Ever spun your skateboard and felt like something was a little… off? Maybe your turns aren’t as smooth as they could be, or perhaps your board feels wobbly when you try to grind. If you’ve ever wondered why your skateboard handles the way it does, the answer often lies in its trucks.
Choosing the right skateboard trucks can feel like a puzzle. There are so many different brands, sizes, and heights! It’s easy to get confused, and picking the wrong ones can lead to a frustrating ride. You might experience wheel bite (when your wheels touch the board on turns) or find your board too high or too low for your style. This is where understanding trucks becomes super important for any skateboarder.
This blog post is here to help you conquer the confusion. We’ll break down exactly what skateboard trucks do and why they matter so much. By the end, you’ll know what to look for, how to match trucks to your board and riding style, and finally feel confident in making the best choice. Get ready to upgrade your ride and roll with more control and fun!
Our Top 5 Trucks For Skateboards Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″)) | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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TLHB Skateboard Truck | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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Jizmo Skateboard Trucks | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
![[CCS] Skateboard Trucks](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41mUnLQDemL._SL500_.jpg) |
[CCS] Skateboard Trucks | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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Independent Skateboard Trucks 149 Mid + 54mm Spitfire Burners Wheels | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Trucks For Skateboards Detailed Reviews
1. Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″))
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to shred with the Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″)). These trucks are a classic choice for skaters who want reliable performance. They come in a sleek silver finish and are built tough for all your skateboarding adventures.
What We Like:
- These trucks are super strong and will last a long time.
- They give you a smooth ride, making tricks easier to land.
- The silver color looks really cool on any skateboard.
- They fit boards that are 8.25 inches wide, which is a popular size.
- Independent trucks are known for being dependable.
What Could Be Improved:
- For beginners, the turning might feel a little stiff at first.
- They can be a bit heavier than some other truck brands.
If you’re looking for a solid set of trucks that won’t let you down, these Independent Stage 11s are a fantastic option. They offer a great balance of durability and performance for any skater.
2. TLHB Skateboard Truck
Rating: 9.5/10
Ready to hit the streets or the skatepark? The TLHB Skateboard Truck, Wheels, and Hardware Combo Starter Kit in sleek black is your ticket to an upgraded ride. This all-in-one package is designed to get you rolling with quality parts that are built to last. It’s perfect for anyone looking to refresh their skateboard or build a new one.
What We Like:
- Built Tough: The trucks are made with strong aluminum alloy using casting and die-casting. They also get a hardening treatment and a tough metal paint finish. This means they can handle a lot of weight and pressure, so you don’t have to worry about them breaking.
- Great for All Levels: Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these wheels are a fantastic choice. They have a 95a hardness and a 60% rebound rate, offering a good balance. This makes them grippy enough to prevent slipping but also less likely to crack.
- Smooth Rolling: Experience an incredibly smooth ride thanks to the 608 standard ABEC-9 skateboard bearings. These bearings spin for a long time without load, giving you a fluid and effortless glide.
- Perfect Fit: This kit is designed to fit most skateboard decks that are between 7.5 and 8 inches wide. It’s a versatile set that works with many common skateboard sizes.
- Complete Package: You get everything you need to get started or upgrade your setup. The set includes 5.0 trucks, 52mm wheels, ABEC-9 bearings, 1-inch screws, 2mm riser pads, and spacers.
What Could Be Improved:
- The specific brand of bearings, while ABEC-9, might not be as widely recognized as some other premium bearing brands for those seeking ultimate performance.
- While the 52mm wheels are versatile, more experienced riders might prefer a wider selection of wheel sizes and durometers for specific trick styles or terrains.
This TLHB combo kit offers a solid foundation for your skateboarding adventures. It’s a durable and well-performing set that provides great value for its price.
3. Jizmo Skateboard Trucks
Rating: 8.9/10
Ready to build your first skateboard or upgrade your current setup? The Jizmo Skateboard Trucks, Wheels, Bearings, and Tool Combo Starter Set in sleek black is your all-in-one solution. This set provides everything you need to get rolling, making it ideal for beginners looking to assemble an entry-level board.
What We Like:
- Durable aluminum trucks are built to last for cruising and tricks.
