If you're in search of the perfect skateboard trucks for cruising, you're in the right place. Imagine cruising smoothly through urban landscapes with ease and control. The right trucks make all the difference. Whether you're considering the fluid carving of the Flow Surf Skates Cruiser, the budget-friendly Jizmo Skateboard Trucks and Wheels Set, or the reliable Independent Skateboard Stage 11 Trucks, each offers unique benefits. Curious about which might suit your style best?
key Takeaways
- Flow Surf Skates Cruiser provides adjustable truck spring tension for customizable rides and is ideal for riders with surfing experience.
- Jizmo Skateboard Trucks and Wheels Set is a budget-friendly option with high-rebound wheels, ideal for beginners.
- Independent Skateboard Stage 11 Trucks offer durability and responsiveness with A356 T6 Aluminum construction.
- Compatibility with skateboard deck size is crucial for stability and optimal cruising performance.
- Quality skateboard trucks enhance ride smoothness, maneuverability, and overall skateboard performance.
Flow Surf Skates Cruiser (29×10, Supports up to 275 lbs)
If you're searching for the best skateboard trucks for cruising, the Flow Surf Skates Cruiser stands out as an excellent choice, particularly for those who love combining the thrill of surfing with skating. With its 29×10-inch 7-ply North American Maple deck, it supports up to 275 lbs, making it durable and reliable. The 66 mm polyurethane wheels provide a smooth ride, while the Flow Tech truck design features an internal spring for fluid carving and pumping. You can adjust the truck spring tension to suit your style, ensuring a comfortable and dynamic experience. It's perfect for urban environments and surf practice.
Best For: Riders who enjoy combining surfing maneuvers with skateboarding in urban environments and have some experience with balance.
Pros:
- Durable 7-ply North American Maple deck supports up to 275 lbs.
- Adjustable truck spring tension allows customization for different rider preferences.
- Provides a fluid, surf-like carving experience on concrete.
Cons:
- Not beginner-friendly due to the balance required to master the ride.
- Bearings may need adjustment or upgrading for optimal performance.
- Requires pre-ride checks and maintenance to ensure smooth operation.
Jizmo Skateboard Trucks and Wheels Set
The Jizmo Skateboard Trucks and Wheels Set stands out as an excellent choice for beginners enthusiastic to plunge into cruising. You'll find it includes everything you need: two durable aluminum trucks with a 5-inch hanger, four 60mm high-rebound wheels, ABEC-11 bearings, and a handy T-tool. The 90A bushings and 78A wheels deliver smooth rides, while the set's compatibility with 7.5-8.0" decks makes it ideal for entry-level skateboarders. Just remember, maintaining your setup is key—lubricate bearings and use riser pads to prevent wheel bite. With a 4.4-star rating, it's a cost-effective option backed by a two-year warranty.
Best For: Beginners looking to start cruising with a cost-effective skateboard setup.
Pros:
- Durable aluminum trucks suitable for various deck sizes.
- Smooth ride with 60mm high-rebound wheels and ABEC-11 bearings.
- Includes a universal T-tool and hardware for easy assembly and maintenance.
Cons:
- Issues with truck kingpin height can affect grinding.
- Soft bushings may lead to wheel bite.
- Some users reported missing hardware components.
Independent Skateboard Stage 11 Trucks
Independent Skateboard Stage 11 Trucks stand out as a top choice for skateboarders seeking durability and performance. Made from A356 T6 Aluminum and featuring a robust SCM435 Chromoly Steel Axle, these trucks are built to last. With a height of 55mm, they're perfect for wheels 56mm and under. Choose from various widths to match your deck size, ensuring the best fit and ride. Designed in the USA, these trucks offer improved modern features and a classic look. Boasting an average 4.5-star rating, they're praised for their longevity and responsiveness. Just don't forget to buy hardware separately!
Best For: Skateboarders seeking durable, responsive, and high-performance trucks for their setups.
Pros:
- Durable construction with A356 T6 Aluminum and SCM435 Chromoly Steel.
- Responsive design with improved modern features.
- Available in various widths to fit different deck sizes.
Cons:
- Hardware (bolts and shock pad) needs to be purchased separately.
- Some customer confusion regarding product quantity (expectation of receiving a pair).
- Higher price compared to some other brands.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Skateboard Trucks for Cruising
When you're picking skateboard trucks for cruising, pay attention to a few key factors. Make sure the truck width matches your board and consider the material for long-lasting durability. Also, evaluate how well they turn, their weight balance, and if the price fits your budget.
Truck Width and Compatibility
As you choose skateboard trucks for cruising, understanding truck width and compatibility is vital for a smooth ride. The right truck width should match your deck. For instance, if your deck is between 7.40 to 7.80 inches, go with 129mm trucks. If it's 8.25 to 8.65 inches, 149mm trucks are ideal. This guarantees your wheels are properly positioned, maintaining balance and control. Wider trucks offer more stability at higher speeds but can reduce maneuverability. Also, check the truck height in relation to your wheels. Lower trucks are better with wheels 56mm and under to avoid wheel bite. By aligning truck width and height with your deck and wheels, you'll enhance your cruising experience remarkably.
Material and Durability
Choosing the right material for skateboard trucks is essential for a smooth and durable cruising experience. Aluminum and chromoly steel are popular choices. Aluminum offers a great balance of weight and durability, especially when opting for higher-grade like A356 T6, which resists bending. Chromoly steel, on the other hand, provides exceptional strength and longevity, perfect for those who demand more from their rides.
Look for trucks with a thicker baseplate and hanger made from reinforced materials. These can handle more impact, making them ideal for both cruising and tricks. Don't forget the bushings; harder ones last longer, though they might sacrifice some comfort. Regularly lubricating the kingpin and checking for wear will keep your trucks in top shape, regardless of material.
Turning and Responsiveness
To maximize your cruising experience, understanding how skateboard trucks affect turning and responsiveness is vital. Start by considering truck height; lower trucks offer stability, while higher trucks enable sharper turns. Match your truck width with your deck for ideal control. If the truck is too wide or narrow, your turning precision can suffer.
Pay attention to the bushings' hardness. Softer bushings allow easier turns, especially at low speeds, while harder ones provide stability when you're speeding. The angle of the baseplate is significant too; a greater angle can result in quicker, more responsive turns. Finally, consider the truck's weight. Lighter trucks offer a snappier feel, enhancing maneuverability and making shifts smoother as you cruise along.
Weight and Balance
Finding the right weight and balance in skateboard trucks is key to a smooth cruising experience. Lighter trucks offer more responsiveness and make maneuvering easier, while heavier ones provide stability at higher speeds. Balance is essential, so match the truck weight to your size and skateboard deck for smooth control. Trucks with a lower height can help lower the center of gravity, boosting stability during cruising. On the flip side, higher trucks might make turning and performing tricks easier, but they can affect balance. Materials matter too—aluminum trucks are lighter and great for cruising, whereas steel trucks add durability but weigh more. Confirm your board's total weight suits your skill level and intended use for ideal cruising.
Price and Value
After understanding the importance of weight and balance in skateboard trucks, it's time to contemplate how price and value impact your cruising experience. Budget-friendly trucks might suffice for beginners, but they often lack the durability and responsiveness found in higher-priced models. Investing in trucks made from premium materials like aluminum and steel can enhance performance and longevity while reducing weight. The price typically mirrors the quality of components, with advanced designs and superior bushings offering smoother, more stable rides. While cheaper options can be tempting for casual riders, mid-range or premium trucks often provide a more enjoyable and efficient experience. Weigh your budget against your riding style and frequency, as spending more can lead to better performance and fewer replacements over time.
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!