If you’ve ever been on a skateboard before, you know that maneuvering with trucks can be quite the task.
Not only do you have to worry about speeding around corners and stopping at sharp turns, but also to keep your balance and making sure the boards are firmly in place.
So, when it comes to navigating with trucks on a skateboard, which way should they go? Do different truck styles (longer or shorter) make a difference in how well the board performs?
We’ll answer all these questions for you in this article.
Which way do trucks go on a skateboard?
Skateboarders use a variety of techniques and tricks to perform on their boards, including trucks, which are the metal parts at the bottom.
The correct way for skateboarders to install their trucks is to make sure that they face opposite directions.
This is because having trucks facing in the same direction may lead to instability and an increased likelihood of accidents.
It isn’t impossible for a skateboarder to learn elaborate tricks using the same-direction trucks but it almost always is an easier and safer option to use opposite-direction trucks when starting out.
Why would someone want to put a truck on a skateboard?
Making something out of the ordinary is an exciting challenge, and putting a truck on a skateboard is a perfect example.
It is an engaging project that requires creativity and ingenuity to figure out how to get the two objects to fit together.
With some creative thinking and the right supplies, it’s possible to achieve something unique and fun, like putting a truck on a skateboard.
Increased Stability
Putting a truck on your skateboard can help increase your overall stability while skating.
A truck typically has more weight than the average skateboard, so it helps to keep the board steady when going over rough surfaces or making sharp turns.
It also provides better balance for tricks that require you to stay in one spot for an extended period of time.
It is easier for beginners to learn how to ride with this type of setup because less effort is needed to maintain balance than with traditional skateboards.
Better Control
Having a truck on your skateboard can also provide you with better control while riding.
Because trucks are heavier than regular boards, they have more inertia and require less effort to move around corners and make quick turns.
This makes it easier to stay in control at high speeds, so you don’t have to worry about losing momentum when going downhill or making tight corners.
Besides, having a truck makes it easier to perform tricks since there is less resistance against the ground due to its larger wheels and heavier weight distribution.
Greater Speed
Finally, having a truck on your skateboard can help increase your speed significantly compared to traditional setups.
Trucks are designed with larger wheels which means they roll faster and smoother over uneven surfaces or bumps in the road without losing momentum or control.
This allows riders to reach higher speeds without having to worry about losing their footing or balance due to obstacles in their path.
Because trucks are heavier than typical boards, they don’t need as much pushing force from riders in order to gain speed quickly and easily.
How do I put a truck on a skateboard?
If you’re wondering how to put a truck on a skateboard, the answer is simple and involves just three steps.
Step 1: Find the Right Truck
When it comes to outfitting your skateboard with a truck, the first step is to find one that works for you.
Depending on your skating background and ability level, there are various trucks which can offer different levels of stability and control.
If you’re just starting out, we recommend a low-profile truck as they provide more balance while trick-style trucks might be better suited for those who have been skating longer or feel more comfortable with their abilities.
Step 2: Install the Baseplate
Once you have selected the right truck for your needs, it’s time to install the baseplate.
The baseplate is what attaches the truck to the board itself and should be installed with bolts or screws along each side of the board.
Be sure to tighten each screw securely into place, but don’t overtighten—this could cause damage or breakage.
Step 3: Attach the Wheels
The next step is attaching the wheels onto the trucks themselves.
To do this, simply slide each wheel onto its respective axle before tightening down with two nuts (for both sides).
Again, be sure not to overtighten as this can cause damage or breakage of both parts.
Once all four wheels are attached securely in place, they should spin freely without any wobbling or uneven movement.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, it’s up to the individual skateboarder which way they prefer for their trucks to go.
Going ‘opposite way’ is an excellent choice for those looking to try different spins and flip tricks that are not possible going ‘regular way.’
Experienced skaters may find enjoyment in mixing up their usual stance and having a unique experience.
Those less comfortable with skateboarding can always start with ‘regular way’ as it’s often more stable and will give you time to grasp fundamentals before transitioning into difficult maneuvers.