between a 8.25" Quasi with a 14.25" WB and a 8.25" Madness with a 14.25" WB (current deck rn) is astronomical, as the distance between the baseplate and where the tail starts is extremely small on the Madness deck, while on the Quasi it's around 1/2" - 3/4" (both using Indys)
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ok on September 30, 2019, 08:58:05 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
is there a standard on how companies measure WB?
i would measure on center. but by doing that, not a lot of decks match their stated wheelbase
[close]

It's the center of the inside mounting hole to the other inside mounting hole.

This picture shows how a wheelbase is measured.

(https://www.warehouseskateboards.com/images/help/skateboard-decks-deck-features.jpg)
[close]

yes, exactly. measure on center. but half the time the actual measurements don't match the listed/printed specs.
[close]

Yeah sometimes the woodshop fucks up, or the description has typos. FA still copy-pastes their 14.18" WB as 14.81"

What matters more to me, and should be to everyone, is the distance between the baseplate and where the tail starts. The difference between a 8.25" Quasi with a 14.25" WB and a 8.25" Madness with a 14.25" WB (current deck rn) is astronomical, as the distance between the baseplate and where the tail starts is extremely small on the Madness deck, while on the Quasi it's around 1/2" - 3/4" (both using Indys)

Underrated measurement (‘fingers of flat’). I see it most on ps stix. Had a Bianca board, lots of flat. Shape was so good.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Roisto on September 30, 2019, 09:06:32 PM
14.75 is good for me now but I skate a 14@ here and there just fine.
Feel like I’ve wasted a lot of money throughout my life buying boards with favorite pros names on them only to not be able to kickflip for a couple days because I was changing wheelbases every deck.
Figure out what works and stick with it and don’t think about it.
On another note, I feel like Girl actually has really good board width to wheelbase ratios. I think they have good good and good concave. I like the cardiel/Cory shape they have and girl wood lasts and feels no different than dlx, just better(more mellow) concave and 14.75 wheelbase on girl, 14.8 on dlx.
Rode a 14.25 a month ago and focused after I couldn’t land anything for 20minutes also threw New Balances I was wearing away

Girl has a shape with a wheelbase longer than 14.25"?  :o Which one?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Shifty Flip on October 01, 2019, 04:03:34 AM
In a different thread, someone posted a Duffle IG post where he was thanking the Welcome dude for explaining to him what different wheelbases do. Crazy to think a long time pro never paid attention to actually the most important dimension
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: hillbilly shifty on October 01, 2019, 07:41:25 AM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
is there a standard on how companies measure WB?
i would measure on center. but by doing that, not a lot of decks match their stated wheelbase
[close]

It's the center of the inside mounting hole to the other inside mounting hole.

This picture shows how a wheelbase is measured.

(https://www.warehouseskateboards.com/images/help/skateboard-decks-deck-features.jpg)
[close]

yes, exactly. measure on center. but half the time the actual measurements don't match the listed/printed specs.
[close]

Yeah sometimes the woodshop fucks up, or the description has typos. FA still copy-pastes their 14.18" WB as 14.81"

What matters more to me, and should be to everyone, is the distance between the baseplate and where the tail starts. The difference between a 8.25" Quasi with a 14.25" WB and a 8.25" Madness with a 14.25" WB (current deck rn) is astronomical, as the distance between the baseplate and where the tail starts is extremely small on the Madness deck, while on the Quasi it's around 1/2" - 3/4" (both using Indys)

yes! i like just under 2 fingers of flat from bolts to start of tail, when looking at the top.
my sweet spot for WB is 17" on center from axle to axle (which is what wheelbase actually is).
to hit this means different wheelbases depending on the truck. because of the inconsistent nature of stated vs. actual WB, i always have a small tape measure when i go to shops.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Yesterdays-pop on October 01, 2019, 07:46:40 AM
Expand Quote
14.75 is good for me now but I skate a 14@ here and there just fine.
Feel like I’ve wasted a lot of money throughout my life buying boards with favorite pros names on them only to not be able to kickflip for a couple days because I was changing wheelbases every deck.
Figure out what works and stick with it and don’t think about it.
On another note, I feel like Girl actually has really good board width to wheelbase ratios. I think they have good good and good concave. I like the cardiel/Cory shape they have and girl wood lasts and feels no different than dlx, just better(more mellow) concave and 14.75 wheelbase on girl, 14.8 on dlx.
Rode a 14.25 a month ago and focused after I couldn’t land anything for 20minutes also threw New Balances I was wearing away
[close]

Girl has a shape with a wheelbase longer than 14.25"?  :o Which one?

Phawt Cory Kennedy has 14.75” wheelbase, not be confused with newer wider Cory shape with smaller wheelbase, make sure it’s phawt
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: lou dawg on October 01, 2019, 08:00:27 AM
In a different thread, someone posted a Duffle IG post where he was thanking the Welcome dude for explaining to him what different wheelbases do. Crazy to think a long time pro never paid attention to actually the most important dimension

Absolutely. I knew I wasn't alone with feeling fleeced by brands for almost my entire time skating when they only show you the length and width and scoff at you when you ask for more information.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: ultrabra on October 01, 2019, 10:21:47 AM
I asked a couple of months ago Jart skateboards, why all their decks are listed with an 14.2" wheelbase.
No answer, and they are still listed the same. From 7,75 to 9".
Irritating.
Why so difficult.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: yourbreakfsat on October 01, 2019, 10:36:10 AM
I asked a couple of months ago Jart skateboards, why all their decks are listed with an 14.2" wheelbase.
No answer, and they are still listed the same. From 7,75 to 9".
Irritating.
Why so difficult.

Either the WB is actually the same along the decks, or someone at Jart was way too lazy to measure the WB. The latter doesn't make any real sense since they measured the length, nose, and tail which differs deck from deck.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Skatansfinest666 on November 25, 2019, 02:47:37 PM
So just curious how can I find my perfect wheelbase match in correlation w/ height & shoe size? I’m average size being 160lbs/ 5’11/ shoe size 9.5 us/ n I skate street preferring snappier, quicker more responsive pop. Any leads in the right direction would be appreciated a shit ton 🙏🏼
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Xen on November 25, 2019, 05:25:00 PM
So just curious how can I find my perfect wheelbase match in correlation w/ height & shoe size? I’m average size being 160lbs/ 5’11/ shoe size 9.5 us/ n I skate street preferring snappier, quicker more responsive pop. Any leads in the right direction would be appreciated a shit ton 🙏🏼

I'm 180lbs, 5'10", US10 and also prefer quick snappy pop

Anything with a short WB of 14.25 or under I want Thunders or Ventures to push the WB out

Anything with a longer WB (say 14.35) I want ACE or Indy to pull that WB in.

Width doesn't seem to matter all that much (except in tranny or hucking, I prefer wider decks)

What doesn't work for me, ever, is a 14.25" WB + anything from the ACE/Indy/Theeve/Tensor/Tuck the WB in scenario. I end up feeling too cramped.

TL:DR:
14/14.25" WB with Ventures or Thunders (Street) is for sure the snappiest combo to me, flippy, quick pop/insta ollies
14.3x/14.4x WB with ACE/Indy/Theeve/Tensors (bowls) bit more stable, slower ollies (good for big ollies imo)
15"WB = Never, flip tricks just disappear on me

What's funny (apart from the OCD) is that you would think a long WB with short WB trucks = Short WB with long WB trucks would be the same thing, yet they aren't (wheel position I guess).


I'm really enjoying the Primitive 8.25"x31.85x14"WB, 8.25" Venture, bones V3 combo
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: E on November 25, 2019, 06:18:38 PM
Expand Quote
So just curious how can I find my perfect wheelbase match in correlation w/ height & shoe size? I’m average size being 160lbs/ 5’11/ shoe size 9.5 us/ n I skate street preferring snappier, quicker more responsive pop. Any leads in the right direction would be appreciated a shit ton 🙏🏼
[close]

I'm 180lbs, 5'10", US10 and also prefer quick snappy pop

Anything with a short WB of 14.25 or under I want Thunders or Ventures to push the WB out

Anything with a longer WB (say 14.35) I want ACE or Indy to pull that WB in.

Width doesn't seem to matter all that much (except in tranny or hucking, I prefer wider decks)

What doesn't work for me, ever, is a 14.25" WB + anything from the ACE/Indy/Theeve/Tensor/Tuck the WB in scenario. I end up feeling too cramped.

TL:DR:
14/14.25" WB with Ventures or Thunders (Street) is for sure the snappiest combo to me, flippy, quick pop/insta ollies
14.3x/14.4x WB with ACE/Indy/Theeve/Tensors (bowls) bit more stable, slower ollies (good for big ollies imo)
15"WB = Never, flip tricks just disappear on me

What's funny (apart from the OCD) is that you would think a long WB with short WB trucks = Short WB with long WB trucks would be the same thing, yet they aren't (wheel position I guess).


I'm really enjoying the Primitive 8.25"x31.85x14"WB, 8.25" Venture, bones V3 combo

What ventures or thunders do you recommend for those WB’s?

Been on Indy with DLX 14.4 WB & thinking about switching it up.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Willie on November 25, 2019, 06:34:39 PM
I want to say it was the Skateboarding Is My Lifetime Sport blog but someone reached out to a bunch of major manufacturers to find out how they measured decks. Some used a tape measure that followed the contours of the board, others used a straight yardstick.


Here we go, found it:

http://skateboardingismylifetimesport.blogspot.com/2013/05/deck-length-measuring-by-company.html?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Xen on November 25, 2019, 07:16:19 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
So just curious how can I find my perfect wheelbase match in correlation w/ height & shoe size? I’m average size being 160lbs/ 5’11/ shoe size 9.5 us/ n I skate street preferring snappier, quicker more responsive pop. Any leads in the right direction would be appreciated a shit ton 🙏🏼
[close]

I'm 180lbs, 5'10", US10 and also prefer quick snappy pop

Anything with a short WB of 14.25 or under I want Thunders or Ventures to push the WB out

Anything with a longer WB (say 14.35) I want ACE or Indy to pull that WB in.

Width doesn't seem to matter all that much (except in tranny or hucking, I prefer wider decks)

What doesn't work for me, ever, is a 14.25" WB + anything from the ACE/Indy/Theeve/Tensor/Tuck the WB in scenario. I end up feeling too cramped.

TL:DR:
14/14.25" WB with Ventures or Thunders (Street) is for sure the snappiest combo to me, flippy, quick pop/insta ollies
14.3x/14.4x WB with ACE/Indy/Theeve/Tensors (bowls) bit more stable, slower ollies (good for big ollies imo)
15"WB = Never, flip tricks just disappear on me

What's funny (apart from the OCD) is that you would think a long WB with short WB trucks = Short WB with long WB trucks would be the same thing, yet they aren't (wheel position I guess).


I'm really enjoying the Primitive 8.25"x31.85x14"WB, 8.25" Venture, bones V3 combo
[close]

What ventures or thunders do you recommend for those WB’s?

Been on Indy with DLX 14.4 WB & thinking about switching it up.

With Thunder, I don't think there is any different in WB push with cast vs forged; on Ventures, apparently there is a 1mm or so push further with cast plates (I forget, it's in this thread a few pages back tho).

It really depends on what wheel size. I like the lower feeling from forged plates on Ventures and Indys, Thunders too but need a smaller wheel if I ride forged thunders due to wheelbite.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rocklobster on November 25, 2019, 08:07:47 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
So just curious how can I find my perfect wheelbase match in correlation w/ height & shoe size? I’m average size being 160lbs/ 5’11/ shoe size 9.5 us/ n I skate street preferring snappier, quicker more responsive pop. Any leads in the right direction would be appreciated a shit ton 🙏🏼
[close]

I'm 180lbs, 5'10", US10 and also prefer quick snappy pop

Anything with a short WB of 14.25 or under I want Thunders or Ventures to push the WB out

Anything with a longer WB (say 14.35) I want ACE or Indy to pull that WB in.

Width doesn't seem to matter all that much (except in tranny or hucking, I prefer wider decks)

What doesn't work for me, ever, is a 14.25" WB + anything from the ACE/Indy/Theeve/Tensor/Tuck the WB in scenario. I end up feeling too cramped.

TL:DR:
14/14.25" WB with Ventures or Thunders (Street) is for sure the snappiest combo to me, flippy, quick pop/insta ollies
14.3x/14.4x WB with ACE/Indy/Theeve/Tensors (bowls) bit more stable, slower ollies (good for big ollies imo)
15"WB = Never, flip tricks just disappear on me

What's funny (apart from the OCD) is that you would think a long WB with short WB trucks = Short WB with long WB trucks would be the same thing, yet they aren't (wheel position I guess).


I'm really enjoying the Primitive 8.25"x31.85x14"WB, 8.25" Venture, bones V3 combo
[close]

What ventures or thunders do you recommend for those WB’s?

Been on Indy with DLX 14.4 WB & thinking about switching it up.
[close]

With Thunder, I don't think there is any different in WB push with cast vs forged; on Ventures, apparently there is a 1mm or so push further with cast plates (I forget, it's in this thread a few pages back tho).

It really depends on what wheel size. I like the lower feeling from forged plates on Ventures and Indys, Thunders too but need a smaller wheel if I ride forged thunders due to wheelbite.

https://www.slapmagazine.com/index.php?topic=88869.msg3065039#msg3065039

This guy did a great photo comparison of how the trucks adjust the wheel bases, with pretty precise measurements.

I find a 17" Axle-to-Axle (A2A) WB too narrow on my tiny 7.75 x 31.3 x 14 setup with Indy. The board becomes way too light and I lose control when popping up stuff. Tried the setup with Thunder 147 and the height was messing with me too much, so I'm trying them with 1/8" risers to see if that helps.

Other factors like board length, truck height and fingers of flat add to the confusion about an ideal WB.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: jay_nev on November 26, 2019, 06:20:13 PM
Measured my Tensor ATG wheelbase and it’s +3.125” my deck wheelbase. That sound right?

In between Indy and thunder according to the above linked post.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: givecigstosurfgroms on December 19, 2019, 07:24:37 AM
 This just in; Weeman Jason Acuna skates a 14 inch wheelbase and also a 14 and a quarter WB. 
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: givecigstosurfgroms on December 19, 2019, 07:38:58 AM
I want to say it was the Skateboarding Is My Lifetime Sport blog but someone reached out to a bunch of major manufacturers to find out how they measured decks. Some used a tape measure that followed the contours of the board, others used a straight yardstick.


Here we go, found it:

http://skateboardingismylifetimesport.blogspot.com/2013/05/deck-length-measuring-by-company.html?
    That guy quit skating for 15 years then unquit, started a blog and called it "skatebording is my lifetimesport" which is pretty offensive imo.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: skateboardingismylifetime on December 19, 2019, 07:50:38 AM
Expand Quote
I want to say it was the Skateboarding Is My Lifetime Sport blog but someone reached out to a bunch of major manufacturers to find out how they measured decks. Some used a tape measure that followed the contours of the board, others used a straight yardstick.