- ABEC-9 bearings ensure a smooth and fast ride.
- 52mm, 95A high-rebound wheels are great for street skating and cruising.
- The included T-tool is super handy for making adjustments to your board.
- Comes with riser pads and hardware, so you have all the basics.
- This set is a great value for getting started in skateboarding.
What Could Be Improved:
- The bushings are 90A, which might be a bit hard for lighter riders.
- While good for beginners, more experienced skaters might want to upgrade components later.
This Jizmo starter set takes the guesswork out of building a skateboard. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to hit the streets with a reliable and affordable setup.
4. [CCS] Skateboard Trucks
Rating: 9.4/10
Looking for reliable skateboard trucks that can handle anything you throw at them? The [CCS] Skateboard Trucks, in their professional-grade steel build, are a solid choice. They come in a variety of sizes and cool colors, like Raw Silver and Black, so you can pick the perfect fit for your board. Plus, they even include the hardware you need to get them mounted up and ready to roll.
What We Like:
- Built Tough: These trucks are made with strong steel for hangers and baseplates, meaning they can take a beating. The no-slip axles and kingpins add to their durability.
- Smooth Rides: With premium bushings, you’ll get smoother and sharper turns. This makes controlling your board much easier.
- Tested by Pros: CCS has been around since 1985, and they had their own experienced skaters test these trucks. They proved to be tough enough for even the most skilled riders.
- Versatile Performance: Their classic design makes them great for all kinds of skating, whether you’re hitting the streets, the skatepark, or just cruising around town.
- Ready to Go: They come in sets of two, and you get the 1″ mounting hardware included, so you have everything you need to get your board set up.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Color Options: While Raw Silver and Black are classic, more color choices might appeal to skaters who like to customize their boards even more.
- Specific Deck Fit: The description mentions a specific fit for 8.0″-8.25″ decks for the 139mm size. While helpful, it means you need to be sure about your deck size to get the perfect match.
Overall, these CCS trucks offer a great balance of durability and performance for skaters of all levels. They’re a dependable option that will serve you well on your skateboarding adventures.
5. Independent Skateboard Trucks 149 Mid + 54mm Spitfire Burners Wheels
Rating: 9.4/10
Ready to build your dream skateboard? This package brings together some of the best names in skateboarding to give you a premium setup. You get top-rated Independent trucks, smooth Spitfire wheels, and fast Bones bearings, plus all the hardware you need. It’s the easiest way to get a professional-quality skateboard, minus the deck and grip tape.
What We Like:
- Top-Notch Components: You get industry-leading brands like Independent, Spitfire, and Bones.
- Great for Street Skating: The Independent Mid trucks are lower, making flip tricks and ledge grinds easier.
- Durable and Smooth Ride: Spitfire Burners wheels use new urethane for a great feel without breaking the bank.
- Fast and Reliable Bearings: Bones Reds bearings are known for their speed and long-lasting performance.
- Everything You Need (Almost!): This kit includes trucks, wheels, bearings, hardware, and riser pads – just add your deck and grip tape.
- Built to Last: The trucks are made from strong aluminum alloy for durability and a good grind feel.
What Could Be Improved:
- Deck and Grip Tape Not Included: You’ll need to buy these separately to complete your board.
- Specific Wheel Hardness: The wheels are 99A, which is great for most street and park skating, but might not be ideal for very rough surfaces.
This kit is an excellent starting point for building a high-quality skateboard. It offers a fantastic combination of performance and durability, making it a solid choice for skaters looking to upgrade or build a new setup.
Choosing the Right Skateboard Trucks: Your Ultimate Guide
Getting the right skateboard trucks is super important for how your board rides. Trucks connect your wheels to your deck and let you steer. Picking the wrong ones can make skateboarding harder and less fun. This guide will help you find the perfect trucks for your skateboarding adventures.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re looking at skateboard trucks, keep these important features in mind:
Truck Width
Truck width should match your deck width. A good rule is that the axle (the bar that holds the wheels) should be about the same width as your deck. If your trucks are too wide, your wheels might hit the deck when you turn. If they’re too narrow, your board might feel wobbly.
