When it comes to skateboarding, there’s no denying that trucks have an important role in improving your ride.
Trucks are the part of a skateboard that connects the wheels and deck, allowing you to control how tight or loose they are while skating.
If you’re new to skateboarding and looking to take on bigger tricks, then choosing the right truck is essential for successful and safe landings. But do all types of trucks matter, or can any work?
In this guide, we explore factors like size and weight distribution, allowing you to find out which type of truck will offer the best performance for your style of riding.
What does a truck do on a skateboard?
It may seem like an odd combination, but a truck does actually have a spot on a skateboard.
A truck is the most important piece of hardware for a skateboard and is used to connect the deck with the wheels.
The mobility of skateboarding relies heavily on the stability and strength of the trucks – which are comprised of two steel axles holding four aluminum wheels tightly.
The design varies from standard to reverse kingpin based on what type of skating is desired.
Regardless of style, by connecting the deck and wheels, trucks are essential parts that make up a complete skateboard.
Does it matter what trucks you get?
Skateboard trucks are just as important to your skateboarding experience as the deck and wheels.
The size of the truck often depends on the size of your board, which can affect the stability of your ride. High-performance trucks will provide more control in turns than lower-quality trucks, and they also help reduce vibrations while you’re riding.
Since they provide a supportive base to your board’s surface, they will allow you to feel safe and confident in landing generous tricks or taking on steep slopes.
Overall, it does matter what type of truck you get for skateboarding because it can significantly impact how well you perform tricks, how comfortable you are when skating, and how fast you travel.
How do trucks affect skateboards?
Trucks have had a huge impact on the skateboarding industry, not only from an aesthetic perspective but also from a practical one. Trucks are an essential part of the skateboard setup, responsible for providing stability and allowing the skater to turn more easily.
Without them, the board would be much less maneuverable, significantly impacting performance. In addition to providing stability and control, trucks can also be used as an expression of personal style.
The design of the truck can often reflect a skater’s individual tastes, such as in choosing between soft or hard bushings or selecting different materials or color options to match their board.
Furthermore, trucks have impacted skateboarding culture by acting as a bridge between different generations of skaters; while younger skaters might find inspiration in older riders through their choice of trucks, it also works in reverse with more experienced riders appreciating advances in modern designs and technologies that allow for even greater precision and performance.
All these aspects combined make it clear that trucks play an integral role both practically and aesthetically when it comes to skateboards.
Will any trucks fit on any skateboard?
The answer to this question depends on the kind of trucks and skateboards.
The dimensions of both need to be compatible in order for a truck to fit on a skateboard, as they must match precisely.
Generally, the standard size of both is the same: 50mm. However, that doesn’t guarantee the two will be compatible.
Besides, even if they are the correct size, any combination may not work because of how skaters modify their boards or trucks.
There can be different shapes and sizes available depending on skater preference, so having a basic knowledge of compatibility between brands and models is essential in this process.
To ensure your truck fits your skateboard correctly, it’s best to do research in advance before making any purchase.
Are low or high trucks better?
Skateboards tend to have trucks that come in low and high varieties. Low skateboard trucks are typically well-suited for grinds and can provide additional maneuverability on technical terrain, making them a great choice among skateboarders who like to perform tricks and stunts.
In contrast, high skateboard trucks are more stable and offer more leverage when turning, making them a better fit for those who prioritize speed and power over doing tricks.
The choice between low or high skateboard trucks comes down to what type of skating you prefer; both have their advantages and disadvantages but can offer a great ride depending on your style and skill level.
No matter what type of truck you choose, make sure that it is the right size for your board and suitably durable so that you can enjoy it for years to come. Take into account the bushings, as well; softer bushings will allow for more pivoting, while harder ones will provide a stiffer ride with minimal movement.
Final Verdict
Trucks keep the board steady and create enough flexibility so that skateboarders can maneuver drums and other obstacles safely.
Without heavy-duty trucks that are designed for high impact, you won’t be able to do more than just cruise around on a flat surface.
Additionally, trucks help customize your skating experience giving you more control over various terrains by adjusting the width or controls the angle of the truck bushings. To sum up, skateboards are nothing without trucks as they are essential components in order to add stability and have a smooth ride overall.
FAQs
Why do trucks matter on a skateboard?
Trucks are an essential part of skateboards because they provide the connection between the deck and the wheels, allowing for turning.
How do trucks affect the way a board rides?
Trucks affect the way a board rides by providing stability and allowing for turning, as well as controlling the angle of the board when it is turning. Additionally, different types of trucks can provide different levels of maneuverability on various terrain.
Can trucks make or break a skateboarding experience?
Trucks can make or break a skateboarding experience because they play an important role in providing stability and maneuverability. Therefore, having the right type of truck for your board and skill level is essential for maximum performance.