Ever feel like your longboard is just… missing something? Maybe it doesn’t turn the way you want, or it feels wobbly when you pick up speed. That feeling is often because of your trucks! Trucks are the metal parts that connect your wheels to your board, and they play a HUGE role in how your longboard rides.
Choosing the right trucks can feel like a puzzle. There are so many different kinds, and each one does something a little bit different. It’s easy to get confused about what will work best for the kind of riding you want to do, whether that’s cruising around town, carving down hills, or even doing some fancy slides. Getting it wrong can lead to a board that feels awkward or just isn’t as fun to ride.
But don’t worry! This post is going to make choosing your longboard trucks super easy. We’ll break down everything you need to know, from what makes trucks different to how to pick the perfect set for your style. By the end, you’ll be confident in your choice and ready to upgrade your ride!
Our Top 5 Trucks For Longboard Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Trucks For Longboard Detailed Reviews
1. Atlas Truck Co. Kingpin Ultralight Longboard Trucks
Rating: 9.4/10
The Atlas Truck Co. Kingpin Ultralight Longboard Trucks are a game-changer for longboarders. These trucks offer a super smooth ride that feels like you’re riding much more expensive ones. They are made with strong aluminum and have special features that make them lighter and more precise. If you love cruising, carving, or freeriding, these trucks are a fantastic choice.
What We Like:
- They are incredibly light, making your board easier to handle.
- The ride feels super smooth and fluid, almost like surfing on pavement.
- They are built tough with strong, forged aluminum.
- The price is amazing for the quality you get.
- They come with a machined ball pivot and built-in speed rings for a better ride.
- The cone bushings give you a really carvy, surfy feeling.
What Could Be Improved:
- These trucks are so good, they might sell out quickly!
- While they are designed for a wide range of riding, advanced downhill riders might want to explore other options for maximum stability at extreme speeds.
Atlas really nailed it with these trucks. They deliver top-notch performance without breaking the bank, making them a top pick for many longboarders.
2. VJ skateshop Longboard Skateboard Combo Package with 70mm Wheels 7inch 180mm Aluminum Trucks
Rating: 9.4/10
Ready to hit the streets or carve some hills? The VJ Skateshop Longboard Skateboard Combo Package is your all-in-one ticket to awesome rides. This kit packs everything you need to get your longboard rolling, from sturdy trucks to smooth-gliding wheels. It’s designed for anyone who wants a complete setup without the hassle of buying parts separately. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade, this combo offers a solid foundation for your longboarding adventures.
What We Like:
- Complete set: It includes trucks, wheels, bearings, and hardware, so you can build your board right away.
- Great for cruising and freeride: The 70mm, 78a durometer wheels handle roads and sidewalks with ease.
- Quality trucks: The 7-inch aluminum Reverse Kingpin trucks are built for stability and control, perfect for downhill and freeride.
- Variety of wheel colors: You can choose from black, blue, red, neon green, and cool gel versions to match your style.
- Smooth ride: ABEC 7 bearings ensure your wheels spin freely for a fast and smooth experience.
- Good value: This package offers reliable parts at a convenient price.
What Could Be Improved:
- Bearing quality: While ABEC 7 is good, serious downhill skaters might want even higher-grade bearings for extreme speed.
- Truck bushings: The 90a bushings are a good starting point, but some riders might prefer softer or harder ones for personalized tuning.
This VJ Skateshop combo package is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a hassle-free way to get into longboarding. It provides a solid setup that’s ready for plenty of fun rides.
3. VJ Skateboard Longboard Truck and Wheel
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready to shred with the VJ Skateboard Longboard Truck and Wheel kit! This all-in-one package includes everything you need to upgrade your longboard or build a new one. It’s designed for smooth rides on roads, sidewalks, and driveways, making it perfect for cruising and even a bit of downhill action.
What We Like:
- Complete Kit: This set provides all the essential parts – trucks, wheels, bearings, hardware, and spacers – so you don’t have to hunt for them separately.
- Quality Trucks: The 7-inch aluminum trucks feature 90a hardness bushings, which are great for downhill and freeride longboarding. They offer a stable ride.
