Are you looking to upgrade your skateboard with a longer truck? You may be considering using a longboard truck on your skateboard. It’s important to understand the differences between skateboard and longboard trucks before making this decision, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each.
In this article, you’ll learn about different types of longboard trucks, how to size them for your board, and factors to consider when choosing which ones are right for you. With the right knowledge in hand, you can make an informed decision that will give your board a smooth ride.
Understanding the Differences Between Skateboard Trucks and Longboard Trucks
Longboard trucks and skateboard trucks may look similar, but they’re actually quite different. It’s important to understand these differences.
Longboard trucks are larger than skateboard trucks, providing a larger platform for the board. This increased size enhances stability while riding, making it easier to carve and cruise.
On the other hand, skateboard trucks are smaller and more lightweight. This allows them to be more nimble, making them better suited for tricks like ollies or flip tricks.
It’s worth noting that the higher stability of longboard trucks makes them unsuitable for most skateboarding maneuvers.
Understanding these distinctions between longboard trucks and skateboard trucks will help you choose the right type of trucks for your preferred style of riding.
Advantages of Using Longboard Trucks on a Skateboard
Using the right trucks on your board can have huge advantages for your ride. Longboard trucks feature a larger design than skateboard trucks, which allows them to support bigger wheels and provide improved stability when riding.
With more wheelbase selection options, you can find the perfect fit for your particular setup. Longboard truck designs also come with better turning abilities, allowing you to quickly switch between tight corners and wide turns with ease.
The added control and maneuverability are definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a smoother ride.
Disadvantages of Using Longboard Trucks on a Skateboard
Using longboard trucks on a skateboard can be tricky and challenging. Maneuverability is reduced as the longer wheelbase of the longboard truck makes turning harder, so it takes more skill to control it.
Furthermore, learning how to ride with longboard trucks requires more time than with standard skateboard trucks, so there is a steeper learning curve.
Reduced Maneuverability
When it comes to maneuverability, using longboard trucks on a skateboard can significantly reduce your turning capabilities. Precision turning is affected due to the truck weighting, as well as the increased size and width of the trucks. This makes quick turns much more difficult than with regular skateboard trucks.
Additionally, due to its increased size, it’s also harder to make tight turns in narrow spaces such as inside a half-pipe or bowl. Furthermore, any changes you make to the truck set up will affect how quickly you can turn; this is something that isn’t an issue when using regular skateboard trucks.
All in all, reduced maneuverability should be taken into consideration if you are considering swapping out your regular skateboard trucks for longboard ones.
Steeper Learning Curve
Learning to maneuver a longboard setup may come with a steeper learning curve. This is because precision turning and tight turns in confined spaces require specialized technique. To master these techniques, one must consider factors such as street style, wheel width, and overall board size.
- Street style: This refers to the way you ride your board in urban environments.
- Wheel width: Wheels wider than standard skateboards offer more stability for speed but can be harder to turn at low speeds.
- Overall board size: Longer boards are typically more stable when riding downhill but less maneuverable than shorter boards.
Factors to Consider When Using Longboard Trucks on a Skateboard
When using longboard trucks on a skateboard, there are several factors that need to be considered.
One important factor is the mounting issues that may arise due to wheel size. Wider wheels may not fit in standard-sized skateboard trucks, so it’s crucial to ensure compatibility.
Another factor to consider is the wheelbase and axle length. Longer boards require larger trucks to maintain stability, so it’s essential to check if the trucks are suitable for the specific board being used.
Additionally, the hardware used must be compatible with the existing mounting holes. If they don’t match, finding spacers or a different mounting system will be necessary to ensure a secure fit.
To make informed decisions and avoid any potential issues, it is highly recommended to consult an expert before making any modifications to your skateboard.
Different Types of Longboard Trucks
When it comes to longboard trucks, there are two main types: reverse kingpins and traditional kingpins.
Reverse kingpin trucks feature a hanger that is angled slightly away from the board. This design provides increased stability and better control at higher speeds. It also allows for sharper turns and more responsive steering. Reverse kingpin trucks are commonly used for cruising, downhill riding, and carving.
On the other hand, traditional kingpin trucks have an axle and hanger that are parallel with the board. These trucks offer a looser and more surf-like feel. They are often preferred by riders who enjoy freestyle tricks, sliding, and street-style riding.
Both styles of truck offer different levels of stability, responsiveness, and steering capabilities. Choosing the right type of truck depends on your riding style and the terrain you will be riding on.
