Frame Mounting for Inline Skates - Everything You Need To Know

If you're a beginner skater then you are almost definitely going to buy a complete skate which is already assembled with the correct compatible frames out of the box, in which case you don't need to worry about the intricacies of frame mounting too much. However, for rollerbladers who want to start customising and experimenting with different wheel and frame configurations read on.

Frame mounting is how the frames (the chassis part that hold the wheels) is attached onto the boot above it. When combining a boot with a frame they'll need to have the same mounting compatibility. 

So, what are the frame mounting options? Answer: There are five common methods:

1. Classic Mount (also referred to as 165 mount):

This method involves two bolts that screw into the boots with a raised heel. It's a traditional method used in many types of freestyle and freeride skates (like Rollerblade RB80 and FR Skates FRX80).

2. UFS (Universal Frame System):

UFS is a completely flat system with two bolts that screw into the boot. This system is predominantly used in aggressive skating models (skates for skateparks, ramps, grinds etc), and was agreed upon as a system in the early 00’s for easy customisation between aggressive frame manufacturers. A handful of bigger wheel skates also use UFS now to achieve a lower centre of gravity.

3. Trinity Mount:

This system pioneered by Powerslide skates and utilises three bolts that screw into the boot, also with a raised heel. The Trinity mounting system is known for its enhanced stability and power transfer. The positioning of the two fixing bolts at the front end of the skate allows for the wheels to sit closer to the underside of the foot vs a classic 165 mount. This creates a lower ride-height for better control and stability. It’s only compatible with certian Powerslide branded skate boots (but not all of them).

4. Fixed Mount:

In this method, the frame is riveted directly to the boot at multiple points, providing a rigid connection between the components. This type of mounting is commonly found in entry-level or recreational skates and means the frames cannot easily be changed or replaced as they are permanently riveted to the boot. While it's a mounting style found on some less expensive skates, it could be argued that it's the best way of mounting frames so long as you don't want to change or replace them at a later point. This is because the multiple mounting points make for great power transfer and reduced flexion under load. A raised mounting plate is also not needed on the bottom of the boot (usually housing a bolt-thread) and therefore the wheels can sit as close as possible to the underside of the foot for low ride-height and control.

5. 195 mount:

This is similar to Classic 165 mount but the two mounting points sit a little further apart (30mm more than 165 mount). Some aftermarket frames and skates feature extra 195-spaced slots/threads to give the user an option to use them as 195 mount frames. Mostly it's just specialist speed and marathon skates that this 195 mount is utilised in, so if you're not involved in that discipline then dot worry too much about this.

While there are other unique frame mounting options related to brand specific systems, the five mentioned above are the most common you’ll find across the skate market.

Still unsure about it?

No worries - on every skate and frame product page on the Locoskates website you’ll find a product specs tab. Click on the product specs tab to find information about the frame mount for the boot you have and the frame you want. Then see if it’s a match! If we don’t list a product you’re looking for just give us an email at hello@locoskates.com and we’ll be happy to help.

Now that you're an expert in frame mounting we hope you can start to think about building your own custom skates and delve deeper into your skating journey.