Imagine gliding down a smooth street, the wind in your hair, your longboard responding to your every subtle shift. What makes that smooth ride possible? It’s often thanks to the unsung heroes of longboarding: the trucks! But finding the perfect trucks can feel like navigating a maze blindfolded. Do you go for the wide ones or the narrow ones? What’s the deal with kingpins and bushings? It’s easy to get overwhelmed!
Choosing the wrong trucks can lead to a wobbly ride, a board that doesn’t turn the way you want, or even worse, discomfort and frustration. You want your longboard to feel like an extension of yourself, not a stubborn mule. This guide is here to cut through the confusion and give you the knowledge you need to pick the trucks that will make your rides amazing.
By the end of this post, you’ll understand the different types of longboard trucks, what each part does, and how to match them to your riding style. We’ll break down the jargon and help you make a confident choice. So, let’s get rolling and discover the secrets behind a truly epic longboard experience!
Our Top 5 Longboard Trucks Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Longboard Trucks Detailed Reviews
1. ANTWHEEL Sidewinder II Longboard/Skateboard/surf Skateboard Black Skateboard Double Kingpin Trucks 7″ Hanger 9.72″ Axle (Set of 2) Free Hardware (9.3″ Hanger 12″ Axle)
Rating: 9.2/10
The ANTWHEEL Sidewinder II trucks are a great addition to your skateboard or longboard setup. These black trucks are made from strong aluminum alloy, which means they’re built to last. They feature a double kingpin design, known for giving you a super responsive and surfy feel. This set comes with two trucks, and you even get free hardware to get you rolling. They offer a 7-inch hanger with a 9.72-inch axle, perfect for a stable ride, but also mention a 9.3-inch hanger with a 12-inch axle, giving you options for different setups.
What We Like:
- Durable aluminum alloy construction ensures these trucks can handle rough rides.
- The double kingpin design provides excellent maneuverability, making carving feel smooth and fun.
- They are designed for a surfy feel, which is awesome for cruising and downhill.
- Free hardware is included, saving you a little extra money and hassle.
What Could Be Improved:
- The mention of two different axle/hanger sizes might be a bit confusing for some buyers.
- More detailed information on the specific weight of the trucks would be helpful for riders focused on weight.
These ANTWHEEL Sidewinder II trucks offer a solid upgrade for any skateboarder looking for a responsive and durable ride. They bring that surf-like feel to your board.
2. Atlas Truck Co. Kingpin Ultralight Longboard Trucks
Rating: 8.6/10
The Atlas Truck Co. Kingpin Ultralight Longboard Trucks are a game-changer for longboarders. These trucks set a new standard for reverse kingpin trucks. They are made from strong, forged aluminum. This makes them stronger and more precise than other trucks in their class. You get a ride that feels like trucks costing five times as much!
What We Like:
- These trucks are super lightweight because they use an 8mm axle through the hanger.
- The machined ball pivot and tapered kingpin offer a really smooth and fluid lean.
- The cone bushings on both sides are great for carving and cruising. They give a fun, surfy feel.
- Atlas builds these trucks with care, making sure every part is made to exact standards.
- The ride is stable and responsive, making it easy to control your board.
- The Blue Steel/Black color looks awesome on any longboard.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price, while excellent for the quality, might still be a stretch for some beginner riders.
- Availability can sometimes be limited, meaning you might have to wait to get your hands on them.
Overall, the Atlas Kingpin Ultralight trucks offer incredible performance for their price. They are a fantastic upgrade for any longboarder looking for a better ride.
3. Paris V2 180mm 50° Longboard Skateboard Trucks (Set of 2
Rating: 9.3/10
Ready to take your longboard cruising to the next level? The Paris V2 180mm 50° Longboard Skateboard Trucks in Matte Black are here to make your rides smoother and more fun. These trucks are designed for awesome carving, letting you lean into turns with confidence. They are super strong and built to handle all your adventures on the road or at the skatepark.
What We Like:
- CARVING PERFECTION: These trucks give you the best carving experience. They make turning feel really smooth and natural.
- STRONG & DURABLE: Made with strong aluminum and tough steel axles, these trucks are built to last a long time. They can handle a lot of riding.
