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Guide to Buying Aggressive Skate Frames
Aggressive skate frames are a fundamental part of your setup, crucial for maintaining both wheel stability and grind efficiency. The Universal Frame System (UFS) simplifies the process of swapping frames on aggressive skates, enabling one to contemplate distinct wheel configurations such as rocker and anti-rocker setups.
Whether you are an experienced skater aiming to upgrade your setup with exceptional aggressive skate frames or a novice seeking foundational understanding prior to acquiring complete aggressive skates, this guide delivers the information essential for making an informed choice regarding the frames of aggressive skates.
Overview
Swapping Aggressive Skate Frames
When it comes to changing your frames, it is always advisable to replace them as a pair. If they become unstable from grinding or if the wheel bolt holes are compromised, it's a clear sign to seek new frames. When opting for a different model than your previous one, consider what wheel size and configuration you favour.
These are the key points to keep in mind when swapping your frames:
- Wheelbase: Assess the specified wheelbase compared to your current one. A significant disparity will be noticeable. A longer wheelbase provides greater stability but less agility, while a shorter wheelbase enhances agility.
- Max Wheel Diameter: Ensure the maximum wheel diameter of your new frames is either equal to or larger than your preferred wheel size. For instance, if you favour 60 mm wheels, the maximum wheel diameter of your new frame should be at least 60 mm.
- Wheel Setup/Frame Type: Frames identified as flat can be employed for an anti-rocker setup by installing smaller wheels in the centre. Conversely, frames indicated as anti-rocker cannot adopt a flat setup due to potential interference from the middle wheels with the H-block.
- Match Sizes: Confirm that the sizes of the frames you choose correspond with your boot size.
- Mounting System: Check that the frame and boot utilise the UFS mounting system.
What Benefits Does the UFS (Universal Frame System) Provide?
The benefit and fundamental purpose of UFS lies in its ability to offer universal interchangeability between aggressive boots and frames, regardless of the manufacturer and boot/frame size. You can mix and match frames and boots from various manufacturers freely, provided they conform to the UFS standard.
UFS facilitates endless possibilities for customising and fine-tuning your setup. Whether you prize your boots and liners but wish to explore different wheel setups, or if your boots are worn out while your frames and wheels remain in excellent condition; UFS enables aggressive skaters to experiment with diverse boot/frame setups without facing compatibility issues.
Selecting the Correct Frame Size
Frames come in diverse sizes to fit 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")
It is crucial to ensure that your boots and frames are matched in size. The appropriate match will result in a wheel base that corresponds with the size of your boots.
As previously mentioned, UFS compatibility is not influenced by the sizes of your boots and frames. This is due to the consistent maintenance of a 167 mm fixed distance between the mounting holes within the UFS-system.
Wheel Arrangement on Aggressive Skates
The arrangement of wheels on your frames greatly influences your skating style:
- Anti-rocker frames: Incorporates two large outer wheels and two smaller inner wheels, a configuration that optimises your skates for grinds by minimising wheel contact on rails and ledges.
- Flat frames: Features four evenly-sized wheels, boosting manoeuvrability and speed, suitable for jumps, bowls, and vert - requiring more skill for groove grinds.
Select the configuration that aligns with your style, be it precise grinds or smooth movement across various terrains.