- Versatile Wheels: The 70mm, 78a durometer wheels are smooth on various surfaces and come in a fun variety of colors, including some cool gel options.
- Standard Bearings: The Abec 7 bearings are the common 608 standard, fitting most skate wheels easily.
- Safety Focused: The hardware is designed for a tight fit, ensuring your parts stay secure for a safer ride. A helpful skateboard tool is also included.
What Could Be Improved:
- Assembly Tool: While a tool is included, it’s recommended to use a skateboard tool or wrench for easier assembly, as hand-tightening isn’t enough for the secure fit.
- Color Options for Trucks: The trucks are only available in silver, limiting customization if you want a different look for your trucks.
This VJ kit offers a fantastic value for longboard enthusiasts, providing quality components for a smooth and exciting ride. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their longboarding experience.
4. Yocaher Longboard Skateboard Trucks Wheels Combo Set 71mm Wheels + 7″/180mm Heavy Duty Aluminum Black Trucks
Rating: 9.3/10
The Yocaher Longboard Skateboard Trucks Wheels Combo Set is your ticket to smooth cruising and stable riding. This all-in-one package includes everything you need to upgrade your longboard or build a new one. It features large, grippy wheels, heavy-duty trucks built for stability, fast bearings, and all the hardware to get you rolling. Plus, riser pads help prevent annoying wheel bite, keeping your ride smooth and safe.
What We Like:
- The 71mm, 78A Speed Cruiser wheels offer excellent grip for a stable ride.
- The 7-inch, 180mm heavy-duty reverse kingpin trucks provide great stability and control.
- Ritalin Abec-9 bearings come pre-lubed for instant speed and smooth rolling right out of the box.
- The included 1.25-inch hardware is strong and reliable for secure mounting.
- The ¼” riser pads effectively prevent wheel bite, which is a common issue for longboards.
- The aluminum alloy construction of the trucks makes them durable and long-lasting.
- The price point makes this combo set a fantastic value for the quality you receive.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the black coating on the hardware is nice, it could potentially scratch over time.
- The 90A PU bushings on the trucks are a good starting point, but some riders might prefer to swap them out for softer or harder ones to fine-tune their ride.
This Yocaher combo set is a fantastic option for longboarders looking for a reliable and smooth riding experience. It’s a great value that equips you for enjoyable cruises and stable downhill runs.
5. ANTWHEEL Sidewinder II Longboard/Skateboard/surf Skateboard Black Skateboard Double Kingpin Trucks 7″ Hanger 9.72″ Axle (Set of 2) Free Hardware (9.3″ Hanger 12″ Axle)
Rating: 8.7/10
The ANTWHEEL Sidewinder II trucks are a cool upgrade for your longboard, skateboard, or surfskate. These black trucks are made from strong aluminum alloy, meaning they can handle a lot of action. You get a set of two, and they even come with free hardware to get you rolling. The Sidewinder II features double kingpin trucks, which are known for giving you a super surfy, carving feel. This design allows for a lot of lean and turn, making it feel like you’re riding a wave even on pavement.
What We Like:
- The double kingpin design offers an amazing surf-like carving experience.
- They are built with high-quality aluminum alloy, making them very durable.
- You get a set of two trucks, which is a great value.
- Free hardware is included, so you don’t have to buy it separately.
- The 7″ hanger and 9.72″ axle size is a good balance for many setups.
What Could Be Improved:
- The listed dimensions in the title (9.3″ Hanger 12″ Axle) seem to differ from the main description (7″ Hanger 9.72″ Axle), which could be confusing for buyers.
- While durable, some riders might prefer a slightly lighter truck for certain styles of skating.
If you’re looking to add some serious carve to your ride, the ANTWHEEL Sidewinder II trucks are a fantastic option. They bring a unique surfy feel to your board.
Choosing the Right Trucks for Your Longboard: A Buyer’s Guide
Longboard trucks are the unsung heroes of your ride. They connect your deck to your wheels, and they’re super important for how your board steers, carves, and feels. Picking the right trucks makes a huge difference in your longboarding experience. Let’s dive into what you need to know.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for longboard trucks, keep these important features in mind:
- Height: Trucks come in different heights: low, mid, and high.
