Here are some of the most asked questions about
the SmartWheels Velocity Control System
What
are SmartWheesl¨?
The Smartwheels inline skate brake is a patented system that
utilizes a unique skating motion for the actuation and control
of the braking system. The design incorporates small, durable
disk brake modules into several wheels on each skate, allowing a
rapid transition from skating stride to brake actuation.
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How
do SmartWheels work? The
SmartWheels are located between the wheel bearings of
the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th
wheel of each skate. The
brake is actuated by a heavy side-load on the outside of the
wheel. Normal
skating motions are on the inside of the wheels. (Check your
skates and see for yourself) To activate the brake you can use
simple skating motions (similar to ice skating or downhill
skiing) such as:
 |
Snowplow-
With your feet a shoulder's distance apart, push your feet
outward to form a "V".
This motion loads the wheels from the outside and actuates
the brake.
|
 |
Heel
Pressure- This motion is very similar to the snowplow, but uses
the ball of the foot to create the load to the outside.
Using the ball of your foot (under the 2nd
wheel) pivot your skate outward.
|
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Ankle
Flex- This motion is more difficult with higher, hard shell
boots because it needs the ankle to flex outward, creating a
bow-legged affect. This
puts a side load on the wheels and causes the brake to actuate.
It can also be used when standing on your skates to keep
from rolling.
|
 |
Slalom-
This is a technique used especially on hills and requires that
you make short, sharp turns to put side load to the wheels, one
side at a time. It
reduces speed and slows the skater to a more controllable level
where the other techniques can then be used.
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Where do I get replacement wheels? Replacement wheels must
be ordered through us or our dealers. Our wheels contain a proprietary
sleeve that holds the brake module. Our SmartWheels replacement
wheels are high quality wheels and we price them competitively.
We also offer a variety of sizes & durometers.
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Who
are SmartWheels intended for?
The Smartwheels system is intended for skill levels from
beginner thru advanced. Its use is most important in open areas
such as streets and bike paths where speed control and braking
are of importance for the safety of the skater and as a courtesy
to others in these unpredictable and often-congested venues.
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Why
do new skaters need SmartWheels?
Smartwheels provides control of the skates that allows a new
skaters confidence to build rapidly. Both athletic and
non-athletic new skaters benefit. The brake system is also fun
to use, and allows greater freedom in selection of skating roads
and trails.
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Why
do experienced skaters need SmartWheels?
SmartWheels are good for experienced skaters because of the wide
variety of venues they skate in.
SmartWheels provide speed control and braking which are
important for the safety of the skater and as a courtesy to
others especially in unpredictable and often-congested venues.
SmartWheels also provide great speed control on hills.
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How
do I know SmartWheels will work?
SmartWheels have also been tried & tested by skaters
of all levels skating expertise with positive results.
Ultimately
you will be the judge, but we always assure your complete
satisfaction.
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How
are SmartWheels sold?
Smartwheels are available from Concept Sports, LLC, Brooklyn , CT.,
pre-installed in several of the latest and best models of Rollerblade
and Roces inline skates. Or
for a custom installation on your existing skates, please call our
TECH line at 877-736-9071.
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Can
I get SmartWheels for the skates I already own? Yes! We would love to have EVERYONE using Smartwheels! What it requires is that you send your skates to us for a “custom installation”. That’s where we match our brake mounting hardware to your skate. But if your skates are old and/or well used, you may want to buy our NEW Smart Wheels skate. Not only do you get the best installation, but you get your choice of the most up-to-date and best priced skates on the market! .
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Where
can I get SmartWheels?
SmartWheels are available through our online
store at www.smartwheelsinline.com. Retailers will soon be added, so stay tuned!
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What's
new at SmartWheels? Concept Sports, LLC, is extremely pleased that Robert Brandriff,
President of Concept Sports, has received a national engineering
award for the design of the Smartwheels inline skate braking system.
The award has been made by Design News magazine, a national technical
publication of Reed Publishing, as part of an annual event to recognize
technical innovation and creativity. Out of hundreds of competing
designs from all segments of industry only ten awards are presented,
and Smartwheels was selected as a second prize winner.
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