When you're watching your wallet, finding quality skateboard trucks can be a delicate balance. You don't want to sacrifice performance for price, but there are options that offer both affordability and reliability. From beginner-friendly sets to those suited for casual rides, these budget picks are worth exploring. Curious about how these choices stack up against each other and what makes them stand out? Let's explore the potential these options hold for enhancing your skateboarding experience.
key Takeaways
- Jizmo Skateboard Trucks and Wheels Starter Set offers affordability and versatility for beginners.
- CCS Skateboard Trucks provide professional-grade quality and durability with high rebound bushings.
- Havoc 5.0 Skateboard Trucks are lightweight and budget-friendly, ideal for casual skaters.
- 3.25 Mini Skateboard Trucks cater to mini decks, ensuring lightweight performance.
- Atlas Truck Co. Traditional Kingpin Trucks combine durability and stability for beginner skaters.
Jizmo Skateboard Trucks and Wheels Starter Set
If you're on the hunt for affordable skateboard components, the Jizmo Skateboard Trucks and Wheels Starter Set is a great choice, especially for beginners. This combo includes two aluminum trucks, four 52mm wheels, ABEC-11 bearings, and a handy T-tool. It's designed to fit decks between 7.75 and 8.25 inches, making it versatile for various styles. The durable trucks and smooth-rolling bearings guarantee a reliable ride. Assembly is a breeze, taking only about four minutes, and it's perfect for novice skaters or younger kids. While it's not for pros, it's a solid, budget-friendly option for getting started.
Best For: Beginners and younger kids looking to build their own skateboard at an affordable price.
Pros:
- Easy and quick assembly.
- Versatile fit for various deck sizes (7.75-8.25 inches).
- Cost-effective complete set for novice skaters.
Cons:
- Wheels and bearings may not meet professional standards.
- Some users report issues with truck quality.
- Not suitable for advanced skaters seeking high-performance components.
CCS Skateboard Trucks with Mounting Hardware
For skaters seeking quality without breaking the bank, the CCS Skateboard Trucks with Mounting Hardware offer an ideal choice. These professional-grade trucks are built with durable steel hangers and baseplates, ensuring sturdiness and reliability. You'll appreciate the smoother and sharper turns thanks to their premium high rebound bushings. Available in sizes from 109mm to 149mm, they fit various deck sizes and styles, whether you're hitting the streets or the skatepark. With a 4.6-star rating from 563 reviews, they're praised for their quality and value. Plus, you get a set of Phillips mounting hardware included, making setup a breeze.
Best For: Skaters looking for affordable, high-quality skateboard trucks that provide smooth turns and are suitable for various skating styles.
Pros:
- Durable steel construction for long-lasting use.
- High rebound bushings offer smooth and sharp turning.
- Includes Phillips mounting hardware for easy setup.
Cons:
- Limited color options to Black/Raw.
- Might not suit skaters seeking ultra-lightweight trucks.
- Availability may vary during high demand periods.
3.25 Mini Skateboard Trucks
The 3.25 mini skateboard trucks stand out as an excellent choice for skateboarders with mini decks ranging from 20 to 25 inches. These blue aluminum trucks come in a set of two, ensuring your board's performance and style stay on point. With dimensions of 4 x 2 x 2 inches and a weight of 1.2 pounds, they're light yet sturdy. The 89a bushing hardness offers a balanced ride for skaters. Manufactured by SO under the Generic brand, these trucks rank #53 in Skateboard Trucks. Plus, you get free returns, making them a risk-free addition to your skating gear.
Best For: Skateboarders with mini decks ranging from 20 to 25 inches looking for lightweight and sturdy trucks.
Pros:
- Lightweight aluminum construction enhances board performance.
- Free returns offer a risk-free purchasing option.
- Highly ranked at #53 in Skateboard Trucks, indicating popularity and reliability.
Cons:
- Limited to mini decks, not suitable for standard or larger decks.
- Generic brand may lack the reputation of more established names.
