Table of Contents

The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Used Longboard: Find Your Perfect Ride

So, you’re thinking about getting into longboarding? Awesome! It’s a fantastic way to cruise around, get some exercise, and enjoy the outdoors. But new longboards can be pricey. That’s where the allure of a used longboard comes in. Buying a used longboard can be a smart and economical way to enter the world of longboarding. However, it’s crucial to approach the purchase with a discerning eye. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find the perfect used longboard for your needs and budget.

Why Buy a Used Longboard?

There are several compelling reasons to consider a used longboard:

Cost Savings: This is the most obvious benefit. Used longboards typically sell for significantly less than new ones. You can often find high-quality boards at a fraction of their original price.
Entry Point: For beginners, investing in a used longboard allows you to try the sport without committing to a large initial investment. This is especially helpful if you’re not sure if longboarding is for you.
Upgrading Potential: If you’re an experienced rider, buying a used longboard can free up funds for upgrading components like trucks, wheels, or bearings.
Sustainability: Buying used reduces waste and contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle. You’re giving a board a second life instead of contributing to the demand for new manufacturing.

Where to Find Used Longboards

Now that you’re convinced a used longboard is the way to go, where do you find one? Here are some popular options:

Online Marketplaces: Sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay are treasure troves of used longboards. Be sure to use relevant keywords such as “used longboard for sale”, “longboard second hand”, or specific brands like “used Loaded longboard“.
Local Skate Shops: Some skate shops buy and sell used longboards. This is a great option because you can often inspect the board in person and get advice from experienced staff.
Online Forums and Communities: Longboarding forums and online communities often have dedicated sections for buying and selling used longboards. These communities can offer valuable insights and help you find a good deal.
Friends and Family: Don’t forget to ask your friends and family if they have a used longboard they’re willing to sell. You might be surprised!

What to Look for When Buying a Used Longboard

Inspecting a used longboard before you buy is essential. Here’s what to look for:

The Deck

Cracks and Delamination: Carefully examine the deck for any cracks, especially around the mounting holes for the trucks. Delamination, where the layers of wood separate, is another red flag. Minor scratches and cosmetic damage are usually acceptable, but structural damage should be avoided.
Warping: Place the board on a flat surface to check for warping. A warped deck can affect the board’s handling and stability.
Flex: The amount of flex in a longboard deck depends on the type of board and your riding style. However, excessive flex can indicate weakening of the deck. Understand the intended flex of the used longboard model you are inspecting.

The Trucks

Bent Axles: Check the axles for any signs of bending. Bent axles can cause uneven wear on the wheels and affect the board’s turning ability.
Worn Bushings: Bushings are the rubber pieces that cushion the trucks. Worn bushings can make the board feel unstable and unresponsive. Replacement bushings are relatively inexpensive, but it’s still worth checking their condition.
Stripped Threads: Make sure the threads on the kingpin and axle nuts are not stripped. Stripped threads will prevent you from properly tightening the trucks.

The Wheels

Flat Spots: Flat spots on the wheels can cause vibrations and affect the board’s smoothness. Spin the wheels to check for flat spots.
Cracking: Look for cracks in the urethane of the wheels. Cracks can weaken the wheels and make them more prone to chunking.
Wear: Some wear on the wheels is normal, but excessive wear can indicate that the wheels are nearing the end of their lifespan.

The Bearings

Smoothness: Spin each wheel and listen for any grinding or rattling sounds. Grinding or rattling indicates that the bearings are dirty or damaged.
Rust: Check for rust on the bearings. Rust can seize up the bearings and prevent them from spinning freely.

Questions to Ask the Seller

When buying a used longboard, don’t hesitate to ask the seller questions. Here are some important questions to consider:

How long have you owned the board? This can 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 can put different stresses on the board.
Has the board ever been damaged? Be upfront about any damage the board has sustained.
Why are you selling the board? The seller’s reason for selling can sometimes reveal potential issues with the board.
Are you willing to negotiate the price? Don’t be afraid to haggle, especially if you find any issues with the board.

Types of Longboards and Their Uses

Understanding the different types of longboards is crucial for finding the right one for your needs. Here’s a brief overview:

Cruiser Longboards: These are designed for casual riding and commuting. They typically have a longer wheelbase and softer wheels for a smooth and comfortable ride. A used longboard cruiser is a great starter board.
Downhill Longboards: These are built for speed and stability. They have a stiff deck, drop-through trucks, and grippy wheels.
Freeride Longboards: These are versatile boards that can be used for sliding, carving, and cruising. They typically have a symmetrical shape and a medium amount of flex. Finding a used longboard like this can be great for progression.
Carving Longboards: These are designed for making smooth, flowing turns. They typically have a flexible deck and responsive trucks.
Dancing Longboards: These longboards are longer and wider, designed for performing tricks and dance-like movements.

Negotiating the Price

Once you’ve inspected the used longboard and asked the seller questions, it’s time to negotiate the price. Here are some tips:

Do your research: Check the prices of similar used longboards online to get an idea of the fair market value.
Point out any flaws: If you find any issues with the board, use them as leverage to negotiate a lower price.
Be polite and respectful: Even if you’re trying to get a good deal, always be polite and respectful to the seller.
Be prepared to walk away: If the seller is unwilling to negotiate to a price you’re comfortable with, be prepared to walk away. There are plenty of other used longboards out there.

Cleaning and Maintaining Your Used Longboard

Once you’ve purchased your used longboard, it’s important to clean and maintain it properly. Here are some tips:

Clean the deck: Wipe down the deck with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime.
Clean the wheels: Use a brush and soapy water to clean the wheels.
Clean the bearings: Remove the bearings from the wheels and clean them with a solvent. Lubricate the bearings with bearing oil or grease.
Tighten the hardware: Regularly check the hardware (nuts and bolts) to make sure it’s tight.
Store the board properly: Store the board in a dry place away from direct sunlight.

Safety First

Before you start riding your used longboard, make sure you have the proper safety gear. This includes:

Helmet: A helmet is the most important piece of safety gear.
Pads: Knee and elbow pads can protect you from scrapes and bruises.
Gloves: Gloves can protect your hands from abrasions.

Always ride in a safe area away from traffic. Be aware of your surroundings and ride within your abilities. [See also: Longboarding Safety Tips for Beginners]

Conclusion

Buying a used longboard can be a great way to save money and get into the sport. By following the tips in this guide, you can find the perfect used longboard for your needs and budget. Remember to inspect the board carefully, ask the seller questions, and negotiate the price. With a little patience and effort, you can find a used longboard that will provide you with years of enjoyment. Happy riding!