- ULTIMATE RESPONSE: The included urethane bushings give you great control and a nice bouncy feel when you turn.
- UNIVERSAL MOUNTING: The 6-hole baseplate fits most longboard decks, whether they are new or old school.
- GUARANTEED FOR LIFE: Paris is so sure about their quality that they offer a lifetime guarantee on these trucks.
What Could Be Improved:
- BUSHING HARDNESS: While the stock bushings are good, some riders might want harder or softer ones for a different feel. You might need to buy different bushings separately.
- WEIGHT: At 180mm, they are a good size for stability, but they might feel a bit heavier than smaller trucks for some riders.
If you want to improve your carving and enjoy a durable, responsive ride, the Paris V2 trucks are a fantastic choice. They are built tough and backed by a lifetime guarantee, so you can ride with peace of mind.
4. Yocaher Longboard Skateboard Trucks Wheels Combo Set 71mm Wheels + 7″/180mm Heavy Duty Aluminum Black Trucks
Rating: 9.5/10
Ready to upgrade your longboard or build a new one? The Yocaher Longboard Skateboard Trucks Wheels Combo Set is a fantastic package for cruising and carving. It includes everything you need: big, smooth wheels, sturdy trucks, fast bearings, and all the hardware to get you rolling. This set is designed to give you a stable and fun ride.
What We Like:
- The 71mm, 78A wheels are big and soft, making for a smooth ride over rough pavement and cracks.
- The 7″ (180mm) heavy-duty aluminum trucks with reverse kingpins offer great stability and grip, perfect for cruising.
- The included Ritalin Abec-9 bearings are pre-lubed and ready to spin fast.
- The ¼” riser pads help prevent wheel bite, which is when the wheels rub against the deck.
- The black coated hardware is durable and looks good.
- This combo set is a great value, providing quality components for a reasonable price.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the trucks are heavy-duty, some riders might prefer lighter options for more technical tricks.
- The 78A wheel hardness is great for cruising but might be too soft for some skaters who prefer harder wheels for sliding.
This Yocaher combo set is an excellent choice for anyone looking to get a reliable and enjoyable longboarding experience. It’s a solid foundation for your board, offering a smooth and stable ride right out of the box.
5. Paris Truck V3 Longboard Truck Skateboarding Trucks [Set of 2](Reflector
](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31qW0xBMuCL._SL500_.jpg)
Rating: 8.5/10
Get ready to cruise the streets with the Paris Truck V3 Longboard Trucks! This set of two trucks is designed for longboarders who want a reliable and smooth ride. They come in a cool reflector color, are 180mm wide, and have a 50-degree baseplate angle. This means they offer a great balance of stability and turnability, making them a solid choice for cruising, carving, and even some downhill riding.
What We Like:
- The 180mm width provides a stable platform for cruising and carving.
- The 50-degree baseplate angle offers a good mix of turning ability and stability.
- The reflector color looks pretty slick and can add a bit of visibility.
- Paris trucks are generally known for their quality and durability.
- This set comes with two trucks, so you’re ready to outfit your entire board.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “N/A” for features suggests there might not be many extra bells and whistles, but for the core function, this is usually fine.
- For beginners, understanding the impact of baseplate angle might take a little learning.
These Paris V3 trucks are a fantastic upgrade for any longboard. They deliver a consistent and enjoyable riding experience that longboarders will appreciate.
Choosing the Right Longboard Trucks: Your Ultimate Guide
Longboard trucks are the unsung heroes of your ride. They connect your wheels to your deck and are super important for how your board turns, feels, and handles. Picking the right ones makes a big difference!
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for trucks, keep these things in mind:
1. Truck Width
- Axle Width: This is the length from the end of one axle to the other. It should match your deck’s width. A good rule is that the wheels should be just inside the edges of your deck.
- Hanger Width: This is the width of the main part of the truck that holds the axle. It’s usually a bit narrower than the axle width.
2. Bushing Hardness
- What are Bushings? These are the urethane rings around the kingpin. They control how easily your trucks turn.
- Softer Bushings: Let you turn more easily. They are great for carving and cruising. Lighter riders often prefer softer bushings.
- Harder Bushings: Make your trucks stiffer. This means less turn, but more stability at high speeds. Heavier riders might like harder bushings.
