Using longboard trucks on skateboard setups can really change the game for those aiming to boost their skateboard stability at high speeds. Longboard trucks are built to provide a smoother, more stable ride compared to traditional skateboarding trucks. These trucks help because longboards, which are usually 33-60 inches long and 9-10 inches wide, offer more stability than skateboards, which are typically 28-32 inches long and 7-10 inches wide.
Longboard trucks come in sizes from 150mm to 180mm and are key for better high-speed skateboarding. Trucks such as Reverse Kingpin Trucks (RKPs) allow for easier turns and more stability. By adjusting the kingpin nut or changing bushings, you can reduce wobbles and make your ride safer. This is especially important for the high speeds often reached in longboarding.
Introduction to Longboard Trucks on Skateboards
Longboard trucks stand out from regular skateboard trucks by offering a smoother ride. They are especially liked for their stability with Reverse Kingpin Trucks (RKP) becoming a favorite. Knowing the different truck types and tweaking them for better stability can make your skateboarding better.
You can adjust longboard trucks to fit your riding style and speed. This is done through bushing adjustments and changing the baseplate angle. Whether you want better turning or control at high speeds, these changes help. Plus, knowing truck geometry, like the 36.5° angle in Traditional Kingpin Trucks (TKP) versus RKPs, helps you pick the right setup.
TKP and RKP trucks differ in their origins and features. TKPs came from the 1950s roller skate designs and are compact and tough, great for technical tricks. They were made famous by Independent Skateboard Company. RKPs started in the 1970s and suit longboarding with their precise turns for downhill rides.
| Truck Type | Origin | Best For | Angle Between Pivot and Kingpin | Key Brands |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TKP | 1950s | Technical Tricks | 72.5° | Independent, Thunder, Venture |
| RKP | 1970s | Longboarding | More Efficient | Paris, Caliber, Bear |
Adding longboard trucks to your skateboard boosts your ride’s performance and versatility. Whether doing complex tricks or needing stability at high speeds, understanding longboard trucks is essential. This knowledge is key to improving your skateboard.
Understanding Different Types of Longboard Trucks
When you start longboarding, it’s key to know the different truck setups. There are Traditional Kingpin Trucks (TKP), Reverse Kingpin Trucks (RKP), and Double Kingpin Trucks (DKP). Each type is crafted for different skating styles.
Traditional Kingpin Trucks (TKP)
Traditional Kingpin Trucks shine in agility and responsiveness. They’re perfect for street skating and tricks. These trucks have a higher baseplate angle. This means more turning at slower speeds.
But, high speeds might bring instability. Thus, they’re not the best for downhill. Brands like Paris Trucks, Bear Trucks, and Caliber make top-notch TKPs.
Reverse Kingpin Trucks (RKP)
Reverse Kingpin Trucks are made for longboarding. They have a low baseplate angle for better stability at fast speeds. Their design allows for a smooth lean-to-turn feel. This makes them great for cruising and downhill.
It’s wise to match the truck width to the deck width. Keep the axle width within 0.5 inches. Randal and Bear Trucks are trusted brands for RKPs.
Double Kingpin Trucks
Double Kingpin Trucks offer the best carving and smooth rides. With two kingpins per truck, they turn amazingly well. They sit higher, which makes them less stable at high speeds but very responsive for carving.
Adjustability is a big plus with DKPs, letting you tweak settings for a tailored ride. Brands like Paris Trucks and Randal are go-tos for DKPs.
Here is a comparison table highlighting the distinctive features of each truck type:
| Truck Type | Baseplate Angle | Stability at High Speed | Best For | Popular Brands |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Kingpin Trucks | High | Less Stable | Street Skating | Paris Trucks, Bear Trucks, Caliber |
| Reverse Kingpin Trucks | Low | More Stable | Downhill, Cruising | Randal, Bear Trucks |
| Double Kingpin Trucks | Variable | Least Stable | Carving | Paris Trucks, Randal |
Picking the right longboard truck setup can drastically change your ride. It ensures your performance and fun match your skating style and needs.
Why Choose Longboard Trucks for Your Skateboard?
Choosing longboard trucks for your skateboard makes your ride better, especially at high speeds. For high-speed longboarding, being stable at over 70mph is crucial.
Longboard trucks have a unique design that lifts you higher off the ground than regular skateboard trucks. This height lowers the chance of wheelbite, which happens when big wheels hit the deck. Using 55-65mm wheels reduces this risk. You can also use harder bushings or sand the wheel wells to perfect your ride.
