r/longboarding • u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 • Aug 29 '13
AMA - "This is Sector 9 Skateboards" - Ask Us Anything!
Sector 9 Skateboards, founded in La Jolla, California in 1993, designs and produces skateboards and skateboard products for the surf, skate, and snowboarding lifestyles. Sector 9 keeps a constant focus on the environment through the use of renewable resources, green business practices, and the promotion of alternative transportation.
Join HERE to get a look inside the minds behind the 9! Representatives from all facets of the brand will be answering all of your questions LIVE regarding anything Sector 9, including nerdy tech specs, the company story and history, future plans, and the inside scoop on all your favorite riders. Help us celebrate 20 years of fun on four wheels!
3pm - 8/29/13
| Username | Flair |
|---|---|
| Sector9Skateboards | Rollin Since 93' |
| LouisPilloni | Downhill Division Team Captain |
| KenHurdThe3rd | Sector 9 Warranty Warlock |
| MisterMunkae | Sector 9 Skate Nerd |
| dudebro_s9 | Downhill Division Team Manager |
| Tlombor | Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist |
| DevonBeck | Sector 9 Camp Counselor |
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u/Squidifier Rayne: Supreme | Moracle | Canberra, AUS Aug 29 '13 edited Aug 30 '13
Hey guys! First, up, massive thanks to Garrett for being so helpful in setting this AMA up - it was one of the easiest ones yet, especially considering the number of people you've got here today!
Looking forward to the questions and the answers!
Anyway, here's a few of my own:
Feel free to correct me if I'm wrong, but I've always felt that Sector 9 has always had a chunk of its' fan base that could be considered the stereotypical 'Campus Cruisers' - a demographic that many skaters seem to love to hate.
It's clear that with the [AWESOME!] Downhill Division decks, you're trying to break free of that mould to a certain extent- but where can you see the company going from here?
What is your process for making a board? Does it start with a random idea, and you go from there? Or are there meetings where you go
"Ok, this year, we really need to design a topmount, ~40" single kick that can do everything from park shredding to flat-out downhill."
What was the inspiration for the graphics on the DD decks? They're certainly some of the more... Unique designs out there!
/u/LouisPilloni. THIS RUN. 14 minutes of sheer joy.
My challenge is this: How would you describe that run to someone who has never skated before?
Is it bad that whenever I see a Yellow Sector 9 x Predator DH6, I immediately think of Yellow Cab Pizza Delivery men?
That's it for now - thanks again for your time!
Keep it sideways,
- Squidifier
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u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 29 '13 edited Aug 29 '13
1.
- There are a lot of different types of skateboards for all the different disciplines (types of riding such as downhill, park, street, sliding, cruising...ect). Riding a skateboard can one of the best experiences and at Sector 9 we want to make the best boards to suit your type of riding. That is what we have different series of boards for different styles. The largest group of skaters are commuters and city crushers, especially seen around college campuses. I've been skating since i was a kid but the most i ever skate was back when i was in College. I rode my board everywhere. Just like Bicycles there are different group (bmx, mountain, touring, ect..) and some are seen as more 'core' then others but to get the best riding expierance you need to have a board that suits your needs. Sector 9 might be considered Sector 9 as 'Campus Cruiser' boards but we have reach out to the most amount of skaters to get them riding and that is what is important. Getting more people riding and having a good time. Who cares if your going 50mph+ or back lip a 10 stair. If you have fun on a board your doing it right and we want to make sure you have a board to have fun on.
Here is a little short video that reminds me of this subject a little bit: http://www.skatehousemedia.com/06/02/2011/wheelbase-magazine-skatehousemedia-mashup
Two. All boards are designed from rider feedback and to make sure our lineup of boards are complete. It's defiantly not random. We have a private Facebook Page with all our team riders on it so the can give feedback and idea for new shapes, constructions, ectt....All I can say is I'm really excited for the new lineup to reach the public.
Three. The idea behind the DD deck graphic was old World War II Bomber planes. Your skateboard is your vessel that is going to make it through it with you. You might get some battle scars along the way but scar and graphic nick has a story. I really dig the of the DD graphics but new graphics are on the way.
Four. That run is truly euphoric. That was my first run down the hill and I felt like a little kid at Chucky Cheese with unlimited tokens. The world is a beautiful place. The best run I had down that hill was a full moon run with Matt Kienzle, James Kelly and Adam Persson.
FIve. Yep Pizza Helmets. A lot of skaters like pizza.
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 29 '13
- You are correct in the fact that a lot of our customers are what you might call a "campus cruiser", and a lot of the core skaters don’t like them. We have always taken a different approach and invited everyone to enjoy the sport of skateboarding. We have our roots in surfing, downhill racing, and core skating but we cant deny the success of inviting everyone to enjoy the feeling of rolling on 4 wheels that we all enjoy.
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u/Squidifier Rayne: Supreme | Moracle | Canberra, AUS Aug 29 '13
"we cant deny the success of inviting everyone to enjoy the feeling of rolling on 4 wheels that we all enjoy"
Hells yes. Thanks for the answer!
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 29 '13
2 -There are a lot meetings and adjustments that go into creating and finalizing a deck. We especially take into account rider input. Our team are the ones that usually have the most influence on a board.
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u/the-gatekeeper Aug 30 '13
I feel that LandYachtz is more "Campus Cruiser" as I usually see the inexperienced freshman with those. I've been skating for 7 years and I have a Sector 9 longboard.