Here we go, found it:

http://skateboardingismylifetimesport.blogspot.com/2013/05/deck-length-measuring-by-company.html?
[close]
    That guy quit skating for 15 years then unquit, started a blog and called it "skatebording is my lifetimesport" which is pretty offensive imo.

Wanna have a go, buddy?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: givecigstosurfgroms on December 19, 2019, 07:52:56 AM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
I want to say it was the Skateboarding Is My Lifetime Sport blog but someone reached out to a bunch of major manufacturers to find out how they measured decks. Some used a tape measure that followed the contours of the board, others used a straight yardstick.


Here we go, found it:

http://skateboardingismylifetimesport.blogspot.com/2013/05/deck-length-measuring-by-company.html?
[close]
    That guy quit skating for 15 years then unquit, started a blog and called it "skatebording is my lifetimesport" which is pretty offensive imo.
[close]

Wanna have a go, buddy?
What do you mean?, (to me that means you want to fight me.)
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Vernon Wells on December 19, 2019, 08:59:26 AM
What are the general signs you're riding the wrong sized wheelbase for flat ground/ledges/manuals? I've experienced too short of WB with Ace trucks on a 14.25" WB decks, easily looping out on transition.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Xen on December 19, 2019, 11:19:56 AM
What are the general signs you're riding the wrong sized wheelbase for flat ground/ledges/manuals? I've experienced too short of WB with Ace trucks on a 14.25" WB decks, easily looping out on transition.

I feel cramped if it's too short and end up pushing my front foot to the pocket of the nose when carving transition; on the flipside, my flatground flip tricks suffer on longer wheelbases.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: texasplant on December 28, 2019, 12:43:12 AM
Anyone had success skating tech stuff on a longer (14.5+) wheelbase?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Woos on December 28, 2019, 02:45:25 AM
Anyone had success skating tech stuff on a longer (14.5+) wheelbase?

14.5 is fine with Aces. I could probably go up to like 14.7 tops with them as I usually go 14-14.375 with Thunders.

Wheelbase doesn’t mean much unless you are including length, shape and trucks in the equation.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: moonordie on December 28, 2019, 02:52:48 AM
If somebody could write how determined trucks affect WB I would be very grateful.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: munchbox on December 28, 2019, 02:55:09 AM
is riding a 14.75 wb with thunders (+3.18) going to feel similar to a 14.5 wb with ventures (+3.5)? total wb comes to around 18 for both but im sure its not that simple, is it?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: tzhangdox on December 28, 2019, 03:16:26 AM
is riding a 14.75 wb with thunders (+3.18) going to feel similar to a 14.5 wb with ventures (+3.5)? total wb comes to around 18 for both but im sure its not that simple, is it?

I think its a good approximate guide to ensure you're not too thrown off by a wheelbase thats way different than what you're used to. However theres a lot more to how certain deck/truck combinations feel in practice than just the effective wheelbase so you're probably not going to recreate the exact feel.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: dakara on December 28, 2019, 04:40:22 AM
I’m trying to figure out what to do for my next setup and am kind of confused as different people seem to say wheelbase does different things.

I currently ride a 8x31.75 with approx 14.25 wheelbase, 2-3 fingers of flat and pretty mellow kicks and concave. The wb and fingers of flat are rough measurements as I only have an old shitty rubber tape measure and my fingers are very slender. My trucks are Indy stage 9 129 and my wheels are 54mm ff tablets. I am 5’7 with proportional legs and size 7.5 feet.

The main thing I don’t like with this setup is the pop is very unexplosive and I often get ghost pop particularly on kick flips. The second thing is i get unstable and veer off severely when setting up for kick flips and tres. Both of these have a lot to do with my ability, but particularly with the pop I’ve never had any problem snapping high, floaty ollies but with this setup the pop feels so anemic and I can barely clear 2 decks even if I really fucking go for it. My style is mostly street but not very tech, I mostly do board slides, simple grinds, 180s and kick flips while cruising around Tokyo, and I also love jumping down stuff and natural tranny.

Where I’m confused is according to Ben degros, a longer wheelbase means more explosive pop. But others say that shorter wheelbase helps you get more pop and higher ollies since the angle of the board is more steep, and longer wheelbase or a deck that hits quicker is better for long ollies.

With my poor understanding of wheelbase effects besides my intuitive understanding of my skateboard as a lever, I’m thinking of going with a 8.2-8.4 deck that’s not too long, with a slightly longer wheelbase than 14.25 and steeper shape(if I can even find such a thing at my tiny local) paired with 149 indys. My thinking is I like the feel and turn of indies, so extend deck instead of going with thunder or venture, and the wider trucks will help with stability when setting up and especially with getting into grinds which I prize much more heavily than tech flip stuff. The extended wheelbase should give me snappier pop, but the more aggressive shape will give me higher ollies.

Is my logic sound or am I way off? What would you guys recommend for what I’m looking for? I don’t have many skate buddies and the ones I do have are tech junkies who skate tiny decks so I can’t really try out different shit.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ok on December 28, 2019, 09:11:38 AM
I’m trying to figure out what to do for my next setup and am kind of confused as different people seem to say wheelbase does different things.

I currently ride a 8x31.75 with approx 14.25 wheelbase, 2-3 fingers of flat and pretty mellow kicks and concave. The wb and fingers of flat are rough measurements as I only have an old shitty rubber tape measure and my fingers are very slender. My trucks are Indy stage 9 129 and my wheels are 54mm ff tablets. I am 5’7 with proportional legs and size 7.5 feet.

The main thing I don’t like with this setup is the pop is very unexplosive and I often get ghost pop particularly on kick flips. The second thing is i get unstable and veer off severely when setting up for kick flips and tres. Both of these have a lot to do with my ability, but particularly with the pop I’ve never had any problem snapping high, floaty ollies but with this setup the pop feels so anemic and I can barely clear 2 decks even if I really fucking go for it. My style is mostly street but not very tech, I mostly do board slides, simple grinds, 180s and kick flips while cruising around Tokyo, and I also love jumping down stuff and natural tranny.

Where I’m confused is according to Ben degros, a longer wheelbase means more explosive pop. But others say that shorter wheelbase helps you get more pop and higher ollies since the angle of the board is more steep, and longer wheelbase or a deck that hits quicker is better for long ollies.

With my poor understanding of wheelbase effects besides my intuitive understanding of my skateboard as a lever, I’m thinking of going with a 8.2-8.4 deck that’s not too long, with a slightly longer wheelbase than 14.25 and steeper shape(if I can even find such a thing at my tiny local) paired with 149 indys. My thinking is I like the feel and turn of indies, so extend deck instead of going with thunder or venture, and the wider trucks will help with stability when setting up and especially with getting into grinds which I prize much more heavily than tech flip stuff. The extended wheelbase should give me snappier pop, but the more aggressive shape will give me higher ollies.

Is my logic sound or am I way off? What would you guys recommend for what I’m looking for? I don’t have many skate buddies and the ones I do have are tech junkies who skate tiny decks so I can’t really try out different shit.

Interesting questions, and I do not have answers! Looking forward to seeing what others say.

129s, on an 8”....129s, are to me, and very difficult truck: they are tall and narrow. Narrow trucks turn quicker/more sharply (I think. This is why slalom boards narrow). Your trucks are are .4” less than your board, creating more leverag for turning. A wider truck, or smaller board to truck ratio, could yield more stability.

The deck shape and truck combo may be affecting your pop. I’ve heard that flatter boards, more fingers of flat, not good with Indy. I had one super flat Bianca board when they started (ps stix) and the pop with Indy’s, on 3flips, was the best ever for me, but I’ve heard enough people say this that it makes sense.

Wider trucks can help with setup, but they are heavier/slower turn/slower flip.

You already have a good wheel size for pop imo.

The wheelbase stuff I’m interested in hearing someone chime in on.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: dakara on December 29, 2019, 03:21:03 AM
Expand Quote
I’m trying to figure out what to do for my next setup and am kind of confused as different people seem to say wheelbase does different things.

I currently ride a 8x31.75 with approx 14.25 wheelbase, 2-3 fingers of flat and pretty mellow kicks and concave. The wb and fingers of flat are rough measurements as I only have an old shitty rubber tape measure and my fingers are very slender. My trucks are Indy stage 9 129 and my wheels are 54mm ff tablets. I am 5’7 with proportional legs and size 7.5 feet.

The main thing I don’t like with this setup is the pop is very unexplosive and I often get ghost pop particularly on kick flips. The second thing is i get unstable and veer off severely when setting up for kick flips and tres. Both of these have a lot to do with my ability, but particularly with the pop I’ve never had any problem snapping high, floaty ollies but with this setup the pop feels so anemic and I can barely clear 2 decks even if I really fucking go for it. My style is mostly street but not very tech, I mostly do board slides, simple grinds, 180s and kick flips while cruising around Tokyo, and I also love jumping down stuff and natural tranny.

Where I’m confused is according to Ben degros, a longer wheelbase means more explosive pop. But others say that shorter wheelbase helps you get more pop and higher ollies since the angle of the board is more steep, and longer wheelbase or a deck that hits quicker is better for long ollies.

With my poor understanding of wheelbase effects besides my intuitive understanding of my skateboard as a lever, I’m thinking of going with a 8.2-8.4 deck that’s not too long, with a slightly longer wheelbase than 14.25 and steeper shape(if I can even find such a thing at my tiny local) paired with 149 indys. My thinking is I like the feel and turn of indies, so extend deck instead of going with thunder or venture, and the wider trucks will help with stability when setting up and especially with getting into grinds which I prize much more heavily than tech flip stuff. The extended wheelbase should give me snappier pop, but the more aggressive shape will give me higher ollies.

Is my logic sound or am I way off? What would you guys recommend for what I’m looking for? I don’t have many skate buddies and the ones I do have are tech junkies who skate tiny decks so I can’t really try out different shit.
[close]

Interesting questions, and I do not have answers! Looking forward to seeing what others say.

129s, on an 8”....129s, are to me, and very difficult truck: they are tall and narrow. Narrow trucks turn quicker/more sharply (I think. This is why slalom boards narrow). Your trucks are are .4” less than your board, creating more leverag for turning. A wider truck, or smaller board to truck ratio, could yield more stability.

The deck shape and truck combo may be affecting your pop. I’ve heard that flatter boards, more fingers of flat, not good with Indy. I had one super flat Bianca board when they started (ps stix) and the pop with Indy’s, on 3flips, was the best ever for me, but I’ve heard enough people say this that it makes sense.

Wider trucks can help with setup, but they are heavier/slower turn/slower flip.

You already have a good wheel size for pop imo.

The wheelbase stuff I’m interested in hearing someone chime in on.

Ya I got back into skating about a year ago and the trucks were salvaged off of my cousins board which is probably a decade old that I found at my parents house. Previously my wheels were rictas worn to 46mm from the same ancient setup and the pop was nonexistent. I’m planning on getting wide trucks regardless and am pretty set on indies as I like the turn, and aces seem to have qc problems. I am just confused as to what to do I terms of wheelbase, length, kick angle, finger of flat combination.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: franquietits on December 29, 2019, 03:50:26 AM
I’m trying to figure out what to do for my next setup and am kind of confused as different people seem to say wheelbase does different things.

I currently ride a 8x31.75 with approx 14.25 wheelbase, 2-3 fingers of flat and pretty mellow kicks and concave. The wb and fingers of flat are rough measurements as I only have an old shitty rubber tape measure and my fingers are very slender. My trucks are Indy stage 9 129 and my wheels are 54mm ff tablets. I am 5’7 with proportional legs and size 7.5 feet.

The main thing I don’t like with this setup is the pop is very unexplosive and I often get ghost pop particularly on kick flips. The second thing is i get unstable and veer off severely when setting up for kick flips and tres. Both of these have a lot to do with my ability, but particularly with the pop I’ve never had any problem snapping high, floaty ollies but with this setup the pop feels so anemic and I can barely clear 2 decks even if I really fucking go for it. My style is mostly street but not very tech, I mostly do board slides, simple grinds, 180s and kick flips while cruising around Tokyo, and I also love jumping down stuff and natural tranny.

Where I’m confused is according to Ben degros, a longer wheelbase means more explosive pop. But others say that shorter wheelbase helps you get more pop and higher ollies since the angle of the board is more steep, and longer wheelbase or a deck that hits quicker is better for long ollies.

With my poor understanding of wheelbase effects besides my intuitive understanding of my skateboard as a lever, I’m thinking of going with a 8.2-8.4 deck that’s not too long, with a slightly longer wheelbase than 14.25 and steeper shape(if I can even find such a thing at my tiny local) paired with 149 indys. My thinking is I like the feel and turn of indies, so extend deck instead of going with thunder or venture, and the wider trucks will help with stability when setting up and especially with getting into grinds which I prize much more heavily than tech flip stuff. The extended wheelbase should give me snappier pop, but the more aggressive shape will give me higher ollies.

Is my logic sound or am I way off? What would you guys recommend for what I’m looking for? I don’t have many skate buddies and the ones I do have are tech junkies who skate tiny decks so I can’t really try out different shit.

I'm definitely no teacher, but I'll try.

For me, wheelbase is about "stability" vs. "finesse" in that a longer wheelbase gives you a more stable ride, yet requires more loading power (pop) to get flip tricks off. A lot of vert and tranny skaters use longer wheelbases for the stability factor and leg room (14.5"-15"). However, if you have a shorter wheelbase it becomes easier to pull of flip tricks because its less length/less power you have to work with (13.75"-14.25"). Also, personal physical attributes can influence what wb you choose (eg: if you have longer legs, choosing a deck with a smaller wheelbase may cause you to feel cramped in).

Technically, a longer wheelbase can give you more pop, because it requires you to push down on your tail harder, but it's also dependent on other factors at play. To me, it sounds like your struggling to find the proper point of leverage that works for you, and that is dependent on the trucks you pair with the deck. This is where the truck axle placement works as a fulcrum point on your board:

(https://adammclane.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/fulcrum-1.jpg)

So, if you your using a pair of trucks that places the axle farther in towards the center of the deck whilst having a longer tail/more fingers of flat, than the more time it'll take for the tail to hit the ground (Edit: whups, I meant to say the tail hits the ground faster, the nose teeters into the air at a lower angle)  resulting in less yield of pop. If you have trucks that place the axle farther our towards the end of the nose and tail, than the fulcrum point will yield way more pop.
This sounds like the problem that you're having, so I would say if you want more pop to your ride and still want to use the same deck, than switch to trucks that place you axle out farther towards the ends of your board. It should take care of the problem. Or, if you can just switch to a deck with shorter fingers of flat  and keep the same trucks. It's all about finding that "goldilocks zone".

