Skateboard Truck Size Guide: A Comprehensive Overview
Navigating the world of skateboard trucks requires understanding axle widths, deck compatibility, and height preferences. This guide details crucial aspects,
from matching components to optimizing performance for various riding styles and skill levels, ensuring a smooth and controlled experience.
Understanding Skateboard Truck Components
Skateboard trucks are the pivotal connection between your deck and wheels, fundamentally influencing board control and stability. They comprise several key components working in harmony. The baseplate mounts to the deck, providing a secure foundation.
Hangers, the visible metal part, hold the axles and wheels. Axles themselves are the rods upon which the wheels spin, dictating ride width. Bushings, rubbery rings surrounding the kingpin, absorb shock and allow for turning – their durometer (hardness) significantly impacts responsiveness.
The kingpin is the central bolt securing the bushings and hanger. Washers distribute pressure, and a pivot cup, nestled within the baseplate, facilitates smooth hanger rotation. Understanding each part’s function is crucial for proper assembly, adjustment, and ultimately, a personalized skateboarding experience. Properly maintained components ensure safety and optimal performance.
What is Truck Axle Width?
Truck axle width refers to the distance between the outermost points of the truck’s axles, where the wheels attach. This measurement, typically ranging from 7.5 to 9 inches, is critical for aligning with your skateboard deck’s width. It directly impacts stability, turning radius, and overall board feel.
A correctly matched axle width ensures the wheels protrude equally from the deck, preventing wheel bite – when the wheel rubs against the board during turns. Axle width isn’t the same as hanger width; the hanger is generally wider.
Choosing the right width involves considering your deck size and riding style. Narrower trucks offer quicker response, while wider trucks provide increased stability. Precise matching is vital for optimal performance and a comfortable, controlled ride. Incorrect sizing can lead to instability and hinder progression.
Deck Width and Corresponding Truck Width
Matching truck width to deck width is paramount for a responsive and stable skateboard. Generally, decks 7.5” to 7.75” pair well with truck axles around 7.625” to 8.0”. For decks 7.75” to 8.0”, an 8.0” to 8.25” axle width is recommended. Wider decks, 8.0” to 8.25”, benefit from 8.25” to 8.5” trucks, and decks 8.25” and above typically use 8.5” or wider axles.
A slight variance of +/- 0.25 inches is acceptable. Too narrow trucks can cause instability, while overly wide trucks can hinder turning. Consider your riding style; street skaters often prefer slightly narrower setups for agility, while park and transition riders may opt for wider trucks for enhanced stability at higher speeds.
Referencing brand-specific size charts is crucial, as sizing can vary slightly between manufacturers.
Truck Height: Low, Mid, and High
Skateboard truck height significantly impacts board feel and performance, categorized into low, mid, and high profiles. Low trucks (typically under 50mm) offer increased stability and are favored for technical street skating, providing a lower center of gravity. Mid trucks (50-53mm) represent the most versatile option, suitable for all-around skating, balancing stability and maneuverability.
High trucks (53mm and above) are popular among transition skaters, offering greater leverage for airs and grinds, and accommodating larger wheels. Wheelbite – where the wheel rubs against the deck – becomes more likely with higher trucks, often requiring riser pads.
Choosing the right height depends on wheel size, riding style, and personal preference. Larger wheels generally necessitate higher trucks to prevent wheelbite.
Low Trucks: Advantages and Disadvantages
Low skateboard trucks, generally under 50mm in height, present a unique set of benefits and drawbacks. Advantages include enhanced stability due to a lower center of gravity, making them ideal for technical street skating, flip tricks, and precise control. They also offer a more responsive feel, facilitating quicker turns and maneuvers. This setup is favored by skaters prioritizing board feel and agility.
However, disadvantages exist. Low trucks limit wheel size, increasing the risk of wheelbite – where the wheel contacts the deck during turns – unless riser pads are used. They are less suitable for transition skating, lacking the leverage needed for airs and grinds. The reduced height can also make navigating rough terrain more challenging.
Ultimately, low trucks excel in specific scenarios, offering a distinct skating experience.
Mid Trucks: The Most Common Choice
Mid trucks, typically ranging from 50mm to 53mm in height, represent the most versatile and widely used option for skateboarders. Their balanced design caters to a broad spectrum of riding styles, making them an excellent all-around choice for beginners and experienced skaters alike. They provide a comfortable blend of stability and maneuverability, suitable for street, park, and even some transition skating.
Advantages include compatibility with a wider range of wheel sizes, reducing the likelihood of wheelbite without necessarily requiring riser pads. They offer a good balance between responsiveness and stability, allowing for controlled turns and confident grinds.
Disadvantages are minimal; they don’t specialize in any one area like low or high trucks. However, their versatility makes them a reliable and popular choice for the majority of skateboarders.
High Trucks: For Specific Riding Styles
High trucks, generally exceeding 53mm in height, are favored by skaters who prioritize stability and leverage, particularly those focused on transition skating – ramps, bowls, and vert. The increased height provides greater clearance for larger wheels (54mm+), minimizing the risk of wheelbite and enabling smoother rides on uneven surfaces. This extra height also offers more leverage for grinding, making them popular among skaters tackling rails and ledges.
