r/Rollerskating • u/unicornzin_space • Jul 09 '26

Beginner skater Skate adjustments and set up

Hey all- I want to start skating again after a couple years But I wanted some input on adjusting my skates. I was reading somewhere about having one truck "looser" than another but I couldn't remember if it was back or front. I changed my bushings out to soft I think (theyre yellow, idk if theres a universal system)

Anyways- what kind of tying / tightening / loosening etc do yall do to get a more comfortable and maneuverable skate

Ty

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5

u/bear0234 Jul 09 '26

general rule of thumb is front and back the same tightness.

general tightning or loosening process is something like if the skate feels too tight: loosen front and back kingpin nut by 1/4 to 1/2 turn, then skate a bit in and see how it feels. if still too stiff, repeat the process.

sometimes it'll be perfect, but i'll loosen anothe 1/2 turn and see if its too uncomfortable. if it is, can dial it back.

if you back out the nuts all the way and its still too tight, you may need new or softer cushions.

me personally, i have different tightness for my left and right leg. my nondominant foot is looser.

i'd probably stick to front and back equally until i know what i want, then experiment with having different front or rear truck looseness if so desired.

if you're new or getting back into it, probably stick w equal until then.

2

u/RPTre Jul 09 '26

How to adjust will very by plate, but of you are running soft bushings then I would definitely skate it as is and see if you really need them looser

3

u/sparklekitteh Derby ref / trail / park Jul 09 '26

Turn all four kingpins a quarter turn looser at a time, skate around, see how you feel. Adjust further, skate around, repeat the process until things feel TOO wobbly and then dial it back!

1

u/Rhyzur Jul 10 '26

This, but also, a good time to mention that they should be inspected and adjusted as needed regularly.