Other factors such as wheel size and kick steepness also matter, because it alters the degree of leverage and how much time it takes for the tail to hit the ground, but for me I worry least/last about those and more about finding the right truck/deck combo that works for you. I try to base everything around the deck I choose to ride. If I get a deck with short finger space, then I know its gonna feel better with trucks that place the axle more towards the center of the board.

or just listen to the master:
https://www.instagram.com/p/BazerGmlrfO/
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: franquietits on December 29, 2019, 03:53:31 AM
Damn, this ones good too.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwfknJ2FzZx/



Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rocklobster on December 29, 2019, 07:55:02 AM
I’m trying to figure out what to do for my next setup and am kind of confused as different people seem to say wheelbase does different things.

I currently ride a 8x31.75 with approx 14.25 wheelbase, 2-3 fingers of flat and pretty mellow kicks and concave. The wb and fingers of flat are rough measurements as I only have an old shitty rubber tape measure and my fingers are very slender. My trucks are Indy stage 9 129 and my wheels are 54mm ff tablets. I am 5’7 with proportional legs and size 7.5 feet.

The main thing I don’t like with this setup is the pop is very unexplosive and I often get ghost pop particularly on kick flips. The second thing is i get unstable and veer off severely when setting up for kick flips and tres. Both of these have a lot to do with my ability, but particularly with the pop I’ve never had any problem snapping high, floaty ollies but with this setup the pop feels so anemic and I can barely clear 2 decks even if I really fucking go for it. My style is mostly street but not very tech, I mostly do board slides, simple grinds, 180s and kick flips while cruising around Tokyo, and I also love jumping down stuff and natural tranny.

Where I’m confused is according to Ben degros, a longer wheelbase means more explosive pop. But others say that shorter wheelbase helps you get more pop and higher ollies since the angle of the board is more steep, and longer wheelbase or a deck that hits quicker is better for long ollies.

With my poor understanding of wheelbase effects besides my intuitive understanding of my skateboard as a lever, I’m thinking of going with a 8.2-8.4 deck that’s not too long, with a slightly longer wheelbase than 14.25 and steeper shape(if I can even find such a thing at my tiny local) paired with 149 indys. My thinking is I like the feel and turn of indies, so extend deck instead of going with thunder or venture, and the wider trucks will help with stability when setting up and especially with getting into grinds which I prize much more heavily than tech flip stuff. The extended wheelbase should give me snappier pop, but the more aggressive shape will give me higher ollies.

Is my logic sound or am I way off? What would you guys recommend for what I’m looking for? I don’t have many skate buddies and the ones I do have are tech junkies who skate tiny decks so I can’t really try out different shit.

Hey brother, I was going through the exact same problem a couple of months ago. I was riding a Jart 7.75 x 31.2 x 14.25 with Venture 5.0 Lows and was having a shitty time. I was never great at kickflips but this setup was driving me crazy because even on regular ollies my board wasn't coming up anywhere to where I was jumping, like I was floating way above the board when I popped.  I didn't matter that the board was listed as having very steep concave, I just couldn't get the pop I wanted.

Experimented with a few setups and trucks and am pretty satisfied with an 8 x 32 x 14 board with Thunder 147, also enjoyed a 8.06 x 31.91 x 14.44 with Thunder 148. I've tried Indy 139 with the 8.06 setup but with Thunders the pop was everything I was looking for. It probably varies from person to person but my ideal Axle to Axle WB is somewhere between 17.32 to 17.5.

Board length also factors in too. A shorter board and longer WB will give you a very short nose and tail.

WB and finding a matching truck is the most important thing that can make or break a setup. "Trucks are the life of the setup" is was one of the comments on Ben Degros' videos and I've found that to be really true.

My take would be to:
1) Analyze your setup during the session. What do you mean when you say the pop feel anemic? Does the board feel floppy like you're jumping way higher than you're popping? Or does the nose feel too light and uncontrollable?My board felt too light when I swapped from Thunders to Indys and couldn't control my ollie up ledges.

2) Before making adjustments to board width, try a pair of Thunders if a friend has them or buy a pair. I feel they are the same middle ground truck. In terms of extending wheelbase, it goes from longest to shortest, Venture, Thunder, Indys & Ace. I feel Venture and Ace have a specific use case, so most riders should find Thunder or Indys a good fit for most boards. I'm roughly around the same height and feel the 147 or 148 is a good versatile truck that can be ridden from 7.75 all the way to 8.5.

3) Consider swapping to a smaller wheel size after you find your trucks. The couple of millimeters of height can tune the pop that last bit to get the setup right. Or try riser pads if you got a pair.  I feel getting the WB and truck combination is the most critical, followed by truck height.

4) Get used to riding your truck loose: probably an old wives tale but a guy I met at the park who skated really hard and fast recommended loosening my trucks by 1/2 to 1 turn. Yes you turn more easily but it allows for more give and leeway when you pop or land tricks.

Welcome to the gear madness.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: j....soy..... on December 29, 2019, 08:12:11 AM
Yeah, I'd say get in 52mm wheels, and get a set of regular thunders....or ventures I guess....

Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: dakara on December 30, 2019, 01:31:05 AM
Everyone thanks a ton for the advice! So with reading your posts, I should lengthen my wheelbase a bit and go with a deck with less fingers of flat, correct? I’m pretty set on indies, I ride them and like them , and as I cruise around a lot and use my board for transport and also want to start riding bowls, so I’ll probably look for extending my wheelbase with my deck. I was considering aces but I’ve heard too much stuff about qc issues and I’m not sure I’d like how “twitchy” people say they are.

Rock lobster in regards to what my pop feels like, your description of the board not coming up is accurate. It also just feels very unexplosive when my tail hits the ground, like once it hits it just kind of stays there before I slide my front foot up
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: munchbox on December 30, 2019, 01:48:10 AM
Everyone thanks a ton for the advice! So with reading your posts, I should lengthen my wheelbase a bit and go with a deck with less fingers of flat, correct? I’m pretty set on indies, I ride them and like them , and as I cruise around a lot and use my board for transport and also want to start riding bowls, so I’ll probably look for extending my wheelbase with my deck. I was considering aces but I’ve heard too much stuff about qc issues and I’m not sure I’d like how “twitchy” people say they are.

thats not what they said at all lol
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: oldbummer on December 30, 2019, 03:30:41 PM
Sometimes I think the whole levarage triangle angle stuff is all bullshit.  The underlying thing you are trying to do is jump.  If you can do that easier with a wider stance then the rest of it won't matter.

Theoretically a shorter wheelbase will be more responsive, but are you really being limited by that, or would the extra stability of wider stance help you more?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: munchbox on December 30, 2019, 04:46:02 PM
Sometimes I think the whole levarage triangle angle stuff is all bullshit.  The underlying thing you are trying to do is jump.  If you can do that easier with a wider stance then the rest of it won't matter.

Theoretically a shorter wheelbase will be more responsive, but are you really being limited by that, or would the extra stability of wider stance help you more?

i personally think its good to take it to the limit of its responsiveness if that makes any sense. have the wb be wide enough where you have a stance you can work with and not much more than that. really helps with ease and control of pop and leveling tricks out naturally. finding your perfect wb is one of the most important things you could do with your setups.

for me that is 14.5. anything below that and it feels like skating with shackles. 14.75 is workable, but takes more effort to maneuver. 15 inch wb sessions can only have a short period of seriousness due to the herculean effort it takes to rotate, flip, pop, etc. they are gassing and would only ride them for specific things like having fun, tranny and building endurance lol

point being said a longer wb wont hurt if your just doing ollies, but even then you will get tired much faster than if you are on a fitting wb
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: texasplant on December 30, 2019, 05:23:02 PM
If the general rule is match your wheelbase to your shoulder width - but I’m a small dude but feel really good on slightly longer wheelbases (14.5), how much does truck brand change that rule? Understandably no matter what trucks you run your foot placement will barely change, but in a little comparison I did yesterday between two boards, one with Indys on 14.25”, and the other 14.5” with Aces, I found that the actual wheelbase on the 14.5 ended up still being shorter than the one with Indys. Does this make sense?

TLDR, I’m short, but feel better on a long wheelbase + aces. Theoretically should you take into account overall wheelbase, or just deck wheelbase when choosing?

Edit: my shoulders measure 15” even though I’m 5”5. No wonder longer feels better, always figured I should I have a short wheelbase but maybe not. 
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: sammyz on December 30, 2019, 06:33:49 PM
wheelbase has a couple different impacts...comfort and tricks.

on the comfort side, my personal rule is, if you are standing with feet shoulder width apart, you don't want your front foot any further forward than the inner bolts of your front truck. 14.5 is about just right for me, but up to 15 is ok too
 
as far as tricks and pop goes...thats when trucks and fingers and flat etc come in...in this part, there are so many variables, it becomes very hard to predict how a board will feel until you actually set it up and skate it.

I try not to change trucks, I've kept with Indy's for ages and try and get decks that feel comfortable and with about 14.5wb...but I have about 4 different size sets of spare wheels and thats what I use to make the pop feel right.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rocklobster on December 30, 2019, 07:01:51 PM
wheelbase has a couple different impacts...comfort and tricks.

on the comfort side, my personal rule is, if you are standing with feet shoulder width apart, you don't want your front foot any further forward than the inner bolts of your front truck. 14.5 is about just right for me, but up to 15 is ok too
 
as far as tricks and pop goes...thats when trucks and fingers and flat etc come in...in this part, there are so many variables, it becomes very hard to predict how a board will feel until you actually set it up and skate it.

I try not to change trucks, I've kept with Indy's for ages and try and get decks that feel comfortable and with about 14.5wb...but I have about 4 different size sets of spare wheels and thats what I use to make the pop feel right.

That's a good way to minimize variables, Indy's add 3" in axle to axle WB, so it seems like 17.5" is a your ideal WB. I find wheel size has a smaller impact to pop feel than WB and mostly affect height of your pop. If I feel my board is going higher than I'm comfortable I remove risers. I've ridden nothing but 52mm so I'm keen to try a 54mm just because I skate some rough asphalt going to the park.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: munchbox on January 03, 2020, 01:34:44 PM
anyone ever redrill their wb upwards? looking at a 14.25 that i know would be perfect at a 14.5
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: satan on January 03, 2020, 02:20:44 PM
So wheelbase and pop...
Degros really confused you guys, huh?
Better to pay attention to tail length and height for pop..
Look at the triangle of leverage stuff the Prof talks about
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Xen on January 03, 2020, 11:16:10 PM
So wheelbase and pop...
Degros really confused you guys, huh?
Better to pay attention to tail length and height for pop..
Look at the triangle of leverage stuff the Prof talks about

I'm on a really long tail, 6.875" (7.125" nose, 14” wb x 31.875") and the tail is fucking with me. Board is all about kicks.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Solid bowlcut on January 13, 2020, 12:07:17 AM
Why do people prefer longer wheelbase for tranny skating? I have always skated pretty small wheelbases so i have no idea how something like +14.5 wb would feel.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: palelight on January 13, 2020, 12:44:30 AM
Why do people prefer longer wheelbase for tranny skating? I have always skated pretty small wheelbases so i have no idea how something like +14.5 wb would feel.

I think it's mostly for stability. You're less likely to loop out when you have more area to shift your weight/pump.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: ClownOfTheDay on January 13, 2020, 10:42:30 AM
I always thought the WB madness was ridiculous , until I got threw Ben Degros. I was watching one of his vids about WB and all of a sudden it just snapped in my head, "Is my WB the reason why I don't like more board" So I did my research and found that my real board was 14.38, So now I have a 14' WB for spring I'll see how I like it.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Esmith5488 on January 14, 2020, 06:40:12 AM
Expand Quote
So wheelbase and pop...
Degros really confused you guys, huh?
Better to pay attention to tail length and height for pop..
Look at the triangle of leverage stuff the Prof talks about
[close]

I'm on a really long tail, 6.875" (7.125" nose, 14” wb x 31.875") and the tail is fucking with me. Board is all about kicks.
I think there was one crailshape I like a lot with a 6.8 tail but I don’t thing the nose was that long. I think for me the steepness is the killer, but I agree the kicks are the most important part of a deck shape
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Esmith5488 on January 14, 2020, 06:42:08 AM
I always thought the WB madness was ridiculous , until I got threw Ben Degros. I was watching one of his vids about WB and all of a sudden it just snapped in my head, "Is my WB the reason why I don't like more board" So I did my research and found that my real board was 14.38, So now I have a 14' WB for spring I'll see how I like it.
My friend who has always killed it final looked at his old boards after I told him about wheelbase and figured out what worked and got one of the 8.06 full se decks with a 14 inch wheelbase and I skated with him on Friday and he was landing everything almost.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: ClownOfTheDay on January 14, 2020, 08:36:39 AM
Expand Quote
I always thought the WB madness was ridiculous , until I got threw Ben Degros. I was watching one of his vids about WB and all of a sudden it just snapped in my head, "Is my WB the reason why I don't like more board" So I did my research and found that my real board was 14.38, So now I have a 14' WB for spring I'll see how I like it.
[close]
My friend who has always killed it final looked at his old boards after I told him about wheelbase and figured out what worked and got one of the 8.06 full se decks with a 14 inch wheelbase and I skated with him on Friday and he was landing everything almost.
Well for awhile now I've been battling with width but maybe that isn't the problem, maybe it was the wheel base.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Fred Gerwer Frank Gall on January 14, 2020, 09:03:25 AM
Expand Quote
Why do people prefer longer wheelbase for tranny skating? I have always skated pretty small wheelbases so i have no idea how something like +14.5 wb would feel.
[close]

I think it's mostly for stability. You're less likely to loop out when you have more area to shift your weight/pump.

yes, it just feels more secure and less effort when pumping for speed. in saying that it does depend on what type of transition. if you're skating big back and fore walls with proper vert a 15" wheelbase feels really nice. if you're skating small tight round wall (pool type scenarios) less wheelbase feels better. I find if my trucks are constantly engaged (ie I'm turning a lot,) I can get away with a smaller wheelbase. if i'm going straight a lot (ie a halfpipe) a longer wheelbase feels better.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Xen on January 14, 2020, 10:20:07 AM
I used to think it was width I wanted (smaller or wider) until I discovered the WB/truck combo made all the difference (but that's not to say width isn't important).

You know based on feel and visuals if the board is too wide/narrow, and if you feel cramped (and that's hard to explain). WB has a lot to do with your stability, your center of gravity so if it's too short you feel uncomfortable, limited almost...when too long same thing, flip tricks get weird, leverage, etc.

