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

Looking to cruise down the boardwalk, carve some hills, or just enjoy the freedom of the open road on four wheels? A longboard might be just what you need. But new longboards can be pricey, and that’s where the allure of a used longboard comes in. Buying a used longboard can save you a significant amount of money, allowing you to get rolling without breaking the bank. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find the perfect used longboard for your needs, ensuring you get a great deal and a reliable ride.

Why Buy a Used Longboard?

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

Cost Savings: This is the most obvious benefit. You can often find used longboards for a fraction of the price of a new one. This is especially helpful for beginners who are unsure if they’ll stick with the hobby.
Depreciation: Like cars, longboards depreciate quickly. Buying used allows you to avoid the initial depreciation hit.
Experimentation: A lower price point allows you to experiment with different longboard styles (cruisers, downhill boards, dancers) without a huge financial commitment.
Sustainability: Buying used is an environmentally friendly choice. It gives a board a second life and reduces the demand for new manufacturing.

Where to Find Used Longboards

The internet and your local community offer several avenues for finding used longboards:

Online Marketplaces: Websites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay are treasure troves of used longboards. Filter by location, price, and condition to narrow your search.
Local Skate Shops: Some skate shops buy and sell used equipment. This can be a great option because you can inspect the board in person and get advice from knowledgeable staff.
Consignment Shops: Check consignment shops that specialize in sporting goods.
Online Forums and Communities: Longboarding forums and online communities often have classifieds sections where members sell their used boards.
Friends and Family: Don’t forget to ask around! Someone you know might be looking to sell their old longboard.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Longboard

Before you hand over your hard-earned cash, carefully inspect the used longboard for potential issues. Here’s a checklist of key areas to examine:

The Deck

The deck is the foundation of your longboard. Look for:

Cracks: Pay close attention to the edges, around the truck mounting holes, and in the middle of the deck. Cracks can compromise the board’s structural integrity. Even small cracks can become larger over time and make the board unsafe to ride.
Delamination: This is when the layers of wood that make up the deck start to separate. Look for bubbles or raised areas on the deck’s surface. Delamination weakens the deck and can lead to breakage.
Warping: A warped deck can affect the board’s handling. Place the board on a flat surface to check for warping.
Scratches and Scuffs: Minor scratches and scuffs are normal wear and tear, but excessive damage could indicate abuse.

The Trucks

The trucks connect the wheels to the deck. Inspect them for:

Bent Axles: A bent axle will cause the wheels to wobble. Spin the wheels to check for wobble.
Cracked Hangers: The hanger is the main body of the truck. Look for cracks, especially around the pivot cup and kingpin.
Worn Bushings: Bushings are the rubbery parts that allow the trucks to turn. Worn bushings will feel loose and sloppy. Replacements are relatively inexpensive.
Stripped Threads: Check the threads on the kingpin and axle nuts to ensure they are not stripped.

The Wheels

The wheels are what make the board roll. Check for:

Flat Spots: Flat spots on the wheels will cause a bumpy ride. These are usually caused by sliding or braking hard.
Cracking: Look for cracks in the urethane.
Chunking: This is when chunks of urethane are missing from the wheel.
Bearing Condition: Spin the wheels to check the bearings. They should spin freely and smoothly. Grinding or noisy bearings need to be replaced.

The Grip Tape

The grip tape provides traction for your feet. Check for:

Tears: Tears in the grip tape can be a tripping hazard.
Dirt and Grime: Excessive dirt and grime can reduce the grip tape’s effectiveness.
Bubbles: Bubbles under the grip tape can cause it to peel off.

Questions to Ask the Seller

Don’t be afraid to ask the seller questions about the used longboard. Here are some important questions to consider:

How old is the board?
How often was it used?
What type of riding was it used for? (e.g., cruising, downhill, freestyle)
Has it ever been damaged?
Has any maintenance been performed? (e.g., bearing cleaning, bushing replacement)
Why are you selling it?

Negotiating the Price

Once you’ve inspected the board and asked your questions, it’s time to negotiate the price. Research the value of similar used longboards online to get a sense of what’s fair. Be prepared to walk away if the seller is unwilling to negotiate or if the price is too high for the condition of the board. Point out any flaws you found during your inspection to justify a lower price. Remember to be respectful and polite throughout the negotiation process.

Safety First!

Before you hop on your new (to you) used longboard, make sure you have the necessary safety gear:

Helmet: A helmet is the most important piece of safety gear. Always wear a helmet when riding.
Pads: Knee and elbow pads can protect you from scrapes and bruises.
Gloves: Sliding gloves can help you control your speed when sliding.
Proper Footwear: Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip.

Maintaining Your Used Longboard

To keep your used longboard rolling smoothly for years to come, perform regular maintenance:

Clean the Bearings: Clean the bearings regularly to remove dirt and debris.
Tighten the Hardware: Check the nuts and bolts regularly to make sure they are tight.
Replace Worn Parts: Replace worn bushings, wheels, and grip tape as needed.
Store Properly: Store your longboard in a dry place away from direct sunlight.

Conclusion

Buying a used longboard is a smart way to save money and enjoy the thrill of longboarding. By following the tips in this guide, you can find a great used longboard that will provide you with years of fun. Remember to inspect the board carefully, ask the seller questions, negotiate the price, and always prioritize safety. Happy riding!

[See also: Longboard Maintenance Tips] [See also: Beginner Longboard Guide]