Imagine cruising down a smooth, winding road, the wind in your hair, and your longboard gliding effortlessly beneath your feet. What makes that magical ride possible? A huge part of it comes down to your trucks – the metal pieces that connect your wheels to your deck. But choosing the right trucks can feel like navigating a maze! There are so many different kinds, and picking the wrong ones can make your ride bumpy, wobbly, or just plain not fun.
Many longboarders get frustrated because they don’t know what to look for. Do you want to carve tight turns, cruise smoothly, or bomb hills with speed? Each goal needs different trucks. It’s easy to feel lost when faced with terms like “kingpin angle” or “hanger width.” You want to have a great time on your longboard, and the right trucks are key to unlocking that experience.
This blog post is here to help! We’ll break down exactly what longboard trucks do and explain the important features to consider. By the end, you’ll understand how trucks affect your ride and feel confident choosing the perfect pair for your longboarding adventures. Get ready to discover what makes your board turn, steer, and feel amazing!
Our Top 5 Longboard Trucks Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Longboard Trucks Detailed Reviews
1. Paris V2 180mm 50° Longboard Skateboard Trucks (Set of 2
Rating: 8.5/10
Get ready to carve like a pro with the Paris V2 180mm 50° Longboard Skateboard Trucks in sleek Matte Black. This set of two trucks is designed to give you the best longboarding experience, whether you’re cruising through town or hitting some hills.
What We Like:
- CARVING PERFECTION: These trucks make turning super smooth and easy. You’ll feel every carve perfectly.
- STRONG & DURABLE: Made with strong aluminum and special treatments, these trucks are built to last a long time. The axles and kingpins are really tough.
- ULTIMATE RESPONSE: The bushings are made in the USA and give you a great feel for the board. They help you respond quickly to what you want the board to do.
- UNIVERSAL MOUNTING: The baseplate has six holes, so it fits most longboard decks, no matter if they are old or new styles.
- GUARANTEED FOR LIFE: Paris is so sure about how well they make these trucks that they promise they’ll last forever!
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 50° angle is great for carving, some riders looking for extreme stability at very high speeds might prefer a different angle.
- The matte black finish, while stylish, could potentially show scuffs over time with heavy use.
These Paris V2 trucks are a fantastic choice for anyone who loves to carve. They offer a great balance of smooth turning and lasting durability, backed by a lifetime guarantee.
2. Atlas Truck Co. Kingpin Ultralight Longboard Trucks
Rating: 8.7/10
The Atlas Truck Co. Kingpin Ultralight Longboard Trucks are a game-changer for longboarders. These trucks are built with strong, forged aluminum, making them lighter and more precise than others. They offer a smooth ride that feels like trucks costing much more. If you love cruising, carving, or freeriding, these trucks are a fantastic option. They are designed to give you a great feel for your board.
What We Like:
- Super strong and precise forged aluminum construction.
- 20% lighter than older Atlas trucks because of an 8mm axle.
- Smooth, surfy feel perfect for carving and cruising.
- High rebound cone bushings for a responsive ride.
- Machined ball pivot and tapered kingpin for fluid lean.
- Built-in speed rings make setup easy.
- Designed with great attention to detail for a stable and reactive ride.
- Compares well to top brands like Paris, Caliber, and Randal.
- Excellent value for the high quality.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited availability might make them hard to find sometimes.
These Atlas trucks deliver an amazing ride without breaking the bank. They are a top pick for anyone looking to upgrade their longboard setup.
3. ANTWHEEL Sidewinder II Longboard/Skateboard/surf Skateboard Black Skateboard Double Kingpin Trucks 7″ Hanger 9.72″ Axle (Set of 2) Free Hardware (9.3″ Hanger 12″ Axle)
Rating: 9.0/10
The ANTWHEEL Sidewinder II Longboard/Skateboard/surf Skateboard trucks are a great upgrade for your ride. They are made from strong aluminum alloy, which means they will last a long time. These trucks are designed for longboards, skateboards, and surfskates, giving you lots of options. You get a set of two trucks, and they even come with free hardware to get you rolling. The black color looks cool on any board.
What We Like:
- Built with high-quality aluminum alloy for toughness.
- Includes free hardware, saving you extra money.
- Double kingpin design offers a surfy, carvy feel.
- Versatile, working for longboards, skateboards, and surfskates.