You know when you gel with a board and skate amazeballs? You can just step on it and push and everything feels 'right'? You have to track that shit mentally and stick with it as this madness shit will fuck up your game
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: roanrox on January 14, 2020, 03:47:56 PM
I got a question: how WB would affect my ride when keeping everything else the same?
I ride 8.5 x 32” decks (indys only) and been riding 14.25 WB for a while. Now I want to try 14.5 WB on a same sized deck (8.5 x 32).
Yea I do know my ollies gonna change due the lever thing and my nose and tail will end up being shorter, however am I going to feel any difference other than that?


alright just answering myself — and maybe helping others.
got the new deck (Baker Kader OG Shape - 8.5x32 14.5WB. Had an incredible session today. Gotta say that I like short tail/nose better and the longer wheelbase got me higher ollies / better flip tricks and miniramp game now feels even better. I skate transitions 95% of time. Seems that I’ve found my perfect board specs. I’m 5.11, 180lb broad shoulders, size 10 shoes btw
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: moonordie on January 14, 2020, 03:50:49 PM
Maybe
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rocklobster on January 14, 2020, 04:15:49 PM
I used to think it was width I wanted (smaller or wider) until I discovered the WB/truck combo made all the difference (but that's not to say width isn't important).

You know based on feel and visuals if the board is too wide/narrow, and if you feel cramped (and that's hard to explain). WB has a lot to do with your stability, your center of gravity so if it's too short you feel uncomfortable, limited almost...when too long same thing, flip tricks get weird, leverage, etc.

You know when you gel with a board and skate amazeballs? You can just step on it and push and everything feels 'right'? You have to track that shit mentally and stick with it as this madness shit will fuck up your game

Track that shit with a Google Sheet, too many variations to play with especially with forged vs cast, DLX SE, truck height etc.

I got a question: how WB would affect my ride when keeping everything else the same?
I ride 8.5 x 32” decks (indys only) and been riding 14.25 WB for a while. Now I want to try 14.5 WB on a same sized deck (8.5 x 32).
Yea I do know my ollies gonna change due the lever thing and my nose and tail will end up being shorter, however am I going to feel any difference other than that?

Maybe

The most incomplete but accurate answer. WB measurements are mostly a guideline for how setups will feel, you won't know until you hop on for that first ollie.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: dakara on February 14, 2020, 11:23:24 PM
Everyone thanks a ton for the advice! So with reading your posts, I should lengthen my wheelbase a bit and go with a deck with less fingers of flat, correct? I’m pretty set on indies, I ride them and like them , and as I cruise around a lot and use my board for transport and also want to start riding bowls, so I’ll probably look for extending my wheelbase with my deck. I was considering aces but I’ve heard too much stuff about qc issues and I’m not sure I’d like how “twitchy” people say they are.

Rock lobster in regards to what my pop feels like, your description of the board not coming up is accurate. It also just feels very unexplosive when my tail hits the ground, like once it hits it just kind of stays there before I slide my front foot up

So I finally got around to measuring my wheelbase with a proper tape measure and think I found my problem. It’s actually ridiculously short at about 13.75inches on an 8 inch. Paired with Indy stage 9’s my wheelbase is incredibly short, which probably means I’m just cramped up as fuck paired with the leverage point as while I’m only 5’7, I’m all legs and no torso. Here in Tokyo these are the only blanks they sell at all the shops, and I measured the largest size they have (8.25) and the wheelbase was 35cm on the dot aka a shade under 14 inches. I asked the dude at the shop about it and he said ya he agrees they are too short but they were designed with Japanese skaters in mind who are generally shorter. Kind of a shame cause I like the shape and the quality is good for a blank despite being China made. I’m currently debating whether I should start spending the extra scratch for brand boards that are to my specs and sticking with Indy for my next truck because I know and like them, or because I’m broke keep getting blanks but switch to ventures to increase the wheelbase via truck.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rocklobster on February 15, 2020, 02:06:46 AM
Expand Quote
Everyone thanks a ton for the advice! So with reading your posts, I should lengthen my wheelbase a bit and go with a deck with less fingers of flat, correct? I’m pretty set on indies, I ride them and like them , and as I cruise around a lot and use my board for transport and also want to start riding bowls, so I’ll probably look for extending my wheelbase with my deck. I was considering aces but I’ve heard too much stuff about qc issues and I’m not sure I’d like how “twitchy” people say they are.

Rock lobster in regards to what my pop feels like, your description of the board not coming up is accurate. It also just feels very unexplosive when my tail hits the ground, like once it hits it just kind of stays there before I slide my front foot up
[close]

So I finally got around to measuring my wheelbase with a proper tape measure and think I found my problem. It’s actually ridiculously short at about 13.75inches on an 8 inch. Paired with Indy stage 9’s my wheelbase is incredibly short, which probably means I’m just cramped up as fuck paired with the leverage point as while I’m only 5’7, I’m all legs and no torso. Here in Tokyo these are the only blanks they sell at all the shops, and I measured the largest size they have (8.25) and the wheelbase was 35cm on the dot aka a shade under 14 inches. I asked the dude at the shop about it and he said ya he agrees they are too short but they were designed with Japanese skaters in mind who are generally shorter. Kind of a shame cause I like the shape and the quality is good for a blank despite being China made. I’m currently debating whether I should start spending the extra scratch for brand boards that are to my specs and sticking with Indy for my next truck because I know and like them, or because I’m broke keep getting blanks but switch to ventures to increase the wheelbase via truck.

I would go with longer WB trucks, personally not a fan of Indys. Do they sell Dwindle board in the shop? They may be slightly short at 31.6" but at least they maintain a 14" WB. Anything less than 14" just feels strange.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: dakara on February 15, 2020, 03:49:11 AM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Everyone thanks a ton for the advice! So with reading your posts, I should lengthen my wheelbase a bit and go with a deck with less fingers of flat, correct? I’m pretty set on indies, I ride them and like them , and as I cruise around a lot and use my board for transport and also want to start riding bowls, so I’ll probably look for extending my wheelbase with my deck. I was considering aces but I’ve heard too much stuff about qc issues and I’m not sure I’d like how “twitchy” people say they are.

Rock lobster in regards to what my pop feels like, your description of the board not coming up is accurate. It also just feels very unexplosive when my tail hits the ground, like once it hits it just kind of stays there before I slide my front foot up
[close]

So I finally got around to measuring my wheelbase with a proper tape measure and think I found my problem. It’s actually ridiculously short at about 13.75inches on an 8 inch. Paired with Indy stage 9’s my wheelbase is incredibly short, which probably means I’m just cramped up as fuck paired with the leverage point as while I’m only 5’7, I’m all legs and no torso. Here in Tokyo these are the only blanks they sell at all the shops, and I measured the largest size they have (8.25) and the wheelbase was 35cm on the dot aka a shade under 14 inches. I asked the dude at the shop about it and he said ya he agrees they are too short but they were designed with Japanese skaters in mind who are generally shorter. Kind of a shame cause I like the shape and the quality is good for a blank despite being China made. I’m currently debating whether I should start spending the extra scratch for brand boards that are to my specs and sticking with Indy for my next truck because I know and like them, or because I’m broke keep getting blanks but switch to ventures to increase the wheelbase via truck.
[close]

I would go with longer WB trucks, personally not a fan of Indys. Do they sell Dwindle board in the shop? They may be slightly short at 31.6" but at least they maintain a 14" WB. Anything less than 14" just feels strange.

Admittedly I haven’t tried ventures and haven’t tried a set of thunders in years, but I feel comfortable with indies, they work well and I know what I’m getting. That said, I’m open to trying a new truck since I was planning on buying a new set anyway.  I’ll ask if I can cruise around on a venture setup if the shop has one, they usually have 7 or 8 of the workers completes outside the shop. If that goes well I’ll try out the 8.25 14wb blank and venture setup since that’s a lot cheaper for my broke ass. If I’m not feeling the ventures I’ll go with the Indy and bite the bullet on Japan’s $100+ brand name board prices and get something around 14.25wb and hope my shit doesn’t snap in which I won’t have a ride till next paycheck.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: oneOone on February 15, 2020, 06:43:57 AM
I measured the Thunder and Venture Wheelbase difference on the same deck.
Did it in Centimeters, two measurements for each truck (left and right), average of both measurements.

Venture HI Titanium coming soon.

Image attached.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: jay_nev on February 15, 2020, 06:52:07 AM
I measured the Thunder and Venture Wheelbase difference on the same deck.
Did it in Centimeters, two measurements for each truck (left and right), average of both measurements.

Venture HI Titanium coming soon.

Image attached.
so the deck had a 14.25” wb?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: oneOone on February 15, 2020, 07:20:18 AM
Expand Quote
I measured the Thunder and Venture Wheelbase difference on the same deck.
Did it in Centimeters, two measurements for each truck (left and right), average of both measurements.

Venture HI Titanium coming soon.

Image attached.
[close]
so the deck had a 14.25” wb?

Yes, measured every set like the image attached. Do not compare with other data out there.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rocklobster on February 15, 2020, 08:36:13 AM
I measured the Thunder and Venture Wheelbase difference on the same deck.
Did it in Centimeters, two measurements for each truck (left and right), average of both measurements.

Venture HI Titanium coming soon.

Image attached.

Thunder Titanium Lights 3 - 3.38"
Venture 5.2 Lo - 3.37"
Venture 5.2 Hollow Lo Forged - 3.51"
Thunder Titanium Lights 1 - 3.41"
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: EchoShadow on March 02, 2020, 02:04:14 PM
Long time lurker here - this post has really f'ed with my mind and has given me some severe madness.

42 years old, 5'8, size 10. I'm a shorter dude, with most of my height in my upper body (29/30" inseam)

Started back skating a couple months ago after last time seriously skating in 2003 or so. (last board was a 7.75")

After checking out several boards i figured a 8.25 would be a good spot for me, didn't want to try hucking around a big board right off the start.

I acquired an 8 inch Deathwish board, had great pop and overall felt a little comfortable, but didn't really care for the concave and wanted to go a tad wider. Enter in a 8.38 Foundation, a 8.25 Krooked, 8.06 Krooked, and an 8.25 Real. None of them could replicate the same feeling of the Deathwish. I literally tried everything, Indy Hollows, Indy Titaniums to lower it, risers, no risers, and wheel size.

After reading this tread i looked a closer look at the dimensions, sure enough all had longer tails and wheelbases ranging from 14.3ish to almost 14.5. Went to my local shop and the only thing they had was a Welcome Nora Mid size. 8.128 x 31.4, 14.1 wheelbase, 6.3" tail. Built it up with the 144 Indy Titaniums, and OJ 92's 54mm. This board feels pretty much perfect. Pop is back and easy to toss around. It's interesting that the nose area of this deck is narrows down to about 8 inches over front truck and concave flattens, all the concave and width are towards the back - which makes flip tricks easier for me but also get a little more real estate in the back end. Next will be a FA/Hockey board since their dimensions seem to be in my ballpark as well.

I made a little wheel "jig" where i could put all my boards side by side to get a comparison of angle in the ollie position, pretty interesting stuff. Seems like I like a board with a little more incline in the pop position, 14ish WB and shorter tail.

I guess size does matter.



Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rocklobster on March 08, 2020, 11:00:45 PM
Long time lurker here - this post has really f'ed with my mind and has given me some severe madness.

42 years old, 5'8, size 10. I'm a shorter dude, with most of my height in my upper body (29/30" inseam)

Started back skating a couple months ago after last time seriously skating in 2003 or so. (last board was a 7.75")

After checking out several boards i figured a 8.25 would be a good spot for me, didn't want to try hucking around a big board right off the start.

I acquired an 8 inch Deathwish board, had great pop and overall felt a little comfortable, but didn't really care for the concave and wanted to go a tad wider. Enter in a 8.38 Foundation, a 8.25 Krooked, 8.06 Krooked, and an 8.25 Real. None of them could replicate the same feeling of the Deathwish. I literally tried everything, Indy Hollows, Indy Titaniums to lower it, risers, no risers, and wheel size.

After reading this tread i looked a closer look at the dimensions, sure enough all had longer tails and wheelbases ranging from 14.3ish to almost 14.5. Went to my local shop and the only thing they had was a Welcome Nora Mid size. 8.128 x 31.4, 14.1 wheelbase, 6.3" tail. Built it up with the 144 Indy Titaniums, and OJ 92's 54mm. This board feels pretty much perfect. Pop is back and easy to toss around. It's interesting that the nose area of this deck is narrows down to about 8 inches over front truck and concave flattens, all the concave and width are towards the back - which makes flip tricks easier for me but also get a little more real estate in the back end. Next will be a FA/Hockey board since their dimensions seem to be in my ballpark as well.

I made a little wheel "jig" where i could put all my boards side by side to get a comparison of angle in the ollie position, pretty interesting stuff. Seems like I like a board with a little more incline in the pop position, 14ish WB and shorter tail.

I guess size does matter.





I'm noticing that too going up from an 8 to 8.25, the board just became a lot harder to flip and pop, even while maintaining the same combination of length, WB amd trucks / wheels.

It's my lunch break and my mind began to wonder. When going up in width should we consider shrinking our WB? I found my ideal axle to axle WB to be around 17.4, (14 + 3.4 from Venture V-Hollow). Tried replicating that number on a larger board but the feeling wasn't the same and the board felt heavier. Shortening the axle to axle WB would make the board lighter and compensate for the overall increase in heft.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Gray Imp Sausage Metal on March 09, 2020, 06:45:58 AM
Expand Quote
Everyone thanks a ton for the advice! So with reading your posts, I should lengthen my wheelbase a bit and go with a deck with less fingers of flat, correct? I’m pretty set on indies, I ride them and like them , and as I cruise around a lot and use my board for transport and also want to start riding bowls, so I’ll probably look for extending my wheelbase with my deck. I was considering aces but I’ve heard too much stuff about qc issues and I’m not sure I’d like how “twitchy” people say they are.

Rock lobster in regards to what my pop feels like, your description of the board not coming up is accurate. It also just feels very unexplosive when my tail hits the ground, like once it hits it just kind of stays there before I slide my front foot up
[close]

So I finally got around to measuring my wheelbase with a proper tape measure and think I found my problem. It’s actually ridiculously short at about 13.75inches on an 8 inch. Paired with Indy stage 9’s my wheelbase is incredibly short, which probably means I’m just cramped up as fuck paired with the leverage point as while I’m only 5’7, I’m all legs and no torso. Here in Tokyo these are the only blanks they sell at all the shops, and I measured the largest size they have (8.25) and the wheelbase was 35cm on the dot aka a shade under 14 inches. I asked the dude at the shop about it and he said ya he agrees they are too short but they were designed with Japanese skaters in mind who are generally shorter. Kind of a shame cause I like the shape and the quality is good for a blank despite being China made. I’m currently debating whether I should start spending the extra scratch for brand boards that are to my specs and sticking with Indy for my next truck because I know and like them, or because I’m broke keep getting blanks but switch to ventures to increase the wheelbase via truck.
you always seem to post about how boards in Japan are expensive, I’m originally from Australia so I don’t really think they are, but do you know this place?
https://r-fskate.com/
Huge selection of decks (and he takes pics of them to compare them to DLX wood) and all well under the ¥10,000 mark
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: dakara on March 09, 2020, 07:35:45 AM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Everyone thanks a ton for the advice! So with reading your posts, I should lengthen my wheelbase a bit and go with a deck with less fingers of flat, correct? I’m pretty set on indies, I ride them and like them , and as I cruise around a lot and use my board for transport and also want to start riding bowls, so I’ll probably look for extending my wheelbase with my deck. I was considering aces but I’ve heard too much stuff about qc issues and I’m not sure I’d like how “twitchy” people say they are.

