Skateboard trucks are the most vital component of your board, they're even considered to be the heart and soul of the board. Trucks have the most influence on how your board feels and performs, and they also last the longest. There are several skateboard trucks available, some better than others depending on your needs. Transition skaters require different trucks than street skaters, but what if you enjoy riding both?
How to Pick the Right Skateboard Trucks
Choosing the appropriate skateboard truck size may make or break your skateboard setup, but comprehending the various skateboard truck sizes and specs can be difficult, especially if you are new to skating. From understanding measures to understanding how each truck brand differs, there are a few things you need to know about buying new skateboard trucks in order to can make the best decision for your next set of wheels.
The Size
Trucks come in a variety of sizes, and there are no industry standards, so bear that in mind and thoroughly check the specifications before you buy. The most crucial thing is to get the correct width, trucks should match your board. All companies disclose their details in the product description, and your local skate shop may assist you.
The Width
As previously said, ensure sure the width of your skateboard deck matches the width of your trucks' axle. Don't worry about getting precisely matching trucks, as long as you can stand primo (on your skateboard wheels and the side of your board), you'll be good. The most crucial consideration is that they should not be broader than your deck, since this will impair responsiveness and create wheel bite.
The Height
The truck's height is about equal to the distance between your wheel and deck. The distance between the baseplate and the truck's hanger is measured. The height is a matter of personal taste, but the general rule is that the closer you are to the ground, the more stable you are.
Although there are low, medium, and high trucks, most manufacturers only sell high and low trucks. Some manufacturers sell high trucks that are identical to low trucks from other brands, which might be perplexing. When you're a novice, height isn't anything to be concerned about as you'll figure out what you prefer along the road. Whether you like riding high or low, loose or tight, the range of lightweight skate trucks australia on sale will make all the difference in your tricks.
Choose highs if you want to cruise or skate transitions/mini ramps/bowls, and lows if you simply want to skate street/park and do technical stuff. In terms of wheels, low trucks require – 50 to 53 mm wheels, medium trucks – 53 to 56 mm wheels, and high trucks – up to 60 mm wheels.
The Truck's Components
Skateboard truck technology has come a long way since skateboarding was established. All of the different pieces work together to ensure that your vehicle performs and behaves as a sturdy, trustworthy truck should. A skateboard truck is made up of the following parts:
Baseplate
The baseplate is a metal or aluminium plate that is affixed to the bottom of your skateboard. It features four holes for crews and bolts, a pivot hole for the hanger and pivot cup, and one hole for the kingpin. When grinding a lot of curbs, a robust baseplate is vital since the baseplate must withstand a lot of force.
Kingpin
The kingpin is the large bolt that inserts within the bushings and connects the skate truck components. Hollow kingpins (and axles) have recently gained popularity since they are lighter while maintaining strength and longevity. Remember that even sturdy kingpins can fail, primarily because it regulates the amount of total pressure applied to bushings. Consider if you need a lighter alternative or one that will last longer under tighter pressure settings and with more impact-heavy stunts when picking between a solid and hollow kingpin.
Hanger
The hanger is a metal triangular-shaped element of the truck that holds the axle and is used to grind rails and curbs. The kingpin is inserted into the recessed hole in the centre, which links it to the baseplate.
Axles & Nuts
The axle is the long metal pin that passes through the hanger and connects to the wheels. The ends of your axle should line up with the sides of your skateboard for the optimum fit. The thread on the side is where you connect the nut to secure your wheels. Because the axles deal with a lot of stress, it's critical that they're built of high-quality steel or titanium, because a bent axle means buying a new truck.
Bushings
Bushings are polyurethane components that are linked to your kingpin and kept in position by the bushing seat. When you lean to make turns, they allow you to tilt your board. Bushings are crucial, and the type you require is determined mostly by your weight and riding style. Heavy skaters should choose for stiffer bushings in general.
Washers
Washers, particularly cup washers, hold your bushings in place. They are round-shaped cup-like metal rings that prevent you from oversteering. They add rigidity to your bushings and aid in snapping them back into place (rebound). Check your washers if you ever hear a clicking sound. They may be malformed, allowing them to move around and make noise.
Pivot Cup
When you make a turn, the pivot cup sits in the pivot hole of the baseplate and supports your hangar. They are typically made of durable polyurethane. Even though it's only a little cup of plastic, it has a significant influence on performance.
Speedrings
Speed rings are little rings that are fastened to the axle of your truck. Your wheels are sandwiched between them, and they protect your bearings from wear and tear while also allowing your wheels to spin quicker. Even if they appear trivial, you should make a point of attaching them. They're inexpensive and will assist to maintain your bearings in excellent shape by reducing friction on your buts and hangar when moving.
