Pre-Built Complete Skateboards FAQ
A complete skateboard is a fully assembled skateboard that's ready to ride right out of the box. It's the easiest way to start skateboarding and is an excellent choice for beginners, casual riders, and anyone who wants a professionally matched setup without choosing each component individually. Here are answers to the most common questions about complete skateboards.
What is a complete skateboard?
A complete skateboard is a skateboard that comes fully assembled with all the necessary components.
A complete typically includes:
- Deck
- Grip tape
- Trucks
- Wheels
- Bearings
- Hardware
- Bushings
Simply unpack it, check that everything is tight, and you're ready to skate.
Should I buy a complete skateboard or build my own?
It depends on your experience.
Complete Skateboards
- Ready to ride
- Components are matched for compatibility
- Great value
- Perfect for beginners
Custom Skateboards
- Fully customizable
- Choose every component
- Ideal for experienced skaters
- Easier to fine-tune performance
- Typically more expensive
Most first-time riders should start with a quality complete skateboard.
What's the best complete skateboard for beginners?
The best beginner complete features quality components that make learning easier. Look no our site for completes from Powell Peralta, Santa Cruz, Creature, Real, Creature, Baker or Deathwish.
We recommend:
- An 8.0"–8.25" deck
- Quality trucks
- 52–54mm wheels
- Reliable bearings
- Medium truck tightness
- Durable grip tape
A quality complete from a trusted skate brand will perform much better than inexpensive department store skateboards.
Are complete skateboards already assembled?
Yes.
Most complete skateboards arrive fully assembled and ready to ride.
Before your first session, it's a good idea to:
- Check that all hardware is tight.
- Make sure the wheels spin freely.
- Adjust truck tightness if needed.
No special tools or assembly experience are usually required.
Are complete skateboards good quality?
Yes—provided you choose a complete from a reputable brand like Powell Peralta, Santa Cruz, Creature, Real, Creature, Baker or Deathwish.
Quality completes feature components designed specifically for skateboarding and are suitable for learning, cruising, skateparks, and many street tricks.
The overall quality depends on the brand and the components included.
Are complete skateboards only for beginners?
No.
While beginners often choose completes, many experienced skaters also buy complete skateboards because they're convenient, affordable, and professionally assembled.
A complete can make an excellent backup board, travel board, or everyday setup.
Can I upgrade a complete skateboard?
Absolutely.
One of the biggest advantages of a complete skateboard is that every major component can be upgraded individually.
Common upgrades include:
Many skaters gradually upgrade parts as they wear out or as their riding style evolves.
Can I replace the wheels on a complete skateboard?
Yes.
Most complete skateboards use standard skateboard trucks, making wheel upgrades simple.
Many riders change wheel size or hardness to better match where they skate, such as switching to softer wheels for rough pavement or harder wheels for skateparks.
Can I replace the bearings?
Yes.
Most complete skateboards use standard 608-size bearings, making replacements easy.
Upgrading to premium bearings can improve smoothness, durability, and maintenance.
Can I replace the trucks?
Yes.
As long as you choose trucks that match your deck width, replacing the trucks is straightforward.
Many skaters upgrade trucks after years of use while keeping the rest of their setup.
What's included with a complete skateboard?
Although components vary by manufacturer, most completes include:
- Maple skateboard deck
- Applied grip tape
- Trucks
- Bushings
- Wheels
- Bearings
- Mounting hardware
- Kingpin nuts and axle nuts
Some completes may also include spacers or speed rings.
Do complete skateboards come with grip tape?
Yes.
Nearly all complete skateboards include grip tape already applied at the factory.
This allows you to start skating immediately without additional assembly.
What size complete skateboard should I buy?
Deck width is the most important measurement.
General recommendations include:
- 7.75"–8.0" – Younger riders and technical skating
- 8.0"–8.25" – Most beginners and all-around skating
- 8.25"–8.5" – Transition, bowls, and larger riders
- 8.5"+ – Cruising and shaped boards
An 8.25-inch complete is one of the most versatile choices for most riders.
Are complete skateboards cheaper than building your own?
Usually, yes.
Buying a complete skateboard often costs less than purchasing every component individually.
This makes completes one of the best values for beginners and anyone who wants a quality setup without the added expense of custom parts.
How much should I spend on a complete skateboard?
A quality complete skateboard generally costs between $120 and $160.
Within that range, you can expect:
- Quality maple deck
- Reliable trucks
- Durable wheels
- Good bearings
- Components designed to last
While cheaper skateboards are available, investing in quality equipment usually makes learning easier and more enjoyable.
Are department store skateboards any good?
No.
Most box store skateboards are designed as toys rather than performance skateboards.
Common issues include:
- Low-quality bearings
- Poor trucks (sometimes plastic)
- Weak decks
- Hard plastic wheels
- Inconsistent construction
For the best experience, choose a complete skateboard from a real skateshop like us.
How long will a complete skateboard last?
The lifespan depends on how often you skate and what type of skating you do.
Many components—such as trucks and bearings—can last for years with proper maintenance.
Decks, grip tape, and wheels generally wear out first and can be replaced individually.
Do I need any tools with a complete skateboard?
Not immediately.
However, owning a skateboard tool makes it easy to:
- Adjust truck tightness
- Remove wheels
- Replace bearings
- Tighten hardware
- Perform routine maintenance
A skate tool is one of the most useful accessories every skateboard owner should have.
What's the difference between a popsicle complete and a cruiser complete?
Popsicle Complete
- Designed for tricks
- Skateparks
- Street skating
- Symmetrical deck shape
Cruiser Complete
- Designed for transportation
- Soft wheels
- Comfortable ride
- Often includes a kicktail
The best choice depends on whether you want to learn tricks or primarily cruise around town.
Should I buy a complete online?
Yes—as long as you're purchasing from a reputable skate shop.
A knowledgeable skate shop can help you choose the correct size and recommend a complete that matches your experience level, budget, and riding style.
You'll also have access to genuine products from trusted skateboard brands and expert support if you have questions before or after your purchase.
How do I maintain a complete skateboard?
Basic maintenance helps your skateboard perform its best.
We recommend:
- Tightening loose hardware
- Rotating wheels
- Cleaning bearings when necessary
- Inspecting bushings
- Replacing worn grip tape
- Storing your board indoors in a cool, dry place
Regular maintenance can significantly extend the life of your complete skateboard.