The choice of skate trucks is often overlooked, in favor of more visible criteria such as the design of the board and the wheels. However, it is an essential element to ensure good balance, stability, and maneuverability of your skateboard. In this article, we will give you the keys to make the best possible choice based on your needs and your level.
The criteria to consider
The width of the truck
The first thing to check when buying skateboard trucks is their width. There are several sizes available, and it is essential to choose the right width according to that of your skateboard deck. A truck that is too narrow or too wide can make your skateboard unstable and difficult to control. Here are some guidelines:
- < 7.5" : These trucks are ideal for narrow skateboards measuring up to 7.5 inches wide.
- 7.5" - 7.99" : The trucks are compatible with skateboards measuring from 7.5" to 7.99", making them perfectly suited for urban skateboarding.
- 8.0" - 8.49" : Our trucks are perfectly suited for skateboards with a width between 8.0" and 8.49", making them the ideal choice to dominate skateparks.
- More than 8.5": We recommend choosing these wider trucks if you practice bowl skateboarding with a board measuring at least 8.5 inches wide.
What is the ideal height for skateboard trucks?
When we talk about the size of a skateboard truck, we are essentially referring to the distance between the baseplate and the hanger, or in other words, the distance that separates your wheels from the deck.
Regarding skateboard trucks, there are three different heights: low trucks, designed for wheels from 50 to 53 millimeters, mid-height trucks suitable for wheels from 53 to 56 millimeters, and finally, high trucks intended for larger wheels.
- Trucks Bas : Low trucks are the key to stability, particularly important for skateboarding in urban environments and skate parks. They minimize the risk of 'wheelbite,' an incident where the board comes into contact with the wheels, causing a sudden stop. In case of wheelbite, opting for smaller diameter wheels can reduce this risk. Additionally, using riser pads with low trucks can allow for the addition of larger wheels.
- Medium Trucks: Medium height trucks embody versatility at its best. They combine the stability of low trucks while offering the possibility to use wider wheels for an enhanced riding experience on rough surfaces. Additionally, medium trucks can be paired with riser pads to accommodate wider wheels, giving you greater flexibility in customizing your skateboard.
- High Trucks: Choosing high trucks increases the power of your ollies, thanks to a greater ground clearance. If you're looking for a boost to perfect your ollies, higher trucks are an excellent option. Additionally, these trucks allow you to use wider wheels without fear of wheel bite, thus offering you greater versatility in your skateboarding practice.
Components of a skateboard truck
The trucks of a skateboard play a key role in the behavior of your board during skateboarding. The main components that make up a skateboard truck include the kingpin, the baseplate, the hanger, and the bushings.
The Kingpin
The kingpin is an essential component of the skateboard truck. It is a large bolt that holds the hanger and the baseplate together, playing a crucial role in performance. By adjusting the tightness of the nut located at the end of the kingpin, you can modulate the firmness of the steering. For a looser feel, loosen the nut, and feel free to experiment with different settings to customize your skateboarding experience.
The base
The baseplate is the surface on which the truck components are securely attached. It is fastened to the skateboard using screws, while the hanger remains housed in the pivot pocket of the baseplate.
The Hanger
The hanger connects to the kingpin and rests securely on the baseplate. At the end of the hanger is the axle where the wheels are attached, while the nut, located at the end, ensures the physical fastening of the wheels.
The Erasers
The rubber components surrounding the kingpin, combined with the tightening adjustment, are essential for influencing the direction of your skateboard. Choosing harder rubber bushings (96A) offers increased responsiveness, while softer bushings (81A) provide a more forgiving feel, suited to your riding style.
Skateboard truck accessory options
Various pads and screws are available to customize the assembly of your skateboard according to your preferences. Adding extra pads will require the use of longer screws.
Riser Pads
Riser pads, plastic cushions located between the trucks and the deck, are generally not included in either complete skateboards or decks alone. However, they can be essential if you want to mount larger wheels, as they raise the height of your trucks. Riser pads are available in a range of sizes to accommodate different wheels. There are two types of riser pads:
- The riser pads made of rigid plastic increase the space between the wheels and the board to prevent wheel bite.
- The shock pads made of rubber absorb shocks, providing a more comfortable skate and smooth landings.
