How to Keep Your Stunt Scooter Clean, Smooth and Safe to Use
How do I maintain my stunt scooter?
A well-maintained stunt scooter not only rides better but also lasts much longer. Whether you're doing tricks every day on the court or just cruising from spot to spot, regular checks and cleaning prevent surprises and wear and tear. This page explains exactly how to keep your scooter in top condition.
Periodic checks: this is what you want to check as standard
- Handlebar clamps: Tighten the bolts regularly with a long Allen wrench. Loose parts can cause play or noise.
- Wheels and bearings: Are your wheels rolling stiffly or do you hear a creaking noise? Then your bearings may be dirty or worn.
- Check deck and steering: Check for hairline cracks or damage, especially after hard landings.
- Cleaning grip tape: Dirt = less grip. Use a stiff brush to clean your grip tape.
Check your stunt scooter with the drop test
Before you start working on your scooter, do a drop test. Simple, quick, and super handy.
Here's how to do it:
- Lift your stunt scooter by the handlebars, about 10 to 15 cm off the ground.
- Let it fall in a controlled manner on both wheels.
What do you hear?
- Dull sound: Perfect! Everything is securely fastened.
- Sharp or rattling noise: Then something is loose or worn out.
Pay extra attention to the noise around the steering wheel or wheels. Then start by checking your steering head , followed by your wheels . Work from top to bottom—it makes sense.
Replacing handles
Are your grips worn, sticky, or just in need of a fresh look? These steps will help you install new grips on your scooter – safely, securely, and without any dangerous tricks.
- What you'll need: Knife, hammer, flathead screwdriver, new handles, bar ends, brake cleaner, or hairspray.
- Don't: Don't use WD-40, oil, or grease. While they'll be easy to attach, they won't stay in place. Dangerous while riding!
- Removing the old bar end: Pry it off with a flat-head screwdriver.
- Removing old handles: Cut through the old handles layer by layer with a knife. Always cut away from you—safety first.
- Incorrect mounting method: Mounting with oil or grease will result in dangerous, loose handles.
- Correct installation method: Spray some brake cleaner or hairspray into the grip and on the handlebars. You now have a few seconds to insert it, after which it will be securely fastened.
- Test: Compare how poorly WD40 works and how firmly brake cleaner grips – the difference is huge.
- Hairspray option: Works great too, dries a little slower but gives a firm hold.
- Installing the bar ends: Place them at a right angle and tap them into the ground or with a hammer. Make sure they remain straight.
After these steps, everything is securely fastened and you can safely hit the road again.
Play in the steering wheel? Here's how to fix it
In a Threaded system
For a threaded headset, tighten the locknut on top with a wrench. Also check that the washers are not missing or worn.
With a HIC or IHC system
For HIC and IHC compression systems, tighten the compression bolt inside the fork securely with an Allen wrench. Make sure your handlebars are straight while tightening the clamp.
Replacing the bearings of your scooter wheel
Are you noticing reduced rolling distance or a locked-up wheel? Then your bearings need replacing. With a little skill, you can do it yourself:
Extra tips for long-lasting driving pleasure
- Use a multi-tool: fast, compact and perfect for everyday use.
- Avoid wet surfaces – water is fatal for bearings and metal parts.
- Store your stunt scooter indoors to prevent rust and dust build-up.
In summary
Cleaning, adjusting, and occasionally replacing a bearing: that's all it takes. A few simple maintenance routines will keep your stunt scooter running smoothly, quietly, and safely. And the best part? Your tricks will instantly feel sharper.