Home | Recreation & Sports


The Skateboarding Ramp: Flying High

By: Fabian Toulouse

Sooner or later, everyone who rides a skateboard, bike or inline skates wants to hit a skateboarding ramp. So many cool skateboarding tricks can be performed on a ramp, and it is not too hard to build one at home. Having a ramp at home gives you a chance to practice your skateboarding moves in peace and quiet. After all, who wants to take a lot of beginners' wipe outs in public? With some plywood, a few pieces of 2" by 4", and the right tools, you can throw together your own skateboarding ramp at home.

The first step in building your ramp is to check out skateboarding ramps you like and measure heights and curves, keeping in mind your own skill level. Next, compile your notes and draw up your own plans. When you are happy with it, draw the curve of the transition (the side) shape onto a big enough piece of plywood. When it is right, cut the curve out using a jigsaw. Sand the edges by hand or use an electric sander.

To make the other transition, lay another sheet (or the other half of the first transition, if the scrap is big enough, on the floor. Take your completed transition and place it on top, transferring the curve with pencil. Cut and sand this transition and the sides for your skateboarding ramp are finished.

Brace the corners with a few two-by-fours. When you are positioning your transition shapes, you can save time by making the width the same as that of the flexible double ply you will be using for your skateboarding ramp itself. Screw the two-by-fours six inches apart to bear the weight of the floor. The better your work, the more durable and long lasting your skateboarding ramp will be. The screws should go from the inside out. Starting the holes with a drill will avoid splintering the wood.

Now you are ready to add the skateboarding ramp. Glue and nail the platform on, paying careful attention that no screws or nails are sticking out onto the ramp surface, otherwise, watch out for some severe tire damage! Finally, add a thin metal sheet to the bottom of the ramp for a smooth transition.

A last warning: try your weight on your skateboarding ramp before you go for a test drive! Otherwise, your inaugural flight could be your finale!

Article Source: http://www.articlewheel.com

If you're interested in making your own skateboarding ramp, be sure to get the skating gear to make your maiden voyage a safe one.

Social Bookmarks:
AddThis Social Bookmark Button Social Bookmarks



  Site Links We Support:
  Home
About Us
Contact Us
RSS Feeds
Privacy Policy
Terms of Service
Link Partners
 
 


**scoop**

Powered by Article Dashboard