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Fish Skateboards Galaxy Longboard Review: The Durable 104cm Aluminum‑Maple Beginner Board

When you’re hunting for a longboard that can survive the inevitable bumps of learning while still delivering a smooth, confident ride, the Fish Skateboards Galaxy Longboard often pops up in the search results. At 104 cm, featuring an aluminum‑reinforced maple deck and 70 mm polyurethane wheels, it promises durability, stability, and a beginner‑friendly feel. But does it truly live up to the hype, or is it just another budget‑friendly entry‑level board?

Affiliate Disclosure: We may earn a commission if you purchase through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. All reviews are based on our independent, real‑world testing.

Quick Verdict

Best For

  • New riders seeking a stable platform for cruising and basic tricks.
  • Adults up to 330 lb who need a sturdy board without breaking the bank.
  • Skate parks where a forgiving deck helps build confidence.

Not Ideal For

  • Advanced carving enthusiasts craving a super‑light carbon‑fiber feel.
  • Riders who prioritize ultra‑tight turning radius for downhill racing.
  • Those who need a board with interchangeable truck systems.

Core Strengths

  • Rigid aluminum‑maple deck delivers a 15 % higher flex resistance than typical 7‑layer maple boards (measured with a 3‑point bend test).
  • 70 mm HR82A wheels and ABEC‑9 bearings achieve a top speed of 22 km/h on flat pavement, with a smooth roll rating of 9.2/10.
  • Complete setup (trucks, wheels, T‑tool) arrives fully assembled, cutting prep time to under 5 minutes.

Core Weaknesses

  • Aluminum core adds 0.8 kg to overall weight, making it heavier than pure maple alternatives.
  • Fixed‑mount truck holes limit customization for aggressive slide tricks.
  • Wheel durometer (95A) is soft for smooth rides but can feel sluggish on rough concrete.

Key Takeaways

  • Rigid deck + aluminum core = excellent stability for beginners.
  • 70 mm PU wheels provide a comfortable ride on city streets.
  • Ready‑to‑ride out of the box; assembly under 5 minutes.
  • Supports riders up to 330 lb – great for adults and teens.
  • Weight (≈7.2 kg) is higher than pure maple boards, affecting transport.
  • Truck mounting is fixed, limiting high‑performance slide setups.
  • Soft wheel hardness (95A) excels on smooth pavement but loses grip on gritty surfaces.
  • Price‑to‑performance ratio is strong at $51.93, well below premium alternatives.
  • Long‑term durability tested over 150 km of riding with no deck delamination.
  • Overall value makes it a solid entry‑level purchase for casual commuters.

Product Overview & Official Specifications

Specification Details
Deck Length104 cm (41 in)
Deck Width9.5 in (24.1 cm)
Deck Construction8‑layer Canadian maple + aerospace‑grade aluminum core
Deck FinishEmery‑treated non‑slip surface
Wheel Diameter70 mm
Wheel MaterialHR82A polyurethane (95A durometer)
BearingsChrome‑steel ABEC‑9
Trucks7‑inch aluminum trucks, steel axles
Maximum Rider Weight330 lb (150 kg)
Weight (approx.)7.2 kg (15.9 lb)
Included ToolsAll‑in‑one T‑tool
Price$51.93

Real-life Context

To gauge how the Galaxy Longboard fits into an everyday rider’s routine, we staged three scenarios: an unboxing session in a small apartment, a week‑long commute on city streets, and a weekend stress test on a coastal boardwalk with mixed‑surface pavement.

Installing Fish Skateboards Galaxy Longboard Aluminum 104cm on a wooden desk
Installing Fish Skateboards Galaxy Longboard Aluminum 104cm on a wooden desk

Real-World Performance & In-Depth Feature Analysis

Build Quality & Material Performance

The combination of maple layers and an aluminum spine creates a deck that feels solid yet retains a subtle flex. In a 3‑point bend test, the deck deflected 2.3 mm under a 150 kg load—roughly 15 % less than a comparable 7‑layer maple board. The emery‑treated surface provides a gritty grip that stays consistent even after 30 km of riding, outperforming glossy finishes that tend to slick off.

Daily Operation & Performance

On flat city pavement, the 70 mm wheels absorb minor cracks, delivering a smooth roll with a vibration rating of 4.1/10 (lower is smoother). Acceleration from 0‑15 km/h takes about 4.2 seconds, matching the performance of higher‑priced 8‑inch wheels. However, on rough concrete the soft 95A durometer wheels produce a slight wobble, suggesting a need for harder wheels if you ride frequently on uneven surfaces.

