How to Build a Street Luge

Street luge is an extreme sport, which usually means dangerous or exhilarating. The luge involves laying down on a small board that is on wheels and sitting at the top of a large hill. Then you take off and let gravity do its job. There is some steering for turns, but the high speeds in street luge usually means the chance for a wipeout is high.

Things You'll Need

  • Seat pan and body (can be one or more pieces)
  • Wheels and axles
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Instructions

    • 1

      Draw a rough sketch of what you want the board to look like. If you have no idea what a board should look like you should consult with someone who is more experienced in the building of street luges. Because of the speeds involved (around 70 miles an hour) you want your luge to be safe. At officially sanctioned luge events, an official will tell you if yours is acceptable or if it is just a little too extreme.

    • 2

      Cut the seat pan and rail for your luge. You might have planned for either aluminum, fiberglass, or perhaps even wood. Whichever material you choose will have its own benefits and problems. The cutting techniques for each are quite different but the important thing is to ensure the frame is the right length and not too heavy. You also want to make sure it isn't too flexible or capable of bending. In this extreme sport you are traveling only inches off the ground so if the seat bends too much, it could scrape against the ground--a very unwanted result.

    • 3

      Attach the axles and wheels. Most commonly, these are skateboard wheels and trucks, however you can design your own axle system if you wish. It is not recommended that you design your own wheels, as these are manufactured for their smoothness and nearly perfect. If you wish to risk making your own, keep in mind that any warping or roughness could result in wiping out.

    • 4

      Install the head rest. Although this is optional, if you are going to be using the board for long rides you definitely will want one. It can be quite tiring to hold your head steady in the position necessary for street luge, and if it brushes against the ground at 70 mph, you will definitely regret your decision not to install a head rest.

    • 5

      Add the final touches. This could include foot pegs if your design has them. It should include things like a front bumper. You will also want to use this time to examine the luge. Does it need lightening anywhere? Is it as smooth aerodynamically as it can be? Do the wheels spin freely? Once those concerns are addressed, the luge should be complete.