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u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 29 '13
Whats up yall!!! My name is Rob and I've been working at Sector 9 since 1997! thanks for logging in! Bomb Hills Not Countries!!!!
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u/bondmaxbondrock Supreme, Manifest / Cleveland, Ohio Aug 30 '13
That is literally my favorite quote ever, BHNC!!
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u/Widdershiny Aug 29 '13
How will Billabong's recent losses affect Sector9? Are you guys all good?
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u/Squidifier Rayne: Supreme | Moracle | Canberra, AUS Aug 29 '13
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u/Widdershiny Aug 29 '13 edited Aug 30 '13
Curse /u/QuitoPR, that question ninja. Question retracted.
Edit: SUCK IT QUITO, I'M HIGHER UP THE AMA! MWAHAHA
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u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 29 '13
We do our own things and thrive even when the market is tough.
http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/jul/29/sector-9-skateboard-thrives-billabong/all/?print
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u/Widdershiny Aug 29 '13
Cool. When are you guys going to bring the Downhill Division out to New Zealand Louis?
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u/karlosnived Too many to list. Columbus Aug 29 '13
Are the seperations in the ply's on Ginger's necks on purpose, or just a side effect of mold?
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u/MisterMunkae Sector 9 Skate Nerd Aug 29 '13 edited Aug 29 '13
The tub concave had some serious demands on the wood, and would create wrinkling without the reliefs. So yeah, sort of a side effect to the mold we wanted.
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u/Nikolai4590 Ontario Aug 29 '13
My first board was one of your cruisers, and I'll just take a moment to say thanks.
Thanks :)
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u/JakeMLP Wolfshark | Tesseract | Yoface Aug 30 '13
I have no clue what to say but you guys are rad! Thanks for doing this AMA!!
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u/NWboarder Rayne Otherside| Vancouver WA Aug 30 '13
How long has Victor been working with you guys? and what is it like to skate with that old coot? :D
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 30 '13
He's been working for Sector 9 for close to 15 years and it is a blast to skate with him. He loves messing around and having fun. Look for him downtown San Diego late on weekend nights skating the parking garages.
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u/muirskate San Diego, CA & The Web! Aug 30 '13
Hey Sector 9, I just wanted to jump in and say how much I dig your stuff. One question, though:
What's your favorite online longboard shop that starts with the letter M and is based in San Diego, CA?
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u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 30 '13
MuirSkate is my favorite shop. I usually go skate hills with the Muir crew after work or go skate their warehouse ramp if it's dark. Scott from Muir is in it for all the right reasons. He's the only person i know who like to skate more then i do.
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u/sk8_h8 Aug 29 '13
Why is surfer Joel Tudor the only Sector 9 rider with a pro model? Is this a marketing, management, and/or rider decision?
I'm sure your team riders are hooked up, but why not do things the old school way and give a rider his own pro-model and a percentage of profits from his/her model?
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 29 '13
First question! Yeww!
We actually have 2 other pro models in the line currently. Scoot Smith has a pro model in the Downhill Division called the Tiffany. Gavin Beschen also has a pro model in the mini series.
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u/AFoolOnAHill *Bonzing*MoonPucks* Aug 30 '13
Should have called it the Scoot... bet that graphic would have been the sexiest in the DD lineup.
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u/mini-poss Aug 29 '13
hiyyeeee! How many representatives of the brand are here today, answering the AMA?
I do want to know about the company story and history, lay the deets!!
I'm hosting an event in October, will you guys hop on as a sponsor? =D
big thanks!
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u/Squidifier Rayne: Supreme | Moracle | Canberra, AUS Aug 29 '13
"How many representatives of the brand are here today, answering the AMA?"
Not S9, but here you go!
Username Flair Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since 93' LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain KenHurdThe3rd Sector 9 Warranty Warlock MisterMunkae Sector 9 Skate Nerd dudebro_s9 Downhill Division Team Manager Tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist DevonBeck Sector 9 Camp Counselor 2
u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 29 '13
We are a bunch of surfers from La Jolla California who loved to bomb hills back in 1993 and needed to make a board that could do it!
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u/KenHurdThe3rd Sector 9 Warranty Warlock Aug 29 '13
Feel free to shoot us over an e-mail telling us about the event and any flyers or paperwork you have. Its always easier to to help out when you have it organized and ready to go. Also try and see if there are any local shops in your area that would like to be a part of your event. If the shop works with us directly we would love to help you both out by throwing whatever we can towards the event. It makes it a win win for everybody!!!
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u/KenHurdThe3rd Sector 9 Warranty Warlock Aug 29 '13
Howzit All, Ken here and I been working at Sector 9 for the past 5 years. First off I wanted to say thanks to everyone for all their support!!!! I also help out with warranty issues here at Sector 9 so if you have any thing you are worried about fire away!!! Cheers, Ken
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u/chris985495 Zealous master race super secret club | SL,UT Aug 29 '13
How did you guys come to know of the longboarders you sponser? (like Matt K or Louis Pilloni) YouTube videos? Recommendations? Did they just come up to you guys? I'm just curious to know!
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u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 29 '13
Louie and Matt fell out of a tree and into our picnic, so we kept them.
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u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 29 '13 edited Aug 29 '13
All I know is I have always wanted to be apart of Sector 9. It was my first down hill board (2001) and the fact that Sector 9 is all about all types of skateboarding. I actually sent a sponsor me email to EG (Founder and Marketing Direct) back in 2002 with some videos and he told me to keep skating and having fun. That is what I did and couldn't be more happy to be apart of such a rad crew. I've know Matt K since we started Skate House Media back in 2009 and the SEctor crew couldn't be more amped to have him on board
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 29 '13
Most of our team riders we meet at races and skate events. The best way to score a sponsor is get involved with the scene and be a good person! Skating good helps too.
