The fingerboard, or a finger skateboard or tech deck, is a miniature skateboard replica that allows users to perform tricks using their fingers. It has gained popularity among skateboard enthusiasts and individuals who enjoy practicing tricks indoors or in smaller spaces. In this guide, we will know the basics of fingerboards and their uses and provide step-by-step instructions on how to assemble your fingerboard.
What is a Fingerboard?
A fingerboard is a scaled-down skateboard replica that measures around 96-100mm long. Its components include a deck, trucks, wheels, and grip tape. The premium fingerboard deck is the main body, usually made of wood or plastic, and resembles a regular skateboard deck in shape. The trucks are the metal axles that connect the premium fingerboard wheels to the deck, allowing for movement and control. The wheels are small, durable replicas of skateboard wheels, and grip tape is applied to the balcony to provide traction and grip.
Uses of Fingerboards
Fingerboards serve various purposes and offer numerous benefits to enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Indoor Skateboarding Practice:
Fingerboards allow skateboard enthusiasts to practice and master tricks indoors, especially during unfavorable weather conditions or when unable to access a skatepark. They provide a convenient and portable alternative to full-sized skateboards, allowing continuous skill development and refinement.
Skill Enhancement and Creativity:
Fingerboarding promotes hand-eye coordination, finger dexterity, and fine motor skills. It offers a platform for creativity, enabling users to design and execute their unique tricks and combinations. Fingerboarders can customize fingerboard with various accessories, such as ramps, rails, and obstacles, further enhancing their skill development and fostering creativity.
How to Assemble Fingerboard?
Assembling a fingerboard is a simple process that includes a few key steps. You can create your own fully functional fingerboard setup by following these steps.
1. Gather the Necessary Materials:
Before you begin assembling your fingerboard, make sure you have all the required materials at hand. Here’s a list of the essential components:
- Fingerboard Deck: Choose a deck that suits your size, shape, and design preferences. Fingerboard decks are available in various materials, such as wood or plastic, and come in different widths and concave profiles.
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- Trucks: Select a pair of compatible premium fingerboard truck that fit the width of your fingerboard deck. These are essential for maneuverability and control. They typically consist of a baseplate, hanger, and kingpin.
- Wheels: Choose a set of wheels that match the axle size of your trucks. Fingerboard wheels come in different durometers (hardness) and designs. Consider your preferred riding style and surface conditions when selecting wheels.
- Grip Tape: Acquire grip tape explicitly designed for fingerboards. Grip tape provides traction and enhances control over the board. It comes in pre-cut sheets that match the size of your fingerboard deck.
- Mounting Screws: Purchase screws that are appropriate for fingerboard assembly. These screws are used to attach the trucks to the deck securely.
- Optional Accessories: Depending on your preferences, you may also consider adding bearing wheels, riser pads (for added clearance between the trucks and deck), and tuning tools like a screwdriver or a fingerboard-specific skate tool.
2. Assembling the Fingerboard:
Now that you have gathered all the necessary materials, follow these steps to assemble your fingerboard:
- Apply Grip Tape: Start by peeling off the backing of the grip tape and aligning it with the deck. Make sure the grip tape covers the entire top surface of the deck. Press down firmly from one end to the other, ensuring the grip tape adheres smoothly and without air bubbles. Use a sharp object or a fingerboard-specific grip tape cutter to trim off the excess grip tape around the edges.
- Attach Trucks: Position the trucks on the underside of the deck, aligning them with the pre-drilled holes. Place the mounting screws through the holes in the deck and tighten them securely with a screwdriver or a skate tool. Ensure that the trucks are parallel and evenly spaced across the width of the deck.
- Install Wheels: Slide the wheels onto the axle of each truck. Make sure they fit snugly and rotate smoothly. If your wheels come with bearings, ensure they are properly seated within the wheels.
- Fine-tune and Adjust: Once the fingerboard is fully assembled, you can fine-tune the tightness of the trucks using a skate tool or a screwdriver. Adjust the trucks to your preferred level of tightness, keeping in mind that looser trucks offer more maneuverability while tighter trucks provide stability.
Conclusion
This article might have provided you with enough information for people who were unaware of what exactly is fingerboard and what is fingerboarding. Apart from this, you might have also learned about how to assemble a fingerboard efficiently.
Following the steps outlined in this guide and using the appropriate materials, you can create a personalized fingerboard setup that suits your preferences and style. Remember to practice and experiment with different tricks and techniques to explore the creative possibilities offered by fingerboarding fully.
