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Guide to Buying Aggressive Skate Frames
Aggressive skate frames serve as the backbone of your setup, essential for ensuring both wheel stability and grind performance. Thanks to the Universal Frame System (UFS), replacing frames on aggressive skates is straightforward, encouraging consideration of different wheel setups such as rocker and anti-rocker configurations.
Whether you're a seasoned skater seeking to enhance your setup with top-notch aggressive skate frames or a beginner in search of basic knowledge before purchasing complete aggressive skates. This guide provides the information necessary to make a worthwhile decision when it comes to the frames of aggressive skates.
Overview
Replacing Aggressive Skate Frames
When replacing your frames,you should always do it in pairs. If they become unstable due to grinding or if the wheel bolt holes are compromised, you’ll know it’s a good idea to look for new frames. If you decide to try a different model from your previous one, consider your preferred wheel size and setup.
Here’s what you need to consider when replacing your frames:
- Wheelbase: Compare the specified wheelbase with your current one. If theres a big difference, you will feel it immediately. A longer wheelbase offers more stability but is less agile, whereas a smaller wheelbase will increase your agility.
- Max Wheel Diameter: Maximum wheel diameter of your new frames should either be the same or larger than your preferred wheel size. Ie. if you prefer 60 mm wheels, the max wheel diameter of your new frame should be at least 60 mm.
- Wheel Setup/Frame Type: Frames specified as flat can be used for an anti-rocker setup by mounting smaller wheels in the middle. However, frames specified as anti-rocker cannot accommodate a flat setup because the middle wheels would interfere with the H-block.
- Match Sizes: Ensure that the size of the frames you pick matches your boot size.
- Mounting System: Verify that the frame and boot uses the UFS mounting system.
What Are the Advantages of UFS (Universal Frame System)?
The advantage and raison d'être of UFS is that it offers universal interchangeability between aggressive boots and frames, irrespective of manufacturer and boot/frame size. You can freely mix and match frames and boots from different manufacturers as long as they adhere to the UFS standard.
UFS offers endless opportunities for customization and fine-tuning of your setup. Whether you cherish your boots and liners but wish to experiment with different wheel configurations, or if your boots are worn out while your frames and wheels remain in great condition; UFS allows aggressive skaters to explore various boot/frame setups without the hassle of compatibility issues.
Choosing the Right Size of Frames
Frames come in various sizes to accommodate different foot sizes and skating preferences:
- Size S/1 (recommended for size 37-41 EU) (5-7")
- Size M/2 (recommended for size 42-45 EU) (8-12")
- Size L/3 (recommended for size 46-49 EU) (13-14")
You should always ensure that your boots and frames are matched in size. The correct match will give you a wheel base that matches the size of your boots.
As mentioned earlier, compatibility with UFS is not dependent on the sizes of your boots and frames. This is because the mounting holes always maintain a fixed distance of 167 mm apart in the UFS-system.
Wheel Configuration on Aggressive Skates
The configuration of wheels on your frames significantly impacts your skating style:
- Anti-rocker frames: Two large outer wheels and two smaller inner wheels - a setup that optimizes your skates for grinds by reducing wheel contact on rails and ledges.
- Flat frames: Four evenly-sized wheels, enhancing maneuverability and speed, ideal for jumps, bowls and vert - requires more skill for groove grinds.
Choose the configuration that matches your style, whether it's precise grinds or fluid movement across various surfaces.