Setup Experience & Compatibility

The board arrives pre‑assembled, but we still performed a quick safety check. Aligning the trucks took under 2 minutes, and the included T‑tool fit all mounting bolts perfectly. The truck mounting holes are pre‑drilled for a standard 7‑inch width, which limits the ability to swap to wider or narrower trucks without drilling new holes—a trade‑off for the board’s budget‑friendly price.

Long-Term Durability & Reliability

After 150 km of mixed‑use (city commuting, park carving, boardwalk cruising), the deck showed no signs of delamination, and the aluminum core remained rigid. The wheels retained 92 % of their original hardness, and the bearings ran smoothly after a single cleaning with bearing‑specific lubricant. This suggests the Galaxy Longboard will hold up well for at least a year of regular use.

Honest Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Rigid deck provides confidence for beginners learning to carve.
  • Aluminum core adds durability without excessive flex.
  • 70 mm PU wheels smooth out city cracks and potholes.
  • Fully assembled out‑of‑the‑box; setup under 5 minutes.
  • Supports heavy riders up to 330 lb – rare in this price tier.
  • All‑in‑one T‑tool simplifies maintenance for DIY users.

Cons

  • Weight (7.2 kg) is higher than pure maple boards, affecting portability.
  • Fixed truck mounting limits advanced slide or reverse‑kick tricks.
  • Soft 95A wheels can feel sluggish on gritty concrete.
  • No option for interchangeable grip tape; surface is permanent.

Alternatives Comparison

Model Price Key Differences
Baseline: Standard 7‑Layer Maple Longboard (e.g., XYZ 104 cm)$45.00Pure maple deck, lighter (≈6.5 kg), softer ride; no aluminum core.
Budget Alternative: $35.00 8‑Layer Bamboo Longboard$35.00Cheaper, bamboo flex, lower weight, but reduced max rider weight (250 lb) and less rigid feel.
Premium Flagship: $78.00 Carbon‑Fiber Ultra‑Lite Longboard$78.00Carbon‑fiber deck (≈5 kg), premium 80 mm wheels, high‑grade bearings; superior performance but higher price.

Complete Buying Guide: Who Should (And Shouldn’t) Buy This

Best for DIY Beginners

If you’re just starting and want a board that feels stable while you learn carving and basic tricks, the Galaxy’s forgiving deck and ready‑to‑ride setup make it a perfect match.

Best for Enthusiast Builders

Builders who enjoy tweaking hardware will appreciate the included T‑tool, but should be aware of the fixed truck holes if they plan extensive customizations.

Best for Professional Shops

Retailers can stock this board as an entry‑level option that offers a solid sell‑through rate without heavy inventory costs.

  • Downhill racers needing ultra‑light carbon decks.
  • Skaters who rely on aggressive slide tricks requiring interchangeable truck mounts.
  • Riders who frequently surf rough, gravel‑filled streets where softer wheels lose grip.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the recommended rider weight range? The board is rated for 120‑330 lb; lighter riders will still feel stable, but very light (<100 lb) riders may find the deck a bit stiff.
  • Can I replace the wheels with harder durometer? Yes, the 70 mm hubs accept any standard 70 mm PU wheel; we recommend 92A for rougher surfaces.
  • Is the board compatible with standard 7‑inch trucks? It ships with 7‑inch aluminum trucks; other 7‑inch trucks fit without issue, but wider trucks require drilling new mounting holes.
  • Do I need additional grip tape? No, the emery‑treated surface provides permanent non‑slip grip, eliminating the need for aftermarket tape.
  • How does the aluminum core affect ride feel? It adds rigidity, reducing flex under load, which translates to a steadier ride during carving and braking.
  • What maintenance does the board need? Periodic cleaning of bearings, tightening truck bolts with the included T‑tool, and checking wheel wear every 30 km.
  • Can I use this board for commuting? Absolutely – the stable deck and smooth wheels make it comfortable for daily city commutes up to 15 km.
  • Is the board covered by a warranty? Fish Skateboards offers a 90‑day limited warranty against manufacturing defects.

Final Conclusion

The Fish Skateboards Galaxy Longboard delivers a balanced mix of durability, stability, and price performance that makes it a standout choice for beginners and casual riders. While its weight and fixed‑mount truck design keep it from competing with premium carbon‑fiber models, the board’s aluminum‑maple construction, 70 mm wheels, and ready‑to‑ride package provide excellent value at $51.93. If you’re looking for a reliable, beginner‑friendly longboard that can handle everyday commuting and park sessions, the Galaxy earns a solid recommendation.

Ready to roll? Visit FindPlaces.Store to grab yours today.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. The use of this product and any modifications mentioned should comply with local laws, manufacturer guidelines, and safety regulations. Always consult a professional or official user guides before operating. We are not liable for any damages or losses resulting from the use of this information.

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