-How to choose your trucks?
Trucks are an essential part of a skateboard. They are the link between the board and the wheels. They allow you to give the desired direction to your board and therefore to turn. They come in different sizes, at different prices and can be adjusted to achieve different levels of flexibility.
All these elements will be taken into account when choosing your trucks. But don't worry, Nature-Ride is here to give you all the advice you need to make the right choice!
1. The components
The trucks themselves are composed of different elements:
- The Kingpin is simply the large screw that connects the whole truck to the base. It can be adjusted to make the steering more or less firm. It's up to you to find the setting that suits you!
- The hanger is the area of the truck where you can do your grinds. It is one with the baseplate, thanks to the kingpin.
- The axle is the part where the wheel, equipped with bearings, is fixed.
- The bushings provide the trucks with stiffness or flexibility. It's up to you to find the setting that suits you. Tightening them for more manoeuvrability, or loosening them for more stability.
- The baseplate is the base on which the other components of the trucks are placed. The baseplate is attached to the board with screws.
2. The width
The width of your trucks should be as close as possible to the width of your board.
- For more stability, opt for trucks that are wide enough. They will be adapted to a practice of skate in bowl, skatepark, ramp and transition.
- Smaller trucks are lighter and therefore better suited to street riding, with narrower boards.
3. The height
The height of the truck is the distance between the base and the hanger.
There are three different heights:
- Low truck for wheels from 50 to 53 mm. Ideal for street use, as it provides better stability.
- Mid truck for wheels from 53 to 56 mm. This is the most versatile truck.
- Truck high for larger wheels. Perfect for cruising, curves and ramps. It also offers a better pop.
4. The accessories
There are pads and screws that allow you to assemble your trucks in an even more specific way, depending on the purpose of your board. Adding extra pads requires the use of longer screws.
The pads are simply plastic plates that are inserted between the board and the trucks.
- Riser pads: They are mainly used to raise the board to avoid wheel bites
- Shock pads: They provide better cushioning and a more comfortable ride
Not always necessary, the use of pads or not will depend on your feeling and the way you want to use your board. Note that full setups never include pads.
5. The price
During your research, you will find that the price of trucks varies greatly from one model to another. As is often the case, it is the quality of the materials and therefore their durability that have the greatest influence on the price.
To make your choice, base yourself mainly on your riding level. As a beginner, an entry-level or mid-range product will do the trick. However, if you are an advanced skater, you will need to invest in good quality trucks.