Imagine this: you’re at the skatepark, ready to drop in, but your board feels… off. Maybe it’s too shaky, or it turns when you don’t want it to. That feeling, that frustration, often comes down to one crucial part of your skateboard: the trucks.
Choosing the right trucks can feel like a maze. You want them to feel perfect for your style, whether you’re grinding ledges or cruising the streets. But with so many sizes and styles, it’s easy to get confused and pick something that just doesn’t feel right. That’s where Independent Trucks come in. They’re legendary for a reason, but understanding *why* and *which* ones are best for *you* is key.
In this post, we’re going to dive deep into the world of Independent Trucks. We’ll break down what makes them so special, help you understand the different sizes and how they affect your ride, and ultimately guide you to finding the perfect set for your skateboard. Get ready to say goodbye to wobbly rides and hello to smooth turns!
Our Top 5 Independent Trucks Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Independent Trucks Detailed Reviews
1. Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″))
Rating: 9.2/10
The Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″)) are a classic choice for skaters who want reliable performance. These trucks are known for their strength and smooth turning. They are made by Independent, a company that has been making quality skateboard parts for a long time. This set comes with two trucks, perfect for a complete skateboard setup. The silver color looks clean and stylish on any board.
What We Like:
- These trucks are super strong and built to last.
- They offer a smooth and controlled ride, making tricks easier.
- The silver finish looks really good on a skateboard.
- Independent trucks are famous for their durability and how well they turn.
What Could Be Improved:
- They might feel a little heavy for some skaters who prefer lighter trucks.
- The turning might be a bit stiff at first for beginners until they break in.
Overall, these Independent Stage 11 trucks are a solid investment for any skateboarder. They provide the quality and performance you expect from a trusted brand.
2. INDEPENDENT TRUCK COMPANY Skateboard Truck Stage II Bar Skate Truck Flat Black
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready to shred with the INDEPENDENT TRUCK COMPANY Skateboard Truck Stage II Bar Skate Truck in Flat Black! This set of two trucks is built tough for all kinds of skateboarding. They fit perfectly on decks from 8.50 to 10.40 inches wide, measuring 8.75 inches from tip to tip. With their cool flat black look and bright red accents, these trucks will make your board stand out.
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What We Like:
- Super strong: Made with A356 T6 Aluminum for the hanger and baseplate, these trucks are built to last and feel great when you grind.
- Durable axle: The SCM435 Chromoly Steel Axle and Grade 8 Kingpin mean these trucks can handle whatever you throw at them.
- Smooth ride: The red cushions and pivot cup help give you a smooth and controlled ride.
- Perfect height: At 55mm tall, they offer the best performance and keep your wheels from rubbing on the board.
- Awesome look: The flat black finish with the two-color bar print looks super sharp.
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What Could Be Improved:
- Price: Independent trucks are a premium product, so they might be a bit pricier than some other options.
- Specifics: While great for all-around skating, serious downhill or vert skaters might look for slightly different specs.
These Independent trucks are a solid choice for any skater looking for strength and style. You’ll love how they perform and how good they look on your board.
3. Independent Skateboard Trucks 149 Mid + 54mm Spitfire Burners Wheels
Rating: 8.7/10
Ready to upgrade your ride? This Independent Skateboard Trucks 149 Mid + 54mm Spitfire Burners Wheels, Bones Bearings package is your ticket to a pro-level setup. It’s packed with top-name parts, not cheap filler. You get the best brands for an easier way to build a professional skateboard.
What We Like:
- The Independent Mid trucks are designed for better flip tricks and grinding. They’re made of strong, lightweight aluminum.
- Spitfire Burners wheels are new and offer great performance without breaking the bank. They have a good grip and are 99A hard.
- Bones Reds bearings are the best in the business. They are built to last and provide a smooth roll.
- You get 1″ Independent hardware and 1/8″ riser pads, everything you need except the deck and grip tape.
- This kit uses only premium, industry-leading parts for maximum satisfaction.
What Could Be Improved:
- This package does not include a skateboard deck or grip tape, so you’ll need to buy those separately.
This package is a fantastic starting point for anyone wanting a high-quality skateboard build. You can trust these parts to perform well on the street or at the park.
4. INDEPENDENT Truck Company 139 Stage 11 Forged Hollow Silver Standard Skateboard Trucks
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready to shred with the INDEPENDENT Truck Company 139 Stage 11 Forged Hollow Silver Standard Skateboard Trucks! These trucks are built for skaters who want the best. They are super-lightweight, making your board feel nimble and quick. This means you can pop your tricks higher and land them smoother. The forged hollow design makes them incredibly strong too. You can trust them to handle all your skating adventures, from street skating to park riding.
What We Like:
- Super-lightweight design for easier tricks and better control.
- Durable construction means they can take a beating.
- The silver finish looks really cool on any skateboard.
- They offer a smooth ride, making carving feel awesome.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited availability can make them hard to find sometimes.
- The price might be a bit higher than some other trucks.
These INDEPENDENT trucks are a fantastic upgrade for any skateboarder. They’re a top choice for anyone serious about improving their skating.
5. INDEPENDENT Truck Company 169 Stage 11 Blackout Standard Skateboard Trucks
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to shred with the INDEPENDENT Truck Company 169 Stage 11 Blackout Standard Skateboard Trucks! These trucks are built tough for all kinds of skateboarding. They look super cool with their black finish and bright orange cushions. Whether you’re hitting the skatepark or cruising the streets, these trucks will help you ride better.
