Ever felt like your longboard just wasn’t *quite* right? Maybe turning felt sluggish, or perhaps you felt wobbly when you picked up speed. The secret ingredient to unlocking your longboard’s true potential often lies in its trucks – the metal pieces that connect your wheels to your deck. Choosing the perfect trucks can feel like navigating a maze, with so many different shapes, sizes, and brands out there. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and end up with a pair that doesn’t match your riding style.
But don’t worry! Understanding longboard trucks doesn’t have to be a headache. This guide is here to clear the confusion and empower you. By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what to look for, what each part does, and how to pick the trucks that will make your rides smoother, more controlled, and way more fun. Get ready to discover how the right trucks can transform your longboarding experience!
Top Longboard Trucks Recommendations
- The new standard for reverse kingpin longboard trucks, made of forged A356 aluminum that's stronger and more precise than any other truck in its category. The Atlas RKP offers a ride that is almost indistinguishable from trucks at 5 times the price.
- This ready-to-ride truck sports all the signature Atlas features: machined ball pivot, tapered kingpin & built-in speed rings. It also boasts an 8mm axle through the hanger that eliminates additional aluminum making it 20% lighter than the original Atlas
- With a cone bushing boardside & a cone bushing roadside this truck is perfect for cruising, carving & freeriding. The cones offer high rebound for a carvy, surfy feel while the 48 degree baseplate & ball pivot create fluid lean you need to feel to believe
- Your trucks are the most important part of your longboard. That's why we designed every individual component of our trucks to meet the most exacting tolerances. The end product delivers a fluid, stable, and reactive ride unlike any other longboard truck.
- Atlas designs each of their longboard trucks from the ground up using solid construction technology for maximum lean and consistent control. Compare their line of trucks to products by Paris, Caliber, Bear, Gullwing & Randal
- High quality aluminum alloy Free Hardware
- CARVING PERFECTION — The Paris V2 180mm 50° longboard trucks offer the smoothest, most fluid carves in and out of turns.
- STRONG & DURABLE — Built to last, Paris V2 trucks are produced using virgin aluminum. The T6 heat treatment process, grade 8 steel axles, and pressed-in kingpins create added strength and durability.
- ULTIMATE RESPONSE — For the best response and rebound, Paris V2 trucks come stock with USA-made Paris 90a urethane bushings.
- UNIVERSAL MOUNTING — 6-hole baseplate is compatible with both new-school and old-school mounting options.
- GUARANTEED FOR LIFE — Paris’ superior manufacturing processes allow them to guarantee their trucks will last a lifetime!
- NEXT LEVEL MANUFACTURING — Produced using Paris’ new, proprietary alloy-forming process, Paris V3 trucks utilize techniques derived from casting, extrusion, and forging.
- CARVING PERFECTION — The baseplate’s 50° angle and the hanger’s open bushing seat combine to offer a fluid transition between deep, diving turns.
- STRONG REINFORCED DESIGN — Broadened hanger shoulders and reinforced baseplate support beam reduce stress and increase overall strength.
- BUILT TO LAST — Down to a molecular level, the Paris V3 trucks are stronger than any other cast longboard truck on the market.
- ULTIMATE RESPONSE — For the best response and rebound, the Paris V3 trucks come with a redesigned top conical bushing and hand-poured urethane pivot cups for an ultra-smooth turn.
- The new standard for reverse kingpin longboard trucks, made of forged A356 aluminum that's stronger and more precise than any other truck in its category. The Atlas RKP offers a ride that is almost indistinguishable from trucks at 5 times the price.
- This ready-to-ride truck sports all the signature Atlas features: machined ball pivot, tapered kingpin & built-in speed rings. It also boasts an 8mm axle through the hanger that eliminates additional aluminum making it 20% lighter than the original Atlas
- With a cone bushing boardside & a cone bushing roadside this truck is perfect for cruising, carving & freeriding. The cones offer high rebound for a carvy, surfy feel while the 48 degree baseplate & ball pivot create fluid lean you need to feel to believe
- Your trucks are the most important part of your longboard. That's why we designed every individual component of our trucks to meet the most exacting tolerances. The end product delivers a fluid, stable, and reactive ride unlike any other longboard truck.
- Atlas designs each of their longboard trucks from the ground up using solid construction technology for maximum lean and consistent control. Compare their line of trucks to products by Paris, Caliber, Bear, Gullwing & Randal
- NEXT LEVEL MANUFACTURING — Produced using Paris’ new, proprietary alloy-forming process, Paris V3 trucks utilize techniques derived from casting, extrusion, and forging.
- CARVING PERFECTION — The baseplate’s 50° angle and the hanger’s open bushing seat combine to offer a fluid transition between deep, diving turns.
- STRONG REINFORCED DESIGN — Broadened hanger shoulders and reinforced baseplate support beam reduce stress and increase overall strength.
