Are skateboard pivot cups universal? [Explanatory Answer]

Skateboard pivot cups may seem like just another piece of hardware, but they are actually an essential part of any skateboard setup.

Pivot cups allow a skateboard to turn easily, making it possible for riders to perform tricks and navigate terrain. However, many people often wonder if these pivots are universal or not.

The answer is complicated; while some skateboard pivot cups may be interchangeable and fit into multiple boards, others may not be compatible.

In general, each brand of board has its own specification for the size and shape of the cup, so it’s important to purchase the right kind of pivot cup to ensure your board performs as intended.

Despite, In this article, we’ll discuss the basics of skateboard pivot cups and how to find the right one for your setup. We’ll also explain why it’s important to buy the correct size and shape, as well as provide some tips on how to identify the correct cup for your board. So let’s get started.

What is a skateboard pivot cup?

A skateboard pivot cup is a crucial part of any skateboard’s anatomy.

It is a tiny metal piece mounted on the base of the truck and helps to prevent an uncomfortable grinding sensation when turning.

Pivot cups cushion your turns and make sure your board feels smooth and comfortable in use, making them an integral tool for any enthusiastic skater who values a good ride.

Moreover, replacing or upgrading your pivot cup is quick and simple by using just a few basic tools.

With the right maintenance, your skateboard will have no problem remaining up to the mark and providing you with fluid, responsive rides.

Are skateboard pivot cups universal?

No, skateboard pivot cups are not universal. While they may appear to be universal in size and shape, this is typically not the case.

Skateboard pivot cups are actually specific to the type of skateboard that they were designed for. Different types of skateboards require different sizes and shapes of pivot cups in order to function properly and safely.

For instance, longboards typically require larger pivot cups than traditional skateboards, while mini-longboards require smaller ones. Similarly, different types of trucks may require differently shaped or sized pivot cups as well.

It’s also important to note that there are also specialized pivot cups designed specifically for use with old-school style boards and others for trick boards with reverse kingpin trucks.

Thus, it is important for those looking to buy pivot cups to make sure that they get the correct ones for their specific board set up in order to ensure proper performance and safety.

Do all skateboards use pivot cups?

No, not all skateboards use pivot cups. Some skateboards instead feature a barrel-style bearing system, which is basically a cone-shaped bearing held in place by pressure on the axle instead of being attached to the hanger with a separate component.

This style of bearing system is usually cheaper and simpler to replace than pivot cups, but it is not as reliable or precise when it comes to holding the trucks firmly in place while skating. Skateboarders who are looking for greater control and stability while performing tricks should opt for boards with pivot cups these provide more stability and allow for smoother turning which allows for more complex tricks without worrying about trucks loosening up mid-trick.

However, this does also mean that if you’re just casually cruising around, then you might be better off going with the cheaper barrel-style bearing setup. Ultimately, it really depends on your budget and what kind of skateboarding you’re into if you’re just starting out or prefer to cruise around rather than perform tricks, then a board with barrel bearings might be the way to go but if you’re an experienced skater looking for precision and control then you’d be better off investing in a board with high-quality pivot cups.

How do you replace a pivot cup on a skateboard?

A pivot cup is an important piece of any skateboard. It helps keep the trucks attached to the deck and allows for smooth turning and maneuvering. Unfortunately, like any part of your board, it can wear out over time. So, if you find yourself in need of replacing your pivot cup, this guide will walk you through the steps necessary to do so.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin replacing your pivot cup, make sure you have all the tools and materials you’ll need. This includes a Phillips head screwdriver (or whichever type is required for your specific board), a new pivot cup, some wax or lubricant if needed, and something to use as leverage (such as a flathead screwdriver).

Step 2: Remove the Trucks

Start by removing the screws that hold your trucks in place so that they are no longer connected to the deck. Be careful during this step as it’s easy to strip screws or drop them into hard-to-reach places. Once removed, set them aside in a safe spot where they won’t get lost or damaged. 

Step 3: Remove the Old Pivot Cup

Once all the screws have been removed from both trucks, it should be fairly easy to remove the old pivot cup from each truck individually. You may need some leverage here—just be careful not to damage any other parts of your skateboard during this process. Once both cups are removed, inspect them for signs of wear or damage and discard them if necessary.

Step 4: Install New Pivot Cups 

Now that you have removed your old pivot cups it’s time to install new ones! Start by placing one new pivot cup onto each truck axle (if there was wax/lubricant on your old cups add some fresh lubricant before installing). Then press each cup firmly into its respective truck until it is securely in place (you may need some leverage here too!). Finally, reattach the trucks back onto your deck with the same screws that held them in place originally and tighten securely with a Phillips head screwdriver or wrench depending on what type of fastener was used originally.

Can you skate without pivot cups?

Many people enjoy skating, whether it be outdoors or in a rink. Depending on the type of skating, one may need different types of equipment. Pivot cups are an important piece of skate equipment that allow skaters to perform various tricks and turns at higher speeds. However, some people may ask if it is possible to skate without pivot cups.

Yes; technically, you can skate without pivot cups. However, doing so would severely limit your ability to do any sort of intricate maneuvers or tricks as pivot cups play an integral role in allowing for those movements. Without them, skaters would be limited to basic moves such as gliding forward and turning while keeping their feet planted on the ground.

Even then, they wouldn’t have much control over these motions and would find themselves losing balance or speed easily due to the lack of support from the pivot cup’s ball-bearing design which helps distribute weight evenly across the board and provide smoother changes in direction. Skaters also wouldn’t be able to effectively use their edges for power slides or cutbacks when surfing through waves on longboard decks without pivot cups either as these pivots help provide grip when pushing off against the edges. 

In addition to maneuverability issues caused by not having pivot cups, there are stability concerns that come with it too since they play a huge role in maintaining balance when going fast with sharp turns and jumps something that is essential for any type of skating but especially street and park skating where terrain varies greatly from one spot to another and requires precise control from the rider in order to avoid disaster. 

All in all, while it is possible to skate without pivot cups, doing so comes with plenty of drawbacks that will severely limit your ability as a skater and prevent you from reaching your full potential.

Conclusion

Skateboard pivot cups come in a range of sizes and shapes making it almost impossible to determine whether one type is considered universal.

The design and construction of skateboard trucks can vary greatly, even within the same brand.

This can affect how well a certain pivot cup fits onto the unit, so researching your specific model’s potential compatibility requirements is important before purchasing a new set of pivot cups.

However, some manufacturers do offer universal-style pivot cups that may fit all types of skateboard trucks.

In the end, doing research upfront will help you find the right size and style of pivot cups for your board, ensuring a consistent and smooth ride.