Skateboard trucks are a fundamental component of your skateboard setup, influencing how you turn, carve, and perform tricks. Understanding and accurately measuring your skateboard truck dimensions is crucial for optimizing your riding experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to measure a skateboard truck effectively.
What are Skateboard Trucks?
Skateboard trucks are the metal T-shaped components that mount to the underside of the skateboard deck. These trucks consist of several parts, including the hanger, axle, kingpin, and bushings. Each part plays a significant role in how the skateboard responds to your movements.
See Also: How to Take Trucks off a Skateboard? In 6 Easy Steps
Understanding Skateboard Truck Components
Before delving into measurements, let’s familiarize ourselves with the key components of a skateboard truck:
- Hanger: The largest, T-shaped part that connects to the deck and holds the axle and wheels.
- Axle: The rod that runs through the hanger, supporting the wheels.
- Kingpin: A large bolt that holds the truck together and allows for adjustments.
- Bushings: The rubber-like parts that provide cushioning and control the truck’s movement.
Tools Needed for Measurement
To measure a skateboard truck accurately, you’ll need the following tools:
- Measuring Tape: Essential for measuring the hanger and axle width.
- Calipers: Useful for measuring precise dimensions like kingpin length and bushing seat angle.
Measuring the Hanger Width
The hanger width is the distance between the outermost points of the truck. Follow these steps to measure it:
- Place your skateboard on a flat surface.
- Use a measuring tape to measure the distance from one end of the hanger to the other.
Understanding your hanger width is crucial for choosing the right truck size and achieving a balanced setup.
Measuring the Axle Width
The axle width is the distance between the axles. To measure it:
- Locate the widest points of each axle.
- Use a measuring tape to measure the distance between these points.
The axle width affects the stability and maneuverability of your skateboard, making it an important factor to consider.
Understanding Bushing Seat Angle
The bushing seat angle refers to the angle of the groove where the bushings sit. Measuring it accurately is crucial for choosing bushings that match your riding style.
- Use calipers to measure the angle of the bushing seat.
A proper bushing seat angle ensures a comfortable and controlled ride.
Measuring Kingpin Length
The kingpin length is the part of the truck’s hardware that holds everything together. To measure it:
- Use calipers to measure the length of the kingpin.
Understanding the kingpin length helps in choosing the right hardware and fine-tuning your skateboard.
See Also: How to Tighten Skateboard Trucks? A Step by Step Guide
How to Choose the Right Truck Size and Analyze Measurements .
Once you’ve gathered precise measurements of your skateboard truck components, analyze how these dimensions affect your skating style. Consider the hanger and axle width for stability and maneuverability.
Match the hanger width with your deck width to ensure alignment. Opt for an axle width that aligns with your riding style—wider axles for stability and narrower for maneuverability. Consider your bushing seat angle preference and kingpin length to tailor responsiveness.
Use this knowledge to select the perfect truck size, optimizing your skateboard setup for an enhanced and personalized skating experience.
Closing Thoughts
Measuring your skateboard truck is a vital step in customizing your ride to suit your preferences and riding style. Understanding the dimensions of your trucks allows you to make informed choices when selecting or adjusting your skateboard components. Experiment with different setups, and enjoy an optimized skating experience tailored just for you.