Rock lobster in regards to what my pop feels like, your description of the board not coming up is accurate. It also just feels very unexplosive when my tail hits the ground, like once it hits it just kind of stays there before I slide my front foot up
[close]

So I finally got around to measuring my wheelbase with a proper tape measure and think I found my problem. It’s actually ridiculously short at about 13.75inches on an 8 inch. Paired with Indy stage 9’s my wheelbase is incredibly short, which probably means I’m just cramped up as fuck paired with the leverage point as while I’m only 5’7, I’m all legs and no torso. Here in Tokyo these are the only blanks they sell at all the shops, and I measured the largest size they have (8.25) and the wheelbase was 35cm on the dot aka a shade under 14 inches. I asked the dude at the shop about it and he said ya he agrees they are too short but they were designed with Japanese skaters in mind who are generally shorter. Kind of a shame cause I like the shape and the quality is good for a blank despite being China made. I’m currently debating whether I should start spending the extra scratch for brand boards that are to my specs and sticking with Indy for my next truck because I know and like them, or because I’m broke keep getting blanks but switch to ventures to increase the wheelbase via truck.
[close]
you always seem to post about how boards in Japan are expensive, I’m originally from Australia so I don’t really think they are, but do you know this place?
https://r-fskate.com/
Huge selection of decks (and he takes pics of them to compare them to DLX wood) and all well under the ¥10,000 mark

I’m used to 25usd blanks and 35 dollar clearance boards, big change from 9000yen minimum or 6000 for a blank. That site looks promising though, thanks for the link
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Vintagebody on April 08, 2020, 06:29:17 AM
Wheelbase is one thing. Degree's of angle is another. Boards with different wheelbase, but same degree's of angle, would pop the same. However, the wheelbase will make it feel lighter/heavier.

I tried a 8.38 full shaped Krooked board.
Now I find Real Full SE 8.25s to be too cramped.

Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: weedgod94 on April 08, 2020, 10:51:00 AM
Apart from quarter inch difference in wheelbase can you really notice it? Like would a 14.18 or 14.33 feel much different from a 14.25?
I skate 14.25" on Indys. Skating a smaller wheelbase is fine but feels cramped when landing and transition is terrifying, skating a bigger wheelbase, even 14 3/8" makes my pop feel super awkward.

I have absolutely no right to be this picky, but that's how it is.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ok on April 08, 2020, 12:16:40 PM
Expand Quote
Apart from quarter inch difference in wheelbase can you really notice it? Like would a 14.18 or 14.33 feel much different from a 14.25?
[close]
I skate 14.25" on Indys. Skating a smaller wheelbase is fine but feels cramped when landing and transition is terrifying, skating a bigger wheelbase, even 14 3/8" makes my pop feel super awkward.

I have absolutely no right to be this picky, but that's how it is.


This is so true. I like ventures with 14” (or less than 14” even), and like indys on 14.25”, max. I’m sure I could get 14” on indys to work, but I tried it, and it was psycho on a mini ramp, and even just trying to ollie a sewer cap resulted in ghost pop to no hand handed airwalk to just general wtf is happening. That was my initial eye opener to wb.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Firebert on April 08, 2020, 01:11:51 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Apart from quarter inch difference in wheelbase can you really notice it? Like would a 14.18 or 14.33 feel much different from a 14.25?
[close]
I skate 14.25" on Indys. Skating a smaller wheelbase is fine but feels cramped when landing and transition is terrifying, skating a bigger wheelbase, even 14 3/8" makes my pop feel super awkward.

I have absolutely no right to be this picky, but that's how it is.
[close]


This is so true. I like ventures with 14” (or less than 14” even), and like indys on 14.25”, max. I’m sure I could get 14” on indys to work, but I tried it, and it was psycho on a mini ramp, and even just trying to ollie a sewer cap resulted in ghost pop to no hand handed airwalk to just general wtf is happening. That was my initial eye opener to wb.
It was the opposite for me, getting a board with a 14" wb opened up so many tricks for me that I thought I'd never learn.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Xen on April 08, 2020, 01:42:15 PM
Apart from quarter inch difference in wheelbase can you really notice it? Like would a 14.18 or 14.33 feel much different from a 14.25?

Depends on the truck ;)

Regardless of truck, for whatever reason I can really feel it when the WB his 14.3ish, probably because I rode (what is still my favorite dims) the NHS 8.2x31.9x14.353 wb for so long...love that board.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: legion on April 08, 2020, 01:50:17 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Apart from quarter inch difference in wheelbase can you really notice it? Like would a 14.18 or 14.33 feel much different from a 14.25?
[close]
I skate 14.25" on Indys. Skating a smaller wheelbase is fine but feels cramped when landing and transition is terrifying, skating a bigger wheelbase, even 14 3/8" makes my pop feel super awkward.

I have absolutely no right to be this picky, but that's how it is.
[close]
This is so true. I like ventures with 14” (or less than 14” even), and like indys on 14.25”, max. I’m sure I could get 14” on indys to work, but I tried it, and it was psycho on a mini ramp, and even just trying to ollie a sewer cap resulted in ghost pop to no hand handed airwalk to just general wtf is happening. That was my initial eye opener to wb.
Just saying.. ghost pop is from the tail length, or the change in length.. Shorter tail needs more angle to hit.
The heavier feel from a long wb is similar to holding weight out on the end of a stick. Longer stick, more effort.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ok on April 08, 2020, 02:52:04 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Apart from quarter inch difference in wheelbase can you really notice it? Like would a 14.18 or 14.33 feel much different from a 14.25?
[close]
I skate 14.25" on Indys. Skating a smaller wheelbase is fine but feels cramped when landing and transition is terrifying, skating a bigger wheelbase, even 14 3/8" makes my pop feel super awkward.

I have absolutely no right to be this picky, but that's how it is.
[close]


This is so true. I like ventures with 14” (or less than 14” even), and like indys on 14.25”, max. I’m sure I could get 14” on indys to work, but I tried it, and it was psycho on a mini ramp, and even just trying to ollie a sewer cap resulted in ghost pop to no hand handed airwalk to just general wtf is happening. That was my initial eye opener to wb.
[close]
It was the opposite for me, getting a board with a 14" wb opened up so many tricks for me that I thought I'd never learn.

14” wb is mandatory for me, these days. And maybe legion is correct that ghost comes from short tails only. The board was an 8.5 quasi, that had this blanket design on it, I got it cuz it was short and fat. Probably should have tried to get acquainted, but sometimes a setup just feels off. Most setups I can eventually get to few ok, or I’ll come back months/years later and inexplicably enjoy something that formerly drove me nuts.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Christmas Complete on April 08, 2020, 05:29:32 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Apart from quarter inch difference in wheelbase can you really notice it? Like would a 14.18 or 14.33 feel much different from a 14.25?
[close]
I skate 14.25" on Indys. Skating a smaller wheelbase is fine but feels cramped when landing and transition is terrifying, skating a bigger wheelbase, even 14 3/8" makes my pop feel super awkward.

I have absolutely no right to be this picky, but that's how it is.
[close]


This is so true. I like ventures with 14” (or less than 14” even), and like indys on 14.25”, max. I’m sure I could get 14” on indys to work, but I tried it, and it was psycho on a mini ramp, and even just trying to ollie a sewer cap resulted in ghost pop to no hand handed airwalk to just general wtf is happening. That was my initial eye opener to wb.
[close]
It was the opposite for me, getting a board with a 14" wb opened up so many tricks for me that I thought I'd never learn.
[close]

14” wb is mandatory for me, these days. And maybe legion is correct that ghost comes from short tails only. The board was an 8.5 quasi, that had this blanket design on it, I got it cuz it was short and fat. Probably should have tried to get acquainted, but sometimes a setup just feels off. Most setups I can eventually get to few ok, or I’ll come back months/years later and inexplicably enjoy something that formerly drove me nuts.

Yes, yes and yes. As long as the width is comfortable to your feet, I will shout it again from the rooftops, "WHEELBASE IS THE ONLY THING THAT MATTERS" It drives me crazy that people don't consider the wheelbase and then say, "This board's harder to pop" "It's hard to flip this board" or whatever. Shorter wheelbase, quicker pop/tighter turn. End of story.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Esmith5488 on April 08, 2020, 06:23:41 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Apart from quarter inch difference in wheelbase can you really notice it? Like would a 14.18 or 14.33 feel much different from a 14.25?
[close]
I skate 14.25" on Indys. Skating a smaller wheelbase is fine but feels cramped when landing and transition is terrifying, skating a bigger wheelbase, even 14 3/8" makes my pop feel super awkward.

I have absolutely no right to be this picky, but that's how it is.
[close]


This is so true. I like ventures with 14” (or less than 14” even), and like indys on 14.25”, max. I’m sure I could get 14” on indys to work, but I tried it, and it was psycho on a mini ramp, and even just trying to ollie a sewer cap resulted in ghost pop to no hand handed airwalk to just general wtf is happening. That was my initial eye opener to wb.
[close]
It was the opposite for me, getting a board with a 14" wb opened up so many tricks for me that I thought I'd never learn.
[close]

14” wb is mandatory for me, these days. And maybe legion is correct that ghost comes from short tails only. The board was an 8.5 quasi, that had this blanket design on it, I got it cuz it was short and fat. Probably should have tried to get acquainted, but sometimes a setup just feels off. Most setups I can eventually get to few ok, or I’ll come back months/years later and inexplicably enjoy something that formerly drove me nuts.
[close]

Yes, yes and yes. As long as the width is comfortable to your feet, I will shout it again from the rooftops, "WHEELBASE IS THE ONLY THING THAT MATTERS" It drives me crazy that people don't consider the wheelbase and then say, "This board's harder to pop" "It's hard to flip this board" or whatever. Shorter wheelbase, quicker pop/tighter turn. End of story.
I fluctuate width but I will always ALWAYS get a 14 inch wheelbase
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: sadnocomply on April 08, 2020, 06:44:26 PM
I think on mason silvas nine club he rode like a 8.25 31 length with a sub 14 wb if I remember correctly. Straight chode board status but dude rips!! Also Schmitt said on his interview that all the street pros are shortening the wheelbase, the ones who visit him and are satisfied at least. I imagine all the tech guys are strictly 14” and under wheelbase
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: munchbox on April 08, 2020, 07:52:08 PM
I think on mason silvas nine club he rode like a 8.25 31 length with a sub 14 wb if I remember correctly. Straight chode board status but dude rips!! Also Schmitt said on his interview that all the street pros are shortening the wheelbase, the ones who visit him and are satisfied at least. I imagine all the tech guys are strictly 14” and under wheelbase
see now i want to try it
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Damoforce on September 16, 2020, 08:21:27 PM
Question about wheel bases, does a 14.38 really act a lot different to a 14.175 on a 8.25 to 8.38. Or will the steepness of the tail matter as well
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: tzhangdox on September 16, 2020, 08:26:55 PM
Question about wheel bases, does a 14.38 really act a lot different to a 14.175 on a 8.25 to 8.38. Or will the steepness of the tail matter as well

Both things matter. 14.38 vs 14.175 will definitely be noticeable
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Damoforce on September 16, 2020, 08:32:14 PM
Expand Quote
Question about wheel bases, does a 14.38 really act a lot different to a 14.175 on a 8.25 to 8.38. Or will the steepness of the tail matter as well
[close]

Both things matter. 14.38 vs 14.175 will definitely be noticeable

It'll be a slower response and require more force? With the assumption, both boards are close to 32" long
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Firebert on September 17, 2020, 08:34:43 AM
Question about wheel bases, does a 14.38 really act a lot different to a 14.175 on a 8.25 to 8.38. Or will the steepness of the tail matter as well
Yes:

Steeper angles on the nose/tail and longer wb = more leverage/force required to lift the nose.

The amount of flat between the bolts and the nose/tail will also change that - more flat will decrease the amount of leverage/force needed.

The trucks you pair the deck with will also change that effective wb.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Mbrimson88 on December 09, 2020, 06:43:59 PM
I feel like it is time this thread came back, even if only to help fuel / help with some more wheelbase madness, but also to help with some specific questions in other threads.

The most interesting thing I am seeing right now is the industry is going to shorter wheelbases for most of the bigger / wider boards,  when there used to be such a difference in overall wheelbase as board sizes went up.

Average before:

Under 8 = around 14"
8 - 8.25 = 14.25 - 14.38
8.38 - 8.5 = 14.38 - 14.5
8.6 - 8.75 = 14.6 - 14.75
9 and up = 15+

8.25 FULL = 14.5
8.5 FULL = 14.6


Average now:

Most boards 14.25 - 14.38 including FULL SE and other bigger boards from various companies.


I have grown to like the longer wheelbases, but it would seem that most people now are enjoying shorter wheelbases on regular sized boards.

Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ok on December 09, 2020, 09:31:19 PM
Expand Quote
I think on mason silvas nine club he rode like a 8.25 31 length with a sub 14 wb if I remember correctly. Straight chode board status but dude rips!! Also Schmitt said on his interview that all the street pros are shortening the wheelbase, the ones who visit him and are satisfied at least. I imagine all the tech guys are strictly 14” and under wheelbase
[close]
see now i want to try it


Yo same. Same thought: ‘I need that’
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: jay_nev on December 10, 2020, 04:46:42 AM
Ben just posted a video about about this exact topic. 14” wheelbase comparing to .25 and .5”

https://youtu.be/ELqFFLeZ4hg
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Skatebeard on December 10, 2020, 06:14:23 AM
Good vid, I'm all about 14" WB on 8.125-8.25... shame they are so tricky to find.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: RichardBarkley on December 10, 2020, 06:26:09 AM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
I think on mason silvas nine club he rode like a 8.25 31 length with a sub 14 wb if I remember correctly. Straight chode board status but dude rips!! Also Schmitt said on his interview that all the street pros are shortening the wheelbase, the ones who visit him and are satisfied at least. I imagine all the tech guys are strictly 14” and under wheelbase
[close]
see now i want to try it
[close]


Yo same. Same thought: ‘I need that’

Palace 7.75 is 13.8

Very very nice shape
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Mbrimson88 on December 10, 2020, 04:27:42 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
I think on mason silvas nine club he rode like a 8.25 31 length with a sub 14 wb if I remember correctly. Straight chode board status but dude rips!! Also Schmitt said on his interview that all the street pros are shortening the wheelbase, the ones who visit him and are satisfied at least. I imagine all the tech guys are strictly 14” and under wheelbase
[close]
see now i want to try it
[close]

Yo same. Same thought: ‘I need that’

I think that his first board on Real was about the closest equivalent in existing DLX shapes, the 8.28 x 31.7 with 14.12 wheelbase.