- Color options limited to blue, which may not suit all preferences.
Atlas Truck Co. Traditional Kingpin Street Skateboard Truck
Atlas Truck Co.'s Traditional Kingpin Street Skateboard Truck shines as an excellent choice for unisex-teen skaters seeking a balance between durability and performance. With a 139mm black TKP design, it combines the bulletproof construction of RKP trucks into a TKP format. CNC machined pivots enhance strength, providing a stable and reactive ride. Weighing 1.5 pounds, it's recommended for beginners due to its lightweight design, though it may not suit advanced tricks. Customers love its solid performance, rating it 4.5 stars. Despite occasional delivery issues, its sleek look and quality make it a standout in the budget-friendly category.
Best For: Unisex-teen skaters seeking a durable and performance-oriented street skateboard truck.
Pros:
- Combines bulletproof RKP construction with TKP design for enhanced durability.
- CNC machined pivots provide superior ride quality with stability and reactivity.
- Lightweight design makes it suitable for beginners.
Cons:
- Not ideal for advanced tricks due to its weight compared to hollow trucks.
- Occasional delivery issues, such as receiving only one truck instead of two.
- Some criticism regarding the quality of paint and logo.
Havoc Skateboard Trucks, Silver
Looking for an affordable option to upgrade your skateboard? Check out the Havoc Skateboard Trucks in Silver. These trucks, made from durable aluminum alloy, include two 5.25-inch hangers and an 8.25-inch axle, perfect for boards between 7.8 and 8.4 inches wide. The flush kingpin minimizes grinding hang-ups, while the cast Polyurethane bushings guarantee a smooth ride. While some users report issues with durability, many find these trucks a great upgrade for casual use. Just remember, they don't come with screws or risers. With an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars, they're a budget-friendly choice worth considering.
Best For: Casual skateboarders looking for a budget-friendly option to upgrade their board with durable aluminum alloy trucks.
Pros:
- Affordable upgrade for skateboards
- Flush kingpin reduces grinding hang-ups
- Suitable for boards between 7.8 and 8.4 inches wide
Cons:
- Reports of durability issues with bending and breaking
- Does not include screws or risers
- Some discrepancies in measurements reported by users
Skateboard Wheels Set with Trucks and Bearings
Skateboard enthusiasts seeking an affordable yet reliable upgrade should consider the Skateboard Wheels Set with Trucks and Bearings. This set, featuring 52mm wheels and ABEC-9 bearings, provides a smooth ride for beginners. The 7.5-inch magnesium aluminum alloy trucks offer durability with their die-casting process and metal baking finish. You'll appreciate the ease of installation and performance boost over original wheels. Compatible with 7.5" to 8" decks, these components are perfect for skaters looking for value. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by customers, this AXDT set guarantees quality without breaking the bank, making it a top pick for budget-conscious skaters.
Best For: Skateboard beginners and budget-conscious skaters looking for an affordable upgrade with reliable performance.
Pros:
- Durable 7.5-inch magnesium aluminum alloy trucks with metal baking finish
- Smooth ride with 52mm wheels and ABEC-9 bearings
- Easy installation and compatibility with 7.5" to 8" decks
Cons:
- Limited to beginner-level use due to 100a wheel hardness
- May not fit skateboard decks outside the 7.5" to 8" range
- Could lack advanced features sought by experienced skaters
Havoc 5.0 Skateboard Trucks, White
For skateboarders seeking affordable yet reliable trucks, the Havoc 5.0 Skateboard Trucks, White, offer a compelling choice. With a solid 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 76 reviews, they're praised for their great value and consistent flex. These trucks boast a sturdy build, perfect for non-advanced skaters. Their sleek appearance adds a touch of style to your skateboard. However, some users reported issues like warped bushings and misaligned screw holes. While they're a budget-friendly option, consider potential installation challenges. If you find a better price elsewhere, Havoc encourages you to report it, ensuring you get the best deal.