Advantages include enhanced stability at higher speeds and improved grinding performance. They are ideal for skaters who prefer a more locked-in feel and require greater wheel clearance.
Disadvantages can include a slightly less responsive feel compared to low trucks, and they may require riser pads for smaller wheels to prevent wheelbite. However, for specific disciplines, the benefits outweigh these drawbacks.
Skateboard Truck Brands and Their Sizing
Several reputable brands dominate the skateboard truck market, each with unique sizing nuances. Krux Trucks offer a streamlined sizing system, with models like the 7.6” (7.4-7.8” deck), 8.0” (7.8-8.2” deck), and 8.25” (8.1-8.4” deck) catering to various deck widths.
Independent Trucks, a long-standing industry leader, utilizes a slightly different approach. Their sizing charts typically correlate axle width to deck width, with options ranging from 129mm (8.0” deck) to 149mm (8.5”+ deck).
Thunder Trucks also provide detailed sizing information, emphasizing matching axle width to deck width. Their models span from 141mm (7.5”-7.75” deck) to 148mm (8.25”-8.5” deck). Always consult the brand’s specific size chart for the most accurate fit, as slight variations exist.
Krux Trucks Size Guide
Krux Trucks are renowned for their lightweight design and responsive turning, making them a popular choice for street and park skating. Their sizing is relatively straightforward, focusing on matching the truck’s axle width to your skateboard deck’s width.
The Krux 7;6” trucks are ideal for decks ranging from 7.4” to 7.8” wide, offering a stable yet maneuverable ride. Stepping up to the 8.0” model suits decks between 7.8” and 8.2”, providing increased stability for larger boards. For decks measuring 8.1” to 8.4”, the 8.25” Krux trucks deliver optimal control.
Finally, the 8.5” trucks are designed for decks between 8.3” and 8.7”, offering maximum stability for bigger setups. Remember to consider your riding style and preferences when selecting the appropriate Krux truck size.
Independent Trucks Size Chart
Independent Trucks are a cornerstone of skateboarding, celebrated for their durability and performance. Their sizing chart is crucial for achieving the perfect fit with your deck. Independent utilizes a numerical sizing system, which corresponds to the truck’s axle width.
A 129mm Independent truck is best suited for decks between 7.5” and 7.75”. Moving up to the 139mm size accommodates decks ranging from 7.75” to 8.25”. The 144mm Independent trucks are ideal for decks between 8.25” and 8.5”, offering enhanced stability.
For wider decks, the 149mm size fits decks from 8.5” to 9”, and the largest, 169mm, is designed for decks 9” and wider. Always prioritize a close match between truck and deck width for optimal control and responsiveness.
Thunder Trucks Sizing Information
Thunder Trucks are renowned for their lightweight construction and responsive turning, making them a favorite among street and technical skaters. Understanding their sizing is key to maximizing performance. Thunder utilizes axle width measurements to determine the appropriate truck size for your deck.
For decks 7.5” to 7.75”, a 141mm Thunder truck is recommended. Decks ranging from 7;75” to 8.0” pair well with the 145mm size. Moving to decks between 8.0” and 8.25”, the 148mm Thunder truck provides optimal stability.
Wider decks, measuring 8.25” to 8.5”, benefit from the 159mm size, while decks 8.5” and above require the 161mm Thunder truck. A precise match ensures a comfortable ride and enhanced control, allowing for precise maneuvers and confident skating.
How to Measure Your Deck Width
Accurately measuring your skateboard deck width is the foundational step in selecting the correct truck size. This ensures optimal performance and control. You’ll need a standard measuring tape or ruler for this simple process.
Begin by placing the skateboard on a flat, even surface. Position the measuring tape across the deck at its widest point – typically between the outer edges of the deck, just before the concave curves begin. Ensure the tape measure is straight and not angled.
Record the measurement in inches. This number represents your deck width. It’s crucial to be precise, as even a quarter-inch difference can impact truck compatibility. Refer to the deck width and corresponding truck width charts to find the ideal truck size for your board.
Matching Trucks to Wheel Size
Selecting the right wheel size in relation to your skateboard trucks is vital for a smooth and functional ride. Wider wheels generally require wider trucks to prevent wheel bite – the frustrating contact between the wheel and the deck during turns.
For wheels 53mm and under, most standard truck sizes will suffice. However, as wheel diameter increases, careful consideration is needed. Wheels 54mm to 56mm pair well with mid-height trucks, offering a balance between stability and maneuverability.
If you’re opting for larger wheels, 57mm and above, high trucks are often recommended. High trucks provide increased clearance, minimizing the risk of wheel bite. Consider adding riser pads to further increase clearance if needed. Always prioritize a setup that allows for free wheel rotation without obstruction.
The Importance of Bushings in Truck Performance
Skateboard truck bushings are small, often overlooked components that dramatically impact ride feel and responsiveness. These polyurethane cushions sit around the kingpin and control how much your trucks lean into turns.