(https://i.ibb.co/9tzdXR8/rs-mason-dt-pg4.jpg) (https://ibb.co/9tzdXR8)

Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: hobochimp on December 11, 2020, 08:14:33 AM
Something that I’ve really been enjoying about a shorter wheelbase is the carving. I used to think I had to skate 14.75 wheelbase exclusively because of my height, but after trying different boards and branching out I’ve found that 14.25 feels great for carving corners on transition. Paired with aces too it’s a dream.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: asbestos on December 11, 2020, 09:52:39 AM
anti hero 8.12 x 31.38 - 14 wheelbase shape has me wanting shorter wheelbase. who currently makes 8"+ decks with 13.75 wheelbase? that shit is the future, no wonder mason is so good
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ok on December 11, 2020, 09:54:55 AM
anti hero 8.12 x 31.38 - 14 wheelbase shape has me wanting shorter wheelbase. who currently makes 8"+ decks with 13.75 wheelbase? that shit is the future, no wonder mason is so good

Evisen had some that have that listing.

Palace, Girl/Chocolate have some that are close.


Im on the same wave (well I want to get something like this). I prefer Ventures, 14” wb is the max tho. Ace can help out shrinking the effective wb, but that starts to be a slippery slope. 14” or less, 31.5” or less. Kickflips and Ollies feel better
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: asbestos on December 11, 2020, 11:26:55 AM
Expand Quote
anti hero 8.12 x 31.38 - 14 wheelbase shape has me wanting shorter wheelbase. who currently makes 8"+ decks with 13.75 wheelbase? that shit is the future, no wonder mason is so good
[close]

Evisen had some that have that listing.

Palace, Girl/Chocolate have some that are close.


Im on the same wave (well I want to get something like this). I prefer Ventures, 14” wb is the max tho. Ace can help out shrinking the effective wb, but that starts to be a slippery slope. 14” or less, 31.5” or less. Kickflips and Ollies feel better
yeah i was on aces for years until we couldn't get em here in canada for a few months. on the indy mids now, but even with my aces i was waiting for that 13.75 wheelbase to come thru my local shop. ive ridden those palace and primitive 8.25s with the 14 wheelbase and loved em.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: ChuckRamone on February 04, 2023, 01:45:34 PM
For people who usually ride 14.25 wb, is there any noticeable difference when you go up to 14.3 to 14.5? How about down to 14.0? A lot of the twin tail decks out these days are not 14.25 for whatever reason and I want to know if it will be weird to get used to a slightly longer or shorter wb than what I'm used to.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: elegant_fox on February 04, 2023, 01:50:01 PM
For people who usually ride 14.25 wb, is there any noticeable difference when you go up to 14.3 to 14.5? How about down to 14.0? A lot of the twin tail decks out these days are not 14.25 for whatever reason and I want to know if it will be weird to get used to a slightly longer or shorter wb than what I'm used to.

I think wheelbase changes are the hardest thing for me to get used to in a new setup, stepping down to a 14 for a month really threw everything off for me when I went back to 14.25. It’s shocking how much that quarter inch affected things. Even 14.25 to 15 wasn’t as wild for me as the 14.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: switchfakie on February 04, 2023, 01:59:21 PM
For people who usually ride 14.25 wb, is there any noticeable difference when you go up to 14.3 to 14.5? How about down to 14.0? A lot of the twin tail decks out these days are not 14.25 for whatever reason and I want to know if it will be weird to get used to a slightly longer or shorter wb than what I'm used to.


i didnt notice much difference going from 8.25 x14.25 to 8.5x14.5. i dont know how helpful that is because the board width also changed, but in my experience, it took maybe a sesh to re-adjust

to be frank, unless youre doing a lot of technical ledge tricks, i think wheelbase is a negligible dimension, it dont fuckin matter

thats coming from a dude who used to religiously lurk slap wheelbase threads & would ask my local skateshop if they had a measuring tape so i could find out the wheelbase

its true wheelbase can help for certain flip tricks, but its always possible to re-adjust
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Bill Salt on May 26, 2023, 01:27:37 AM
WB is one thing but the trucks underneath too.They might have importance on how the wb affects your skating since some models have an axle more centered or apart.I ain't a tall guy, regular size I guess with quite normal legs and to me 14 is the best.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: pops on May 26, 2023, 01:50:11 AM
I'm 5 feet 10, I ride 13.875 wheelbase with Ace Af1s. It feels weird that my friends shorter than me like wider wheelbases and they do much more tech. I love how versatile and compact my setup feels just for cruising and occasional curb/miniramp sessions.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rikki on May 26, 2023, 02:39:18 AM
Expand Quote
anti hero 8.12 x 31.38 - 14 wheelbase shape has me wanting shorter wheelbase. who currently makes 8"+ decks with 13.75 wheelbase? that shit is the future, no wonder mason is so good
[close]

Evisen had some that have that listing.

Palace, Girl/Chocolate have some that are close.


Im on the same wave (well I want to get something like this). I prefer Ventures, 14” wb is the max tho. Ace can help out shrinking the effective wb, but that starts to be a slippery slope. 14” or less, 31.5” or less. Kickflips and Ollies feel better

Antihero has a GT model with 31.5 length / 13.88 wb.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: fs1/2cab on May 26, 2023, 04:38:15 AM
For people who usually ride 14.25 wb, is there any noticeable difference when you go up to 14.3 to 14.5? How about down to 14.0? A lot of the twin tail decks out these days are not 14.25 for whatever reason and I want to know if it will be weird to get used to a slightly longer or shorter wb than what I'm used to.

14.25 wb seems to be my max comfortablity. Rode that Polar 8.25 with the ~14.3 wb and it threw me off.
14 wb could work too, but I haven't tried. but For me personally the tail length is the most important. Around 6.6 and definitely not 6.7 or above. Must be muscle memory from my younger days but yeah.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: TheCrimsonShroud on May 26, 2023, 06:01:14 AM
Expand Quote
For people who usually ride 14.25 wb, is there any noticeable difference when you go up to 14.3 to 14.5? How about down to 14.0? A lot of the twin tail decks out these days are not 14.25 for whatever reason and I want to know if it will be weird to get used to a slightly longer or shorter wb than what I'm used to.
[close]

I think wheelbase changes are the hardest thing for me to get used to in a new setup, stepping down to a 14 for a month really threw everything off for me when I went back to 14.25. It’s shocking how much that quarter inch affected things. Even 14.25 to 15 wasn’t as wild for me as the 14.

My main deck is 8.5x14.5. I just got a deck that’s 8.13x14.125 and maaaaan did the wb change fuck me up. Even carving feels more difficult. Width has never been much of an issue for me but apparently wb is. I’m not even tall, I’m 5’8 so I don’t quite get it.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Mbrimson88 on May 26, 2023, 06:11:14 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
For people who usually ride 14.25 wb, is there any noticeable difference when you go up to 14.3 to 14.5? How about down to 14.0? A lot of the twin tail decks out these days are not 14.25 for whatever reason and I want to know if it will be weird to get used to a slightly longer or shorter wb than what I'm used to.
[close]

I think wheelbase changes are the hardest thing for me to get used to in a new setup, stepping down to a 14 for a month really threw everything off for me when I went back to 14.25. It’s shocking how much that quarter inch affected things. Even 14.25 to 15 wasn’t as wild for me as the 14.
[close]

My main deck is 8.5x14.5. I just got a deck that’s 8.13x14.125 and maaaaan did the wb change fuck me up. Even carving feels more difficult. Width has never been much of an issue for me but apparently wb is. I’m not even tall, I’m 5’8 so I don’t quite get it.


Carving and leaning to turn might be the biggest thing that would feel different from a longer wheelbase to a shorter wheelbase, everything being a lot quicker and what your muscle memory does and what a different shorter board will do will make things feel way off.

Same with a 15" wheelbase carving around, which feels way slower to turn than something with a shorter wheelbase.

Mostly a board might take a few sessions at least to get comfortable, some people adapt quickly and some more slowly to changes like that.

I do find it interesting with different boards I try, but my main board is either 8.38 or 8.5 both with 14.5 wb and that's how I like it.

Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: TheCrimsonShroud on May 27, 2023, 08:24:00 AM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
For people who usually ride 14.25 wb, is there any noticeable difference when you go up to 14.3 to 14.5? How about down to 14.0? A lot of the twin tail decks out these days are not 14.25 for whatever reason and I want to know if it will be weird to get used to a slightly longer or shorter wb than what I'm used to.
[close]

I think wheelbase changes are the hardest thing for me to get used to in a new setup, stepping down to a 14 for a month really threw everything off for me when I went back to 14.25. It’s shocking how much that quarter inch affected things. Even 14.25 to 15 wasn’t as wild for me as the 14.
[close]

My main deck is 8.5x14.5. I just got a deck that’s 8.13x14.125 and maaaaan did the wb change fuck me up. Even carving feels more difficult. Width has never been much of an issue for me but apparently wb is. I’m not even tall, I’m 5’8 so I don’t quite get it.
[close]


Carving and leaning to turn might be the biggest thing that would feel different from a longer wheelbase to a shorter wheelbase, everything being a lot quicker and what your muscle memory does and what a different shorter board will do will make things feel way off.

Same with a 15" wheelbase carving around, which feels way slower to turn than something with a shorter wheelbase.

Mostly a board might take a few sessions at least to get comfortable, some people adapt quickly and some more slowly to changes like that.

I do find it interesting with different boards I try, but my main board is either 8.38 or 8.5 both with 14.5 wb and that's how I like it.

Well I’m old and my reaction time sucked to begin with. Part of the reason I’ve always gravitated to transition is I like to think ahead, so it’s pretty natural for me to accommodate shallower turns while it fucks me proper to have my board be so sensitive it reacts to my fucking blinks
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: ambiguousclarity on May 28, 2023, 06:02:41 AM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
For people who usually ride 14.25 wb, is there any noticeable difference when you go up to 14.3 to 14.5? How about down to 14.0? A lot of the twin tail decks out these days are not 14.25 for whatever reason and I want to know if it will be weird to get used to a slightly longer or shorter wb than what I'm used to.
[close]

I think wheelbase changes are the hardest thing for me to get used to in a new setup, stepping down to a 14 for a month really threw everything off for me when I went back to 14.25. It’s shocking how much that quarter inch affected things. Even 14.25 to 15 wasn’t as wild for me as the 14.
[close]

My main deck is 8.5x14.5. I just got a deck that’s 8.13x14.125 and maaaaan did the wb change fuck me up. Even carving feels more difficult. Width has never been much of an issue for me but apparently wb is. I’m not even tall, I’m 5’8 so I don’t quite get it.
[close]


Carving and leaning to turn might be the biggest thing that would feel different from a longer wheelbase to a shorter wheelbase, everything being a lot quicker and what your muscle memory does and what a different shorter board will do will make things feel way off.

Same with a 15" wheelbase carving around, which feels way slower to turn than something with a shorter wheelbase.

Mostly a board might take a few sessions at least to get comfortable, some people adapt quickly and some more slowly to changes like that.

I do find it interesting with different boards I try, but my main board is either 8.38 or 8.5 both with 14.5 wb and that's how I like it.

I agree. I come from a surfing background where I was used to experimenting with different boards. I've got three set ups I currently use, all with different wheelbases, widths, nose and tail measurements. A cheap 8.6 eternal deck with 8.5 wb which I commute to work on and skate a park near my office most days at lunch. A 8.38 palace deck with 14.8 wb which I'm prefer skating for the moment and an 8.125 passport with 14.25 wb. I find the more I change up what I ride, the less time it takes to adjust. I skate a fair amount of transition and find the most noticeable change is foot placement on narrower wbs. Too much wait on my foot on narrower wbs can lead to loosing/drifting the back wheels. Whereas on longer wbs, I find I can get my wait forward and drive without it happening...much.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: nobodysname on September 04, 2023, 09:48:38 AM

The most interesting thing I am seeing right now is the industry is going to shorter wheelbases for most of the bigger / wider boards,  when there used to be such a difference in overall wheelbase as board sizes went up.

Average before:

Under 8 = around 14"
8 - 8.25 = 14.25 - 14.38
8.38 - 8.5 = 14.38 - 14.5
8.6 - 8.75 = 14.6 - 14.75
9 and up = 15+

8.25 FULL = 14.5
8.5 FULL = 14.6


Average now:

Most boards 14.25 - 14.38 including FULL SE and other bigger boards from various companies.


So, recently I ordered that Welcome twin tail 8.75 board that comes with 14.75 wheelbase which made me jump into this wheelbase madness. I've been riding mostly 8.5 boards for the last decade without any issues besides getting really short ones with short WB a couple times, but after I stepped up to 8.75 last year I noticed the whole opposite. Most wide boards are longer and come with longer wheelbase and it's a quest to find, let's say, 8.75 board that's about 32.2' long with WB somewhere between 14.25-14.5 which makes no sense to me. Like, why not just increase the width without making it a fucking longboard.

Speaking about how wider WB affects your tricks, I had the best tre flips in my life on full shape 8.75 board with 14.5 WB on Indy 159 Stage 11 hollows, way better than on any 8.5 boards (with approximately smaller wheelbase) on same trucks, but completely lost my kickflips and bs flips. Tricks like bigspins and caballerials take more effort but feel better. Impossibles, pressure flips and all transition stuff and pop on simple 180's feel amazing. I wonder if I can have my kickflips back on smaller wheelbase tho, but 14.75 on that new board kinda scares me haha
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Sedition on September 04, 2023, 11:24:50 AM
Expand Quote

The most interesting thing I am seeing right now is the industry is going to shorter wheelbases for most of the bigger / wider boards,  when there used to be such a difference in overall wheelbase as board sizes went up.

Average before:

Under 8 = around 14"
8 - 8.25 = 14.25 - 14.38
8.38 - 8.5 = 14.38 - 14.5
8.6 - 8.75 = 14.6 - 14.75
9 and up = 15+

8.25 FULL = 14.5
8.5 FULL = 14.6


Average now:

Most boards 14.25 - 14.38 including FULL SE and other bigger boards from various companies.

[close]

So, recently I ordered that Welcome twin tail 8.75 board that comes with 14.75 wheelbase which made me jump into this wheelbase madness. I've been riding mostly 8.5 boards for the last decade without any issues besides getting really short ones with short WB a couple times, but after I stepped up to 8.75 last year I noticed the whole opposite. Most wide boards are longer and come with longer wheelbase and it's a quest to find, let's say, 8.75 board that's about 32.2' long with WB somewhere between 14.25-14.5 which makes no sense to me. Like, why not just increase the width without making it a fucking longboard.