Best For: Skateboarders seeking affordable and reliable trucks with a sturdy build and stylish appearance, suitable for non-advanced users.
Pros:
- Great value with consistent flex.
- Sturdy build ideal for non-advanced skaters.
- Attractive and sleek appearance.
Cons:
- Issues reported with warped bushings.
- Misaligned screw holes causing installation challenges.
- Not recommended for advanced tricks or heavy use.
Caliber II Style Trucks for Electric Skateboard
Caliber II Style Trucks are an excellent choice for both beginners dipping their toes into the world of electric skateboarding and seasoned professionals seeking high-quality performance. These black, aluminum trucks come with a 44-degree angle, making them perfect for various styles like freeride, downhill, and cruising. You'll appreciate the extended rear axle, specifically designed for electric setups, allowing ample space for pulleys and motor mounts. Each set includes essential components like hangers, baseplates, and bushings. While they're highly rated for easy assembly, watch out for potential axle size issues that might affect wheel fit. Enjoy fast shipping and great savings!
Best For: Beginners and seasoned professionals looking for high-quality performance in electric skateboarding.
Pros:
- High-quality aluminum construction with a 44-degree angle for versatility in different skateboarding styles.
- Extended rear axle design specifically for electric setups, accommodating pulleys and motor mounts.
- Fast and affordable shipping options with great savings due to excess inventory.
Cons:
- Potential axle size issues that might affect wheel fit.
- Limited customer ratings available for comprehensive feedback.
- The brand is listed as Generic, which may be a concern for brand-conscious buyers.
Havoc 5.0 Skateboard Trucks, Black
Looking for budget-friendly skateboard trucks that are perfect for young riders? Check out the Havoc 5.0 Skateboard Trucks in sleek black. Made from durable aluminum alloy, these trucks offer a lightweight design, great for kids' boards. They boast a solid construction with a uniform axle height, providing a good turn radius and impact resistance. Although they're praised for improving balance and maneuverability, some users suggest replacing the bushings for enhanced performance. Keep in mind, they're more suited for casual use due to durability concerns with heavy riding. Overall, their price-to-quality ratio makes them a top choice for budding skaters.
Best For: Young riders and beginners looking for budget-friendly skateboard trucks with decent performance for casual use.
Pros:
- Lightweight design ideal for kids' skateboards
- Good turn radius and impact resistance
- Excellent price-to-quality ratio
Cons:
- Bushings may need replacement for better performance
- Durability concerns for frequent or heavy use
- Potential wheelbite issues requiring adjustments
Rekon 5 Hanger 7.75 Axle Set of 2 Skateboard Trucks
Whether you're a budget-conscious skater or just starting out, the Rekon 5 Hanger 7.75 Axle Set of 2 Skateboard Trucks offers a compelling combination of affordability and functionality. With a 5-inch hanger and a 7.75-inch axle, these green trucks are designed to fit your board perfectly. As of January 31, 2023, these trucks are available and rank #143 in Skateboard Trucks. If you find a lower price, you can report it to confirm you're getting the best deal. The Rekon brand prioritizes competitive pricing, making these trucks a solid choice for skaters looking to maximize value without sacrificing performance.
Best For: Budget-conscious skaters or beginners looking for affordable and functional skateboard trucks.
Pros:
- Affordable price point for budget-conscious skaters
- Designed to fit boards with a 7.75-inch axle
- Competitive pricing within the market
Cons:
- Lower best sellers rank at #470,227 in Sports & Outdoors
- Limited color option (only available in green)
- Newer product with less market presence since first available in January 2023
Factors to Consider When Choosing Cheap Trucks for Skateboards
When picking cheap trucks for your skateboard, you should focus on a few key factors. Consider the material and durability to guarantee they can handle your skating style, and check that the truck size is compatible with your board. Don't forget to look at bushing hardness options, axle length variations, and the overall weight and balance to suit your needs.
