Smoother, safer downhill longboarding experience
Ah, the thrill of the ride, the rush of the wind past your face, the exhilaration of going downhill with gravity as your only engine… and then there's the hill's end, and the visceral question that looms as large as the horizon itself: “How the hell am I going to stop?”
It's here, right at this potentially skin-scraping intersection of velocity and inertia, that the Brakeboard enters, cutting a path through the uncertainty. A seemingly simple contraption – a longboard truck with built-in brakes – it's a game-changer. The concept is so elegantly intuitive that one wonders why it hasn't been done before.
Here's the magic: you've got this spring-loaded pedal you just step on to brake. But it's not just a savage, immediate halt; instead, thanks to a urethane bushing, it regulates the force, ensuring a smooth deceleration that keeps your ride comfortable, controlled, and more importantly, keeps you on the board instead of kissing pavement.
The design is quite brilliant – two cone clutches, independent from one another, working in harmony with stainless steel levers, all ingeniously linked to the deck via a foot-operated pedal. Not only is the Brakeboard about safer descent, it’s about enhanced control. Power is dictated by your weight on the pedal; a personal touch on a mechanical marvel.
As for compatibility, the Brakeboard isn't picky. It'll retrofit to any longboard, and it promises to not mess with your ride's natural flow, allowing for regular turning abilities, pushing, and sliding. Even your favourite wheels can stick around, undisturbed by this newcomer.
In the grand tradition of crafting reliable rides, the Brakeboard uses time-tested materials such as gravity cast aluminium for the hangers and bases, stainless steel axles, and polyurethane bushes. But where the true innovation lies, is in the brake components: CNC machined aluminium and stainless steel, combined with special brake compounds typically found in the automotive industry. It's a cross-pollination of tech that makes for a truly solid product.
So, there you have it. A cutting-edge tweak on a classic that enhances the ride while keeping the thrill. The Brakeboard adds a layer of confidence to the longboarding experience, making it less about the fear of the stop, and more about the joy of the ride.
Pros:
- Safety: The Brakeboard provides a reliable braking system, which is beneficial for steep descents or emergency stops. This can greatly reduce the risk of accidents and make the longboard safer to ride.
- Versatility: The Brakeboard fits on any longboard and won't affect normal operations like turning, pushing, and sliding. This offers a lot of flexibility and convenience for the user.
- Durability: The product is built with durable materials such as CNC machined aluminium, stainless steel, and polyurethane, ensuring that the brake system is long-lasting.
- Brake Pad Longevity: The brakes avoid damage to wheels and shoes, which are common wear points with traditional stopping techniques. The brake pads are also low-cost and replaceable, providing an economical long-term solution.
Cons:
- Price: At $199, the Brakeboard is a considerable investment, especially for hobbyists or those who use a longboard casually. This price point may be prohibitive for some users.
- Weight: The addition of the brake system may add extra weight to the longboard, which could impact its handling and portability.
- Complexity: The installation process might be more complex compared to regular trucks, especially for less tech-savvy users. Maintenance might also require a learning curve.
- Riding Experience: While the Brakeboard is designed to not interfere with the natural flow of riding, some seasoned longboarders may feel that the brake system alters the traditional longboarding experience.
It's worth noting that the pros and cons of the Brakeboard will depend on the individual rider's needs, skill level, and budget. It's a solid investment for those who prioritise safety and control during their rides, particularly on steep terrain. However, casual riders or those on a tight budget might find it less appealing.
$199