Softer bushings allow for easier turning and are ideal for beginners or those preferring a looser, more carving-focused style. However, they can feel unstable at higher speeds. Harder bushings offer greater stability and precision, favored by experienced skaters and those performing technical tricks.
Bushing durometer (hardness) is measured on the A scale; lower numbers indicate softer bushings. Experimenting with different durometers is key to finding what suits your weight, riding style, and preferences. Replacing worn bushings restores responsiveness and enhances overall performance.
Adjusting Truck Tightness for Optimal Control
Fine-tuning your skateboard truck tightness is crucial for achieving optimal control and responsiveness. Looser trucks facilitate easier turning and carving, making them suitable for cruising and longboarding. However, excessively loose trucks can lead to instability, especially at higher speeds or during technical maneuvers.
Tighter trucks provide increased stability and precision, favored by street skaters and those performing tricks requiring solid landings. Overly tight trucks, however, can hinder turning ability and create a stiff, unresponsive feel.
Adjusting tightness involves tightening or loosening the kingpin nut. Small adjustments can make a significant difference. Start with a moderate setting and gradually adjust until you find the sweet spot that balances stability and maneuverability for your riding style and preferences.
Understanding Kingpin and Bushing Durometer
Durometer measures the hardness of both kingpins and bushings, significantly impacting truck performance. It’s measured on the ‘A’ scale, with lower numbers indicating softer materials and higher numbers representing greater hardness. Bushings, the rubbery components surrounding the kingpin, absorb shock and influence turning responsiveness.
Softer bushings (typically 78A-87A) provide a more forgiving ride, ideal for cruising and carving, offering greater flexibility and shock absorption. Harder bushings (90A-99A+) deliver increased stability and responsiveness, preferred by technical skaters needing precise control.
Kingpin durometer isn’t commonly specified, but material quality impacts durability. Understanding bushing durometer allows customization; lighter riders benefit from softer bushings, while heavier riders require harder ones. Experimentation is key to finding the optimal durometer for your weight, riding style, and desired feel.
Troubleshooting Common Truck Issues
Skateboard trucks, despite their simplicity, can encounter issues affecting performance. A common problem is a loose kingpin, causing instability; tighten it gradually until the desired responsiveness is achieved. Wobbly trucks often indicate worn-out bushings – replace them for improved control. Stripped kingpin threads require professional repair or truck replacement.
Another issue is hanger misalignment, leading to uneven wear on wheels. Check for bent hangers and consider replacing the trucks. Squeaking trucks can be resolved by lubricating the pivot cup and kingpin with skateboard-specific lubricant. Regularly inspect all components for cracks or damage.
If trucks feel ‘stuck’, the bushings might be too tight or the pivot cup damaged. Addressing these issues promptly ensures a safe and enjoyable skateboarding experience. Don’t ignore warning signs – preventative maintenance is crucial!
Skateboard Truck Materials: Aluminum vs. Steel
Skateboard trucks are primarily constructed from aluminum or steel, each offering distinct advantages. Aluminum is the more common choice due to its lightweight nature, contributing to a more responsive and agile feel. It’s also corrosion-resistant, making it suitable for various skating environments. However, aluminum is less durable than steel.
Steel trucks, while heavier, provide superior strength and durability, ideal for aggressive skating styles and enduring significant impact. They are less prone to bending or breaking, offering long-lasting performance. The added weight can, however, reduce pop and maneuverability.
Hollow kingpins and axles, often found in high-end aluminum trucks, further reduce weight without significantly compromising strength. Ultimately, the best material depends on individual skating preferences and the demands placed on the trucks.
Advanced Truck Features: Hollow Kingpins & More
Modern skateboard trucks incorporate several advanced features designed to enhance performance and reduce weight. Hollow kingpins are a prominent example, removing material from the kingpin itself to lighten the truck without drastically sacrificing strength. This results in a more responsive feel and easier flicking.
Hollow axles achieve a similar weight reduction, further optimizing the truck’s overall lightness. Precision manufacturing techniques and improved alloy compositions also contribute to stronger, lighter trucks. Some trucks feature integrated bushing seats, offering more consistent bushing alignment and performance.
Innovative designs like one-piece baseplates enhance durability and reduce potential weak points. These features cater to experienced skaters seeking marginal gains in performance and responsiveness, pushing the boundaries of skateboard truck technology.
Resources for Further Research & Size Calculators
For skaters seeking more in-depth information, numerous online resources offer detailed guides and tools. Skateboarding websites like Skate Warehouse and Tactics provide comprehensive truck sizing charts and articles explaining the nuances of truck selection. Several online “skateboard size calculators” allow users to input their height, weight, and riding style to receive personalized recommendations for deck and truck sizes.
YouTube channels dedicated to skateboarding, such as Braille Skateboarding and VLSkate, offer visual guides and tutorials on truck assembly and adjustment. Manufacturer websites, like Independent, Thunder, and Krux, provide specific sizing information for their respective truck models.
Online skateboarding communities and forums are valuable sources of peer-to-peer advice and feedback. Utilizing these resources ensures informed decisions when choosing the perfect trucks for your skateboarding needs.