The Skateluge style requires the rider to sit upright. The nature of the skateboard center pivoting truck works best for Skateluging when the CG (center of gravity) is in the middle of the truck placement. The rider sits on the deck with the wheels mounted slightly off center so the there is a place to rest the calves. This improves balance and control while easing the fatigue on the legs.
The first thing a new Skateluge pilot must learn is braking. It takes practice but good braking skills should be mastered before you hit the big hills. An important thing to remember is the footwear should have good soles. By carefully placing the soles of your shoes on the pavement, you can effectively control speed without compromising the stability of the ride. Careful, don't let the road "grab" your foot and send you face first. I usually start with the heel and tip my foot forward gradually increasing pressure against the road surface. Using both feet the Skateluge will come to a stop very quickly. Braking with the feet is an important skill to learn for all gravity racing.
The Skateluge can reach speeds in excess of 40 mph! It is important to recognize the difference in a Skateluge configured for speed and a Skateluge configured for slalom. The kingpin truck design allows for adjustment to lessen the turning "play" to increase stability during speed runs but decreasing the manuverability during carves and slalom. I set my Skateluge midway to enjoy all types of riding.
If you try to go TOO FAST on the Skateluge, you WILL get speed wobbles. Speed wobbles are a condition that effect skateboard trucks causing the 'board to shudder, eventually throwing you to the pavement. Street Lugers, already quite low to the street, can get lower by "dropping" the deck BELOW the truck baseplate. Because the deck of the Skateluge is on the top for the baseplate, as well as the CG being higher as a result of sitting, more leverage is applied to the trucks causing speed wobbles to start at lower speeds.
The real JOY of the Skateluge comes from the carving control. The Skateluge operates best when its turning. Whether wiggling a slalom course or weaving wide on the steeps, the Skateluge responds like a dream.
When riding the Skateluge ALWAYS wear proper safety equipment , especially a helmet. NEVER ride the Skateluge on roads with traffic. Skateluging can be dangerous and can cause personal injury or even death. Use your head when riding the Skateluge. The manufacturer or any others associated with the Skateluge are in no way responsible for any injuries and/or damages incurred while operating the Skateluge. The operator uses the Skateluge at their own risk. We are all equal under the laws of GRAVITY.
