Fitting your skateboard truckscan make all the difference between having an enjoyable skate session or a frustrating one. They are the components that connect your wheels to yourskateboard deckboard, ensuring a steady and smooth ride as you glide along. The trucks on yourskateboardskateboard are available in different sizes and styles, tailored to various skating styles.
Sizes and Styles of Skateboard Trucks
Choosing the correct size and height for your skateboard trucks is essential - a poor choice can adversely affect your board's feel and performance. The first thing to understand is that skateboard trucks are not one-size-fits-all; they come in a range of axle sizes, heights, and 'kingpin' designs. Deciding whether to opt for larger or smaller skateboard trucks is straightforward – just ensure your trucks match the width of your deck!
Do all skateboard trucks fit all decks?
Unfortunately, they do not. The dimensions of skateboard trucks aren't uniform - the truck's width should align with your deck's width.
Below is a general guideline for skateboard truck sizes, though it's always advisable to check the manufacturer's size recommendations as well.
| Deck Size | Truck Size |
| 7.5” (190 mm) | 4.75” (120 mm) |
| 7.75” (197 mm) | 5.0” (127 mm) |
| 8.0” (203 mm) | 5.25” (133 mm) |
| 8.25–8.5” (210-216 mm) | 5.5” (140 mm) |
| 8.5”+ (216 mm+) | 6.15”+ (156 mm+) |
Skateboard Truck Styles
When it comes to skateboard truck styles, there are two main types: the standard kingpin and the reverse kingpin. But what distinguishes them?
The standard kingpin...
- is positioned higher, offering more stability for landing tricks.
- is stiffer and can be adjusted by installing softer bushingsbushingsor by altering the tightness.
- is the preferred option for traditional skateboarding.
The reverse kingpin...
- sits lower and is oriented away from the board's center, providing a smoother response.
- is ideal for downhill skating and carving, where weight shift allows for quick turns.
Skateboard Truck Heights
The height of skateboard trucks is often referred to as the 'truck profile.' This indicates whether the truck is positioned low to the deck, higher, or somewhere in between.
Low trucks…
- have a shorter distance to the ground, making them more suitable for park skating and tricks
- should be paired with smaller wheels, typically under 55mm, to prevent wheel bite and enhance stability.
- Wheel bite occurs when your board stops abruptly as you turn.
Mid trucks…
- provide the stability of low trucks but can also accommodate larger wheels, making them suitable for rougher terrains.
High trucks…
- are positioned further from the ground.
- allow for sharper turns compared to lower profile trucks.
- offer less stability, which suits them for carving and cruising.
You can also use shock pads and risersto modify the gap between the deck and your wheels, ensuring a smoother ride.
Installing your skateboard trucks
Installing skateboard trucks is straightforward – simply adhere to these six easy steps:
Step 1 - Position the truck on the underside of the board with the kingpin oriented inward.
When attaching reverse kingpin trucks, ensure the nut faces outward towards the nose or tail.
Step 2- Align the holes on the truck’s baseplate with those on the deck.
Step 3- Insert the four screws through the holes, securing the screw heads at the top of the board.
Step 4 - Use your hardware kit to tighten the screws one by one with the provided nuts.
Step 5- Tighten the screws until their heads are flush with the grip tape.
TIP #1Trucks should be firmly attached, but avoid overtightening as this might cause the skateboard to crack under pressure. [JA1]
Step 6 - Repeat these steps for the other skateboard truck.
You can adjust the settings on your trucks to achieve the ideal fit and feel.
Keep in mind that tight trucks offer stability, while loose trucks allow for better manoeuvrability.
For additional details on installing and adjusting trucks and wheels, you can
How to select skateboard trucks
In search of stylish skateboard trucks? After determining the appropriate width for your trucks and the desired height for your board, consider what you aim to do on your board. Focusing on ledges and rail tricks? Opt for a more robust skateboard truck to prevent quick wear.
If you favor flip tricks and more technical skateboarding, a lighter option might suit you better. Discover more about selecting skateboard trucks in our video below.
At SkateHut, you can find stylish trucks for your skateboard in various colors, including black, gold, blue, and pink. We also carry leading brands likeIndependent and Rampage, ensuring you equip your skateboard with trucks built to endure.
Get your skateboard trucks today
Choosing skateboard trucks that match your board’s style and your goals is crucial when assembling acustom skateboard– which is why we offer such a diverse selection.
Shop online with SkateHut today for the latest deals and offers, orget in touchwith us to get more information on fitting trucks to your skateboard or finding the right trucks for your board.