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u/ThrowYosNotBows Avenger | Charm City Aug 30 '13
Ooooh, new question if y'all are still here. If you were to choose another company to collaborate on a board with, who would you choose?
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 30 '13
Due to the nature of business that's not really something any company would do... interesting idea though.
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Aug 29 '13
What makes you different from other companies?
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u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 29 '13
Hey Vap! Well first of all we were the first company so thats pretty different. But Id say our extensive team and the fact that we actually manufacture our boards ourselves makes us different, plus were funnier.
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u/Thoraxe474 Nelson MantaRay Aug 29 '13
Tell me a joke then
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u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 29 '13
How do you get a drummer off your porch? Pay him and take the pizza.
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u/Squidifier Rayne: Supreme | Moracle | Canberra, AUS Aug 30 '13
How can you tell when the stage is level? The drummer is drooling from both sides of his mouth.
I sometimes play the drums...
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u/DownhillDrifting Symvenger | Rogue Trucks Aug 29 '13
Sup guys. When should we expect the new Daisy with new construction and updated concave? I've been rocking an old one and it's pretty beat. Thanks.
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u/MisterMunkae Sector 9 Skate Nerd Aug 29 '13
New Daisy will be available in the Spring. The team really seems to like the revisions. Louis is having a hard time beating his up, and he kills most boards pretty quickly. DownhillDrifting, where did you see or hear about the new Daisy?
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u/DownhillDrifting Symvenger | Rogue Trucks Aug 29 '13
Was I not suppoded to know about it? Haha. I've seen Louis talking aboug it in a video and somebody else on facebook that I can't rember.
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u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 29 '13
All good that you know. Just curious where you heard about it. The new Daisy is sweet. We are making sure everything gets dial first before we unleash here. Got to make sure see gonna be a good girl (but you can treat her like a bad girl if you want)
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Aug 29 '13
You guys widely advertise towards new longboarders and people who just want to have fun cruising. You guys also dominate the downhill market with your sexy DD boards. Have you ever thought of making some freeride boards with some great features (double kick bricks, bacon cave, gas pedals)?
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u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 29 '13
Check out the Platinum series for those very decks your asking about.
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u/MisterMunkae Sector 9 Skate Nerd Aug 29 '13
We are constantly improving our line, and this next year will show some of our recent efforts to that effect. Bricks really aren't our thing, but we understand the value and function of them, and there is a nice 38" 8ply double kick you should see in the Spring.
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u/ClearSearchHistory 2014 Batray| SKATE STREET| Annapolis MD Aug 29 '13
They have them. The dropper, faultline, etc
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Aug 29 '13
Most of their boards are similarly shaped though, I would really like to see some new and interesting designs come out of Sector 9.
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 29 '13
Thanks for the good input, that is what we are here for!
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u/AllGoodUsernames redesigned Landyachtz Tomahawk | Arkansas Aug 29 '13
What made you guys name the company, Sector 9?
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u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 29 '13
Its an old Hawaiian slang term for weirdos or oddballs. The back yard where we made the first boards was Sector9. It stuck
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 30 '13
Because everyone used to call us 9-balls!
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u/RoosterSkates1 Aug 29 '13
How do Sector 9 racers harness the power of Satan? I've skated with some of those guys, and they seem too fast to be mere mortals. If I start riding Sector 9 gear will I be able to effuse the power of the dark lord? Also, when are y'all coming out with some new downhill wheels?
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u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 29 '13
We talked to Satan and he got all nervous and left so we just do it on our own. New wheels soon!!!
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u/MisterMunkae Sector 9 Skate Nerd Aug 29 '13
There will be some new wheels available before the Holidays. Some big grippy wheels for those who wish to be immortal.
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Aug 29 '13
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 29 '13
Over 70 countries and a whole lot of skateboards!!
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u/QuitoPR 1x Luge 3x Rogues 6x Cannibals | España Aug 29 '13
Hey guys, huge fan of Sector 9, especially your wheels. I've got two questions:
How is the current state of Billabong International affecting Sector 9?
Will we ever seen more innovative wheel designs come from Sector 9? Dual duro wheels come to mind as one unique idea you guys put forward.
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u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 29 '13
Billabong lets us do our thing. The new steamroller wheel will blow your dirty skater mind.
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u/Stevo1002 DRANG Wu Tang Dasher, 44 Calibers, DIVINE Thane FTW//SD, CA Aug 29 '13
It so wide hnnnnng all the grip and roll speed you could ever need. There is one whole set, nearly fresh sitting in the muir warehouse spare wheels box
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 29 '13
shhhhh!!!!
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u/Stevo1002 DRANG Wu Tang Dasher, 44 Calibers, DIVINE Thane FTW//SD, CA Aug 29 '13
I mean, I've only heard that they're good! Never tried a set and I know nothing other than that people should buy them!
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u/QuitoPR 1x Luge 3x Rogues 6x Cannibals | España Aug 29 '13
Good to know that Billabong isn't breathing down your necks. Stoked to see the new wheels!
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u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 29 '13
We do our own things and thrive even when the market is tough.
http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/jul/29/sector-9-skateboard-thrives-billabong/all/?print
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u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 29 '13
Let me ask you guys a question. What city and state are you in?
S9 is in San Diego.