Material and Durability
Choosing the right material for skateboard trucks is essential for both durability and performance, especially when shopping on a budget. Aluminum trucks provide a solid balance of being lightweight yet durable, making them a popular choice for casual skaters. They offer good performance and longevity without the added weight. On the other hand, if you're looking for maximum strength, steel trucks might be your go-to. They can handle heavy use but come with extra weight.
Be mindful of the truck's design features, like bushings and kingpins—high-quality components mean better performance and reduced wear. Avoid trucks made from lower-quality materials, as they're prone to bending or breaking during tricks. Regular maintenance, like tightening hardware, can extend the lifespan of your trucks.
Truck Size Compatibility
Understanding truck size compatibility is essential for getting the best performance from your skateboard setup. You'll want to verify that your skateboard trucks fit properly on the deck. Typically, truck sizes range from 5 to 8 inches in hanger width, and they should match the width of your skateboard deck, usually between 7.5 to 8.5 inches for standard setups.
Consider the axle width, too, as it affects wheel spacing and stability—like a 7.75-inch axle for decks between 7.75 to 8.25 inches wide. Different styles of skating call for different truck sizes. Narrower trucks suit technical tricks, while wider ones offer more stability for cruising and downhill. Always check manufacturer specs to avoid issues like wheelbite or instability from mismatched sizes.
Bushing Hardness Options
While ensuring your skateboard trucks fit your deck is important, considering bushing hardness can make or break your riding experience. Bushing hardness is measured on a durometer scale, with options from 78A to 101A. Softer bushings (78A-87A) are perfect for beginners, offering easy turning and a forgiving ride, enhancing stability and control at lower speeds. If you're an intermediate skater, medium hardness bushings (88A-95A) provide a balance between responsiveness and comfort, ideal for a mix of tricks and cruising. For advanced tricks or high-speed maneuvers, harder bushings (96A and above) are your go-to, delivering sharper turns and quick responses. Your choice impacts maneuverability, so match the bushing hardness to your skill level and riding style for the best experience.
Axle Length Variations
When selecting skateboard trucks, axle length plays a vital role in your board's stability and performance. Standard lengths range from 7.5 inches to 8.5 inches, directly influencing how your board rides and performs during tricks. Longer axles offer better stability, making them ideal for wider decks. In contrast, shorter axles increase maneuverability on narrower boards. It's essential to match the axle length to your deck's width; for instance, a 7.75-inch deck pairs well with a 7.75 to 8-inch axle. Keep in mind that different truck brands might have slight variations in axle lengths, even if labeled similarly, so always check the exact dimensions. Longer axles can risk wheelbite unless you size wheels correctly or use riser pads.
Weight and Balance
Selecting the right axle length sets the stage for your skateboard's performance, but you shouldn't overlook the weight and balance of your trucks. Lighter trucks, usually around 1.5 pounds or less, offer greater maneuverability, essential for executing tricks and technical skating. Heavier trucks, on the other hand, provide more stability, which is beneficial for cruising. You'll want to take into account the material too; aluminum trucks are lighter and preferred by many beginners seeking agility. Balancing your truck's weight with the deck and wheels is imperative for control and minimizing fatigue. A well-balanced setup enhances your skating experience, letting you focus on performance rather than struggling with imbalance. Choose wisely to optimize your skating style and comfort.
Price-Quality Ratio
Evaluating cheap skateboard trucks involves balancing several key factors to guarantee you get the best bang for your buck. Start by considering the material quality; aluminum trucks generally offer a better weight and durability balance than steel. Check customer ratings to gauge performance, like the Jizmo Skateboard Trucks Combo Set's 4.2 stars from 774 ratings—solid for the price. Features such as high rebound bushings and precision bearings can enhance your ride, as seen with CCS Skateboard Trucks. Ascertain size compatibility with your deck, as some budget options might not fit all sizes. Read customer feedback for insights on durability; while products like Havoc 5.0 have mixed reviews, they highlight that cheaper options might not last long. Balancing these factors guarantees value for your money.
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!