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Guide to Purchasing Aggressive Skate Frames
Aggressive skate frames form the core of your setup, crucial for maintaining both wheel steadiness and grinding efficiency. The Universal Frame System (UFS) simplifies the process of swapping out frames on aggressive skates, inviting you to explore various wheel setups like rocker and anti-rocker configurations.
Whether you are an experienced skater looking to elevate your setup with high-quality aggressive skate frames or a newcomer aiming to gain basic understanding before buying complete aggressive skates, this guide offers the essential information to help you make an informed decision regarding the frames of aggressive skates.
Overview
Changing Frames on Aggressive Skates
Frames should always be replaced in pairs. If they have become unstable from grinding or if the wheel bolt holes are compromised, it's time to seek new frames. If you are opting for a different model than your previous one, factor in your preferred wheel size and configuration.
Consider these points when changing your frames:
- Wheelbase: Examine how the wheelbase of the new frames compares to your current setup. A substantial difference will be noticeable. A longer wheelbase enhances stability but reduces agility, while a shorter one increases agility.
- Maximum Wheel Diameter: Ensure the maximum wheel diameter of the new frames is the same or greater than your preferred wheel size. For instance, if you prefer 60 mm wheels, the maximum diameter on the new frame should be at least 60 mm.
- Wheel Setup/Frame Type: Frames labelled as flat can accommodate an anti-rocker setup by fitting smaller wheels in the centre. However, those labelled anti-rocker cannot support a flat setup since the central wheels would interfere with the H-block.
- Size Matching: Confirm the frames' size is compatible with your boot size.
- Mounting System: Check that both the frame and boot utilise the UFS mounting system.
What Benefits Does the UFS (Universal Frame System) Provide?
The primary advantage and purpose of the UFS is its universal compatibility between aggressive boots and frames from any manufacturer, regardless of the size of boots or frames. You can mix and match boots and frames from different manufacturers freely, provided they conform to the UFS standard.
UFS opens up limitless possibilities for personalising and refining your setup. Whether you treasure your boots and liners but wish to try different wheel configurations, or if your boots wear out while your frames and wheels remain in pristine condition, UFS allows you to explore various boot/frame setups without encountering compatibility issues.
Selecting the Correct Frame Size
Frames are available in a range of sizes to suit 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")
Always ensure the size of your boots corresponds with your frames' size. A correct match results in a wheelbase that complements your boot size.
As previously mentioned, UFS compatibility does not depend on frame and boot sizes, as the mounting holes in the UFS system always keep a fixed distance of 167 mm.
Wheel Configuration for Aggressive Skates
The configuration of wheels on your frames substantially affects your skating style:
- Anti-rocker frames: Featuring two large outer wheels and two smaller inner wheels, this setup maximises your skates' performance for grinds by decreasing wheel contact on rails and ledges.
- Flat frames: Equipped with four evenly-sized wheels, enhancing speed and maneuverability, perfect for jumps, bowls, and vert, though it requires more skill for groove grinds.
Choose the setup that best complements your skating style, be it precise grinds or fluid movement across diverse surfaces.