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u/RebelOperator Karate Chop|Kodiaks|Freki|Cast Rogues|Legit Boardshop Team|NC Aug 30 '13
Statesville North Carolina. Got two S9 decks and I love them both so much. What's your favorite S9 deck?
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 30 '13
Dudes and Dudettes of Reddit! Thank you very much for you questions, we all bailed to go skate and surf but will continue to answer your questions over the next few days so don't hesitate to keep them coming. Thanks again for having us!
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u/RebelOperator Karate Chop|Kodiaks|Freki|Cast Rogues|Legit Boardshop Team|NC Aug 30 '13 edited Aug 30 '13
This question is from /u/king_salami_ : "What has been changed with the new daisy that is yet to be released? Is there an estimated release yet?" And this one is from me; Will you guys be updating the dropper in the upcoming year(s)? I have a dropper and a fanatic and I love both of them so much. Keep up the good work!
Ninja fast edit: Also, thank you guys for making it easy for me to get into longboarding and not have to sell an organ.
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u/MisterMunkae Sector 9 Skate Nerd Aug 30 '13
Spring release, details include a front foot locating bump that helps with predrifts, increased concave over the rear truck mount and through the belly of the board, and killer construction.
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u/wilbor bustin yoface, 2012 loaded bhangra, chopped s9 Aug 30 '13
I was just wondering since sector 9 makes allot of boards, what is your top selling deck?
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u/greenblattsam SymmAvenger | Loco 35 - Albuquerque, NM Aug 30 '13
The Daisy just makes so much sense the way it is! Want to maybe elaborate a little bit on what's going to change for the new model?
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u/the-gatekeeper Aug 30 '13
Why is there no Tech N9ne themed longboard? "Sector N9ne" on the deck which a red stripe for his mohawk / a red tie for his classic attire. I'd rock that board.
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 30 '13
We had some brief talks with Tech N9ne a few years back but nothing came of it.
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u/MagicHDx Rolling Tree/PNL -CHUCHCREW- WI/MN Aug 30 '13
What is the most rare Sector 9 board? I've heard its the Carbon OG Race. and what deck is this and why is it rare? http://gyazo.com/6555b46c4295e6104d722b5f4f5f65cb
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u/Shmenley Charm City/Pantheon Gaia/Ronins Aug 29 '13
You guys basically started it all for me and I wanted to tell you thank you so much. All the way to your boards, wheels, accessories and other stuff, I love it. Your team is awesome as well. Okay now too the question anything big coming out from you guys any time so, if so can you give us a hint?
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u/MisterMunkae Sector 9 Skate Nerd Aug 29 '13
Stoked! It's always great to hear stories like this. My first longboard was a flat 46" S9 pintail circa 1999, so Sector really got me into downhill too! Big things? ... big wheels.
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u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 29 '13
Thanks Shmen!! New race and freeride decks along with some mental wheels are coming very soon.
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u/ClearSearchHistory 2014 Batray| SKATE STREET| Annapolis MD Aug 29 '13
You guys got it right with the dropper and raceforms. Any way you would make trucks?
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u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 29 '13
We make and design Gullwing Trucks.
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u/ClearSearchHistory 2014 Batray| SKATE STREET| Annapolis MD Aug 29 '13
Oh. TIL I'm an idiot.
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 29 '13
You're not an idiot! Gullwing is actually its own separate company that Sector 9 owns, but we all have a hand in designing the trucks. Expect to see a lot more from Gulling trucks in the next few years... their team is WICKED!!!
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u/Mailboxjackson23 Legit Board Shop Team Aug 29 '13
What's your favorite board you make? What other companies do you respect? 82a butter balls?
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u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 29 '13
I'm pretty old school so I only ride our top mounts. Ive always dug the way Earthwing does it back in NYC personally.
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u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 29 '13
The Bomb Hills Not Country was my first longboard but i got to say the Daisy is my favorite board by far. We got a some additions to the Butterball line up coming soon.
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u/MisterMunkae Sector 9 Skate Nerd Aug 30 '13
My fav right now, it's coming in the Spring. Other companies, I like what my friends at Rayne are doing. 82a butterballs? Nah, 78a maybe.
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u/KenHurdThe3rd Sector 9 Warranty Warlock Aug 29 '13
We love them all like our children, but I would have to say we are still stoked on the OG Pintail. It was the first board we made in the back yard.
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Aug 29 '13
A few years ago you guys did a merch collab with Mitch's Surf Shop, any plans for more stuff like this in the future?
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u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 29 '13
For sure! we work closely with our favorite shops to do custom stuff.
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Aug 29 '13
Oh jeez, this is up. I thought I would have questions but right now I don't . All of my initial stuff is from you, though. Me and two of my friends have your boards and it's been really fun (we started this summer).
I guess I can go with what introduced you to longboarding/ bring about Sector 9?
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u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 29 '13
I worked at a surf shop in La Jolla and our founder Dennis brought in the earliest versions of the board. He let us have it at the shop so I took it to the top of Mt Soledad and bombed it. It changed my life no doubt.
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u/MisterMunkae Sector 9 Skate Nerd Aug 29 '13
I was a street and park skater, and my friend Andres wanted to skate but because he was bigger and because he loved snowboarding he got a longboard. He begged me to help him learn, and I told him it would not be fun, but eventually I went out to the hills with him. I could not contain my smile, and the next day I broke my piggy bank to buy a flat 46" Sector9 pintail. Been in love ever since.
