Can you put longboard trucks on a skateboard? (How to put it)

If you consider yourself an avid skater, you already know how important the trucks are for skateboarding.

But do you know that longboard trucks can be used on a regular skateboard too? You may have seen it done in some of your favorite skate videos or perhaps heard about someone experimenting with different set-ups.

In this post, we’ll delve deeper into the advantages and disadvantages of using longboard trucks on a regular skateboard to help you decide if it’s right for your preferred style of skating.

Can you put longboard trucks on a skateboard?

The type of truck that a skateboard has will determine how the board behaves and performs, so it’s important to make sure that you choose the right type for your individual purpose.

Longboard trucks are designed for cruising and carving, rather than for trick-based skateboarding, and as such won’t necessarily work on a smaller standard skateboard.

That said, if you want to try using longboarding trucks on your skateboard then it is possible as long as the size of the deck is compatible with the truck mounting dimensions – typically they’ll need to be 8 inches or wider.

Although this combination may require some additional set-up, such as more precise wheel positioning and different bushings, it could offer greater stability with responsive turning capabilities.

Difference between longboard trucks and skateboard trucks

When it comes to longboarding and skateboarding, one of the most important aspects is the trucks. The trucks are what attach your wheels to your board. But what’s the difference between longboard trucks and skateboard trucks? Let’s take a look at five key differences that set these two apart.

Size Matters

The size of the truck is one of the main differences between longboards and skateboards.

Longboard trucks are generally larger than skateboard trucks, with a wider baseplate and longer hangers.

The wider baseplate helps ensure better stability on longer boards, while the longer hangers improve response time as you turn or carve.

Mounting

The way you mount longboard and skateboard trucks also differ significantly.

Skateboards typically use standard mounting hardware essentially screws that go directly into the deck—to attach the truck to the board.

Longboards, on the other hand, usually require special drop-through mounting hardware that allows you to slide your truck through a hole in your deck before securing it into place from underneath.

Drop-through mounting makes for a lower ride height, which can help improve stability on your board.

Turn Radius

Skateboards have a very tight turn radius that allows you to do tight tricks like ollies and kickflips more easily than on a longboard.

This is because skateboards turn at an angle of 50 degrees or less when compared to 90 degrees or more for most longboards.

This difference in turn radius affects how each type of board responds when turning or carving; while both types will still respond quickly, skateboards will always be faster due to their tighter turn radius.

Wheelbase Length & Deck Shape

The wheelbase length of your truck affects how much room there is between your two sets of wheels; this then affects how stable (or unstable) your ride will be when cornering or cruising down hills at high speeds.

On average, longboard wheelbases are generally much longer than those found on most skateboards; this helps provide additional stability for riders who prefer slower speeds and smoother turns over fast tricks and tight turns.

Similarly, longboard decks tend to be wider than those found on most modern street-style skateboards—again providing extra stability for riders who prefer cruising over tricking out their ride.

Durability & Quality Components

Finally, another major difference between longboard and skateboard trucks is their overall quality components and durability rating; while both types are designed to last, they are built differently depending on their intended purpose (i.e., cruising vs tricking).

For instance, many high-end longboarding trucks feature reinforced hangers for added strength during hard carving sessions; likewise, many higher-end street/park-style skateboarding trucks feature stronger axles designed specifically for grinding ledges or coping rails at higher speeds without breaking down over time (as often happens with lower end models).

Ultimately different types of riding require different levels of durability from our equipment—and this applies equally to both longboarding and skateboarding trucks alike.

How do I put longboard trucks on a skateboard?

Putting longboard trucks on a skateboard is just one way to customize your setup for a smoother ride. This can be done with the help of some basic tools and household items, and doesn’t require any complicated maintenance or repair knowledge. All it takes is a little bit of skill and patience to give your skateboard a whole new look and feel. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to properly mount longboard trucks on a skateboard.

Step 1 – Gather Materials 

To install longboard trucks on a skateboard, you will need the following materials: 

• Longboard Trucks (2)

• Longboard Wheels (4)

• Skate Tool (1)

• Allen Wrench (1)

• Riser Pads (optional)  

Once you have all of these materials, you are ready for the next step. 