You can change longboard trucks’ baseplate angle to match how you ride. A 50-degree angle works well for freestyle and cruising. A 42-degree angle is better for fast downhill rides. This flexibility lets you tweak your skateboard to fit your needs.
Reverse Kingpin Trucks (RKP) are great for many styles, like freeride and downhill. They’re taller than Standard Kingpin Trucks, giving you better control. You can also adjust bushings and baseplate angles with RKP trucks. This helps your skateboard handle the way you want.
Longboards usually have 180mm trucks. But if you have a smaller deck, you might need 150mm or 165mm trucks. The right truck width is key for the best riding. For more tips on fitting longboard trucks, check out this expert guide.
Precision longboard trucks are more expensive but last longer. They’re great for serious freeride skaters. Standard Kingpin Longboard Trucks are better for casual riders who want more stability.
Here’s a quick comparison of key features between different longboard truck types to help you decide:
| Truck Type | Best For | Baseplate Angle | Stability | Customization |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reverse Kingpin (RKP) | Freeride, Freestyle, Carving, Downhill | 50° / 42° | High | Yes |
| Standard Kingpin | General Cruising | ~90° | More Stability | No |
| Dual-Pivot | Cruising, Quick Turns | Varies | Moderate | Yes |
In conclusion, longboard trucks greatly improve your skateboard’s performance, especially at high speeds. They’re a good choice whether you’re into downhill racing or just cruising around.
The Role of Baseplate Angle in Longboard Trucks
The longboard baseplate angle greatly affects how your longboard performs and handles. The right baseplate angle depends on how you ride, your experience, and what you want from your board. You might be looking for stability at high speeds or better carving abilities.
High vs. Low Baseplate Angles
Baseplate angles, whether high or low, serve different needs:
- A high baseplate angle, like 48 degrees, is perfect for cruising, carving, and freeriding. It lets you turn sharply and quickly, which is great for beginners who want to maneuver easily.
- On the other hand, a low baseplate angle, such as 40 degrees or less, offers stability. It’s the best choice for downhill runs, where you need stability at high speeds, especially over 35mph.
| Brand | Size | Baseplate Angle Options |
|---|---|---|
| Paris V3 | 180mm, 165mm, 150mm | 50°, 43° |
| Paris V2 | 150mm, 180mm | – |
| Caliber II | 184mm | – |
| Bear Gen 6 | Three sizes | – |
| Paris Street | 129mm | – |
| Gullwing Chargers | 160mm | – |
Optimal Baseplate Angles for Stability
A good baseplate angle balances lean and turn. A regular RKP truck usually has a 50° angle for quick responses. But the best balance is usually found at 45°. So, what does this mean?
- If the baseplate angle is higher (45°+), you’ll get more turning ability with less leaning. This is awesome for making sharp turns at slower speeds.
- If the angle is lower (45°-), you can lean more without turning as much. This setup is perfect for downhill or high-speed freeriding. It gives you better grip and helps with sliding.
Choosing the best longboard baseplate angle often comes down to what you prefer and how skilled you are. New riders usually like higher angles for easy turning. Experienced riders might prefer lower angles for stability at high speeds and a lower chance of wheelbite during tight carves.
Longboard Truck Geometry and Its Impact on Performance
The shape of longboard trucks is key to skateboard performance and a smooth ride. Elements like hanger width and baseplate angle must match your riding style. Getting the longboard truck geometry right leads to a stable and responsive ride.
The width of the truck hanger influences your stable ride. Wider trucks make for stability but make turning harder. Narrow trucks let you turn faster but might feel less stable at speed. It’s important to choose the right truck width for where you stand on the board.
Baseplate angle plays a big role in longboard truck geometry. Using different angles front and back, like 35 degrees at the back and 50 at the front, helps keep high-speed rides stable. Research shows that downhill boards often use a mix of rear angles from 20-45 degrees and front angles around 65 degrees to prevent wobbles.
Trying different truck heights can also improve your ride. The Caliber II and TB218 trucks are good choices, with adjustable baseplate angles. Riders can switch to Riptide pivots in WFB 96a for better performance on various surfaces.
Bushing setups like Cone/Barrel and Barrel/FatCone from Riptide offer tailored riding feels. Adjusting baseplate angles and bushings can tweak how responsive and controlled your board feels, making your ride exactly how you want it.
| Component | Effect | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| Hanger Width | Stability vs. Turning | Wider for stable ride, narrower for quick turns |
| Baseplate Angle | Turning Radius & Speed Control | 35-degree rear, 50-degree front for high-speed stability |
| Bushing Setup | Responsiveness & Control | Cone/Barrel for moderate turns, Barrel/FatCone for high speed |
Wheelbase measurements affect board performance too. Riders often use axle distances to measure. For example, a 14.5-inch wheelbase on Paris TKP trucks measures to about 17.2 inches. Bear TKP trucks show 17.6 inches due to their design. Changing the wheelbase can make your board more maneuverable or stable, depending on what you’re looking for.