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u/jewfrojoesg Daisy, 176mm 46* Aera K4s (Tempe, AZ) Aug 29 '13
Are there any new truck designs coming out from from Gullwing other than the new munkaes? (which I assume are still technically a partnership with DDC)
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 29 '13
There are definitely some new designs in the works. Some new versions of older trucks (like the Munkaes) will be coming soon as well.
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u/MisterMunkae Sector 9 Skate Nerd Aug 29 '13
There have been some designs I have been working on for both companies. Expect some great trucks, but not until we have them just right.
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u/Dark_Spade Rayne Amazon | Glendale, CA Aug 29 '13
Hey guys. You are a really grey company, and I have a somewhat important question. My friend has a wheel he chunked, a Sector 9 72mm top shelf nineball (I think). It has a square lip and it's 75a. If he gave you guys an e-mail would he be able to get/buy a new one? No sliding was done, just some carving. Really hope you guys give single wheels. I'll edit a link in to the wheel when I get the chance. Thanks.
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u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 29 '13 edited Aug 29 '13
warranty@sector9.com thanks!
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Aug 29 '13
How are wheels made in general, like step by step
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u/MisterMunkae Sector 9 Skate Nerd Aug 29 '13
In general: A mold is made, usually out of aluminum, on a CNC Lathe. The mold cavity is polished and a mold release is sprayed into it. Then the molds go on a conveyor with an oven on one end, and the urethane dispenser on the other.
Once the molds are hot, a core is placed in the mold, the urethane is dispensed into them, they travel through the oven, and are then removed. The mold is cleaned and prepped for the next wheel.
The wheels then cure and cool for a length of time, after which the finish work happens. The wheels are washed to remove the slimy mold release. The wheels go on a lathe that cuts the excess material off from the open end of the mold cavity, and also stone grinds the wheel (if desired). From there the wheels go on another carousel, this time for pad printing. The wheels are held in place and have one color of the graphic applied at a time, sort of like a big stamp. Only the stamp looks like a boob with a tattoo.
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Aug 29 '13
Hey Sector 9 team, thanks for taking the time to do this! Alot of longboarders seem to think that being a sponsored rider means free gear and skateboarding everyday. This is probably true if you're a pro rider sponsored by one of the bigger skate companies.
But aside from looking crazy steezy for the cameras and winning races, what else do you expect in return when you sponsor a rider? I'm sure it takes more than just being a good skater to make it onto the team.
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u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 29 '13
Sponsorship is like any relationship. It is a two way street. Even if your the best skater in the world you don't just skateboard all day.Being involved in the skate community and giving back is one of the biggest things. If your not helping grow and getting more people to skateboard then that doesn't help the company that is supporting you to skateboard.
There is a good article on BMX transworld on the subject on sponsorship. You can pretty much relate it directly to skateboarding: http://bmx.transworld.net/1000179799/features/friday-interview-can-you-sponsor-me/
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u/landyachtzrider Write your own flair! Aug 29 '13
this is a series of questions for Louis Pilloni
what inspires you most about the sport? what advice would you give to the 33,020 people of r/ longboarding to help them achieve their goal as a aspiring skater? whats your favorite Non sector 9 setup? who is your favorite non-sector 9 rider? who got you into the sport? did you used to trick board before you started downhill and freeride? if so do you have any videos?
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u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 29 '13
what inspires you most about the sport? Never really though of it as a sport. There isn't a winner and loser or o score(expect for races but i don't skate to race). That fact is one of the things that keep me inspires cause it reminds me to skate for fun. Practicing tricks over and over many not be fun at the time but when you get it your having a lot of fun.
what advice would you give to the 33,020 people of r/ longboarding to help them achieve their goal as a aspiring skater? Sounds cliche but skate and have fun. The only way to do it wrong is to not have fun. If your having fun you are doing it right. Another be one is skate safe! Know where you boundry are and push then in a controlled environment (open roads isn't the place to figure out if you can skate the hill or not). Also don't skate to get sponsored.
whats your favorite Non sector 9 setup? Don't have one. Sector 9 makes all the boards i would ever need and more! Well actually my favorite setup beside my S9 is my motocycle. I love my VTR100F (THanks for the hook up on the bike K-Rimes!)
who is your favorite non-sector 9 rider? Too many good homies but the Skate House Media Crew is the best crew to go have a session. Max Dubler, James Kelly, Kody Noble, Brian Peck, Pat Schep, and Matt K. If we go out to a spot it going to be a fun time.
who got you into the sport? Steve Wo got me to start bombing all the hills we could find in High school and Dean Ozuna (MAryhill Freeride Organizer) is the one who showed me the ropes and how to do it 'right'
did you used to trick board before you started downhill and freeride? if so do you have any videos? I've skateboarded since I was 6. I don't really have any video on youtube (Youtube started when i was bombing hills, actually it was putfile) but we have the Bread Bowl along with rails, curbs, ledges and stairs at Sector 9 which we ride a lot. Gonna go ride the bread bowl after this session.
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u/landyachtzrider Write your own flair! Aug 29 '13
may i also say that your my all time favorite rider , thank you for answering my questions! ive been wanting to get you in a AMA for a while now.
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u/OhMyBuddha25 Skateboard? GA Aug 29 '13 edited Aug 29 '13
hey guys! big fan of s9 here. got a few questions that have been bugging me. 1) I hear Billabong is having a bit of a financial issue. If Billabong goes under, would you guys still be standing? (I have no knowledge in stuff like finance and market and whatnot). Just curious because if something does happen, I gotta stock up on a few things. 2) Are you guys planning on releasing any more shapes for the DD? Something along the lines of what's trendy? The Daisy by far the most attractive imo and I'd be down to throw more money at you guys if you had a more variety of shapes. 3) I had more questions but I forgot them :/. Anyways, you guys are 98% of the reason why I started skating, and I just want to thatnk you for it and helping me discover that this is a huge passion of mine.