3. Kingpin Type
- Reverse Kingpin (RKP): Most longboard trucks are RKP. The kingpin is angled away from the deck. This makes them turn more easily and feel more stable. They are perfect for cruising, carving, and downhill.
- Traditional Kingpin (TKP): These trucks have the kingpin angled towards the deck. They are more stable but don’t turn as much. You usually see these on skateboards, but some old-school longboards might use them.
4. Ride Height (Riser Pads)**
- What are Riser Pads? These are plastic or rubber pads that go between your trucks and your deck.
- Purpose: They can prevent “wheel bite,” which is when your wheels touch your deck during sharp turns. They also change how high your board sits off the ground.
- Low Trucks: Give you a lower center of gravity, making it easier to push and more stable.
- High Trucks: Give you more clearance for bigger wheels and can allow for deeper carving.
Important Materials
Trucks are usually made from strong metals.
- Aluminum Alloy: This is the most common material. It’s strong, lightweight, and affordable.
- Magnesium Alloy: Some high-end trucks use magnesium. It’s even lighter than aluminum but can be more expensive.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Precision Machining: Trucks that are made with very accurate machines will feel smoother and last longer.
- Kingpin Quality: A good quality kingpin is strong and won’t bend.
- Bushings: High-quality urethane bushings will rebound better and give you a smoother ride. Cheap bushings can feel wobbly.
- Weight: Lighter trucks can make your board easier to carry and pump.
- Durability: Trucks that are built tough will handle rough roads and impacts better.
User Experience and Use Cases
- Cruising: For just riding around town or to class, you want trucks that turn easily. Softer bushings and RKP trucks are ideal.
- Carving: If you love making smooth, flowing turns like snowboarding, you’ll want trucks that lean well. RKP trucks with medium to soft bushings are great for this.
- Downhill: Speed is key here. You need stable trucks that won’t wobble. Harder bushings and RKP trucks are the choice for downhill riders.
- Freestyle/Dancing: These styles involve tricks and long footwork on the board. Trucks that offer good stability and a smooth turn are important.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know what truck width to get?
A: The axle width of your trucks should match the width of your deck. Look at the width of your deck from edge to edge, and pick trucks that are close to that measurement.
Q: What does “wheel bite” mean?
A: Wheel bite happens when your wheels touch your deck during a sharp turn. This can stop your board suddenly. Riser pads can help prevent this.
Q: Should I get soft or hard bushings?
A: It depends on your weight and how you want your board to feel. Lighter riders or those who want easier turns should use softer bushings. Heavier riders or those who want more stability should use harder bushings.
Q: Are Reverse Kingpin trucks better for longboards?
A: Yes, for most longboarding styles, Reverse Kingpin trucks are preferred because they offer a more responsive and stable turning experience.
Q: How often do I need to replace my trucks?
A: Trucks are pretty durable. You usually only need to replace them if they bend, break, or if the kingpin hole becomes too worn out.
Q: Can I use skateboard trucks on a longboard?
A: While you can technically put them on, it’s not recommended for most longboard riding. Skateboard trucks (TKP) are designed for different types of riding and won’t offer the same turning or stability for longboarding.
Q: What size trucks do I need for a 9-inch wide deck?
A: For a 9-inch deck, you’ll generally want trucks with an axle width around 8.5 to 9 inches.
Q: Do riser pads affect how my board rides?
A: Yes, riser pads change your board’s ride height. Higher risers mean more clearance but also a higher center of gravity, which can make it feel less stable.
Q: How important is the brand of the trucks?
A: Brand can be important because some brands are known for higher quality materials and manufacturing. However, good features and materials are more important than just the brand name.
Q: Can I mix and match parts from different truck brands?
A: You can often mix and match bushings, wheels, and bearings. However, it’s best to keep the main truck hanger and baseplate from the same brand for proper fit and performance.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Luigi Smith, the voice behind carrepairmag.com. As a passionate car enthusiast with years of hands-on experience in repairing and maintaining vehicles, I created this platform to share my knowledge and expertise. My goal is to empower car owners with practical advice, tips, and step-by-step guides to keep their vehicles running smoothly. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a beginner looking to learn, carrepairmag.com is your go-to source for all things car repair!