How to assemble a stunt scooter?
Most riders build their own stunt scooters. Such custom models are distinguished by their individual appearance and only their characteristic characteristics.
What do you need to build?
The complete set of scooters may vary somewhat, it depends mainly on the type of models. But the kit should include:
- steering column with fork;
- deck;
- compression and clamp;
- wheels;
- steering wheel.
The steering column takes part in the movement of the steering wheel, thanks to which the fork can quietly and easily rotate in the recess of the deck. This device is responsible for mobility and control. The steering column consists of a fork, two bearings, spacer wheels and a cover.
The deck is the scooter stand, the main part to which all the components are attached. Its upper part has a protective coating made of non-slip material - usually it is sandpaper or rubber. When choosing a deck, you should pay attention to all its dimensions: height, length and width. With a wider deck, maneuvering the scooter is more difficult, turns are difficult. It should be borne in mind that two legs should not be completely located on it, because the second is not placed on a whole foot.
Elongated base parameters also do not add maneuverability to a stunt scooter, but on a short one it is much more difficult to maintain balance during tricks. A deck with a medium length is ideal for this type of vehicle. It is also important that it fits well in height, as otherwise the rider will tire faster when pushing off.
The compression system of the scooter includes a clamp and some other parts, their availability depends on the model of the vehicle. This device connects the handlebar to the fork, the structure must be held firmly so that the handlebar does not wobble.
Among the most demanded is SCS, which most riders consider the most reliable. It comes with a clamp, bolt and washer. The simplest and cheapest type of compression is thread.
Wheels are an important part of the scooter, axles and spacers are attached as additional elements. Some varieties have washers already installed in the deck. For high-quality staging of maneuvers, the wheels must have a certain strength. These parts are made of wear-resistant polyurethane, they have a diameter of 100-125 mm.
The steering rack or handlebar is made from the most durable raw materials, since this part holds the main load when riding. Most often, this part is made from steel or aircraft-grade aluminum.
How to build?
In order not only to correctly assemble a custom stunt scooter, but also to be completely sure of its safety, it is worth following the step-by-step instructions for its installation.
- As a rule, it starts with the installation of the steering wheel. A spacer ring is put on the fork (some models already have a built-in one), then the bearing and then the fork is inserted into the recess of the deck. Then the bearing is put on again, then the ring and then the cover. Thus, the steering column is ready.
- The installation of the compression system is due to the type of kick scooter, and more specifically, it depends on the type of compression on it. The simplest is the thread, when the steering wheel and steering column are fixed only with a nut. Most riders prefer the SKS compression system, in which a clamp is put on the steering column, a washer is inserted into it and fixed with a bolt. It should be borne in mind that with a very tight compression, the steering wheel will be difficult to turn, and this can provoke some discomfort when driving. The clamp is not yet worth fixing, this action is carried out after the steering wheel is installed.
- Now it's time for the wheels. To do this, they are placed in the appropriate connectors, the axle is inserted and tightened. Certain models have free-standing spacers. These elements help to evenly distribute the lateral load on the bearings in the wheel. It is imperative to check that the wheel is tightened properly: it does not wobble, but does not rotate very tightly either.
- To install the steering column, it is first inserted into the clamp. Then all the bolts are tightened on it, doing this in stages: first, each a little, and so several times. When tightened in one step, the bolts may warp or even crack.
Thus, the stunt kick scooter is assembled and fully operational. You do not have to buy this vehicle as a set, but select the components yourself, based on your own wishes. Such a custom scooter will serve no worse than the models assembled in production, because the owner has put his strength and part of his soul into it.
A visual assembly of the scooter is demonstrated in the following video.