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Rotating Wheels on Inline Skates
Here’s our comprehensive guide on how to rotate the wheels on inline skates, whether they have 3 or 4 wheels. You’ll find that the front and back wheels usually experience more wear than those in the middle. Additionally, the wear differs from left to right skate. Correct rotation of your wheels helps maintain a level wheel setup and prolong their lifespan.
The suggested methods serve as useful guidelines. These techniques are straightforward yet useful for keeping a flat wheel setup and extending the durability of your wheels. There are numerous ways to rotate wheels on inline skates, and as you become more experienced, you'll likely form your own preferences while honing your technique.
Overview
How Should Wheels on 4-Wheel Skates Be Rotated?
A common strategy for rotating wheels on 4-wheeled inline skates involves swapping the two back wheels of one skate with the two front wheels of the other skate, as demonstrated in the image above.
To avoid mixing things up during the process, place a small piece of masking tape on each wheel and mark its initial position.
Positions of the wheels before rotation:
| Left skate | Right skate |
| 1 Left | 1 Right |
| 2 Left | 2 Right |
| 3 Left | 3 Right |
| 4 Left | 4 Right |
Positions of the wheels after rotation:
| Left skate | Right skate |
| 3 Right | 3 Left |
| 4 Right | 4 Left |
| 1 Right | 1 Left |
| 2 Right | 2 Left |
Note: Remember to flip each wheel. The graphics should face inward when remounted if initially facing outward.
Approach for Rotating Wheels on 3-Wheel Skates?
For 3-wheeled skates, a reliable rotation approach is outlined in the image above. This method aims to achieve even wear across all six wheels, enhancing their longevity.
Rotating wheels on 3-wheeled skates can be done in several ways. If you're new to triskates, this rotation pattern is a great initial choice.
Placing a small piece of masking tape on each wheel and noting its original position can help prevent confusion during the process.
Positions of the wheels prior to rotation:
| Left skate | Right skate |
| 1 Left | 1 Right |
| 2 Left | 2 Right |
| 3 Left | 3 Right |
Positions of the wheels following rotation:
| Left skate | Right skate |
| 3 Right | 3 Left |
| 1 Right | 1 Left |
| 2 Right | 2 Left |
Note: Flip each wheel. Graphics should face inward post-rotation if they were outward before.
Essential Tools for Rotating Roller Skate Wheels
You will require a 4 mm Allen key or a Torx tool for removing and reinstalling the wheels. It's often necessary to have two keys – one for each side of the wheel – to grip both the male and female sides of the wheel bolts simultaneously.
Skate tools are highly beneficial for wheel rotation as they generally contain everything needed for skate assembly and disassembly. You can find one here:
Discover wheel removal techniques in this guide:
Frequency of Rotating Inline Skate Wheels
The frequency for rotating your wheels is influenced by how often you skate, the skating surfaces, and your technique.
When the centreline of your wheels starts shifting from the middle, it indicates the need for rotation. For certain skaters, this might mean rotating wheels after every session, while others may find it necessary only a few times during the season.
Once accustomed to it, wheel rotation will take just five minutes.
Unsure if it's time for new wheels or skates? Refer to this guide:
