Freebord
From Free net encyclopedia
Freebord model X-80, bottom side
Freebords are a recent modification of the skateboard. They are designed to closely simulate the behavior of a snowboard on downhill rides. To this purpose, they have (when compared to a skateboard) two additional castor wheels, located along the longitudinal middle axis, and protruding slightly more than the border wheels. These wheels are able to turn freely in all directions, which allows the Freebord to glide as long as no other wheel touches the ground. By exerting some pressure on the border wheels, the freeborder is able to control the board.
All freebords are currently being manufactured by a single company, Freebord manufacturing Inc.
These boards allow adjustment of the center wheels so they no longer touch the ground. The freebord then behaves like a common (though a bit heavy) longboard.
Skyhook bindings are commonly used to provide more control over the board and allow to exert more pressure on its edges.
To even further simulate snowboarding and its different styles, Freebords themselves are available in styles. The shorter "Xponent" range (around 75 to 85cm) are aimed at Freestyle riders, while the longer "Alpha" board (112cm) provides more of a Freeride (or all-mountain) feel.
Just like on a snowboard, the rider is able to perform both carve and slide turns.