There are no brakes, no steering wheel and no seatbelts. The g-force pushes travel into velocities of 160 kilometres per hour and more. Hovering a mere 12 centimetres above the roaring asphalt, road debris ricochets, scarring any exposed skin. Every nook and cranny sends vibrations throughout the body. This is downhill skateboarding.

A lot has changed in skateboarding over the years. It has evolved into a sport incorporating mathematics, aerodynamics, ergonomics and high-tech construction methodologies. Downhill skateboard racing can be viewed as “gravitational management.” The idea is to be the fastest rider using only the natural pull and push of gravity. The only aid is the equipment, the competitive strategy and the ability to use aerodynamics efficiently.

At the sounding of the starter horn, riders have only a 10- to 20-metre zone in which to gather initial speed by pushing off with their feet or hands. Once the zone is passed, they must rely solely on aerodynamics, strategy and skill. The idea is to build velocity quickly. A racer’s position in the group, which can be as many as six racers, changes depending on how well he – or she – can maintain high speeds on the straights, how efficiently the slipstream is used, the aerodynamic posture and at what angle and speed turns are taken. The body is protected with toughened leather of the sort used in motorcycle gear. Special gloves are used to enable racers to place their hands on the asphalt at high speeds. A full-face helmet completes the body armour.

Hardware is checked over and over again. The deep groove ball bearings, such as SKF’s SPEEDskater bearings, are carefully lubricated with a few drops of SKF Speed Master Oil. Too much lubricant would result in extra friction and loss of performance. Each rider takes personal pride in research and development to make sure equipment does not fail when on course. A misstep here can result in serious injury or even death.

However, it is away from the competitive circuit that the true roots of the sport are revealed. Uninfluenced by the hectic tempo of modern living, work-related stress and society’s expectations, groups between the ages of 16 and 50 still manage to get together to experience the joy of skateboarding. Whether whizzing around the city to beat traffic or just rolling through the park, it is an “any time, any place” sport that many have chosen over jogging or bicycling. It doesn’t require a daredevil streak. All you need is reasonable balance and a smile.