If you’ve ever heard a loud squeaking noise coming from a skate park, chances are it was the sound of skateboard trucks.
Though this iconic sound may be annoying for some, it is beloved by many in the skateboarding culture due to its unique flair and connection to the history of skateboarding.
Let’s take a look at why these squeaky trucks are so popular and how skaters can maintain them properly to reduce their noise levels.
What Causes Squeaky Skateboard Trucks?
The sound is caused by the bearing seat and bushings rubbing together while riding.
As the skateboarder maneuvers their board, the bushings will rub against each other, creating a high-pitched squeak that can be heard from far away.
The more pressure put on the trucks during tricks, the louder and more frequent the squeak will be.
Maintaining your Trucks Properly
Though it may seem like an unavoidable nuisance, skaters who maintain their trucks properly enjoy 10% less squeakiness than those who don’t.
This is done by regularly tightening up their trucks with a wrench and making sure that no dirt or debris has built up over time.
Additionally, replacing any worn parts such as bearings or bushings can go a long way in reducing noise levels.
Doing so ensures that everything is running smoothly and reduces friction – which in turn reduces squeaking!
Conclusion:
The iconic sound of squeaky skateboard trucks has been a part of skateboarding culture since its inception and likely won’t be going away anytime soon!
Skaters love them because they add an extra layer of flair to their stunts and tricks while also paying homage to the roots of this extreme sport.
However, maintaining your trucks properly can drastically reduce both annoyance levels and repair costs down the line – so make sure you keep up with your truck maintenance!
With this knowledge under your belt, you’re now ready to hit up your local park or street spot with confidence.
All while making sure you’re not too much of an annoyance to those around you!
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!