- The 7″ hanger and 9.72″ axle size is a common and good fit for many boards.
What Could Be Improved:
- The included hardware might be a basic set; some riders might prefer specialized hardware.
- The “free hardware” size listed as (9.3″ Hanger 12″ Axle) seems to be a different size than the main truck description, which could be confusing.
These ANTWHEEL Sidewinder II trucks are a solid choice for riders looking for a responsive and durable setup. They offer a fun ride and come with everything you need to get started.
4. VJ skateshop Longboard Skateboard Combo Package with 70mm Wheels 7inch 180mm Aluminum Trucks
Rating: 9.4/10
Ready to hit the pavement? The VJ Skateshop Longboard Skateboard Combo Package is your ticket to cruising, carving, and enjoying the ride. This all-in-one set gives you all the essential parts to build or upgrade your longboard, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to get started or refresh their setup.
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What We Like:
- The trucks are strong aluminum and designed for smooth downhill and freeride riding.
- You get a great variety of cool wheel colors to choose from, like neon green and gel blue.
- The 70mm wheels are perfect for rolling over different surfaces like roads and sidewalks.
- It includes everything you need, from bearings to screws, so you don’t have to hunt for individual parts.
- The Abec 7 bearings are standard and work with most skate wheels.
- This set is a super convenient way to get quality longboard parts.
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What Could Be Improved:
- While the wheels are good for most surfaces, they might not be the best for super rough terrain.
- Some riders might prefer slightly different durometer wheels depending on their riding style.
This complete package makes building or upgrading your longboard easy and fun. Grab this set and get ready to roll!
5. AXDT Skateboard Wheels Set
Rating: 8.6/10
Ready to upgrade your ride or build your dream skateboard from scratch? The AXDT Skateboard Wheels Set is a comprehensive package that gives you all the essential parts to get rolling. This all-in-one kit includes sturdy trucks, smooth-rolling wheels, reliable bearings, and all the hardware you need. It’s designed to make building or refreshing your skateboard a breeze.
What We Like:
- This set includes everything you need: 5.0 skateboard trucks, 60mm skateboard wheels, ABEC-9 skateboard bearings, 1″ skateboard screws, 2mm skateboard riser pads, and skateboard spacers.
- The 5-inch skateboard trucks are made from a magnesium aluminum alloy. They use a die-casting process and have a medium carbon steel hardening for extra strength. The metal baking finish means they can handle more weight and pressure.
- The 60mm wheels have a hardness of 100a and a 60% rebound. This makes them great for beginners because they are less likely to slip. They are made with PU infusion for a strong, integrated molding, so you don’t have to worry about them cracking.
- The ABEC-9 skateboard bearings are standard 608 size. They can spin for 30 seconds without load, giving you a super smooth ride.
- This set is perfect for decks that are 7.5 inches to 8 inches wide.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the wheels are good for beginners, more advanced skaters might want a different hardness for specific tricks or terrains.
- The set is a great value, but some riders might prefer to pick out individual components to match their exact preferences.
This AXDT Skateboard Wheels Set is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a reliable and complete skateboard kit. It offers great performance for its price, making it an excellent choice for new skaters and those wanting to refresh their current setup.
Your Ultimate Guide to Longboard Trucks
Choosing the right longboard trucks can make a huge difference in how your board rides. Trucks are the metal parts that connect your wheels to your deck. They control how your board turns and how stable it feels. This guide will help you find the perfect trucks for your longboarding adventure.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for longboard trucks, keep these important features in mind:
Truck Width
Truck width is super important. It should match the width of your deck. If your trucks are too narrow, your wheels might rub against the deck when you turn. If they are too wide, your board might feel wobbly. A good rule is to pick trucks that are about the same width as your deck, or just a little bit wider.
Axle Size
The axle is the metal rod that goes through the middle of your wheels. It’s part of the truck. The axle size needs to fit your wheels. Most longboard wheels fit standard axles, but it’s always good to check.
Kingpin Angle
The kingpin is a big bolt that holds the hanger and baseplate together. The angle of the kingpin affects how easily your board turns. A steeper angle (like 50 degrees) makes your board turn sharper. A shallower angle (like 45 degrees) makes your board more stable at high speeds.
Bushings
Bushings are the rubbery rings around the kingpin. They help control how your board leans and turns. Bushings come in different hardnesses. Softer bushings let you turn more easily, which is great for cruising. Harder bushings make your board more stable, which is better for downhill riding.
