Introduction
My name is Andrew and I’m an esk8 hoarder. I hoard parts that aren’t needed and then justify new builds to use those parts. So I end up building and tinkering more than riding. Here’s the story of this absolutely unneeded build.
Chapter 1: Black Friday
Before this build came to be I already had 4 esk8 builds and a VESCed One Wheel. Two of my esk8 biulds include a custom Prototipo and a custom Barrel, both running 270mm centerset dualities. For how often I’m able to ride (with a 1 year old keeping me busy), I don’t need more PEVs.
Then…
Black Friday comes around. So many sales on parts I like but don’t need. I had my eye on the Fishbone ever since @CannoliRoller posted about it… and it was on sale. Newbee 4gs was on sale. 18650 battery store was having sales…I could save so much money making a build I don’t need (logic of an addict). I’ve always liked the fishbone deck due to it’s similarities to the Prototipo. Very similar but has a slightly longer wheelbase and standing platform. So I pulled the trigger on the Fishbone.
I don’t have a compatible battery sitting around, so no big deal, just have a new one built 
. I hit up @monsterbuilder and he was willing to take on a build. I was debating between 18s5p or 12s8p. I don’t really race or push my board hard. I used to surf so I enjoy deep carves around 20mph. So I decided to prioritize range over high voltage. Next I was deciding between P45B and 50S cells. I figured the 25A x 8 cells in parallel would be plenty of battery amps and I could have the extra range. TBH I kind of regret not going with P45B since I don’t need every last drop of a 12s8p 50S range capability, but oh well. So I pull the trigger on the cells and had them sent to @monsterbuilder.
Dualities have ruined channel trucks for me, so it’s the only option (not complaining). The Barrel and Proto have 270mm centerset dualities. I thought I would try 300mm on this build.
Ordered @Ean.esk8 Newbee 4GS 4:1 ratio. Have had great experience with these on the Barrel.
Also ordered some modors from Radium, graciously delivered from United States @poastoast -al Service.
So why the name, PIER PRESSURE?
I like puns. I wanted something fish/boat related. This build came together as a result of pressure coming from fellow Esk8 peers. From instigators like @AlexB, @rafaelinmissouri, @monsterbuilder, and @dskate, as well as vendors @Titoxd1000, @YUTW123, @CannoliRoller, @Ean.esk8, @Tony_Stark and some sale prices on their quality craftsmanship.
Chapter 2: Swab the Deck (Argh Matey)
Deck arrived and it’s beautiful. As beautiful as it is, I wanted to change things up a bit.
I started by removing the grip tape. Next I started sanding off the (I’m guessing polyurethane) finish to prepare for staining. This was a PAIN. The finish clogged up the sand paper so quickly so I had to go through so much sand paper and use so much elbow grease. Orbital sander wasn’t working well due to the deck curves. I don’t think I got all the finish off in some spots and it shows in my stain.
Applied a Cognac brown stain. Did several coats til I got the darkness I liked. On went some painters tape and then painted the rails gray. On with the PU finish and the deck is done. I didn’t really care for the orange on the bottom, but it doesn’t really show anyway.
Chapter 3: Fire in the Hole
Time to install the inserts. I’ve had trouble with this process in the past but I wanted to give it another try. I started marking drill spots using the enclosure as a template. Then I used a shaft collar on the drill bit to drill deep enough for the inserts without drilling through the deck completely.
Things were going well until…
Shiver me timbers! The shaft collar slipped and I blew a hole in me deck.
Had to patch her up and paint/finish again.
Yo ho ho we are good to go.
Chapter 4: Drivetrain
Dualities, 4GS, and Radium 6485 motors assembled flawlessly. No sanding or filing needed. Smooth sailing so far
I wanted to use my Linn Power wide hubs with the 4GS, but they weren’t compatible without a custom adapter. Legend @AlexB designed and milled some for me. Amazing work, Bucko!
Chapter 5: Under the Deck
Got all the internals secured and connected. Trying out the new VX4 with hall sensor.
Installed some 7 inch Novas on the Linn hubs.
Just need to figure out the grip design and I’ll be done building new boards (I hope).
Chapter 6: Grip Tape
I have a laser cutter/engraver…so why not be extra.
. Awesome work on the deck and enclosure combo. Standing platform is just perfect for me. Not too long and not too short. Flex is perfect too 
.