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Aggressive skate frames are crucial in supporting your setup, providing essential wheel stability and grind performance. Due to the Universal Frame System (UFS), swapping frames on aggressive skates is a simple process, allowing you to consider various wheel configurations like rocker and anti-rocker setups.
For seasoned skaters looking to upgrade their setup with premium aggressive skate frames or beginners seeking foundational knowledge before buying complete aggressive skates, this guide offers the insights you need to make a smart choice regarding aggressive skate frames.
Overview
Changing Out Aggressive Skate Frames
Always change your frames in pairs. If they lose stability from grinding or if the wheel bolt holes are worn out, it's a clear sign to find replacements. When opting for a new model, keep in mind your chosen wheel size and configuration.
Consider the following when replacing frames:
- Wheelbase: Compare the wheelbase of new frames with your current ones. A significant difference will be noticeable immediately. A longer wheelbase provides stability but sacrifices agility, while a shorter one enhances agility.
- Max Wheel Diameter: Ensure the maximum wheel diameter of the new frames is equal to or greater than your preferred wheel size. For example, if you prefer 60 mm wheels, the new frames' maximum diameter should be at least 60 mm.
- Wheel Setup/Frame Type: Flat frames can be adapted for an anti-rocker setup with smaller middle wheels. On the other hand, anti-rocker frames cannot support a flat setup as the middle wheels would clash with the H-block.
- Match Sizes: Verify that the frames fit the size of your boots.
- Mounting System: Ensure both the frame and boot employ the UFS mounting system.
Benefits of the UFS (Universal Frame System)
UFS's primary benefit and purpose is the universal interchangeability it offers between aggressive boots and frames, regardless of the manufacturer and boot/frame size. This system allows for the seamless mixing and matching of frames and boots from different brands, provided they conform to the UFS standard.
UFS presents skaters with limitless customization and fine-tuning options. Whether you adore your boots and liners but wish to explore different wheel configurations or if your boots are worn, leaving your frames and wheels in perfect condition, UFS enables skaters to experiment with various boot/frame combinations without concerns about compatibility.
Determining the Correct Frame Size
Frames are available in varying sizes to suit different foot sizes and skating styles:
- 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 your boots and frames are size-compatible. Correct matching ensures your wheelbase aligns with the size of your boots.
As previously indicated, UFS compatibility is not dependent on boot and frame sizes. This is because UFS-system mounting holes have a consistent 167 mm distance apart.
Wheel Configurations on Aggressive Skates
The wheel configuration on your frames largely influences your skating experience:
- Anti-rocker frames: Featuring two larger outer wheels and two smaller inner wheels, this setup minimizes wheel contact on rails and ledges, optimizing your skates for grinds.
- Flat frames: Equipped with four wheels of equal size, offering enhanced maneuverability and speed, ideal for jumps, bowls, and vert skating - though groove grinds require more skill.
Select the configuration that best suits your skating style, whether it’s precise grinds or seamless movement over various terrains.