Reverse Kingpins
You may find that reverse kingpin longboard trucks can be used for skateboarding, but bear in mind they do not offer the same level of performance as traditional skateboard trucks.
Reverse kingpins feature a different geometry than regular skateboard trucks, with a wider base and bigger wheelbase options. This offers more stability and grip on the board, but makes them less responsive than regular skateboard trucks.
So while you can use them for skating, you’ll likely have to make some adjustments to get the best performance out of your setup.
Traditional Kingpins
Shifting gears, let’s talk about traditional kingpins. They are the most common skateboard trucks available and are usually part of a board setup with standard wheels – both factors that affect your performance.
The design of traditional kingpins is simpler than reverse kingpins, which can give you a smoother ride when compared to other skateboard components. However, they may not be suitable for longboards since they aren’t designed for higher speeds.
Still, it depends on your wheel choice; different sizes provide different levels of stability at varying speeds.
Longboard Truck Sizing
Choosing the correct size of longboard truck for your skateboard is key!
Longboard trucks are designed to provide higher speed stability and increased turning radius compared to traditional kingpin trucks.
This means that the size of the longboard truck will determine how low or high you can set it on your skateboard.
Most commonly, a standard 7-inch longboard truck works best on most skateboards, but if you want more stability at higher speeds, then an 8-inch or larger might be better.
Choosing the Right Longboard Trucks for Your Skateboard
Finding the right size of truck for your board is essential to ensure top performance and increased turn radius! Longboard trucks offer more stability, but you need to consider the tradeoffs in durability. When selecting longboard trucks for your skateboard, think about shape variations, weight, height, and axle widths.
Here are some tips to help you choose:
- Make sure the hanger width fits your deck’s wheelbase
- Consider lighter materials like aluminum for less weight and improved turning ability
- Check that the kingpin clearance is correct for your deck shape
- Ensure that axle length matches up with your wheels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to attach longboard trucks to a skateboard?
To attach longboard trucks to a skateboard, the best way is alternative mounting. This technique is more reliable than traditional mounting because it requires fewer modifications and less risk of damage.
When selecting the truck, it’s important to choose one that fits both your skateboard deck and your preferred riding style.
Depending on the type of material used for the board and trucks, screws or bolts may be needed for secure installation.
Ultimately, using an alternative mounting method provides greater stability and flexibility for skateboarders looking to customize their experience.
How much do longboard trucks typically cost?
You may be wondering how much longboard trucks typically cost. The price of these trucks can vary depending on the quality and brand, but generally they range from $50-$130.
It is important to consider long term durability when selecting a truck, as higher quality materials will ensure the longevity of your skateboard setup.
Additionally, you should make sure to get installation tips from an experienced skateboarder or professional if you are unfamiliar with assembling boards.
Are there any specific longboard truck brands that are better for skateboarding?
When it comes to longboard trucks, there are several brands that some might consider better for skateboarding.
The preferred size of the truck is important, as most skateboards require a narrower width than longboards.
For example, Paris Trucks offer a universal fit between both styles of board and come in sizes from 180mm to 215mm.
Caliber Trucks also have a variety of sizes ranging from 50-180mm which makes them a great choice for those looking for an adjustable ride suitable for both skateboarding and longboarding.
Are longboard trucks easier to maintain than regular skateboard trucks?
Maintaining longboard trucks is often easier than maintaining regular skateboard trucks. Changing wheels can be more convenient as longboard trucks are usually larger and have more space for different types of wheel configurations.
Installing bearings on a longboard truck can also be simpler due to its size and design. It’s important to make sure the bearings fit the axle properly, but this task is much easier with a bigger board.
In addition, a longer board will require less maintenance overall as it doesn’t wear out as quickly or easily as a smaller one would.
Ultimately, if you’re looking for an easy-to-maintain set of trucks, longboard ones might be your best bet.
What is the best way to adjust the height of longboard trucks on a skateboard?
You may be wondering how to adjust the height of longboard trucks on a skateboard. The best way to change the height is by upgrading your bearings and wheel choice.
Bearing upgrades will help you raise or lower your trucks depending on what type of riding style you prefer, such as street or park skating.
Wheel choice is also important, as different sizes offer different levels of grip and stability when skating.
These two factors should be considered in order to maximize the performance of your skateboard and make sure it’s suited for your individual needs.
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!