Changing wheels on a skateboard is a quick maintenance skill every rider needs. This complete guide shows you how to swap your setup in under ten minutes using simple hand tools.
Learn the exact steps, expert tips for bearing removal, and proven methods to avoid stripped hardware. Follow this guide to get back on your board faster and smoother.
Best Skateboard Wheels for a Smooth, Fast Ride
Spitfire Formula Four 99a Classic Wheels – Best Overall Choice
The Spitfire Formula Four 99a Classic is the industry standard for street and park skating. These wheels offer incredible durability, a consistent slide, and excellent grip. They are the best option for skaters who want a reliable, all-around performance wheel that lasts for months.
Bones Wheels STF V5 Sidecut 101a – Best for Technical Street
The Bones STF V5 Sidecut 101a is ideal for technical street skaters needing a harder slide. The unique Sidecut design reduces weight and prevents wheel bite. This is a highly recommended choice for flip tricks and ledge skating where speed control is critical.
OJ Wheels Super Juice 60mm 78a – Best for Cruising
The OJ Super Juice 60mm 78a is the perfect wheel for rough pavement and long-distance cruising. The soft urethane absorbs vibrations, providing a smooth, quiet ride. This is the ideal for skaters who prioritize comfort over technical park tricks.
Essential Tools You Need to Change Skateboard Wheels
Before you start, gather the right tools. Using the correct equipment prevents stripped bolts and damaged bearings.
Skate Tool vs. Wrench: Which Is Best?
A standard skate tool is the most convenient option for changing wheels. It includes a socket for axle nuts and a Phillips head for hardware. A 7/16-inch socket wrench works well but requires a separate bearing tool for removal.
Why a Bearing Press or Tool Matters
Removing bearings from old wheels is the hardest part. A bearing press tool pushes them out cleanly without damage. Using a screwdriver risks bending the bearing shield or injuring your hand.
- Skate tool: Compact, multi-functional, ideal for park sessions
- 7/16 wrench: More leverage for tight nuts, but slower
- Bearing press: Essential for swapping bearings between wheels
Optional Items That Speed Up the Process
Speed rings are small washers that sit between the bearing and the axle nut. Check if your current setup has them before reassembly. A clean rag helps wipe old grit from axles and bearings.
Key Takeaway: A skate tool and bearing press are the only essentials. You can change wheels in under 10 minutes with just these two items.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Old Skateboard Wheels
Removing your old wheels is straightforward if you follow the correct order. Work on one wheel at a time to avoid mixing up hardware.
Step 1: Loosen the Axle Nut
Place your skate tool on the axle nut and turn it counterclockwise. Hold the wheel steady with your other hand to prevent spinning. Remove the nut completely and set it aside in a safe spot.
Step 2: Slide Off the Wheel and Spacers
Pull the wheel straight off the axle. Note the order of any speed rings or bearing spacers for reassembly. Place these small parts in a container so they do not roll away.
- Axle nut: Store it on the tool’s magnet to prevent loss
- Speed rings: Keep them paired with their original wheel
- Bearings: Leave them in the wheel until you are ready to swap
Step 3: Remove Bearings from the Wheel
Insert the bearing press tool into the center of the bearing. Push firmly and evenly until the bearing pops out. Repeat for the second bearing on the opposite side of the wheel.
Pro Tip: If you are reusing the same bearings, label each wheel’s set. This keeps wear patterns consistent and extends bearing life.
How to Install New Skateboard Wheels Correctly
Installing new wheels properly ensures a smooth ride and prevents premature wear. Follow these steps for a secure, rattle-free setup.
Step 1: Insert Bearings into New Wheels
Place a bearing over the wheel’s core hole with the shield facing out. Press it down evenly using your thumb or a bearing press tool. Repeat for the second bearing on the opposite side until both are flush with the wheel surface.
Step 2: Reassemble Speed Rings and Spacers
Slide one speed ring onto the axle first. Place the new wheel with bearings onto the axle. Add the second speed ring if your setup uses them, followed by any bearing spacers between the bearings.