Speaking about how wider WB affects your tricks, I had the best tre flips in my life on full shape 8.75 board with 14.5 WB on Indy 159 Stage 11 hollows, way better than on any 8.5 boards (with approximately smaller wheelbase) on same trucks, but completely lost my kickflips and bs flips. Tricks like bigspins and caballerials take more effort but feel better. Impossibles, pressure flips and all transition stuff and pop on simple 180's feel amazing. I wonder if I can have my kickflips back on smaller wheelbase tho, but 14.75 on that new board kinda scares me haha

I have two set-ups. DLX 8.25/14.38/144s and a DLX 8.75/14.62/159s. I can, unquestionably, skate better on the 8.25". However, everything just feels better on the 8.75.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ok on September 04, 2023, 08:25:34 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote

The most interesting thing I am seeing right now is the industry is going to shorter wheelbases for most of the bigger / wider boards,  when there used to be such a difference in overall wheelbase as board sizes went up.

Average before:

Under 8 = around 14"
8 - 8.25 = 14.25 - 14.38
8.38 - 8.5 = 14.38 - 14.5
8.6 - 8.75 = 14.6 - 14.75
9 and up = 15+

8.25 FULL = 14.5
8.5 FULL = 14.6


Average now:

Most boards 14.25 - 14.38 including FULL SE and other bigger boards from various companies.

[close]

So, recently I ordered that Welcome twin tail 8.75 board that comes with 14.75 wheelbase which made me jump into this wheelbase madness. I've been riding mostly 8.5 boards for the last decade without any issues besides getting really short ones with short WB a couple times, but after I stepped up to 8.75 last year I noticed the whole opposite. Most wide boards are longer and come with longer wheelbase and it's a quest to find, let's say, 8.75 board that's about 32.2' long with WB somewhere between 14.25-14.5 which makes no sense to me. Like, why not just increase the width without making it a fucking longboard.

Speaking about how wider WB affects your tricks, I had the best tre flips in my life on full shape 8.75 board with 14.5 WB on Indy 159 Stage 11 hollows, way better than on any 8.5 boards (with approximately smaller wheelbase) on same trucks, but completely lost my kickflips and bs flips. Tricks like bigspins and caballerials take more effort but feel better. Impossibles, pressure flips and all transition stuff and pop on simple 180's feel amazing. I wonder if I can have my kickflips back on smaller wheelbase tho, but 14.75 on that new board kinda scares me haha
[close]

I have two set-ups. DLX 8.25/14.38/144s and a DLX 8.75/14.62/159s. I can, unquestionably, skate better on the 8.25". However, everything just feels better on the 8.75.

this is so accurate, in my opinion: skate better on smaller setups, larger setups ‘feel better’. it’s really messed with me.
lately i haven’t been skating enough to notice the difference, and just grab the small setup and try and land what i can. but if i’m skating regularly, a larger board often ‘feels better’, at the expense of a fair amount of my limited bag. madness
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Sedition on September 04, 2023, 08:31:19 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
Expand Quote

The most interesting thing I am seeing right now is the industry is going to shorter wheelbases for most of the bigger / wider boards,  when there used to be such a difference in overall wheelbase as board sizes went up.

Average before:

Under 8 = around 14"
8 - 8.25 = 14.25 - 14.38
8.38 - 8.5 = 14.38 - 14.5
8.6 - 8.75 = 14.6 - 14.75
9 and up = 15+

8.25 FULL = 14.5
8.5 FULL = 14.6


Average now:

Most boards 14.25 - 14.38 including FULL SE and other bigger boards from various companies.

[close]

So, recently I ordered that Welcome twin tail 8.75 board that comes with 14.75 wheelbase which made me jump into this wheelbase madness. I've been riding mostly 8.5 boards for the last decade without any issues besides getting really short ones with short WB a couple times, but after I stepped up to 8.75 last year I noticed the whole opposite. Most wide boards are longer and come with longer wheelbase and it's a quest to find, let's say, 8.75 board that's about 32.2' long with WB somewhere between 14.25-14.5 which makes no sense to me. Like, why not just increase the width without making it a fucking longboard.

Speaking about how wider WB affects your tricks, I had the best tre flips in my life on full shape 8.75 board with 14.5 WB on Indy 159 Stage 11 hollows, way better than on any 8.5 boards (with approximately smaller wheelbase) on same trucks, but completely lost my kickflips and bs flips. Tricks like bigspins and caballerials take more effort but feel better. Impossibles, pressure flips and all transition stuff and pop on simple 180's feel amazing. I wonder if I can have my kickflips back on smaller wheelbase tho, but 14.75 on that new board kinda scares me haha
[close]

I have two set-ups. DLX 8.25/14.38/144s and a DLX 8.75/14.62/159s. I can, unquestionably, skate better on the 8.25". However, everything just feels better on the 8.75.
[close]

this is so accurate, in my opinion: skate better on smaller setups, larger setups ‘feel better’. it’s really messed with me.
lately i haven’t been skating enough to notice the difference, and just grab the small setup and try and land what i can. but if i’m skating regularly, a larger board often ‘feels better’, at the expense of a fair amount of my limited bag. madness

Ok, I’m glad it’s not just me then…
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: LebowskisRug on September 05, 2023, 10:19:11 AM
I've been running V Lights on my Frog 8.38/14.38 which pushes WB out to 17.75 effective. Historically I've liked 17.5 effective via whatever combo of gear. It's been pretty fun and really stable like flinging flip tricks on flat feels great and it's really fun. Except for popping straight over or onto stuff. Seems to just take forever to get the tail up. It's been surprisingly nice and snappy otherwise so who knows if I'll stick with it long term.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: nobodysname on September 05, 2023, 05:53:04 PM

I have two set-ups. DLX 8.25/14.38/144s and a DLX 8.75/14.62/159s. I can, unquestionably, skate better on the 8.25". However, everything just feels better on the 8.75.

Damn switching from 8.75 to 8.25 sounds crazy, for me it feels like a literal toothpick — too small, easier to flick but harder to control and overall uncomfortable after floating around on a wide giant boat haha. It seems way easier to adjust to wider board (if we talkin' sizes up to 9') than to step down on smaller ones. Also I feel like not only wheelbase, but overall length of the board also affects how tricks feel when not balanced right with WB.

On a side note: I kinda consider trying to redrill WB holes to smaller base around 14.375 on that Welcome monstrous 14.75 thing to see if it feels any better
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Thebird on September 05, 2023, 07:32:16 PM
I've been running V Lights on my Frog 8.38/14.38 which pushes WB out to 17.75 effective. Historically I've liked 17.5 effective via whatever combo of gear. It's been pretty fun and really stable like flinging flip tricks on flat feels great and it's really fun. Except for popping straight over or onto stuff. Seems to just take forever to get the tail up. It's been surprisingly nice and snappy otherwise so who knows if I'll stick with it long term.

This worked for me too.  Cast hollows on the Quasi 8.25 with the 14.38 wb.  I thought it would be too much, but it feels good.  I think the mellow kicks are what make the difference.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Sedition on September 06, 2023, 07:24:41 AM
Damn switching from 8.75 to 8.25 sounds crazy...

Well, it is.

The 8.25 is my main ride. The 8.75 is more of a cruiser / fun board (or bigger transition) that I take out every now and again. Some times I end up riding it my main set-up for a week or more (because, well, everything just feels better on a bigger board), and then when I go back to my 8.25, I'm always like, "WTF!? There is no way I can ever ride this absurd 7.75" toothpick ever again! It's SO SMALL!" And then like an hour later I am all, "Oh, yeah, I love 8.25 decks!"

I've tried a ton of different set-ups overt the years, and the DLX 8.25 is clearly my "goldilocks" set-up. The only other deck/set-up that held my attention was the DLX 8.75, and that shocked me. Still does, actually. It just seems like such a nice, well-balanced set-up, despite it's size. I think one of the reasons I like it, is that it is almost the exact same shape as the 8.25, just bigger. NOTHING feels as good as smith grinds on that 8.75...
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Gandito405 on October 18, 2023, 06:39:10 PM
what wheelbase should i choose for my local. the transition is not lower than 5ft no higher than 8 at least in the bowl. i have a 14.5 wheelbase board but its too squrely on the walls> it goes too fast at the coping. i also have a 15WB deck but feels too slow to get on the coping so I cant get on top or even slash. should i go for a 14.75WB? honestly I've been contemplating going with 14.75WB and a 9/8.75 popsicle.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ok on October 18, 2023, 07:06:48 PM
what wheelbase should i choose for my local. the transition is not lower than 5ft no higher than 8 at least in the bowl. i have a 14.5 wheelbase board but its too squrely on the walls> it goes too fast at the coping. i also have a 15WB deck but feels too slow to get on the coping so I cant get on top or even slash. should i go for a 14.75WB? honestly I've been contemplating going with 14.75WB and a 9/8.75 popsicle.

eh….14.5 is good, already pretty big.
do whatever you want.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Mbrimson88 on October 18, 2023, 07:59:48 PM
what wheelbase should i choose for my local. the transition is not lower than 5ft no higher than 8 at least in the bowl. i have a 14.5 wheelbase board but its too squrely on the walls> it goes too fast at the coping. i also have a 15WB deck but feels too slow to get on the coping so I cant get on top or even slash. should i go for a 14.75WB? honestly I've been contemplating going with 14.75WB and a 9/8.75 popsicle.


The turning you find between the 14.5 and 15 wb is interesting and nothing that over time and practice you couldn't get more used to, but it is entirely up to you and how you feel about what you are skating, so yeah you could try something in the 14.75 range, which I found works quite well overall.

If you are using the same trucks on any / every setup, this would probably be the best in between size to try, but if you have different setups that have different parts, this could also be affecting things more so than just the wheelbase alone.

Speaking of trucks, what do you have on those setups now, how much turn as well?


Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Bill Salt on October 19, 2023, 12:09:09 AM
Average WB is 14 but we can't say one size fits all skaters.One thing we often forget is to compare the way we're built to the pro you get the model from.
That's why I'd rather say 14,25 would be the good compromise.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: devils acrobat on October 19, 2023, 01:31:43 AM
14 has become more prevalent recently but the most common should still be 14.25 for deck width 8.25-8.5 no?
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: moonordie on October 19, 2023, 02:13:03 AM
14 has become more prevalent recently but the most common should still be 14.25 for deck width 8.25-8.5 no?
Pretty much. 14.25 is pretty standard for 8.25 but I'd say that 14.5 is for 8.5
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: LebowskisRug on October 19, 2023, 07:18:13 AM
Lots of pro transition skaters skate shorter decks as well I think a lot depends on your trucks, how you skate, and exactly what you're trying to do.

There's the Paddy Daddy's at the local park who basically just drop in and carve the bowls and they all ride fairly big setups all around. The younger dudes who skate more terrain and go above the coping skate a huge variety of decks but a common one I see are the shorter 8.5-9 with 14.25 WB or the cream Eagle shape which is longer. You're really going to have to try things out and see what you like.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ok on October 19, 2023, 08:15:09 AM
i’m no good at skating, worse with transition, but 8’ isn’t huge. a big wb isn’t ‘needed’ for that, but your preference might be for a big un. do as you like. but you don’t need it.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: JM on October 19, 2023, 09:25:50 AM
For people who usually ride 14.25 wb, is there any noticeable difference when you go up to 14.3 to 14.5? How about down to 14.0? A lot of the twin tail decks out these days are not 14.25 for whatever reason and I want to know if it will be weird to get used to a slightly longer or shorter wb than what I'm used to.

6’2” 212 lbs

Thought I’d mention so you understand better.

I skate real decks and thunder right now (Indy before that for 23 years)
The move from 14.38 WB on a 8.25 deck, to a 14.5 on a 8.38 deck is noticeable in how much more difficult it is to slide out on turns while having decent speed.

Flipping whatnot feels the same, as does spinning.

But the turning: can definitely feel more confident going fast with the 14.5 WB.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: fuhkin_powahfood_kid on October 19, 2023, 11:58:13 AM
been consciously messing around with WB the past few months.

anything between 14.25-14.5 is relatively the same, although i prefer steeper kicks and a 14.5 to a flatter 14.25

once ya hit 14 though, it's a new world. Boards feel shorter period. kinda like it and unlike WB over 14.5, it's been easy to adapt to after a few rolls
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ok on October 19, 2023, 12:28:33 PM
been consciously messing around with WB the past few months.

anything between 14.25-14.5 is relatively the same, although i prefer steeper kicks and a 14.5 to a flatter 14.25

once ya hit 14 though, it's a new world. Boards feel shorter period. kinda like it and unlike WB over 14.5, it's been easy to adapt to after a few rolls

and germaine to conversation on transition, julian and cardiel, brent atchley, all long ago mind you, were shredding laaaaaarge bowls on 14” wb’s, 7.5s.
anything is possible.
not trying to convince the person above who has already purchased a 14.75
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: logjammin on October 19, 2023, 01:18:39 PM
14.3 and up sucks. 14.25 barely tolerable. Short wheelbases are where it's at, it needs to become more of a trend across the range of sizes especially wider boards. Much more natural and fun feeling. 14.5 feels like I'm riding a longboard now, blegh.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Ok on October 19, 2023, 03:49:42 PM
14.3 and up sucks. 14.25 barely tolerable. Short wheelbases are where it's at, it needs to become more of a trend across the range of sizes especially wider boards. Much more natural and fun feeling. 14.5 feels like I'm riding a longboard now, blegh.


in general, i agree, short wb’s are where it’s at.

but, there are some really fun exceptions.
i’ve had fun on short wb’s on transition, but i stick to the shallows.
bombing hills on a 14.75 felt like cheating, in a nice way
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: fuhkin_powahfood_kid on October 19, 2023, 07:23:47 PM
Expand Quote
been consciously messing around with WB the past few months.

anything between 14.25-14.5 is relatively the same, although i prefer steeper kicks and a 14.5 to a flatter 14.25

once ya hit 14 though, it's a new world. Boards feel shorter period. kinda like it and unlike WB over 14.5, it's been easy to adapt to after a few rolls
[close]

and germaine to conversation on transition, julian and cardiel, brent atchley, all long ago mind you, were shredding laaaaaarge bowls on 14” wb’s, 7.5s.
anything is possible.
not trying to convince the person above who has already purchased a 14.75

i found a stack of my old boards recently. 1999-2004. measurements were all between 7.5-8, 14WB

i'm curious to take a 14WB into a bowl again. not sure what it will do for me

i guess what i left out of my earlier post is that for me, the stick needs to serve a mix of functions. I don't have much for a bag of tricks, but the bag is a mix of some flat ground, ledge, transition, and pushing and rolling around in the street. I'm older and lazier now, so it's whatever works. When i was skating every day and at peak fitness, I could skate any board and it wouldn't matter or I'd quickly adapt. some boards just had more pop than others- girl, element, and AWS stand out in memory as being those that we all felt had more pop and when looking back, they most likely had shorter WB...

anyways i'm rambling about nothing
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Sedition on October 19, 2023, 10:37:35 PM
14.3 and up sucks. 14.25 barely tolerable. Short wheelbases are where it's at, it needs to become more of a trend across the range of sizes especially wider boards. Much more natural and fun feeling. 14.5 feels like I'm riding a longboard now, blegh.