Finding the right longboard truck setup may take some experimentation. But it can lead to that perfect balance of performance and pleasure for your rides.
Adjusting Longboard Truck Turning Radius
Adjusting the turning radius of your longboard trucks can change how you ride. It helps make your ride suit your needs. This could be making tighter turns or keeping stable at high speeds.
How to Increase Turning Radius
To make your longboard turn more, loosen the trucks. This is great for a fun, carving ride. It works well at low speeds or when doing tricks. Here are some ways to do this:
- Loosen the kingpin nut a little at a time. Do it until it feels right.
- Choose softer bushings. They let you turn easier.
- Try riser pads. They stop wheel bite and let you turn more.
Brands like Indian Chromolly and Motobuilt are known for good turning.
How to Decrease Turning Radius
To lower your longboard’s turning radius for better stability, tighten your trucks. This is key for fast riding. It helps avoid wobbles, perfect for steep hills or big ramps. Here’s how:
- Tighten the kingpin nut bit by bit. This gives you a stable ride.
- Go for harder bushings. They keep your ride smooth and straight.
- Pick trucks from trusted brands like Independent, Thunder, or Venture. Angle changes and special riser pads also help.
The hanger’s angle and kingpin position matter a lot. Looser trucks mean more turns. But, the right adjustments give you a smooth ride.
Choosing the Right Materials for Longboard Trucks
Choosing the best longboard truck materials is crucial for better performance and durability. Skateboard trucks made from top-notch metals offer unmatched strength. They handle both intense and everyday rides well.
Choosing durable longboard trucks means your setup lasts longer. Aircraft-grade aluminum is often used because it is strong yet light. The materials in bushings also play a big role. They impact how well trucks turn and their overall life. High-rebound polyurethane bushings are sought after for their durability and smooth ride.
| Longboard Truck Type | Material | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Precision Trucks | CNC-Machined Aluminum | Freeride, Downhill |
| Standard Kingpin Trucks | Cast Aluminum | Street, Park, Cruising |
| Reverse Kingpin Trucks | Forged Aluminum | Freeride, Carving |
| Dual-Pivot Trucks | Aircraft-Grade Aluminum | Freestyle, Fast Turns |
For parts, look at trusted brands like Independent Trucks or Tracker. They’re known for high-quality skateboard trucks that last. Their trucks come with 6-hole baseplates. These fit both new and old skateboard designs.
To wrap it up, picking the right longboard truck materials makes your skateboarding smoother and more dependable. It leads to a more enjoyable skating experience.
Enhancing Ride Precision with Proper Truck Setup
Choosing the right bushings and tweaking truck tightness can greatly improve your longboard’s precision. A proper setup not only stabilizes your board but also boosts control. This is super helpful during downhill rides.
Bushings are key to how your ride feels. They cushion the space between the hanger and baseplate. This affects your board’s turning response.
Bushings: Soft vs. Hard
Soft bushings bend more, making turns smoother and handling easier. They’re perfect for carving and slow speeds. On the flip side, hard bushings add resistance. This means better stability at high speeds, crucial for downhill paths. Choosing your bushing selection wisely makes a big difference in ride quality.
“Choosing the right bushings for your longboard truck setup is crucial to achieve the desired ride characteristics,” experts note. Learn more here.
Tightening and Loosening Trucks
Tweaking truck tightness with the kingpin nut is key to a good setup. Tighter trucks help with stability for high-speed downhills. Looser trucks give a responsive, playful feel, great for smooth turns and carving. Adjusting tightness for your style and different terrains helps keep control sharp.
Precise longboard trucks, like those by Caliber or Paris, can cost £60 to £500 per set. This buys you quality materials and craft for the best performance and durability.
Finding the right mix of bushing selection and truck tightness is crucial. Here’s a table to help you see the differences:
| Aspect | Soft Bushings | Hard Bushings |
|---|---|---|
| Turning Radius | Wide and Agile | Narrow and Stable |
| Stability | Low-speed Maneuvering | High-speed Stability |
| Ideal Use | Carving | Downhill |
Regular changes and using top components can perfect your longboard truck precision. The right setup offers a ride tailored just for you.