- Speed rings: Prevent side-to-side wheel wobble
- Bearing spacers: Reduce pressure on inner bearings during turns
- Order: Axle nut, speed ring, wheel, speed ring, axle nut
Step 3: Tighten the Axle Nut to Perfection
Screw the axle nut back on by hand until it contacts the speed ring. Tighten it with your tool until the wheel spins freely without side-to-side play. Over-tightening crushes bearings and slows your roll.
Key Check: Spin the wheel after tightening. It should rotate for 5-10 seconds without wobbling. If it stops abruptly, loosen the nut slightly.
Common Mistakes When Changing Skateboard Wheels
Avoiding simple errors saves time and prevents damage to your gear. Here are the most frequent mistakes skaters make during wheel swaps.
Over-Tightening the Axle Nut
Many skaters crank the axle nut as tight as possible. This crushes the bearings, creating friction that slows your speed. Tighten only until the wheel spins freely with no side-to-side play.
Mixing Up Hardware Order
Losing track of speed rings and bearing spacers causes wheel wobble. Always lay parts out in the order you removed them. A simple tray or magnet keeps everything organized.
- Missing speed rings: Leads to uneven bearing wear and friction
- Wrong spacer size: Creates pressure on inner bearing races
- Cross-threaded nuts: Damages axle threads permanently
Installing Bearings Backwards
Bearings have a shielded side and an open side. The shield must face outward to block dirt. Installing them reversed exposes the internal balls to grit and shortens their lifespan.
Quick Fix: Spin the bearing before installation. The shielded side is smooth; the open side shows metal balls. Always face the smooth side outward.
How to Choose the Right Skateboard Wheel Durometer
Wheel hardness, or durometer, directly affects your ride feel and performance. Choosing the wrong hardness can ruin your skating experience.
Soft Wheels (78a-87a) for Cruising and Rough Pavement
Soft wheels absorb vibrations from cracks and gravel. They provide excellent grip and a quiet, smooth ride. These are ideal for beginners and long-distance skaters who prioritize comfort over speed.
Medium Wheels (88a-95a) for All-Around Versatility
Medium durometer wheels balance grip and slide control. They work well on skateparks, sidewalks, and basketball courts. This is the best choice for general street skating and learning tricks.
- 78a-87a: Maximum grip, softest ride, wears faster
- 88a-95a: Good balance, moderate speed, versatile use
- 96a-101a: Hardest, fastest, best for technical slides
Hard Wheels (96a-101a) for Park and Technical Street
Hard wheels offer minimal grip for smooth slides and power slides. They roll faster on smooth concrete but feel harsh on rough surfaces. Professional street skaters prefer these for flip tricks and ledge work.
| Durometer | Best For | Ride Feel |
|---|---|---|
| 78a-87a | Cruising, rough roads | Soft, quiet, grippy |
| 88a-95a | Street, all-around | Balanced, responsive |
| 96a-101a | Park, technical slides | Hard, fast, slick |
When to Replace Skateboard Wheels and Bearings
Knowing when to swap your wheels keeps your ride safe and responsive. Worn components reduce performance and increase the risk of accidents.
Signs Your Wheels Need Replacing
Check for flat spots that cause a bumpy, thumping ride. Look for uneven wear where one side is smaller than the other. Cracks or chunks missing from the urethane mean immediate replacement is needed.
How to Tell If Bearings Are Worn Out
Spin the wheel and listen for a grinding or rattling noise. Slow, sluggish rolling indicates dirty or damaged bearings. If cleaning does not restore smooth spinning, it is time for new bearings.
- Flat spots: Caused by hard slides, creates vibration
- Cracked urethane: Structural failure, unsafe to ride
- Rust on bearings: Reduces speed, increases friction
- Side-to-side play: Indicates worn bearing races
General Replacement Schedule
Aggressive street skaters should replace wheels every 3-6 months. Casual cruisers can often go 12 months or longer. Bearings typically last 6-12 months with regular cleaning and proper lubrication.
Safety Note: Never ride on wheels with deep cracks or missing chunks. A wheel failure at speed can cause serious injury. Inspect your setup before every session.
How to Maintain Your New Skateboard Wheels for Longevity
Proper maintenance extends the life of your wheels and bearings significantly. A few minutes of care after each session prevents premature wear.
