How to Dial Your Scooter: A Complete Guide by Madd Gear

How to Dial Your Scooter:

Getting your scooter dialed just right is essential for riders who want to perform tricks, ride smoothly, and extend the life of their parts. A perfectly dialed scooter delivers a clean, crisp sound during a drop test and ensures your setup is secure and reliable.

In this comprehensive guide, Madd Gear will walk you through the steps to get your scooter dialed for ultimate performance. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, this guide will have you riding confidently in no time. And if you're more of a visual learner, don't miss our video tutorial embedded below!

What Does Dialed Mean on a Scooter?

When we say a scooter is "dialed," we mean it doesn’t make any rattling or vibrating noises when drop-tested. This is achieved when all components are securely tightened and aligned. A dialed scooter is crucial for enhancing your skills, ensuring safety, and prolonging the lifespan of your parts.

Features of a Dialed Scooter:

  • Tight compression.

  • Securely tightened screws and bolts.

  • Aligned handlebars and front wheel.

  • Smoothly spinning wheels without lateral movement.

  • Fully adhered grip tape.

  • Evenly tightened clamp bolts.

  • A single, solid sound when drop-tested.

With these features in place, you can enjoy a smoother and safer riding experience.

How to Dial Your Scooter

Step 1: Tighten the Compression System

  1. Loosen your clamp and remove the handlebars.

  2. Tighten the compression bolt and cap at the top of your fork.

  3. Reattach the handlebars and tighten the clamp bolts evenly, working from top to bottom in half-turn increments.

Step 2: Secure the Brake

  1. Tighten the brake bolt with a 5mm Allen key until it’s snug.

  2. If your brake still shifts, add a small piece of rubber between the brake and the deck or apply a thread locker to the bolts.

Step 3: Check the Wheels and Axles

  1. Ensure the front and rear wheels are tightly secured and spin smoothly.

  2. Inspect the bearings for dryness or damage; replace them if necessary.

  3. Use the correct spacers for your deck to prevent any rattling.

Step 4: Inspect the Headset Bearings

  1. Remove the handlebars and fork to access the headset bearings.

  2. Clean and lubricate the bearings to ensure smooth rotation.

  3. Reassemble the fork and tighten the compression bolt until snug. Loosen slightly for desired resistance.

Step 5: Perform a Drop Test

  1. Lift your scooter about 7 inches off the ground.

  2. Drop it gently onto a hard surface.

  3. Listen for a solid "thud." If you hear rattling, recheck the steps above.

Common Issues and Fixes

Rattling Noise

  • Cause: Loose deck inserts, bearings, or bolts.

  • Fix: Tighten all bolts, apply thread locker, and inspect bearings and spacers.

Creaking Sound

  • Cause: Dry or worn headset bearings.

  • Fix: Clean and lubricate the bearings or replace them if necessary. For SCS compression, ensure you’re using a headset spacer if needed.

Persistent Undialed Setup

  • Cause: Damaged bearings, spacers, or misaligned components.

  • Fix: Replace worn parts, align components properly, and ensure all bolts are tightened evenly.

How to Maintain a Dialed Scooter

  • Perform regular tune-ups before each ride.

  • Apply thread locker to bolts to prevent loosening.

  • Replace worn-out parts promptly.

Why Is Dialing Your Scooter Important?

A dialed scooter ensures a safer and more enjoyable riding experience. It minimizes wear and tear on parts, reduces the risk of accidents, and enhances your ability to perform tricks. Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your scooter in peak condition.

Watch Our Video Tutorial

If you prefer visual instructions, check out our video tutorial featuring pro rider Chris Farris. Learn step-by-step how to dial your scooter and get expert tips for maintaining your ride.

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