How to Build Your Complete Stunt Scooter
Building your stunt scooter is quite an exciting start to kicking off your exciting stunt scooter journey. We’ve created an all-in-one guide on how you can create your dream setup, regardless of whether you are a beginner or experienced rider, or even if you are a parent looking to build an epic stunt scooter for your child. We will walk you through every aspect of assembling a complete stunt scooter, discussing the key things you will want to consider. Building a stunt scooter isn’t just about putting some parts together, it’s about creating a personalised ride that suits your goals, skill level and character. It’s an exciting experience, and is even more exciting when you know what you are doing! So, without further ado, let’s get stuck in.
Park Riding or Street Riding?
If you are a fan of the smooth ramps and surfaces of the skatepark, then your scooter should be equipped to handle the demands of this riding style. You will want to go for wheels with a moderate hardness that provides ample grip on the ramps and surfaces, whilst still allowing you to maintain control as you slide, spin, turn and manoeuvre. Park riders also tend to go for lightweight scooters for better agility and maneuverability on the surface and in the air too. They will opt for higher handlebars, as this helps then maintain control and stability when they are in the air before landing.
For street scooter riders, you will need to be aware of the fact that your scooter will be taking on a range of different surfaces and styles of terrain. It is for this reason that you will want to opt for hard wheels that are more durable on the streets, but still provide you with the necessary stability. Equally, you’ll want robust bearings that can take on the challenges presented to them, so go for a set that is known for being more durable and robust,
Choosing Your Compression System
SCS scooter compression systems tend to suit taller riders due to their extended height adjustment capabilities. This is because taller riders usually require taller handlebars and the SCS compression system provides ample height adjustment to offer the height that these taller individuals need. The secure clamping of these SCS bars also offer adequate stability too, thanks to their robust construction. This durability is particularly favourable for riders who go hard when it comes to executing stunts, as it means that it is able to handle the demands of such a lifestyle without getting damaged. The robust build also means less vibration, which can make for a more pleasant experience, again, particularly for riders who tend to attempt tricky stunts on a more regular basis.
IHC compression systems are quite easy to install and maintain, so if you are looking for simplicity and ease of use, you will want to consider this type of compression systems. They also tend to be lighter and allow for smoother and responsive riding, effective for scooter riders who require agility. HIC compression systems are also versatile with oversized handlebars, contributing to even more control and stability.
Scooter Wheel Diameter
Choosing your wheels is a key aspect of creating your dream setup. When we are talking about the wheel diameter, smaller wheels (100mm and below) are ideal for technical tricks and manoeuvres; they are very responsive to turns and shifts, making them ideal for scooter riding through tight spaces, such as tight alleyways within the city streets. Medium-sized wheels (110-120mm) offers a strong balance between speed and agility, compromising well between stability and maneuvrability. This means that you will still be able to make harsh, responsive turns, but you will also feel quite stable too.
Larger wheels (125mm and above) prioritise speed and stability for longer rides and downhill riding especially. Large wheels tend to suit those who tend to commute too; being better suited to more of a ‘cruising’ experience.
Scooter Wheel Durometer
Softer scooter wheels (78A-86A) offer better grip to the surfaces you are riding on for smoother ride with enhanced shock absorption, performing well on surfaces. Harder wheels (96A and above) prioritise slide ability and durability, making them a good selection for scooter riding on smoother surfaces, along with executing advanced stunts at the skatepark or on the streets.
Medium-hard wheels (87A-95A), however, strike a good balance between slide ability and grip, shock absorption and durability. If you want scooter wheels that offer an all-rounder of benefits, the medium-hard wheels are usually the best shout.
Beyond the Griptape - Get Your Deck Right
Having a stylish griptape on your scooter certainly looks cool, but getting your scooter deck right is essential. When talking about the length and width of scooter decks, shorter and narrower decks are better suited to technical tricks and park riding, due to the improved agility offered. Medium length and width decks both offer a good balance between stability and agility, whereas longer and wider decks prioritise stability and are the preferred choice for longer distances, as is the case with larger scooter wheels.
When talking about the deck concave, deep concaves maximise foot grip and control and are usually popular amongst aggressive riders who like to seriously shred. Flat concave decks are for more easy-going smooth riders and medium concaves are ideal for riders who want a decent balance in between.
The Importance of Scooter Forks & Compatibility
You will want to ensure that the scooter forks you choose are compatible with the wheel size you intend to use, along with the compression system you have too. The key thing to be mindful of when creating your dream scooter, is to ensure that every single part and component you choose are, firstly, compatible with each other, and they will need to work together to allow you to achieve your scooter riding goals, for example, whether you plan to hit the streets and make those sharp movements and tricks, or if you are more of a long-distance cruiser, making broader and wider turns.
Stay Ahead of the Game with a Reliable Headset
Don’t underestimate the power of reliable scooter headset. A headset is responsible for providing a crucial for providing a connection between the fork and the deck of the scooter, allowing for smooth steering and movement. A well-functioning scooter headset is even more important for riders who engage in tricks and navigate around obstacles. If quick, responsive turns are a priority for you, then be sure to get your hands on a good headset when customising your scooter.
How to Build My Dream Stunt Scooter at a Cost-Effective Price?
At SkateHut, we understand the need to build a solid reliable setup, but at a reasonable price. If you are curious as to which parts you can prioritise a lower price on, without compromising on quality too much, choosing headsets, wheels and scooter grips that are priced cheaper are ideal for this. This is because the quality of the overall ride will not be overly affected if you decide to go for more budget-friendly versions of these components.
If you are on the hunt for big offers across our scooter lines, as well as others, shop our entire special offers range right now!