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Aggressive skate frames act as the foundation of your setup, crucial for maintaining wheel stability and enhancing grind performance. Due to the Universal Frame System (UFS), swapping frames on aggressive skates is uncomplicated, encouraging exploration of various wheel setups, such as rocker and anti-rocker configurations.
This guide offers essential details for skaters of all levels, whether you're experienced and looking to upgrade with high-quality aggressive skate frames, or new to the sport and seeking foundational knowledge before buying complete aggressive skates. Here, you'll find the necessary insights to select appropriate frames for aggressive skates.
Overview
How to Replace Aggressive Skate Frames
Replacing frames should always occur in pairs. If frames become compromised due to grinding or the wheel bolt holes are impaired, it’s wise to consider new frames. Upon choosing a different model than your previous set, contemplate your preferred wheel size and configuration.
Key aspects to keep in mind while replacing your frames include:
- Wheelbase: Assess how the indicated wheelbase compares with your current one. Notable differences will be felt immediately. A longer wheelbase provides stability but reduces agility, whereas a shorter one enhances agility.
- Max Wheel Diameter: The maximum wheel diameter of your new frames should either match or exceed your preferred wheel size. For instance, if you favour 60 mm wheels, the frames should accommodate at least 60 mm.
- Wheel Setup/Frame Type: Frames classified as flat can operate as anti-rocker setups by fitting smaller middle wheels. Conversely, anti-rocker specified frames cannot host a flat setup due to interference with the H-block by middle wheels.
- Match Sizes: Confirm that the frame size aligns with your boot size.
- Mounting System: Ensure both the frame and boot utilise the UFS mounting system.
UFS (Universal Frame System) Benefits
The primary benefit and purpose of UFS is that it allows universal swapping between aggressive boots and frames, regardless of manufacturer or boot/frame size. Mixing and matching frames and boots from various manufacturers is possible, as long as they conform to the UFS standard.
UFS creates limitless possibilities for personalisation and refinement of your setup. Whether your boots and liners are cherished, but you wish to try different wheel setups, or your boots are worn but frames and wheels remain in excellent condition; UFS enables skaters to explore different boot/frame configurations without worrying about compatibility issues.
Selecting the Suitable Frame Size
Frames are available in different sizes to fit diverse foot dimensions and skating styles:
- Size S/1 (recommended for size 37-41 EU) (5-7" UK)
- Size M/2 (recommended for size 42-45 EU) (8-12" UK)
- Size L/3 (recommended for size 46-49 EU) (13-14" UK)
Always verify that your boots and frames are matched in size. A proper fit will ensure your wheelbase suits your boot size.
As noted, UFS compatibility isn’t affected by the size of your boots or frames since the mounting holes retain a constant distance of 167 mm apart within the UFS system.
Wheel Setup for Aggressive Skates
The arrangement of wheels on your frames greatly influences your skating methodology:
- Anti-rocker frames: Feature two large outer wheels and two smaller inner ones, optimising your skates for grinds by lessening wheel contact with rails and ledges.
- Flat frames: Comprise four uniformly-sized wheels, thus improving manoeuvrability and speed, suitable for jumps, bowls, and vert, though require more skill for groove grinds.
Select a setup that aligns with your preferred style, be it precision grinds or seamless movement across varied surfaces.
