BETA
Finding the sweet spot
During a 50-50 grind, a skater balances on metal trucks along a handrail. The skater's center of mass, located near the pelvis, must remain directly aligned vertically above the rail. A deviation of just 2 inches to either side will cause gravity to pull the skater off-balance.
Chapter 1
The ollie and the laws of motion
Chapter 2
Energy and momentum on vert ramps
Chapter 3
Street geometry and balance
Chapter 4
The materials science of skateboards
Ch 3 · Street geometry and balance
nic Flicking the board off-center applies torque, causing it to flip along its longitudinal axis.
Fun Fact
Friction control: Skateboarders use paraffin wax on ledges to make concrete as slippery as ice.
Glossary
center of mass (noun)
A point representing the mean position of the matter in a body or system. In 1989, Natas Kaupas shifted this point to spin atop a Santa Monica fire hydrant.
A point representing the mean position of the matter in a body or system. In 1989, Natas Kaupas shifted this point to spin atop a Santa Monica fire hydrant.