- BUILT TO LAST — Down to a molecular level, the Paris V3 trucks are stronger than any other cast longboard truck on the market.
- ULTIMATE RESPONSE — For the best response and rebound, the Paris V3 trucks come with a redesigned top conical bushing and hand-poured urethane pivot cups for an ultra-smooth turn.
- 7.5-inch Truck: Durable Magnesium Aluminum Alloy, Die-cast, Hardened Steel, Baked Finish for Extra Weight Support
- 60 mm Skateboard Wheels, 80a Hardness, 60% Rebound, PU Infusion for Crack Resistance
- Smooth ABEC-9 Bearings: 608 Standard, Continuous 30S Rotation Without Load
- Deck Compatibility: Fits 7.5 to 8-inch Skateboard Decks
- SIZED RIGHT — Paris V2 150mm Trucks are perfect for smaller boards, providing a better fit and more leverage over the truck.
Choosing the Right Longboard Trucks: Your Guide to Cruising and Carving
Longboard trucks are the heart of your ride. They connect your wheels to your deck and let you steer. Picking the right ones makes a huge difference in how your longboard feels and performs. This guide will help you find the perfect trucks for your adventures.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for trucks, keep these important things in mind.
1. Truck Width
- How to measure: Truck width is usually measured from the outside of one kingpin to the outside of the other. You want the trucks to be about the same width as your deck.
- Why it matters: Trucks that are too wide or too narrow can make your board feel unstable or hard to turn. A good match gives you control.
2. Hanger Shape
- Standard (Traditional) Kingpin (TKP): These are strong and stable. They are good for rougher rides and downhill.
- Reverse Kingpin (RKP): These trucks turn more easily. They are popular for cruising, carving, and freeriding. They have a different angle than TKP trucks.
3. Bushing Type and Hardness
- Bushings are the rubbery rings: They sit around the kingpin. They control how easily your trucks turn.
- Hardness: Softer bushings turn more easily. They are good for lighter riders or those who want a surfy feel. Harder bushings are more stable. They are better for heavier riders or faster speeds.
4. Riser Pads (Optional)**
* **What they are:** These are plastic or rubber pads that go between your trucks and your deck.
* **Why use them:** They can help prevent “wheel bite,” which is when your wheels rub against your deck when you turn sharply. They can also add a little height.
Important Materials
The materials trucks are made from affect their strength and weight.
* **Aluminum:** Most trucks use aluminum alloys. This metal is strong and relatively lightweight. It’s a good balance for most riders.
* **Steel:** Some parts, like the kingpin and axle, might use steel for extra strength.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good quality trucks feel smooth and last a long time.
* **Precision Machining:** Trucks made with precision are smoother. They don’t have rough edges. This makes them turn better.
* **Strong Axles:** The axles are the metal rods that hold your wheels. They need to be strong so they don’t bend.
* **Durable Bushings:** Good bushings don’t crumble or get deformed quickly. They keep their shape and responsiveness.
* **Cheap Materials:** Trucks made with weak metals can bend or break easily. Poorly made trucks can feel wobbly. This makes them unsafe and less fun to ride.
User Experience and Use Cases
The type of trucks you choose depends on how you want to ride.
* **Cruising:** If you like to roll around town and enjoy smooth rides, RKP trucks with softer bushings are a great choice. They make turning easy.
* **Carving:** For flowing turns that feel like surfing, RKP trucks are ideal. You can experiment with different bushing hardness to fine-tune your carve.
* **Downhill:** If you plan to go fast, you need stable trucks. TKP trucks are often preferred for their stability. Harder bushings help too.
* **Freeride/Sliding:** For tricks like sliding, you need trucks that allow for controlled turns and are durable. RKP trucks are common here.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important part of a longboard truck?
A: The hanger and the kingpin are very important. They hold everything together and help you steer.
Q: How do I know what size trucks to get?
A: Measure your deck’s width. Your trucks should be about the same width. The hanger width is usually listed.
Q: What’s the difference between TKP and RKP trucks?
A: TKP trucks are more stable. RKP trucks turn more easily. RKP trucks are more common for longboards.
Q: Do I need riser pads?
A: You might need them if your wheels rub your deck when you turn. They also add a little height.
Q: How do I make my trucks turn more?
A: You can use softer bushings or tighten the kingpin nut less.
Q: How do I make my trucks less turny (more stable)?
A: You can use harder bushings or tighten the kingpin nut more.
Q: Are expensive trucks always better?
A: Not always. Good quality trucks can be found at different price points. Focus on the features you need.
Q: Can I use skateboard trucks on a longboard?
A: It’s generally not recommended. Longboard trucks are usually wider and designed for different riding styles.
Q: How often should I check my trucks?
A: Check them before each ride to make sure everything is tight and in good condition.
Q: What does “wheel bite” mean?
A: Wheel bite is when your wheel touches your deck during a sharp turn. It can stop your board suddenly.