Balancing Longboard Truck Compliance and Durability
Finding the perfect mix of longboard truck compliance and longboard truck durability is key for top performance. Compliance lets the truck adjust to different surfaces and how you move, leading to a smoother ride. Durability means the trucks can take a lot of use without breaking down.
To get the best performance balancing, choosing high-quality trucks is important. Brands like Paris Trucks and Caliber Trucks are known for lasting a long time. They provide both compliance and durability. The type of material they are made from also affects their performance in various conditions.
How well the deck and trucks work together also matters for balance. Decks crafted from composite materials or top-quality wood match well with durable trucks. This combination lets riders enjoy comfort and high performance at the same time.
“The balance between compliance and durability in longboard trucks is the cornerstone of a smooth and long-lasting riding experience,” shares a seasoned rider from the Veymax team.
For riders who are heavier or ride in tough places, Veymax’s Cejour motorized longboard trucks are strong enough to support a lot of weight—up to 330 lbs. But, getting the right adjustment doesn’t end there. Changing bushings to match your weight, height, and preferences makes the ride even better. Riptide offers bushings in many shapes, like barrel or chubby, allowing for precise adjustments that improve both compliance and durability.
- Compliance: Adapts to terrain, offering smoother rides.
- Durability: Ensures longevity and withstands rigorous use.
- Performance Balancing: Achieved by selecting the right materials and design.
| Brand | Maximum Load Capacity | Truck Features |
|---|---|---|
| Veymax | 150kg/330lbs | High compliance and durability |
| Paris Trucks | Up to 200 lbs | Customizable bushing options |
| Caliber Trucks | 180 lbs | Strong aluminum alloy build |
Getting the perfect mix of compliance and durability means your longboard trucks will give you a smooth ride. They’ll also last a long time. This makes your longboarding fun and reliable.
Longboard Truck Maintenance Tips
Maintaining your longboard trucks properly extends your gear’s life and improves your ride. Focus on important areas to see a big difference.
Cleaning and Lubricating Bearings
Care for your bearings is crucial in longboard maintenance. Regular cleaning avoids rust and keeps them rolling smoothly. Choose a natural citrus cleaner over WD-40. After cleaning, dry them well before applying a quality lubricant like Bones Speed cream.
It’s smart to rotate your wheels now and then. This prevents uneven wear and makes them last longer. Clean your wheels with soapy warm water to get rid of dirt.
Regularly Checking Bushings and Kingpins
Inspecting your bushings often is vital for your longboard’s best performance. Look for cracks or wear, and replace them about every six months. Doing this keeps your truck’s response as stiff or flexible as you like.
Also, keep an eye on the kingpins and the truck bolts. Tighten them as needed to stop deck damage and keep your board working well. For squeaks, a little soap or candle wax in the pivot cup or between bushings works wonders.
| Maintenance Task | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Bearings Care | Clean regularly, avoid WD-40, use citrus cleaner, and apply Bones Speed cream |
| Bushing Inspections | Check every six months, replace as needed to maintain performance |
| Truck Bolt Tightness | Ensure tightness to avoid deck damage and maintain performance |
| Wheel Rotation | Rotate periodically to prevent uneven wear |
By making these longboard truck maintenance tips a part of your routine, you ensure a smooth ride every time. Remember, taking care of your longboard means it’ll take care of you on the road.
How Longboard Trucks on Skateboard Transform Your Ride
Switching to longboard trucks changes the skateboarding game, bringing you several benefits. They provide faster speeds and better control. This results in a ride that’s both stable and responsive. It elevates your carving and cruising skills too, thanks to the perfect truck setup.
For a lively ride, mix barrels and cones with medium durometer and cup washers. This combo helps you nail every turn with ease. Using the right bushings for downhill or freeride boosts stability and control at high speeds.
But it’s not just for the daring. Longboard trucks suit cruisers and everyday riders with their adjustable hanger widths. These widths range from 150mm to 180mm, suiting different needs. Lower truck heights also offer more stability when going fast. Lastly, bushings, kingpins, and various angles fine-tune the ride. With these tweaks, you get an enhanced skateboard riding experience that matches what you like.
I’m John Peterson, a passionate skater, blogger, and lifelong enthusiast. I’ve been skating for over 9 years and have gone on to write a blog dedicated to the sport of skating and its culture. Through my blog, I strive to share my knowledge and experience of the sport with all who are interested. From beginner tips, tricks, and equipment reviews to interviews and event coverage, I cover it all. So read my blog as I explore the wonderful world of skating!