Rollerblading Tools

Rollerblading, also known as inline skating, can be a great way to get exercise on a warm day. It can be a great way to get yourself around town as well. Whatever use you have found for rollerblading, it can be important to learn how to adjust and repair your own skates when needed. Purchasing an Allen wrench, Phillips-head screwdriver and a bearing replacer can help you keep your skates in top shape for whenever you are ready to go for a ride.

  1. Regular Maintenance for Roller Blades

    • Performing routine maintenance on your roller blades can help ensure your skates are safe and enjoyable. The maintenance you decide to do on your own will determine the tools you need to purchase. Before putting on your roller blades, always take the time to inspect your wheels, bearings and brake pads. Your wheels need to be rotated occasionally, since you will find that they wear down more in certain areas than others. Your bearings will need to be cleaned if they have gotten wet or muddy. You should also remove and clean them occasionally to keep them running smoothly, and they will need to be replaced over time. Your brake pad will need to be replaced eventually, and it is recommended that you replace it before it reaches the wear line to prevent any accidents.

    Allen Wrench

    • You will need an Allen wrench to maintain your wheels on your roller blades. Rotating your wheels is important to increasing their life. Your wheels will naturally wear down more on one side, so rotating them will help them wear evenly on all sides. You should rotate your wheels at least once a week if you are rollerblading often, but consider rotating them even more if you are new at rollerblading. Use an Allen wrench to remove the bolts from the wheels, and then use a clean cloth to wipe off the bearings. The Allen wrench is also a necessary tool for replacing your wheels once they have worn down.

    Phillips-Head Screwdriver

    • You will need a Phillips-head screwdriver to replace or adjust your brake on your roller blades. Your brake should have a wear-line on it. This is there to indicate when your brake has worn down and needs replacement. It is recommended to replace the brake before it reaches this point. Use the Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the screw holding the brake in place, remove the old brake and put the replacement brake in its place. Using the Phillips-head screwdriver, screw the new brake into place until it is secure.

    Bearing Remover

    • A bearing remover is a necessary tool for when you need to clean, lubricate or replace your bearings. A bearing needs to replaced once it is worn out, and this can be a little complicated if you do not have a bearing remover tool. You can try to use a flat-head screwdriver on certain brands, but by using a bearing remover you will save time and lower your risk of damaging your bearings.

    Other Tools

    • An Allen wrench, Phillips-head screwdriver and bearing remover tool are the three main pieces of hardware that you will need to properly maintain your roller blades. There are a few other items that you should have on hand when performing maintenance. A straight pin or a stick pin will be needed to remove most types of shields that are in place to protect your bearings. A clean cloth is necessary to dry and clean debris from your bearings when you are rotating your tires. You should consider using a bearing-specific cleaner and lubricant to extend the life of your bearings.