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The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Used Longboard: Save Money and Ride On

So, you’re looking to get into longboarding? Awesome! But new longboards can be expensive. That’s where buying a used longboard comes in. It’s a fantastic way to save money and still get a quality board that will provide hours of fun. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding and purchasing a used longboard, ensuring you get the best possible deal and a board that’s safe and enjoyable to ride.

Why Buy a Used Longboard?

There are several compelling reasons to consider buying a used longboard:

Cost Savings: This is the most obvious benefit. You can often find used longboards for significantly less than the price of a new one. This allows you to get a higher-quality board for the same price or save money and still get a decent entry-level board.
Sustainability: Buying used longboards is a more sustainable option than buying new. It reduces the demand for new products and helps to keep perfectly good boards out of landfills.
Try Before You Buy (Potentially): Often, you can meet the seller in person and try out the used longboard before committing to the purchase. This is a huge advantage over buying online, where you can only rely on pictures and descriptions.
Instant Gratification: No waiting for shipping! You can pick up the used longboard and start riding right away.

Where to Find Used Longboards

Finding the right place to look is crucial. Here are some of the best options for sourcing used longboards:

Online Marketplaces: Websites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay are treasure troves of used longboards. Use keywords such as ‘used longboard,’ ‘longboard for sale,’ or specific brand names you’re interested in.
Local Skate Shops: Some skate shops have a consignment program or sell used longboards on behalf of their customers. This can be a great option because the shop may have inspected the board and can offer advice.
Online Forums and Communities: Many longboarding forums and online communities have classifieds sections where members sell their used longboards. This is a good place to find boards from experienced riders who may be willing to share their knowledge.
Friends and Family: Don’t forget to ask your friends and family if they know anyone who’s selling a used longboard. You might be surprised at what you find.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Longboard

Inspecting a used longboard carefully is essential to ensure you’re getting a good deal and a safe ride. Here’s a checklist of things to look for:

The Deck

Cracks and Delamination: Carefully inspect the deck for any cracks, especially around the mounting holes for the trucks. Delamination (separation of the layers of wood) is another serious issue that can compromise the board’s structural integrity. Small cosmetic scratches are usually fine, but avoid boards with significant damage.
Warping: Place the used longboard on a flat surface and check for any warping or bending. A warped deck can affect the board’s handling and stability.
Grip Tape: The grip tape should be in good condition and provide adequate traction. If it’s worn or peeling, you’ll need to replace it. Replacement grip tape is relatively inexpensive and easy to install.

The Trucks

Bent Axles: Check the axles for any signs of bending or damage. Bent axles can affect the board’s handling and make it difficult to turn properly.
Worn Bushings: Bushings are the rubbery pieces that allow the trucks to turn. If they’re cracked, worn, or overly soft, they’ll need to be replaced. Replacement bushings are relatively inexpensive and can significantly improve the board’s performance.
Loose Hardware: Make sure all the nuts and bolts are tight and in good condition. Loose hardware can be dangerous and can cause the board to wobble.

The Wheels

Flat Spots: Check the wheels for any flat spots, which can occur if the board has been slid or skidded frequently. Flat spots can make the board vibrate and reduce its speed.
Cracks and Chips: Inspect the wheels for any cracks or chips, which can make them unstable and prone to failure.
Bearing Condition: Spin each wheel and listen for any grinding or squeaking noises. These noises can indicate that the bearings are worn or dirty. Cleaning or replacing the bearings can improve the board’s speed and smoothness.

Questions to Ask the Seller

Before you buy a used longboard, ask the seller these questions:

How long have you owned the board? This will give you an idea of how much use the board has seen.
What type of riding did you do with the board? Different types of riding (e.g., cruising, downhill, freestyle) can put different stresses on the board.
Has the board ever been damaged? Be sure to ask about any previous damage, even if it has been repaired.
Why are you selling the board? The seller’s reason for selling can provide valuable insights into the board’s condition.
Can I try the board before I buy it? Always try to ride the board before you commit to the purchase.

Negotiating the Price

Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price of a used longboard. Research similar boards online to get an idea of their market value. Point out any flaws or issues you find during your inspection, and use them as leverage to negotiate a lower price. Be polite and respectful, but don’t be afraid to walk away if you’re not comfortable with the price.

Safety First

Before you start riding your used longboard, make sure you have the proper safety gear, including a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads. Always ride in a safe area away from traffic and other hazards. And most importantly, have fun!

Maintenance Tips for Your Used Longboard

To keep your used longboard in good condition, follow these maintenance tips:

Clean the Bearings Regularly: Dirty bearings can slow down your board and make it harder to ride. Clean them every few weeks or as needed.
Tighten the Hardware: Check the nuts and bolts regularly and tighten them as needed.
Replace Worn Parts: Don’t wait until a part breaks completely before replacing it. Replace worn bushings, wheels, and grip tape as needed.
Store Your Board Properly: Store your board in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Conclusion

Buying a used longboard is a smart way to save money and get into longboarding. By following the tips in this guide, you can find a quality board that will provide you with years of enjoyment. Remember to inspect the board carefully, ask the seller questions, negotiate the price, and always prioritize safety. Happy riding! Finding the perfect used longboard might take some time, but the savings and the thrill of the ride are well worth the effort. Remember to always prioritize safety and enjoy the journey.

[See also: Longboard Maintenance Tips] [See also: Best Longboards for Beginners]