Clean Bearings Regularly to Prevent Grit Buildup
Remove bearings from wheels and wipe off surface dirt with a dry cloth. Soak them in bearing cleaner or acetone for 15 minutes. Let them dry completely before adding a drop of speed lubricant.
Rotate Wheels to Ensure Even Wear
Swap your wheels from front to back and side to side every few weeks. This balances wear patterns caused by pushing and turning. Rotating wheels can double their usable lifespan before flat spots develop.
- Clean bearings: Every 2-4 weeks for street skaters
- Lubricate: One drop of speed oil per bearing only
- Rotate wheels: Every 4-6 sessions for even wear
- Inspect hardware: Check axle nuts for tightness weekly
Avoid Riding Through Water and Mud
Water rusts bearings and breaks down wheel urethane over time. Mud and sand act like sandpaper, grinding down surfaces quickly. Dry your board immediately if it gets wet and re-lubricate bearings afterward.
Pro Maintenance Tip: Store your skateboard indoors in a cool, dry place. Extreme heat and direct sunlight can warp wheels and dry out bearing lubricant.
Conclusion: Master Changing Skateboard Wheels in Minutes
Learning how to change wheels on a skateboard saves you money and keeps your ride smooth. With the right tools and this guide, you can complete the swap in under ten minutes.
Always check your axle nut tightness and bearing condition after installation. Regular maintenance extends the life of your wheels and bearings significantly.
Grab your skate tool and try it today. Your board will feel faster, smoother, and more responsive with fresh wheels installed correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Changing Skateboard Wheels
Do I need special tools to change skateboard wheels?
No, you do not need a full workshop. A standard skate tool with a 7/16-inch socket is sufficient for removing axle nuts. A bearing press tool is recommended but not strictly required.
You can remove bearings using the axle itself as a lever. However, a dedicated tool prevents damage and makes the job much faster. Most skate shops sell affordable combo tools.
How often should I change my skateboard wheels?
Replace wheels when you notice flat spots, uneven wear, or cracks in the urethane. Aggressive street skaters typically need new wheels every 3-6 months. Casual cruisers can often go 12 months or longer.
Check your wheels monthly for signs of damage. If you feel vibration while riding or see chunks missing, replace them immediately for safety.
Can I put any wheels on my skateboard?
Most skateboard wheels use a standard 8mm bearing and fit any truck axle. However, wheel size and hardness should match your skating style. Larger wheels may cause wheel bite on loose trucks.
Always check your truck clearance before installing oversized wheels. A 60mm wheel is generally safe for most setups. Anything above 65mm may require riser pads.
How tight should skateboard wheel nuts be?
Tighten the axle nut until the wheel spins freely with no side-to-side wobble. The wheel should rotate for 5-10 seconds when flicked. Over-tightening crushes bearings and slows your roll.
If the wheel stops abruptly, loosen the nut slightly. A properly tightened wheel should have a tiny gap between the bearing and the axle nut.
Why do my new wheels feel slow?
New wheels often feel slow due to over-tightened axle nuts or dirty bearings. Check that the nut is not pressing too hard against the bearing shields. Also, new bearings may have thick factory grease that needs breaking in.
Ride for 30-60 minutes to break in fresh bearings. If the slowness persists, clean and re-lubricate the bearings with a light speed oil.
What is the difference between 99a and 101a wheels?
The number indicates durometer or hardness. A 99a wheel is slightly softer, offering more grip and a smoother ride. A 101a wheel is harder, providing less grip for easier slides and faster roll speed.
Choose 99a for street skating and general park use. Choose 101a for technical slides, vert ramps, and smooth concrete parks where speed matters most.
Can I reuse old bearings with new wheels?
Yes, you can reuse bearings if they spin smoothly and show no signs of rust or damage. Clean them thoroughly before installing into new wheels. Reusing worn bearings will reduce the performance of your new wheels.
If the bearings feel gritty or make noise, replace them. New bearings are inexpensive and significantly improve your overall ride quality.
How do I remove stuck bearings from old wheels?
Use a bearing press tool for the easiest removal. Insert the tool into the bearing and push firmly until it pops out. If you do not have a tool, use the truck axle as a lever by inserting it at an angle.
Never use a screwdriver to pry bearings out. This can bend the shield or damage the bearing race. Apply gentle, even pressure to avoid injury.