Flexy vs. Stiff Deck

**bender181989** · 09-11-2009 02:39 PM

What do you guys prefer when you're sliding? For example, would you say it's easier to slide on a 43" flexy deck or a 40" stiffer deck? I already have a 43" KS M1 deck and I'm looking to see how a slightly shorter and yet stiffer deck would ride.

**sterlingc** · 09-11-2009 02:40 PM

usually stiffer is easier, flexy decks absorb the force you push into them, stiff ones just transfer that force into the wheels

**motion** · 09-11-2009 02:42 PM

i prefer stiffer decks but i think its a personal preference.

**blstndwn** · 09-11-2009 03:37 PM

I think flexy heps with the start of the slide and slow slides. But stiff all the way! I ride a Ks schimi 40" Works great for standys and I can do 360's and those kinda tech tricks. Fast slides I feel the flex trys to buck me off. KS is good though, awsome for freeride! For tech slides I use like a bigger skateboard.

**alexanzo** · 09-11-2009 10:22 PM

Stiffer is more comfortable and easier for me since I'm used to it now.

**bender181989** · 09-12-2009 12:16 AM

Oh okay, that makes sense. I'm probably going to get a 40" scimitar soon. I was talking to the owner, and he said that he'd cut the deck a little bit wider than usual, so it'd be even stiffer than the stock 40".

**jnicolas1** · 02-14-2011 07:25 PM

Originally Posted by bender181989

Oh okay, that makes sense. I'm probably going to get a 40" scimitar soon. I was talking to the owner, and he said that he'd cut the deck a little bit wider than usual, so it'd be even stiffer than the stock 40".

39" Loaded Tan Tien flex 1 with 86a otang stims is what i use for sliding. any little twitch you make when tucked to the deck makes the wheels twitch right out from under you

**GbombFroniewski** · 03-24-2011 09:35 PM

How would you suggest starting to learn on a stiff board? I am used to riding a Gravity Makai drop carve and I just got the Switchblade. I have it top mounted and stiffened up with Gunmetal 42's so it is definitely a different feel.

**joop** · 03-24-2011 09:48 PM

Originally Posted by GbombFroniewski

How would you suggest starting to learn on a stiff board? I am used to riding a Gravity Makai drop carve and I just got the Switchblade. I have it top mounted and stiffened up with Gunmetal 42's so it is definitely a different feel.

When I switched to a topmount from a dropthrough this is what I noticed:
1) On hands down sliding, put your hand out more
2) You need to push a lot more laterally on a topmount/stiffer board
3) Learn to use the extra leverage a topmount gives you - get to know the edge of your board!

Other than that, its a quick change and you'll have it down in no time.

**GbombFroniewski** · 03-24-2011 09:50 PM

Thanks a lot man! The difference is quite drastic, but it will just take a little practice and familiarity with the new setup to make it work.

One thing I am having trouble with is getting the proper leverage to slide standing up. I get what you are saying about more lateral pressure. I will have to work on that.