14.25 and below sucks unless you are a midget-dwarf with tiny legs. They feel like finger boards.   
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: gaunting on October 19, 2023, 10:40:14 PM
I know it’s splitting hairs, but I would love to see more boards with a 14.1” WB. I know April has one, and greco’s “hammers” boards have it on the 8”, but virtually no other brands do that WB.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rikki on October 19, 2023, 11:18:46 PM
been consciously messing around with WB the past few months.

anything between 14.25-14.5 is relatively the same, although i prefer steeper kicks and a 14.5 to a flatter 14.25

once ya hit 14 though, it's a new world. Boards feel shorter period. kinda like it and unlike WB over 14.5, it's been easy to adapt to after a few rolls

This is true, but it's also the trucks that can have a huge effect. I mean, e.g. skating a 14" wb deck with forged plate Ventures results in a 17.35" total wb. And take, let's say, a 14.25" deck with Ace Classics and you have a 17" total wb.

It's not just the deck.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Sedition on October 20, 2023, 06:24:59 AM
It's not just the deck.

If don’t switch trucks with every set-up, then it’s just the deck. :)
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: fuhkin_powahfood_kid on October 20, 2023, 06:32:15 AM
Expand Quote
It's not just the deck.
[close]

If don’t switch trucks with every set-up, then it’s just the deck. :)

Yep
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: pizzafliptofakie on October 20, 2023, 06:35:46 AM
After skating mostly 14.25 I tried a 14.3 recently and it was kind of a noticeable difference, but it was also not my preferred width. Then I tried one of those TrueFit boards with the 13.75 and it felt like a Tech Deck. I kinda hate how fussy I've become about this sorta thing lol.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: roba on October 20, 2023, 06:40:30 AM
i have a cruiser/old school set up with a 14 inch wheelbase and ace classics and i can skate on it pretty well.

my regular is always 14.25 with ventures and i can skate on it pretty well too.

i'll set up a 14.375 and i'll start struggling with some tricks, and that was the case when i skated aces on my regular too.

i have an anti-hero 8.38 with the 14.5 wheelbase that's in good shape, i might try it out for fun but i'll probably hate it.

i'm 6'1" btw
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Thebird on October 20, 2023, 06:41:39 AM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
It's not just the deck.
[close]

If don’t switch trucks with every set-up, then it’s just the deck. :)
[close]

Yep

Exactly.  I run Venture high with 52 mm on 8.25 and above, anything 8.125 and below is Venture low and 51 mm.  I find it pretty easy to go from Venture lows to highs and vice versa, but other trucks really mess with certain tricks.  I never mess with the trucks and wheels now.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: logjammin on October 20, 2023, 09:33:35 AM
Expand Quote
14.3 and up sucks. 14.25 barely tolerable. Short wheelbases are where it's at, it needs to become more of a trend across the range of sizes especially wider boards. Much more natural and fun feeling. 14.5 feels like I'm riding a longboard now, blegh.
[close]

14.25 and below sucks unless you are a midget-dwarf with tiny legs. They feel like finger boards.

5'10" with normal legs here. 14.5+ is like riding a longboard now, for me. It's all subjective. I look down and there's so much board in front of my front foot in the natural way I want to position my feet. They're close but not super close. A shorter wheelbase is just a completely natural look and feel for my senses.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: DarkPools on October 20, 2023, 11:45:25 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
14.3 and up sucks. 14.25 barely tolerable. Short wheelbases are where it's at, it needs to become more of a trend across the range of sizes especially wider boards. Much more natural and fun feeling. 14.5 feels like I'm riding a longboard now, blegh.
[close]

14.25 and below sucks unless you are a midget-dwarf with tiny legs. They feel like finger boards.
[close]

5'10" with normal legs here. 14.5+ is like riding a longboard now, for me. It's all subjective. I look down and there's so much board in front of my front foot in the natural way I want to position my feet. They're close but not super close. A shorter wheelbase is just a completely natural look and feel for my senses.
5'10" with normal to slightly longer legs here. I prefer 14.5, but anything above is too long and anything shorter than 14.25 feels too cramped usually. I'm an 8.5 AH right now that's definitely 14.25 or slightly shorter. It's not bad but something is definitely off for me where it feels a tiny bit short. I'm alo on Indys, so that makes sense

It's odd because I like spinning and flipping my board so smaller than 14.5 should be ideal to do that but I'm so accustomed to medium/long WB decks that I sometimes feel cramped. Definitely resonate with the finger board/tech deck feel under foot hahah
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Mick on October 21, 2023, 12:12:03 AM
Expand Quote
14.3 and up sucks. 14.25 barely tolerable. Short wheelbases are where it's at, it needs to become more of a trend across the range of sizes especially wider boards. Much more natural and fun feeling. 14.5 feels like I'm riding a longboard now, blegh.
[close]

14.25 and below sucks unless you are a midget-dwarf with tiny legs. They feel like finger boards.
Found the dude that tried 14 WB thinking it would fix his poor tre flip technique
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: JugeL on October 21, 2023, 12:22:18 AM
If 0.25 difference in wheelbase makes you lose tre flips, you're the problem not the board lmao
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Thebird on October 21, 2023, 07:59:43 AM
If 0.25 difference in wheelbase makes you lose tre flips, you're the problem not the board lmao

I actually think this is more related to length and angle of the tail, how much scoop you have.  I have a 8.125 April, flat longer tail on Venture lows - can't scoop a tre flip for crap.  14.38 wb Quasi with Venture highs, no issues.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Sedition on October 21, 2023, 07:37:34 PM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
14.3 and up sucks. 14.25 barely tolerable. Short wheelbases are where it's at, it needs to become more of a trend across the range of sizes especially wider boards. Much more natural and fun feeling. 14.5 feels like I'm riding a longboard now, blegh.
[close]

14.25 and below sucks unless you are a midget-dwarf with tiny legs. They feel like finger boards.
[close]
Found the dude that tried 14 WB thinking it would fix his poor tre flip technique

14" is laughable. Wouldn't even consider trying one of those Penny Boards.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: LebowskisRug on October 21, 2023, 08:27:16 PM
If king of madness Reynolds can kill it on 14-14.5 then we all need to spend more time adjusting technique.

Also Ben D is killing it on a 14" wb setup that is popular with middle schoolers.

Before I get the "muscle memory" crap, that isn't as finite as we're acting and studies on coordination show it can be altered and improved by simply, and get this, paying attention to how you're performing the thing you're trying to perform.

I thought since I learned tons of flip tricks on 8" and under boards that yah that's what I needed to go back to. Maybe slower flip tricks that were pretty low altitude, but it sure as shit didn't help "being familiar" with some shit I rode 20 years prior.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: DarkPools on October 22, 2023, 11:24:07 AM
If king of madness Reynolds can kill it on 14-14.5 then we all need to spend more time adjusting technique.

Also Ben D is killing it on a 14" wb setup that is popular with middle schoolers.

Before I get the "muscle memory" crap, that isn't as finite as we're acting and studies on coordination show it can be altered and improved by simply, and get this, paying attention to how you're performing the thing you're trying to perform.

I thought since I learned tons of flip tricks on 8" and under boards that yah that's what I needed to go back to. Maybe slower flip tricks that were pretty low altitude, but it sure as shit didn't help "being familiar" with some shit I rode 20 years prior.

Except the average skater/Slap skater isn't as talented, fine tuned, or athletic (debatable on this one) as Reynolds. The challenge to arbitrarily force yourself to change your technique when you could just keep skating what works in your goldilocks zone instead doesn't seem worth it.
In other words, why stray from what works for you just because others find success in altering their equipment/technique?

My take doesn't mean we shouldn't be optimizing technique or not paying any attention to it at all when we skate, because you're right. We should be able to adjust technique and be more fluid when it comes to potential change. Instead of relegating ourselves to failure whenever we have to skate some deck size or WB that is not "ideal" before we actually give it some time. That said, if you're trained to do tricks on 14" and jump to 14.5" then I don't expect you to do all of your tricks successfully, technique be damned or not. With practice or not, your legs, height, or force you can exert may physically inhibit you from optimizing technique because it physically cannot make X trick happen. If you're 5'5 and have shorter legs with size 8 shoes, it's a miracle to do 360 flips on 8.5/14.5 WB on Thunders, in my eyes.

Technique or not, there's a proportional combo balance to equipment size against physical attributes that should loosely be followed, in my eyes.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: LebowskisRug on October 22, 2023, 12:16:16 PM
The average American male is 5'9", so 5'5" would put them on the lower end of the bell curve. So of course if someone is shorter then ya, 14" seems logical. The average Slap poster seems to be of average height and heavier build, which might alter their choices.

But if we are talking about overall board size, going from 14.25 to 14.5 if the board isn't longer or within a small margin won't matter all that much if the kicks are the same shape. That's because where you'd flick isn't further away. If you take a squared deck with a 14.25 and lay it over a tapered 14.5 (FA 8.5 and Baker 8.5 for example) you can see that the blunt kick actually has more length that your foot travels on the grip before flicking off. The FA would be shorter, so it can scoop faster, but not every flip trick will inherently feel easier.

We are flipping out way too hard on wheelbase. Tail/nose length, kick angle, how worn a deck is, wheel size, kick shape, etc. matter more. If you're going from 14.25 to 14.38 that is 1/16" per kick and pretty small when a tail on the same deck can vary from 6.5 to 6.75" or the nose from 6.6875 to 7.125.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: Mbrimson88 on October 22, 2023, 04:15:37 PM
.

I would definitely go longer, before I go shorter, on the wheelbase, but I am also taller with longer legs.

Skated the black eagle 8.125 x 32 with 14.25 wb for a long time, but also used to skate the 8.18 x 31.8 with 14.38 wb and the only thing I found different was the shorter tail on the 8.18, more so than the wheelbase change.

Since giving up on smaller boards and going more for the green eagle 8.38 x 32.2 with 14.5 wb or other BBS 8.5 x 32.3 with 14.5 shapes, I find it is just more comfortable on that slightly longer wb.

I also have a number of other boards with 14.6 through 14.75 and even a few 15 wb like the orange eagle, which although is big and a bit slow on the turns, I can still get on with it quite well but I don't skate them any more than a short while otherwise my usual 8.38 and 8.5 boards start to feel too small, in the same way the black eagle with the 14.25 wb now feels too small for me.


Sure you are going to have a fair skate with boards that work better for your height, leg length, but it is also down to adapting to whatever boards, as I know some really small guys who skate some of the biggest boards around and still have more flips, better board control and everything just works for them on those bigger boards than what might be considered more normal for them.  Then on the other hand, some people really excel when they have a more proportionate board for their size, like the tru fit boards are way too small for me, but they work great for a couple of the other smaller people I know too.

I guess the only thing is, some people don't want to or just flat out can't afford to get all manner of different size setups to work out which one is best, or then it can be a bad thing because they might get used to any or all of them given time, so it is just down to what works the best for them in the long run.


If a board size or shape is not working for you, stop skating it and try something else, but board hopping all over the place might not help a whole lot either, like Ben DeGros trying something, loving it (or hating it) and then trying something else slightly different, or changing it up completely with everything, which might change too much.

Trying to change one thing at a time always works best for me, but then I would also not ride trucks that were too narrow or too wide on a completely different setup, so sometimes changing board size drastically also means you have to change other things too.

The madness and the joy of skateboarding...


Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: dstrytruitt on October 22, 2023, 05:31:58 PM
.

I would definitely go longer, before I go shorter, on the wheelbase, but I am also taller with longer legs.

Skated the black eagle 8.125 x 32 with 14.25 wb for a long time, but also used to skate the 8.18 x 31.8 with 14.38 wb and the only thing I found different was the shorter tail on the 8.18, more so than the wheelbase change.

Since giving up on smaller boards and going more for the green eagle 8.38 x 32.2 with 14.5 wb or other BBS 8.5 x 32.3 with 14.5 shapes, I find it is just more comfortable on that slightly longer wb.

I also have a number of other boards with 14.6 through 14.75 and even a few 15 wb like the orange eagle, which although is big and a bit slow on the turns, I can still get on with it quite well but I don't skate them any more than a short while otherwise my usual 8.38 and 8.5 boards start to feel too small, in the same way the black eagle with the 14.25 wb now feels too small for me.


Sure you are going to have a fair skate with boards that work better for your height, leg length, but it is also down to adapting to whatever boards, as I know some really small guys who skate some of the biggest boards around and still have more flips, better board control and everything just works for them on those bigger boards than what might be considered more normal for them.  Then on the other hand, some people really excel when they have a more proportionate board for their size, like the tru fit boards are way too small for me, but they work great for a couple of the other smaller people I know too.

I guess the only thing is, some people don't want to or just flat out can't afford to get all manner of different size setups to work out which one is best, or then it can be a bad thing because they might get used to any or all of them given time, so it is just down to what works the best for them in the long run.


If a board size or shape is not working for you, stop skating it and try something else, but board hopping all over the place might not help a whole lot either, like Ben DeGros trying something, loving it (or hating it) and then trying something else slightly different, or changing it up completely with everything, which might change too much.

Trying to change one thing at a time always works best for me, but then I would also not ride trucks that were too narrow or too wide on a completely different setup, so sometimes changing board size drastically also means you have to change other things too.

The madness and the joy of skateboarding...

Well put as usual, sir!


I’ve spent 35ish years skating and tweaking my set-ups and I still occasionally look for something new.different/BETTER but generally just go with what works or feels good for me. Right now, as a “pad daddy” or whatever it was called here recently, I like a 9ish X 33or so X15.25” to hit bigger transitions and go fast and carve grind. That’s what makes me happy right now.

Enjoy the ride while you can, folks. We’re truly all day-to-day.
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rikki on October 22, 2023, 11:11:09 PM
"Just one last attempt at something different and then I'll stop messing around with my setup."

said no one ever with success  8)

Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: dstrytruitt on October 23, 2023, 04:50:17 PM
"Just one last attempt at something different and then I'll stop messing around with my setup."

said no one ever with success  8)
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: moonordie on October 24, 2023, 12:50:40 AM
Expand Quote
"Just one last attempt at something different and then I'll stop messing around with my setup."

said no one ever with success  8)
[close]
Amen brotha  ;D
I know that Aces work the best for me but also Indy worked before (not as good as Ace) and I know that Thunder doesn't.
Obviously I want some Thunders now...
Title: Re: Wheelbase Questions
Post by: rikki on October 24, 2023, 01:33:40 AM
Expand Quote
Expand Quote
"Just one last attempt at something different and then I'll stop messing around with my setup."

said no one ever with success  8)
[close]
[close]
Amen brotha  ;D
I know that Aces work the best for me but also Indy worked before (not as good as Ace) and I know that Thunder doesn't.
Obviously I want some Thunders now...

Man I feel you, been frantically swapping between Ventures and Indys for months now, I KNOW I should settle for just one truck at a time, but y'know how it goes...