Complete Guide to Skateboard Trucks

The Complete Guide to Skateboard Trucks: Choosing and Customizing Your Perfect Setup

If you're new to skateboarding, you might be wondering what trucks are and how to choose them to improve your performance. In this article, I'll explain what trucks are, give you some tips on how to choose them, and provide information on possible customizations.

What is a skateboard truck?

Trucks are the metal parts that connect the wheels to your skateboard deck. They are responsible for the stability and maneuverability of your skateboard. A truck is made up of several parts: the axle, the baseplate, the bearings, and the mounting bolts. The axle is the part that protrudes from the baseplate and supports the wheels, while the baseplate is attached to the deck with bolts.

How to choose the right trucks

The choice of trucks depends on several factors, but don't worry, I'll give you some advice to help you find your way:

• Dimensions: Trucks come in different widths. It's important that the truck size roughly matches the width of your deck. A truck that's too wide or too narrow can affect your stability and maneuverability. Truck dimensions can be found in inches or millimeters, so be sure to compare them with your deck dimensions.
• Height: The height of the truck depends on the type of skating you want to do. If you prefer to do tricks and acrobatics, then I recommend choosing a truck with a lower profile, as it will give you greater sensitivity and control. If you prefer carving or downhill, you may want to choose a truck with a higher profile for greater stability. Truck height is usually measured from the bottom of the baseplate to the axle.
• Material: Trucks can be made of various materials, such as aluminum or titanium. Aluminum is lightweight and durable and is the most common material used for skateboard trucks. It's a reliable choice for most skaters. Titanium is lighter than aluminum and also corrosion-resistant, but it's more expensive and often used by more experienced or professional skaters.

Customize trucks

Once you've chosen the right trucks, you can customize them to suit your needs. Here are some customization options:

• Spring tension: Skateboard trucks are equipped with springs that determine the resistance and responsiveness of the truck. You can adjust the spring tension using a tool called a skate wrench. Experiment with different settings to find the one that best suits your riding style.
• Bearings: Truck bearings are responsible for the smoothness and speed of the wheels' rolling. You can improve performance by replacing the bearings with higher-quality ones. There are different levels of bearing precision, such as ABEC (Annular Bearing Engineering Committee) bearings, which range from ABEC 1 to ABEC 9. The higher the number, the better the precision and speed of the bearings.
• Bushings: Bushings are the rubber parts that sit between the baseplate and the truck's axle. Bushings affect the stability and response of trucks during turns and maneuvers. You can replace bushings with others of varying hardness to adjust the truck's feel and responsiveness. Softer bushings offer a smoother ride and greater maneuverability, while firmer bushings offer greater stability.

Skateboard trucks are a crucial part of your skateboarding experience. Choosing the right trucks can make a difference in the stability and maneuverability of your skateboard. Remember to consider the size, height, and material of the trucks when making your choice. I hope this guide has helped you better understand skateboard trucks, and I wish you endless fun as you learn and progress in the world of skateboarding! Keep rolling!

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At our online skate shop you'll find complete skateboards, decks, wheels, trucks, skateboard bearings, and other accessories to help you create the perfect custom setup.