If you’re looking to take your skateboarding to the next level, it’s important to make sure you have the right gear. And when it comes to skateboarding, the trucks are arguably the most important component. Trucks are what connect your deck to the wheels and help you turn, so getting the right set is essential. But with so many different types and sizes of trucks available, how do you know which ones are right for your skateboard type?In this article, we’ll go over the different types of skateboard trucks, what size you should be looking for, and how to choose the right ones for your setup.
We’ll also provide some tips and tricks on how to get the most out of your trucks, so you can start shredding like a pro in no time. The first step in choosing the right truck set-up is understanding the different types of trucks available. The most common types are regular kingpin (RPK) and reverse kingpin (RKP) trucks. RPK trucks are designed for street and park riding, while RKP trucks are better suited for downhill and freeride skating. Beyond this, there are various sizes and shapes of trucks that you can choose from depending on your style of skating.
Once you’ve identified the type of truck that’s best suited for your style, it’s time to choose the size of truck that will give you the best performance. The size of truck is determined by its width and height. For example, an 8.5” wide truck with a height of 55mm is considered to be a standard size for street skating, while a 9” wide truck with a height of 60mm is considered to be a good size for downhill skating. It’s important to choose a size that matches your style and weight, as using the wrong size can result in decreased performance and stability. Another important factor to consider when choosing trucks is the baseplate angle. This angle determines how much control and stability you have when turning, so it’s important to get it right.
A lower baseplate angle (50-52 degrees) is better for street skating, while a higher baseplate angle (54-56 degrees) is better for downhill and freeride skating. Finally, it’s important to consider the bushings when choosing trucks. The bushings are what allow your trucks to turn smoothly, so it’s important to choose bushings that match your weight and style of skating. Softer bushings are better for street skating, while harder bushings are better for downhill and freeride skating. In conclusion, choosing the right trucks for your skateboard type is essential to achieving maximum performance and control on the board. Understanding the different types of trucks available and selecting the right size and baseplate angle will help you get the most out of your ride.
Additionally, it’s important to choose bushings that match your weight and style of skating in order to get the best performance out of your board.
Truck Size
When it comes to selecting the right size of trucks for your skateboard type, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, the size of truck should be proportional to your skateboard's width. Generally speaking, you'll want to choose a truck size that is close to the width of your deck. This will ensure maximum stability and control when riding.In addition to the width of your board, you should also consider the style of riding you are doing. If you’re a beginner just starting out, you may want to opt for a wider truck size for more stability. If you’re an experienced rider looking for more maneuverability, a narrower truck size may be better. Finally, the weight of the rider is another important factor to consider when choosing the right truck size.
Heavier riders will need a bigger truck size for more stability. Conversely, lighter riders may want to opt for a smaller truck size for more maneuverability.
Baseplate Angle
The baseplate angle of your trucks affects both control and stability when skateboarding. A higher baseplate angle gives you more control, while a lower baseplate angle provides more stability. To choose the perfect truck set-up for your skateboard type, you’ll need to consider the baseplate angle. For beginners, a higher baseplate angle is usually best as it gives you more control and makes it easier to learn the basics of skateboarding.A higher baseplate angle also helps with turning and can make it easier to land tricks. However, for experienced riders, a lower baseplate angle is usually preferable as it provides greater stability at higher speeds. When selecting the right truck set-up for your skateboard type, you’ll need to take into account the baseplate angle. For beginners, a higher baseplate angle is recommended, while experienced riders should opt for a lower baseplate angle. Keep in mind that the baseplate angle affects both control and stability when skateboarding.
Bushings
Bushings are small rubber or urethane discs that sit between the truck hanger and the baseplate.They are an important component of skateboard trucks that affect performance and stability. Bushings come in various sizes and shapes, so it’s important to choose the right ones for your weight and style. For heavier riders, choosing a softer bushing will give you more control and stability. A softer bushing will absorb more impact when landing tricks and allow for better turning.
On the other hand, lighter riders should opt for a harder bushing as this will provide more stability and response. If you’re looking for more control, then choose a bushing with a barrel shape as this will allow you to make tighter turns. A cone-shaped bushing is best for those who prefer a looser feel as it will give you more freedom to move around. When selecting a bushing, it’s also important to consider its durometer rating.
A higher durometer rating indicates a harder bushing, while a lower rating means a softer one. Most skateboard bushings range from 78A to 95A in durometer rating. Choosing the right bushings for your skateboard type can make all the difference in your performance. Take the time to find the right set-up that works for your weight and style, and you’ll be sure to have an enjoyable ride.
Types of Trucks
When it comes to choosing the right trucks for your skateboard, there are several different types available.Depending on your style of riding, the type of truck you choose can make a big difference in your performance. The most common types of trucks are the standard, reverse kingpin (RKP), and longboard. Standard trucks are the most basic type and are best for beginner skateboarders. They provide good stability and control and are best for street and park skating.
Reverse kingpin trucks have a kingpin design that is mounted in the opposite direction of regular kingpins. This creates greater stability and control, making them great for downhill riding and cruising. Longboard trucks are designed to provide maximum stability and control when riding fast. They also have a wider wheelbase than standard trucks, giving you more space to maneuver.
When selecting a truck set-up, it’s important to consider your personal style of riding. Skateboarders who prefer street or park skating should opt for a standard or RKP set-up, while those who prefer downhill or cruising should choose a longboard set-up. Additionally, the size of the wheelbase should be taken into consideration—the wider the wheelbase, the more stable and controlled your ride will be. Choosing the right trucks for your skateboard type is essential to getting the most out of your ride. Different types of trucks, sizes, baseplate angles, and bushings all impact the performance of your skateboard, so it is important to understand these features before making a purchase.
With the right knowledge and attention to detail, you can find the perfect truck set-up that will help you take your skateboarding to the next level.
