Longboard trucks play a big role in the overall way the board rides. The feel of the board is drastically changed depending on the type of truck that is used. For this reason, selecting the best longboard trucks for your riding style is essential in building the perfect longboard set up.
A lot of people will spend a good portion of their time trying to get the right deck for the longboard. While this important, the trucks are just as important. Trucks vary in their length, angle, and the way that the bushings are seated. All of these factors will determine how the trucks feel under your feet.
High-quality trucks are going to allow the rider to easily control the direction of their board and their speed. They will allow a skateboarder to easily weave through pedestrians on the city sidewalk, jump off of the curve, and carve downhill before coming to a quick stop at an intersection.
For beginners, knowing that they can slow their board down when they start to go too fast is a confidence builder. This confidence which comes from having good trucks will allow the rider to progress quickly. The purpose of this longboard trucks guide is to give riders a general overview of how longboard trucks work, and then provide some recommendations on brands that are popular.
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Key Components of a Longboard Trucks
• Baseplate: This is the flat part of the truck that connects to the skate deck. It is mounted to the deck through four or six mounting holes. The baseplate is designed to provide even pressure and a secure hold for the truck.
• Kingpin: The kingpin is the most important part of the truck. It is a large bolt that holds the entire truck together. Most kingpins are replaceable. If they break, you do not need to buy a new truck.
• Bushings: Bushings are designed to affect the way the board reacts to the rider. These rubber bushings provide cushion between different moving parts as they twist and turn during the ride. Boards have two bushings per truck. So there are four in total. Bushings come in varying hardness. The harder the bushing, the more resistance the board will give to rider input.
• Hanger: The hanger is a T-shaped aluminum alloy area on the trucks. This is where the wheels are going to attach to the truck. This part of the truck will have direct contact with rails and curbs during grinds. It is essential that the hanger is made of a durable material.
• Risers: This optional part of the truck can be added to raise the board higher off the ground and to increase shock resistance. Risers come in various thicknesses and are secured between the baseplate and the deck.
Longboard Trucks Reviews
Cal 7 180mm Trucks
The Cal 7 trucks are ideal for longboards. Upon purchase of this product, you will receive additional wheels, bearings, and other hardware components, giving you plenty for your money. The product is very reasonably priced, especially when you consider all the parts you receive in the package – this is a big selling point for these trucks.
These trucks come in a variety of colors. They are also very lightweight and durable, ensuring that you do not add too much weight to your board after they have been attached. Made out of top-quality materials, you will be sure to get plenty of use out of the purchase. These trucks are very easy to attach and replace. In fact, all you need is a plank of wood, and you will be able to create your own skateboard.
Paris V3 180mm Trucks
The Paris V3 trucks are more expensive. However, they are also made out of high-quality aluminum, ensuring that you get plenty of use out of the purchase for years to come. These trucks were produced using Paris’ new proprietary alloy-forming process. This unique process ensures that the product is solid, durable, and long-lasting. This allows you to enjoy this board to the fullest without worrying about it holding up.
These trucks have a very strong, reinforced design. They are designed to absorb pressure, reduce stress, and increase overall strength. If you enjoy a smooth and steady ride, this product should definitely be up there on your list of considerations. The trucks were built to last and are lightweight, meaning that they will not add too much weight to your board after being attached.
Gullwing Sidewinder II 185mm Trucks
These trucks come in a variety of colors. When compared to competitor options, they are very pricey. With that being said, the Gullwing Sidewinder trucks are also made out of top-quality materials and will be sure to last you for a very long time. If you are not shopping on a budget and want to ensure that your board features the best trucks out there, this product should definitely be up there on your list of considerations.
The trucks are constructed out of top-quality aluminum, and additionally, they are incredibly durable and lightweight. These trucks are ideal for any type of longboard. Since they are so expensive, they stand out in the longevity department. It is also important to note that the trucks are very easy to attach and replace, so you can easily use these, even if you are a beginner.
Yocaher Longboard Trucks
These Yocaher trucks are also specifically designed to be used on longboards. If you are shopping on a budget, these trucks should be up there on your list of considerations. Upon purchase, you will receive additional screws, bearings, and wheels. Since you receive so many additional components, the lower price tag is even more impressive, making this product ideal for those shopping on a budget.
Even though these trucks are more reasonably priced, the quality is still decent. Made out of aluminum, you will be sure to get a few good years of use out of the purchase. The trucks are also reasonably durable and lightweight, meaning that they will not add too much weight to your board after being attached. It is also important to note that the trucks are easy to attach and remove.
Caliber Longboard Trucks
These trucks come in a variety of colors. Upon purchase, you will receive additional screws that can be used to attach the product. We should mention, though, that these trucks are also on the more expensive side. However, you will be paying for the high quality, as they are made out of incredibly strong and durable aluminum. These trucks are lightweight, making them perfect for skaters who enjoy riding fast.
These trucks are very easy to attach and remove. More so, the top quality ensures that you will get plenty of use out of the purchase. It is important to note that these trucks are specifically designed to be used on longboards. They also come in a variety of sizes, giving you plenty of options to choose from. Unlike most options on our list, this package does not include additional wheels.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to trucks, there are a lot of varieties and a lot of options available. Research is necessary in order to identify the truck that is right for your style. However, when you find the truck that works for you, you are going to see your performance on the board increase, and you will enjoy your riding experience even more.