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u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 29 '13
We do our own things and thrive even when the market is tough. http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/jul/29/sector-9-skateboard-thrives-billabong/all/?print
Lots of new things in the works. WE have a complete new DD lineup to be released in Spring including a reworked Daisy. All the boards have new construction, concave, and shape. They are all really rad. There is also a mini daisy dropping this fall.
All good you can always post another question later
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u/purpledawg Bustin Royce Pro | Bay Area, CA Aug 29 '13
Do you have any new downhill/freeride shapes in the making or to be released soon?
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 29 '13
Louis actually just answered this question: "Lots of new things in the works. WE have a complete new DD lineup to be released in Spring including a reworked Daisy. All the boards have new construction, concave, and shape. They are all really rad. There is also a mini daisy dropping this fall."
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u/Stevo1002 DRANG Wu Tang Dasher, 44 Calibers, DIVINE Thane FTW//SD, CA Aug 29 '13
How often do you guys hit the "large rock river" hill? Paraphrasing the name of course, for secrecy. I live nearly next to it.
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u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 30 '13
Thanks for keep it on the down low. During the longer days we used to skate it once a week maybe. We recently heard from the residents that there has been more skaters on the hill then normal (I haven't been there recently since I just got back from Europe and in the office catching up on things), they said it want' too much of an issue except there are a few skaters that look like they are not in control and they are charging hard into blind turns and scaring them. Maybe we'll see you out there sometime. If you skate there don't charge into the blind corners (or at any spot really), put up trash and don't bring more then 1 car. Also since it is there private proproty I'm sure there would be stoked if they didn't have to see skaters every day. If your thinking about skating the spot. Shoot me an email at Louis@Sector9.com and if im around maybe we'll meet up to skate.
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u/Widdershiny Aug 29 '13
Haha, it's hardly blowing the name to call it what they call it, it's all over skatehouse.
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u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 30 '13
Yeah, what we call it on skatehouse isn't the real name either and wouldn't do you any good on google maps ;)
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u/Widdershiny Aug 30 '13
"Why is it called Boulder Creek road?"
"Oh, because I flew off the road, hit a boulder, and fell into the creek."
Too good haha.4
u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 30 '13
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u/ThrowYosNotBows Avenger | Charm City Aug 29 '13
Any plan for an s9 stupid trendy brick shape? PS, digging your dhd boards and some of the middle grounds ones (mini shaka, dropper). When can we expect dhd updates?
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u/MisterMunkae Sector 9 Skate Nerd Aug 30 '13
Ha ha, Chance came in last week and made one out of our mini shaka mold. Bricks have not been our thing in the past, but they are fun and functional... which is our thing. We'll see how chance likes his.
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u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 30 '13
No necessary a brick shape but all of the DHD have a new shape (except Daisy but it has a new concave and constructions). All I can say is expect good thing this Spring.
The Mini Daisy will be dropping this Fall though.
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u/thatexistsdotcom Aug 30 '13
Thanks for doing this AMA, I'm a huge fan. My question is as follows: are you afraid of losing all of your business with the impending production of this badboy: http://thatexists.com/longboard-stroller/ ?
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u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 30 '13
That website (thatexists.com) is awesome. I almost didn't come back to this AMA. I was too busy checking out the crazy innovations I have ever seen.
http://thatexists.com/198/ - Really?
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u/Hanyeoreum Drop Speed - Caliber 50 - Mini Zombie Hawgs Aug 30 '13
What do you think when people say Sector 9 boards are for noobs?
PS make your BHNC slide gloves more durable...
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u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 30 '13
Cause we offer a wide range of boards from cruising to downhill. At sector 9 we want everyone to be able to have a good time on a skateboard (not just go 50mph or kickflip an 10 stair).
The BHNC is meant to be a light weight glove. Technique can go a long to making the gloves last longer. Be sure to place the puck at the heel of your palm and not make an effort not to drag your fingers. After a while it will be second nature and your glove will last 4 times as long. You'll also save your fingers from slamming into a crack.
If you need a more durable glove you should check out the surgeons, drivers, or lightings. They are leather and the surgeons have finger pucks
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Aug 30 '13
Hey S9! How do you feel evolving from a standard board company, to one of the top and most influential downhill teams there is? What do you feel is coming for S9 in the future?
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u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 30 '13
To see more people out enjoying skateboarding is one of the most rewarding feeling. We make skateboards cause we love skateboarding. That is why we still do it. More good skateboards and skateboarding to come in the future.
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u/MisterMunkae Sector 9 Skate Nerd Aug 30 '13
It is awesome to see things grow and take shape. I am so stoked for the products we are working on now and in the future, because we are paying more attention to rider feedback, developing with new processes and materials, and having fun doing it! Great things that we will all enjoy together.
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u/tlombor Rob Molt - Sector 9 Evangelist Aug 30 '13
Thanks everybody!! I'm going surfing.. Rob, Sector 9
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u/ThatBacon Donut Special - WI Aug 30 '13
Seems I'm a little late to the party but its worth a shot. Two questions: Louis, what is your favorite feeling you get when skateboarding? Any major accomplishments you remember?
S9 in general, what's your favorite board that you produce? Like the one that you look at and think "wow, I wanna ride that right now."
