Installing bindings on a Burton snowboard, especially models featuring the Channel system, involves aligning and securing the bindings using a disc or compatible hardware. The key is to properly position the bindings for optimal performance and control.
Understanding Burton's Channel System
Many Burton snowboards feature the Channel system, a track-based mounting system that offers nearly infinite stance width and angle options, as opposed to traditional insert patterns. This system typically uses specific M6 hardware (often T-nuts or bolts) that slide into the Channel, secured by binding discs or baseplates.
Essential Steps for Installing Burton Bindings
Follow these steps to install your bindings on a Burton snowboard with a disc-based mounting system:
- Gather Your Tools: You will typically need a #3 Phillips screwdriver or the specialized tool provided with your bindings or board hardware.
- Prepare Bindings and Hardware: Ensure your bindings are assembled and that you have the correct discs and M6 bolts for the Burton Channel system. Attach the appropriate disc to the underside of your binding's baseplate according to the binding manufacturer's instructions.
- Position the Bindings: Align the binding baseplate (with the disc attached) over the Channel on your snowboard. Insert the M6 bolts through the binding's baseplate/disc and into the Channel slots.
- Loosely Secure Bolts: Hand-tighten the bolts just enough so the binding stays in place but can still be moved easily along the Channel and side-to-side. This allows for crucial adjustments.
- Set Stance Width and Angle: Slide the bindings along the Channel to achieve your desired stance width. Using the mounting holes on the disc (or the adjustability provided by the disc/Channel interface), rotate the binding to set your preferred stance angle.
- Center Your Bindings (Crucial Step): With the bolts still loose, move your bindings from edge to edge across the board. Look down the edge of the board to make sure you have equal overhang on your toes and heels. Proper centering ensures balanced leverage over both edges of the board. Adjust the binding's side-to-side position until it is centered relative to the board's width and your boot size.
- Securely Tighten Bolts: Once your stance width, angle, and centering are set, progressively tighten the M6 bolts using your screwdriver. Tighten them firmly, alternating between bolts to ensure even pressure. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the board or hardware.
- Check Tightness: After your first few runs, it's a good practice to re-check the tightness of your binding bolts, as they can sometimes loosen slightly under vibration.
Tips for Optimal Setup
- Consult Binding Manual: Always refer to the specific installation instructions provided with your bindings, as models can vary.
- Boot Compatibility: Ensure your boots are properly seated in the bindings before final tightening. The binding should fit snugly around your boot.
- Overhang Check: The "equal overhang on your toes" check is vital. Too much toe or heel overhang can lead to boot drag in turns.
By following these steps, including the critical adjustments using the disc's mounting points and checking for equal toe overhang as highlighted, you can properly install your bindings on a Burton snowboard with the Channel system for a secure and effective setup.