- Low trucks are closer to the ground. They offer more stability, which is great for cruising and downhill.
- Mid trucks are a good all-around choice. They balance stability and turnability.
- High trucks are further from the ground. They allow for deeper carving and easier turning. They can also help prevent wheel bite (when your wheels rub against the deck).
- Width: Truck width should match your deck width. A good rule of thumb is that the axle (the bar in the middle) should be about the same width as your deck. This helps with stability and control.
- Rake: This refers to how the kingpin is set in the baseplate.
- Raked trucks have the kingpin set forward. They turn more easily and can feel a bit more lively.
- Unraked trucks have the kingpin directly in the center. They tend to be more stable.
- Bushings: These are the rubbery rings around the kingpin. They control how easily your trucks turn. Bushings come in different hardnesses. Softer bushings make turning easier, while harder bushings offer more stability.
Important Materials
Trucks are usually made from metal.
- Aluminum Alloy: Most longboard trucks use a strong aluminum alloy. This metal is lightweight and durable, which is perfect for skateboarding. Some trucks might use different types of aluminum for added strength.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things affect how good your trucks are.
- Manufacturing Precision: Trucks that are made with care and precision will perform better. Smooth pivot points and well-machined parts help trucks turn smoothly and last longer.
- Bearing Seats: The part where your bearings sit should be smooth and accurate. A poorly made bearing seat can affect how fast your wheels spin.
- Kingpin Quality: The kingpin is the main bolt that holds the truck together. A strong, high-quality kingpin prevents bending or breaking.
- Durability: Good trucks can handle bumps and rough roads without breaking. Cheaply made trucks might bend or crack easily.
User Experience and Use Cases
The trucks you choose depend on how you want to ride your longboard.
- Cruising: If you just want to cruise around town, you might want mid-height, stable trucks. They keep you grounded and make for a smooth ride.
- Carving and Dancing: For flowing turns and dancing on your board, high trucks with a bit of rake can offer more maneuverability. They let you lean into turns more easily.
- Downhill: Downhill riders need stability. Low trucks with harder bushings are often preferred. They keep the board steady at high speeds.
- Freeride: Freeride involves sliding and tricks. Riders might choose trucks that are a balance of stability and turnability, often with specific bushing setups for control during slides.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important part of a longboard truck?
A: The most important part is how well the truck allows you to turn and how stable it feels. This comes from its height, width, and the bushings.
Q: How do I know what width truck to buy?
A: The truck’s axle width should be about the same as your longboard deck’s width. This helps keep your board stable.
Q: What are bushings and why do they matter?
A: Bushings are the rubbery rings. They control how easily your trucks turn. Softer ones make turning easier; harder ones make it more stable.
Q: Can I change the bushings on my trucks?
A: Yes, you can! You can buy different hardnesses of bushings to change how your board turns and feels.
Q: What is “wheel bite” and how can I avoid it?
A: Wheel bite happens when your wheels rub against your deck when you turn. Using slightly wider trucks or risers can help prevent it.
Q: Do downhill trucks need to be different from cruising trucks?
A: Yes. Downhill trucks need to be very stable, so they are often lower and have harder bushings. Cruising trucks can be more about easy turning.
Q: What does “rake” mean on a truck?
A: Rake is about the position of the kingpin. Raked trucks turn more easily and feel more responsive.
Q: Are expensive trucks always better?
A: Not always. While higher-quality materials and manufacturing often mean better performance, you can find great trucks at different price points.
Q: How often should I check my trucks?
A: You should check your trucks regularly. Make sure the kingpin nut is tight and that the bushings are in good shape.
Q: Can I use skateboard trucks on a longboard?
A: It’s generally not recommended. Longboard trucks are usually wider and built for different turning styles than skateboard trucks.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mette Morgan—a lifelong pet enthusiast and the heart behind PetNobs.com.. My journey with animals began at an early age, and over the years, I’ve gathered invaluable experiences and insights on everything from everyday pet care to the unique quirks each animal brings to our lives. Here at PetNobs, I share my genuine passion, practical tips, and personal stories to help you create a loving, well-informed environment for your furry, feathered, or scaled friends. Welcome to my little corner of the pet world—it’s a joy to have you here!