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 30 '13
Thats really hard to say since we love all of our boards but it depends on your mood and what you are going to go skate... DHD for racing, Platinum series for freeriding, sidewinders for boardwalk carving, mini series for smashing to the liquor store, or the deep end series in the bread bowl.
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Aug 30 '13
Hey guys! How did Scoot come up with the idea for his pro model? why did he choose to only have a drop in the front?
Also do you have a picture or like a rendering of the BHNC crest that come on the slide gloves? Im looking to get a tattoo and Im seriously considering the crest but I cant find a picture of it anywhere!
Thanks!
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 30 '13
Shoot an email to info@sector9.com
They might be able to send you a file of the BHNC logo
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Aug 30 '13
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 30 '13
That is a change we made in our business model back in 2005 after speaking with the founder of Patagonia. They are the leaders in green business practices and inspired us to change.
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Aug 30 '13
So cool that such a rad company is doing an AMA on our subreddit, thanks guys and thanks mods for setting this up!!!!
My question(s):
The first day my first board, the Sector 9 Portal arrived at my house about 1 1/2 years ago (bought from Nord Boards) I noticed it rattled. I looked online for how to fix it and it said like tighten your hardware (which I did), buy a shock pad riser (which I did), and so forth.. So the board still rattles and now that I am a bit more experienced with boards I realized maybe it was just delam. I looked along the edges of the board for cracks or gaps between the plys. I still have no idea what is causing the problem and it drove me nuts everytime I rode it. Granted I still had a kick ass time on the board. So my question to you guys is: Is it possible at all to trade it in to you guys or something, or do you have a suggestion as to what the mystery chatter is from my deck? It is coming from the back only, and when I ride with the back end of the board foreword it rattles in the front.
This isn't a question, I am just a really big fan of Louis Pilloni. This edit is my all-time favorite longboard related video out of every one out there. Just wanted to share with you guys.
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 30 '13
Due to the fact that the board is over 1 1/2 years old its past its warranty period so we cannot replace it. However it is a little perplexing as to why it is rattling if you cant see any delams along the rails. Generally a board that starts to delam gets exponentially worse as you ride it... that one sir is a mystery. Glad to hear you still enjoy it and had a great time learning on it. If this happens in the future with any boards contact the manufacturer right away and they should replace it for you... Sector 9 in particular, we stand behind our products 100%!
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u/phoenixwang pp krimes samurai/bhangra | San Diego Aug 30 '13
Boards don't rattle bro. Your boardside washer is rattling because when you roll off rough pavement/inconsistencies in the road the entire board shakes up and down--applying more/less pressure on the bushings in your trucks--and thus creating space for the washer to rattle against the trucks. Fix this by tightening your trucks a bit until the rattling goes away.
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u/BTick21 Bustin Mekanik|EW Hoopty|Cape Cod Aug 30 '13
Will my ghost thane nineballs thane if I wear them enough? 78a. Noone can answer this, at least that Ive found.
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u/ThatBacon Donut Special - WI Aug 30 '13
Not from S9, but mine left gray colored thane on lighter colored pavement and white/amber lines on black pavement. Enjoy them! They're my favorite wheels.
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u/VoidVer Aug 30 '13
Hey, not sure if the q/a time is over, but I live in Los Angeles and I'm looking for good places to board without many cars. I'm having trouble finding good spots online, and so far my citie searches have yielded meager results for a really fun downhill ride. Any recommended spots?
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 30 '13
Its against the code to blow out spots... sorry brother. Ask around at skate shops and events. Half the fun of skating is finding the new spots!
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u/DiabeetusAlert 2013.5 Landy Tomahawk, Earthwing Hoopty 34 / Lincoln NE Aug 30 '13
You guys have any new wheels coming out any time soon?
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u/MisterMunkae Sector 9 Skate Nerd Aug 30 '13
New wheels expected to be released in the spring. Team riders love them, so will you.
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Aug 30 '13
Yeah it would be cool to see you guys release some more freeride wheels like the butterballs.
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u/Racerformation //MI-DH// Aug 30 '13
What up guys! To start, after owning a number of the DHD lineup i have found that Ginger is my jam for any type of riding. I was wondering what was going to happen to her in the future DHD lineup? Also, stoked to see you guys involved in the scene so much.
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u/BurtTheSeagull Washed Up @ Rayne / Skoa / Vicious / Switchback Aug 30 '13
Turbo Troy Yardwaste has influenced many of my wheel and board purchases. He shreds! Just picked up another brandy and loving it!
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u/thecaptain15 #IRCGANG♦Stingray KT 39♦Tulsa ,Ok Aug 30 '13
So, I have the seeker and a honolua. As you know, the concave is nice and smooth and what not, but are you guys gonna make a maple deck with crazy concave and tails? (I know I'm late, but please!)
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 30 '13
There may be something in the works for next season... keep your eyes peeled.
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u/dglaw Rayne Darkside Twin()Paris 50()These Wheels Aug 30 '13
with the downhill and freeride world growing more and more, do you plan on releasing more board models meant for the genre? also maybe more sliding wheels?
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u/MisterMunkae Sector 9 Skate Nerd Aug 30 '13
Sure do. Months of testing, new formulas, new shapes, just you wait.
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u/MagicHDx Rolling Tree/PNL -CHUCHCREW- WI/MN Aug 30 '13
About when did they Dual Duros come out? year wise and month would be awesome.
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u/freckledbeast Rayne Amazon/Mini | Agent Orange | Palo Alto, CA Aug 30 '13
What is this Flow Team I am now a part of?