What We Like:
- Super strong and last a long time.
- They handle all types of skateboarding really well.
- The black and orange colors look awesome.
- The size is just right for great performance and to stop your wheels from hitting the board.
- Made with strong aluminum and steel parts.
- They fit on most skateboards because of the universal baseplates.
What Could Be Improved:
- The silver nuts might get scratched over time.
- For some beginners, the 169 size might feel a little wide at first.
These Independent trucks are a solid choice for any skater looking for quality and style. They will definitely help you improve your skateboarding game.
Independent Trucks: Your Guide to the Best Ride
Why Choose Independent Trucks?
Independent Trucks are a legendary name in skateboarding. They are known for their durability and smooth performance. If you’re looking for trucks that can handle anything you throw at them, Independent is a top choice.
1. Key Features to Look For
A. Truck Size (Width)
The width of your trucks is super important. It needs to match the width of your skateboard deck. If your trucks are too wide or too narrow, it can make skating harder and even damage your board. Generally, the truck axle (the part the wheels attach to) should be about the same width as your deck.
- Too Narrow: Wheels might hit the deck when you turn (called “wheelbite”).
- Too Wide: The board might feel wobbly and harder to control.
B. Truck Height
Truck height affects how high you can “ollie” (jump with your board) and how stable your ride feels. Trucks come in three main heights: low, mid, and high.
- Low Trucks: Good for flip tricks because they are closer to the ground. They are more stable.
- Mid Trucks: A good all-around choice. They offer a balance of stability and clearance for turning.
- High Trucks: Give you more clearance, which means less chance of wheelbite. They are better for cruising and riding rougher ground.
C. Bushings
Bushings are the rubbery parts inside the trucks. They help you turn. They come in different hardness levels. Softer bushings make turning easier, while harder bushings make the truck more stable.
- Softer Bushings: Great for lighter skaters or those who want to turn easily.
- Harder Bushings: Better for heavier skaters or those who want more stability at high speeds.
2. Important Materials
Independent Trucks are usually made from strong materials to withstand the demands of skateboarding. The main material is typically high-quality aluminum alloy. This makes them strong but also light enough for tricks.
- Baseplate: The part that attaches to your deck.
- Hanger: The main part that holds the wheels.
- Kingpin: The bolt that holds the hanger to the baseplate.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A. What Makes Independent Trucks Great
- Durability: Independent Trucks are famous for lasting a long time. They are built tough.
- Smooth Turning: Their design allows for responsive and smooth turns.
- Reliability: Skaters trust Independent to perform consistently.
B. Things to Watch Out For
- Incorrect Size: As mentioned, the wrong size can lead to problems.
- Wear and Tear: Like any skateboard part, trucks will wear down over time with heavy use.
- Bearing Issues: While not directly a truck problem, worn-out bearings will make your ride feel slow and bumpy, even with good trucks.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Independent Trucks are used by skaters of all levels. Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned pro, they offer a great experience. Many skaters use them for street skating, park skating, and even cruising.
- Street Skating: Their durability is perfect for grinds and hitting ledges.
- Park Skating: They provide stability and responsiveness for bowls and ramps.
- Cruising: While some prefer higher trucks for cruising, Independent’s smooth turning makes them a decent option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What size Independent Trucks should I get?
A: You should match the width of your deck. If your deck is 8 inches wide, look for trucks with an axle width close to 8 inches. Independent usually has size recommendations on their packaging or website.
Q: How do I know if my trucks are too loose or too tight?
A: If your board feels wobbly and hard to control, your trucks might be too loose. If it’s hard to turn, they might be too tight. You can adjust the kingpin nut to make them tighter or looser.
Q: Do Independent Trucks come with everything I need?
A: Trucks usually come with the trucks themselves and the kingpin nut. You will need to buy skateboard hardware (bolts and nuts) to attach them to your deck, and wheels and bearings.
Q: Are Independent Trucks good for beginners?
A: Yes, Independent Trucks are excellent for beginners. They are reliable and durable, which helps new skaters learn without worrying about their equipment breaking.
Q: How often should I replace my Independent Trucks?
A: This depends on how much you skate and how hard you skate. If they are bent, cracked, or the pivot cup is worn out, it’s time for new ones. Many skaters use the same trucks for years.
Q: What’s the difference between Independent 139 and 149?
A: The numbers refer to the size. Independent 139 is generally for decks around 7.75 to 8.125 inches wide, while 149 is for decks around 8.5 to 9 inches wide.
Q: Can I use Independent Trucks on a longboard?
A: While you can technically put them on, Independent Trucks are designed for standard skateboards. Longboards usually require wider, different types of trucks for stability at higher speeds.
Q: What does “Stage” mean for Independent Trucks?
A: “Stage” refers to different models or updates of Independent Trucks. Newer stages often have small design improvements for better performance or durability.
Q: Do Independent Trucks come with bushings?
A: Yes, Independent Trucks come with standard bushings. You can always buy different hardness bushings separately if you want to customize your turning feel.
Q: How do I maintain my Independent Trucks?
A: Keep them clean and free of dirt. You can tighten or loosen the kingpin nut to adjust turning. Check for any cracks or damage regularly.
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.
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