Introduction

Skateboarding is a popular sport and hobby for many people around the world. Whether you're a beginner just starting out or an experienced rider looking to upgrade your gear, finding an affordable complete skateboard that doesn't compromise on quality can be a challenge. In this article, we'll explore some key features to look for in a cheap complete skateboard, ensuring you get the best budget skateboard for your money. So, let's dive in and find out what makes a quality skateboard without breaking the bank. 

1. Understanding Skateboard Components

Before we delve into the specific features to look for in an affordable complete skateboard, it's essential to understand the different components that make up a skateboard. A typical skateboard consists of:

Skateboard Deck: The flat, long platform you stand on while riding.

Skateboard Trucks: The metal T-shaped pieces that attach the wheels to the deck and allow for turning.

Skateboard Wheels: The round, urethane pieces that enable the skateboard to roll.

Skateboard Bearings: The small, round metal pieces that fit inside the wheels, allowing them to spin smoothly.

By understanding these components, you'll have a better idea of what to look for when searching for the best budget skateboard. 

2. Skateboard Deck: Materials and Size

The skateboard deck is one of the most critical components of a skateboard, as it directly affects your riding experience. When looking for an affordable complete skateboard, consider the following factors:

Materials: Most skateboard decks are made from layers of maple wood, known for its strength and durability. Some cheap complete skateboards may use lower-quality materials, such as plastic or bamboo. While these options may be more affordable, they may not provide the same level of durability and performance as a maple wood deck.

Size: The size of the skateboard deck should match your personal preference and riding style. Wider decks (8 inches or more) provide more stability and are suitable for beginners, while narrower decks (7.5 inches or less) offer more manoeuvrability for technical tricks. Be sure to choose a deck size that suits your needs and skill level. 

3. Skateboard Trucks: Durability and Responsiveness

Skateboard trucks are another essential component of a skateboard, as they affect your ability to turn and maintain stability while riding. When looking for an affordable complete skateboard, consider the following factors:

Durability: Look for trucks made from high-quality materials, such as aluminium or steel, to ensure they can withstand the wear and tear of regular use.

Responsiveness: The responsiveness of skateboard trucks is determined by the bushings, which are the small rubber pieces that allow the trucks to pivot and turn. Soft bushings provide more responsiveness and are suitable for beginners, while harder bushings offer more stability for advanced riders. Be sure to choose trucks with the appropriate bushings for your skill level and riding style.

4. Skateboard Wheels: Hardness and Size

Skateboard wheels play a significant role in your riding experience, as they affect your speed, grip, and ability to perform tricks. When looking for an affordable complete skateboard, consider the following factors:

Hardness: Skateboard wheel hardness is measured in durometers, with higher numbers indicating harder wheels. Harder wheels (95A or higher) provide more speed and are suitable for skate parks and ramps, while softer wheels (85A or lower) offer more grip and are ideal for cruising on rough surfaces. Choose wheels with the appropriate hardness for your preferred riding style.

Size: Larger wheels (55mm or more) provide more speed and are suitable for ramp and park skating, while smaller wheels (50mm or less) offer more manoeuvrability for technical tricks. Be sure to choose wheels that match your skill level and riding style.

5. Skateboard Bearings: Speed and Smoothness

Skateboard bearings play a crucial role in the smoothness and speed of your ride. When looking for an affordable complete skateboard, consider the following factors:

ABEC Rating: Skateboard bearings are rated on the ABEC scale, which measures their precision and tolerance. Higher ABEC ratings (ABEC 7 or 9) provide more speed and smoothness but may be more expensive. Lower ABEC ratings (ABEC 3 or 5) are more affordable and still offer a decent riding experience for beginners.

Material: Look for bearings made from high-quality materials, such as steel or ceramic, to ensure they last longer and provide a smoother ride.

6. Top Affordable Complete Skateboards for Beginners

Now that you know what to look for in a cheap complete skateboard, here are some recommendations for the best budget skateboards suitable for beginners:

CCS Complete Skateboard: This affordable complete skateboard features a maple wood deck, aluminium trucks, and 52mm wheels, making it an excellent option for beginners.
Krown Rookie Complete Skateboard: With a 7.5-inch maple wood deck, aluminium trucks, and 52mm wheels, this skateboard is perfect for those just starting in the sport.
Minority 32-inch Maple Skateboard: This skateboard offers a slightly larger deck size (8 inches) and features aluminium trucks and 52mm wheels, making it a suitable option for beginners looking for more stability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding an affordable complete skateboard doesn't mean you have to compromise on quality. By understanding the different components of a skateboard and considering factors such as materials, size, durability, and responsiveness, you can find the best budget skateboard that suits your needs and skill level. So, whether you're a beginner just starting out or an experienced rider looking for a cost-effective upgrade, there's a quality skateboard out there for you. Happy riding!