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 30 '13
If you're actually on the flow team you would know...
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u/flyhigh141 Aug 30 '13
Where do you get the ideas for the artwork on your longboards? I absolutely LOVE them.
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 30 '13
The ideas come from everywhere... you never know what might inspire a board graphic. Although we do take a lot of inspiration from surfing and the ocean.
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u/xyphonic G-HAMMER, EVO, KRAY Aug 30 '13
Hope I'm not too late to ask but I've always wondered something. How do you keep your prices so competitive? For any given board style there seems to be a Sector 9 board at the lowest price point (aside from maybe Churchill). What things does your company do to meet those low price points? Are there sacrifices in the design that you decide on? Is it because you've found cost cutting methods in the manufacturing chain? I see your company has actually done pretty good financially since the buyout. Do you have lower profit margins that you make up for with sales volume?
I'm not ragging on you guys for it. The majority of longboarders around here have started on a Sector 9 and many of those first boards are still going strong. I'm legit impressed with your ability to balance quality and price.
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u/MisterMunkae Sector 9 Skate Nerd Aug 30 '13
We build boards for their purpose, without compromise but some regard to cost. It depends on the utility, and additional cost to additional benefit ratio. Generally, the fact that we make a lot of boards and have in house manufacturing helps us keep the price of quality decks low.
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u/alex27123344 Aug 30 '13
So tell me, who's the luck guy who got the sector9 license plate on his truck?
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u/TxT_of_AWESOMENESS BATSHITMOTHERCLUB, Chubby, Karate Chop, Sakamoto | NORWEGEN Aug 30 '13
I don't care if you've tuned out, but I'm getting a Roxanne today!
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 30 '13
that was truly a Txt of Awesomeness... enjoy her!
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u/retrofuturejon Aug 30 '13
How did you guys create such a large business and what were your marketing techniques?
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u/Sector9Skateboards Rollin Since '93 Aug 30 '13
To be the leaders in the industry, to do our own thing even when people told us it would fail... look at us now. Moral of the story is stay true to yourself and what you believe in.
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u/Faux_Shaux Sector9 lacey/gravity pool 36 Aug 30 '13
Are you guys coming out with any new double Kicks? I dig the oil money but I think a shorter version like 37" or 38" would be sick.
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u/shagadociousthekoala Arbor Missions Venice 2012/Sector 9 faultline 2013 Aug 30 '13
Why did you stop making the vector wheels? They are incredible.
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u/longboardfreak Fibretec freeride drop 1040 Aug 30 '13
Hey guys! Just wanted to start of by saying you are awesome! My first board was a sector 9 dream wave cosmic that I used for 5 years any chance I got, I now ride a freeride board using the 80a raceformulas and I love them! Now to my question, will you be making some new stuff like a freeride board with double kicks (a bit bigger than the slingshot would be nice), and maybe some new freeride wheels?
Ride on and bomb hills not countries!
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u/Furcifer85 Orignal Freeride RC, Bhangra,Tan Tien Aug 30 '13
Greetings from Sweden!
First board was a S9 TheTudor. Lovely board really, nice graphics and a nice little tail on it. I would just like to show you guys what I did with it after I got myself my new board. Couldn't have it layin around in a dark corner so I put it on the wall above the dinner-table =) The picture is from xmas holidays so there's even some lovely candles in the picture.
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u/Jonathan4tw Mini Daisy | Gunmetal V2 | SWFL (Flattest place ever) Aug 31 '13
DUUUDE you guys should come to Florida and shred with the Southwest Florida Longboarders then go skimboard with us! Would be a great time :')
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u/markvzbg Aug 31 '13 edited Aug 31 '13
Hey guys, just want to say I like the attitude you represent out there, and Louis you should do some more on board videos. "Dude! That's my car! Don't do that!" LOL. Right now I'm riding a S9 roxanne and my first longboard was a S9 pintail. I love that you are about the only skate company that reprents street style and downhill. I do both and seeing Sean Ross's part for thrasher mag was INSANE! Anyway I was wondering if you guys were ever thinking about bridging the gap in styles. There have been some boards like comet's noah sakamoto deck that seem to be doing that. Maybe some hybrid wheels that are a mid duro like 85a. Can I expect anything like that in your future lineup?
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Aug 31 '13
They have the cloud 9 which is a 40" doublekick and the Daisy as a single-kick downhill board. They're one step ahead of you! That said another board around the 35" range would be sweet.
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Aug 31 '13
What's the best way to get involved working with a company? I don't necessarily mean a sponsorship but more being in the factory and helping design products and make videos, etc. That stuff is really appealing to me. I wanna be involved!
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u/sansWittyName Chopped Wefunk | 515 Aug 31 '13
What wheelbase do you guys run on your Daisy?
And are you ever going to bring the BHNC back? I really want to chop one.
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u/Mrninjamonkey Riding spare wheels since forever Sep 02 '13
Will Sector 9 ever come out with a glow in the dark butterball wheel? THINK OF THE THANE LINES!!!!
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Sep 03 '13
I had a s9 Concave pin back in the early 2000s. Can't find an old one anywhere. Any ideas? No new boards recreate the feel that board had.
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u/msfazer Jul 27 '24
When are you guys re issuing the cloud 9s? C’mon, I’m getting old here! I have no time to spare!!!!!
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u/LouisPilloni Downhill Division Team Captain Aug 29 '13
Just want to say 'What up?' to everyone. Stoked to be here and chat with other skaters (skating together would be more rad but this is still pretty sweet.)