Step 2 – Remove Existing Trucks

Before you can put on your new longboard trucks, you must first remove the existing ones from your skateboard. Use your skate tool or Allen wrench to loosen and remove any screws that may be holding them in place.

Step 3 – Install New Trucks

Now it’s time to install your new longboard trucks. Start by attaching each truck one at a time using the screws provided with the kit. Be sure to tighten each screw securely so that they don’t come loose while riding. Once both trucks are installed and tightened, move on to the next step.

Step 4 – Insert Wheels

Now it’s time for the fun part—putting on your wheels! Start by inserting one wheel into each truck at a time and use your Allen wrench or screwdriver to secure each wheel in place. Make sure that all four wheels are tightly secured before moving on to the final step.

Step 5 – Add Riser Pads (Optional)

If desired, add riser pads between each wheel and truck assembly so that they don’t rub against one another while riding. This will help reduce noise and improve performance when skating downhill or cruising around town. That’s it! You have successfully upgraded your skateboard with longboards trucks! Congratulations.

What are the benefits of putting longboard trucks on a skateboard?

• Increased Stability – Longboard trucks are designed with wider axles and hangers than traditional skateboard trucks, providing a more stable ride. This makes them perfect for riders who prefer a smoother, slower ride.

• Better Turning Ability – The wider design of longboard trucks allows for better turning ability at slow speeds. When paired with larger wheels, they make it easier to navigate tight turns and obstacles.

• Improved Durability – Longboard trucks are constructed with stronger materials than most skateboard components, making them more durable and less prone to wear and tear. This means that they can take a beating without needing to be replaced as often.

• Easier Maintenance – Longboard trucks require very little maintenance and can be easily cleaned with just a simple wipe down. This makes them ideal for riders who don’t want to spend too much time caring for their equipment.

Are there any risks of putting longboard trucks on a skateboard?

• Unstable Ride – Although longboard trucks provide increased stability, they can also make it harder to stay balanced on a skateboard due to the extra weight and width. Make sure that you are comfortable with this before making the switch.

• Reduced Speed – Longboard trucks are heavier than traditional skateboard ones, which means that they will slow down your board. This may not be ideal for those who prefer a faster ride.

• Extra Cost – Longboard trucks are typically more expensive than traditional skateboard trucks, so you should factor this in when deciding whether or not to make the switch.

• Difficulty Turning – Longboard trucks may be difficult to turn quickly, which can make it hard to navigate tight turns and obstacles. Make sure that you are comfortable with this before making the switch.

• Increased Weight – Longboard trucks are heavier than traditional skateboard trucks, which can make it harder to maneuver around obstacles and pull off certain tricks. This may not be ideal for those who prefer a lighter ride.

Final Verdict

Ultimately, can you put longboard trucks on a skateboard? Yes – for most people, this is doable. But it’s important to remember that each skateboard and longboard truck have different sizes and fit differently.

As such, you should take the time to consider whether or not these are compatible before committing to any purchase. Additionally, it’s wise to know what kind of riding experience you wish to have before making a firm decision about which trucks to buy.

Longboard trucks typically handle better for high speeds and large turns, while skateboard trucks favor impact absorption and quick maneuvers. Knowing how you plan to ride is the best way forward when trying out new sets of trucks.

Try out both skateboarding and longboarding to get a feel of the difference between them and make an informed decision on which one is right for you.

FAQs

Can I use longboard trucks on skateboard?

Yes. You can use longboard trucks on a skateboard, but you will have to use risers in order to make them fit. The longboard trucks are wider than the standard skateboard trucks, so they will not fit on a skateboard without risers.

Are longboards good for beginner skaters?

Yes, Longboards are great for beginner skaters because they provide more stability and are easier to balance on. They’re also a lot of fun to ride, so you’ll be able to progress quickly and start enjoying skating even more.

Is it harder to ride a longboard or skateboard?

It depends on your skill level. For beginners, it’s harder to ride a longboard because they are more difficult to control. But for experienced riders, a skateboard is harder to ride because it is less stable.