Important Materials
Most longboard trucks are made from strong metals.
- Aluminum Alloy: This is the most common material. It’s strong and lightweight. Many trucks use a mix of aluminum and other metals to make them even stronger.
- Chromoly Steel: The kingpin and axles are often made of chromoly steel. This metal is very tough and can handle a lot of stress.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good quality trucks will make your ride much better.
- Precision Machining: Trucks that are made with precision are smoother and work better. This means they will turn more smoothly and feel more reliable.
- Durable Coatings: Trucks with good paint or coatings will resist rust and scratches. This helps them last longer and look good.
- Good Bushing Seats: The place where the bushings sit needs to be well-made. If it’s not smooth, it can make your trucks feel stiff or wobbly.
- Weight: Lighter trucks can make it easier to do tricks and can feel more nimble. However, very light trucks might not be as strong.
User Experience and Use Cases
The type of trucks you choose depends on how you want to ride your longboard.
Cruising and Carving
For cruising around town or carving smooth turns, you’ll want trucks that turn easily. Trucks with a steeper kingpin angle (around 50 degrees) and softer bushings are usually best. Reverse Kingpin (RKP) trucks are very popular for this because they offer a lot of turning ability.
Downhill and Speed
If you plan on riding fast downhill, stability is key. Look for trucks with a shallower kingpin angle (around 45 degrees) and harder bushings. This will help keep your board steady at high speeds. Traditional Kingpin (TKP) trucks can also be stable, but RKP trucks are more common for downhill.
Freestyle and Tricks
For doing tricks, you need trucks that are strong and responsive. Many freestyle riders use trucks that are similar to skateboard trucks, often with a lower profile. The width is also important to match your deck for flip tricks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between Reverse Kingpin (RKP) and Traditional Kingpin (TKP) trucks?
A: RKP trucks have the kingpin angled outwards, which allows for easier and deeper turns. TKP trucks have the kingpin angled inwards, offering more stability but less turning. RKP is great for carving and cruising, while TKP can be good for some downhill and street style longboarding.
Q: How do I know what truck width to get?
A: Measure your deck’s width. Your truck’s axle width should be close to your deck’s width. If your deck is 9 inches wide, look for trucks with an axle around 9 inches.
Q: Can I use skateboard trucks on a longboard?
A: While you can, it’s generally not recommended for most longboarding styles. Longboard trucks are usually wider and designed for different turning and stability needs than skateboard trucks.
Q: What does “durometer” mean for bushings?
A: Durometer is a measure of how hard a material is. For bushings, a higher durometer number means a harder bushing, which makes your board more stable. A lower durometer means softer bushings, which allow for easier turning.
Q: How do I adjust my trucks?
A: You can adjust your trucks using a skate tool or wrench. Tightening the kingpin nut makes your trucks stiffer and less turny. Loosening it makes them looser and more turny.
Q: How often should I replace my longboard trucks?
A: Longboard trucks are quite durable. You typically only need to replace them if they become bent, cracked, or if the kingpin is damaged. Bushings, however, wear out faster and should be replaced when they feel less responsive or start to split.
Q: What are pivot cups?
A: Pivot cups are small cups in the baseplate that the hanger pivots in. They help with smooth turning and can affect how your trucks feel. Good quality pivot cups are important for a responsive ride.
Q: Do truck color or brand matter?
A: Color is purely for looks. Brand can sometimes indicate quality, as some brands are known for making very durable and well-made trucks. However, good trucks can come from many different brands.
Q: What is “wheelbite”?
A: Wheelbite happens when your wheels touch your deck during a hard turn. This can stop your board suddenly. Using wider trucks, riser pads, or harder bushings can help prevent wheelbite.
Q: Are expensive trucks always better?
A: Not always. While premium trucks often use better materials and manufacturing, you can find excellent quality trucks at a mid-range price. It’s more important to match the truck’s features to your riding style.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Sean Kernan, the voice behind esteeringwheel.com.. With a passion for all things automotive, I created this platform to share my journey, insights, and expertise about cars. From the latest tech to timeless driving tips, my goal is to help fellow enthusiasts and everyday drivers navigate the fascinating world of automobiles. Welcome to my corner of the road—let’s steer toward knowledge and discovery together!