Are rockered frames right for me?

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A rockered frame is characterized by its curved design, with the front and rear wheels raised off the ground, while the middle wheels remain in contact with the surface. This configuration creates a slight banana-like shape along the length of the frame, resembling the rocker on a rocking chair, hence the name.
This style of frame is especially popular in slalom, where the enhanced maneuverability is key for most skaters.

Advantages of Rockered Frames:

Improved maneuverability: The rockered setup enhances agility and maneuverability, allowing skaters to execute quick turns, twists, and directional changes with greater ease. The lifted outer wheels reduce the contact area, enabling smoother pivoting and tighter turns.

Enhanced maneuvering over rough surfaces: By lifting the outer wheels, rockered frames allow skaters to navigate uneven terrains more efficiently. The reduced wheel contact with the ground minimizes instances of wheel bite and provides a smoother ride over bumps and cracks.

Versatility for urban skating: Rockered frames are highly favored by urban skaters who often encounter obstacles, curbs, and tight spaces. The increased maneuverability allows skaters to swiftly navigate crowded city streets and conquer obstacles, delivering an enjoyable urban skating experience.

Considerations for Rockered Frames:

Reduced speed and stability: The curved design of rockered frames sacrifices some speed and stability compared to flat frames. Skaters who prioritize speed over maneuverability might find rockered frames less suitable for their needs.

Adaptation required: Switching to rockered frames may require some adjustment, as the modified wheel configuration affects the skater's balance and stride. Skaters should be prepared to invest time and effort in adapting their technique to optimize their performance with rockered frames.

In consideration

Rockered frames open up a whole new world and allow advanced and experienced skaters to broaden their horizons beyond what a normal 4x80mm frame has to offer. There is a whole world of slalom and more difficult terrain that can be explored with these and the enhanced maneuverability allows for many more tricks to be discovered.
That being said, for newer skaters and people who aren't as confident on their skates, this ,might not be the ideal frame for you. I would recommend sticking to the "normal" flat frames until you have the confidence and ankle strength needed. And if you are someone who wants to try, but isn't sure yet, there are frames that are rockerable like the FR R2-R Rockerable Frames. These frames allow you to try out the rockered setup while still being able to go back to a flat 4x76 or 4x80 in case you want to switch regularly or notice you're not ready for a rocker yet. Mind you that different rockered frames exist and that this one simply is an example.

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