Trucks
for skateboards - choose the right one with Sportano shopTrucks are one of the most important parts of any skateboard, acting as a bridge connecting the board to the wheels. They are the ultimate control mechanism, allowing the skateboarder to turn and balance. A properly selected and tuned pair of trucks can make a significant difference to the comfort and safety of the ride, so every skateboarding enthusiast should pay special attention to their choice.Truck construction: key components and their functionsEach skateboard truck is made up of several key components that together determine the characteristics of the ride. The main component of a truck is its base, which is attached directly to the board. The base provides stability and serves as an attachment point for the rest of the components. Attached to the base is the hanger, which is the metal piece that holds the wheels. The hanger contains the places for the axles on which the wheels are seated.
Another key component is the bushings (bushing), rubber or polyurethane washers that sit between the base and the hanger. The bushings are responsible for damping vibrations and determine the degree of twist and flexibility of the truck when driving. Their hardness and shape affect how responsive the skateboard is to the rider's movements.
The kingpin is a long screwdriver that goes through the centre of the truckie and connects the base to the hanger. The ability to adjust the kingpin tension allows the rider to adjust the twist and responsiveness of the truck.
Rings and washers act as a locking and stabilising feature, ensuring that the bushings work properly and that the weight is evenly distributed. Trucks are often finished with nuts and bolts that hold all the parts together and allow for easy adjustment.Types of truck: differences according to riding styleTrucks are one of the key components of a skateboard, the choice of which affects the overall riding experience. Different riding styles require different truck specifications, allowing skateboarders to optimise performance and safety for a given riding style.
Street Trucks: are typically narrower and designed for a lighter and more manoeuvrable ride, ideal for performing tricks in an urban environment. They allow the skater to easily manoeuvre between obstacles at the skatepark or on the street.
Downhill trucks (Downhill Trucks): are wider and heavier for greater stability at high speeds. The specific design of these trucks increases control and helps with balance when going down steep slopes.
Slalom Trucks (Slalom Trucks): designed for very precise turning, allowing skaters to manoeuvre quickly between successive cones in slalom competitions.
Freeride Trucks (Freeride Trucks): designed to allow smooth sliding and controlled descents on a variety of surfaces.
Cruising Trucks (Cruising Trucks): optimised for comfort and stability on longer rides, usually have softer bushings for easier turning.
Choosing the right trucks is key to achieving the desired results in skateboarding. It is important to consider not only your riding style, but also your own preferences, board size and wheel size to find the perfect truckies for you. Although many people may not initially recognise the difference between truck types, over time experience and practice will reveal the significant impact of properly selected trucks on the quality of the ride.Materials and durability: what
determines the longevity of trucks? The longevity of skateboard trucks depends largely on the materials used in their manufacture. Most trucks are made of aluminium, which is lightweight but also very strong. Aluminium provides adequate rigidity, which is extremely important in skateboarding, especially when performing tricks.
Some truckies use stainless steel or magnet alloy in their construction, which are also very strong. There are even trucks made from titanium, which are even lighter and more durable than their aluminium counterparts, but are also significantly more expensive.
A key role in the strength of the truc is played by the bushings. Made from high quality polyurethane, bushings can last for years of intensive driving, while those made from lower quality materials can wear out quickly.
Equally important are the tightly fitting bolts and nuts that hold all the components of the truck together. If they are made of high-quality stainless steel, they are less likely to rust and wear, resulting in greater longevity of the entire truck.
Ultimately, the strength and longevity of a truck is the result of a combination of high quality materials and careful craftsmanship. It is worth investing in trucks from reputable brands that have a track record of producing durable and high-performance skateboard components.
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