Height
Trucks come in different heights: low, mid, and high. Low trucks are closer to the ground, making your board more stable and easier to pop for tricks. High trucks give you more clearance for bigger wheels and prevent wheel bite (when the wheel touches the deck). Mid trucks are a good all-around choice.
Bushings
Bushings are the rubbery rings inside the trucks that help you turn. They come in different hardness levels. Softer bushings let you turn more easily and smoothly, which is great for cruising. Harder bushings offer more stability at high speeds and are better for tricks. You can also swap out bushings to customize your ride.
Axle Size
The axle is the metal rod that goes through the center of the truck and holds the wheels. Most trucks use standard axle sizes, but it’s good to know this is what the wheels attach to.
Important Materials
Skateboard trucks are usually made from strong materials that can handle a lot of impact.
Aluminum Alloys
Most trucks are made from aluminum alloys. These are lightweight and strong. They are a good balance of durability and weight, which is important for skateboarding.
Steel
The kingpin, which is the main bolt that holds the truck together, is usually made of steel. Steel is very strong and can handle the pressure of turning and grinding.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Certain things can make your trucks better or worse.
Durability
Good trucks are built to last. They shouldn’t bend or break easily, even when you’re doing rough tricks or riding on tough surfaces. Trucks made with higher-quality aluminum alloys tend to be more durable.
Weight
Lighter trucks make your board easier to carry and do tricks with. Many brands try to make their trucks as light as possible without sacrificing strength. Some trucks have hollow axles or kingpins to reduce weight.
Grindability
If you plan on doing grinds on ledges or rails, the surface of your trucks matters. Trucks with smooth, strong surfaces will grind better and last longer. Some trucks have special coatings to make them more resistant to grinding damage.
Brand Reputation
Well-known skateboard truck brands often use better materials and have stricter quality control. This usually means their trucks will perform better and last longer.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your skateboard will help you choose the right trucks.
Street Skating
For street skating, where you do tricks on ledges, stairs, and rails, you’ll want durable trucks that are good for grinding. Mid-height trucks with slightly harder bushings are often preferred for stability during tricks.
Park Skating
Skatepark riders often need trucks that are responsive for carving and stable for landing jumps. Mid-height trucks are a popular choice, and riders might choose bushings based on their personal preference for turning feel.
Cruising and Commuting
If you use your skateboard to get around or just cruise, you’ll want trucks that turn easily and provide a smooth ride. Softer bushings and slightly higher trucks can help with this, allowing for bigger wheels and a more comfortable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know what size trucks to get?
A: You should match your truck width to your skateboard deck width. The axle of the truck should be about the same width as your deck.
Q: What’s the difference between low, mid, and high trucks?
A: Low trucks are closer to the ground for stability and easier tricks. High trucks have more space for bigger wheels and prevent wheel bite. Mid trucks are a good middle ground.
Q: What are bushings and why do they matter?
A: Bushings are rubber rings inside the trucks that control how you turn. Softer bushings turn easier, and harder bushings are more stable.
Q: Can I change the bushings on my trucks?
A: Yes, you can usually swap out bushings to change how your trucks feel and turn.
Q: What material are most skateboard trucks made from?
A: Most trucks are made from aluminum alloys, which are strong and lightweight.
Q: Should I get trucks with hollow axles or kingpins?
A: Trucks with hollow axles or kingpins are lighter, which can be good for doing tricks. They are usually a bit more expensive.
Q: How do I know if my trucks are good for grinding?
A: Trucks with smooth, strong surfaces are better for grinding. Brands often mention if their trucks are designed for grinding.
Q: What if my wheels hit my deck when I turn?
A: This is called wheel bite. It might mean your trucks are too wide, your wheels are too big for your trucks, or your trucks are too low.
Q: Do I need different trucks for street skating versus park skating?
A: While you can use the same trucks for both, some riders prefer slightly different setups. Street skaters might want more durable trucks for grinding, while park skaters might focus on responsiveness.
Q: How often should I replace my skateboard trucks?
A: You don’t need to replace trucks very often. They usually last a long time unless they get bent, broken, or the turning becomes really stiff.
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!