Imagine cruising down the street on your electric skateboard, feeling the wind in your hair and the smooth ride beneath your feet. But what makes that ride so smooth and controlled? It’s the trucks, those essential metal pieces that connect your wheels to the deck. Choosing the right electric skateboard trucks can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many different styles and brands, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed trying to figure out which ones are best for your setup and your riding style. You want trucks that will give you stability when you’re going fast, but also allow you to carve and turn easily.
This is where understanding your trucks becomes super important. Getting it wrong can lead to a wobbly ride, poor turning, or even damage to your board. But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll break down the different types of trucks, explain what makes them tick, and guide you toward the perfect set for your electric skateboard adventures. Get ready to upgrade your ride and conquer any path with confidence!
Our Top 5 Electric Skateboard Trucks Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Electric Skateboard Trucks Detailed Reviews
1. VANPRO DIY Electric Skateboard Trucks 7.25″ Long Skateboard Trucks (Black)
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready to build your dream ride with the VANPRO DIY Electric Skateboard Trucks! These 7.25-inch black trucks are built tough and designed for customization. VANPRO believes in giving you unique experiences, and these trucks are all about that. They’re perfect for anyone who loves to tinker and create their own electric skateboard. Whether you’re cruising the streets or building a powerful ride, these trucks are a solid foundation.
What We Like:
- These trucks are super strong because they’re made from aluminum magnesium alloy and a metal rod.
- They fit all kinds of longboards and cruising skateboards, making them really versatile.
- The “square trucks” style is perfect for adding your own electric skateboard parts (DIY electric skateboards).
- The package includes everything you need to get started: two trucks, riser pads, and golden screws.
- The 50-degree tilt angle helps you turn smoothly.
- They have a cool black color that looks great on any board.
What Could Be Improved:
- The weight of 15.66 ounces per piece might be a bit heavy for some riders looking for the absolute lightest setup.
- While the description mentions “different height, different world!” for VANPRO’s brand, the specific height of these trucks (2.8 inches) is a fixed dimension that can’t be adjusted.
These VANPRO trucks offer a durable and versatile option for your next electric skateboard project. They give you the strength and flexibility to build a board that’s uniquely yours.
2. Generic Caliber II Style Trucks for Electric Skateboard
Rating: 9.2/10
These Generic Caliber II Style Trucks are a solid choice for anyone looking to build or upgrade their skateboard. They work for electric skateboards, longboards, and are great for freeride, downhill, cruising, and dancing styles. The 44-degree baseplate angle offers a balanced feel, and the black color looks sharp. They are designed to give you a good riding experience without breaking the bank.
What We Like:
- These trucks are built to last.
- They offer a smooth ride for many different skateboarding styles.
- The 44-degree angle is good for both stability and turning.
- The black finish looks cool on any board.
- They are a budget-friendly option for upgrading your ride.
What Could Be Improved:
- The exact materials used aren’t specified, which could be helpful for serious builders.
- More detailed information on their performance in extreme conditions might be useful.
These trucks provide a reliable foundation for your board. They’re a good value for the versatility they offer.
3. Mountain Skateboard Conversion Kit with Stronger Motor Bracket Off Road Board Truck with 190KV N63 Motor (Drive with Normal)
Rating: 8.6/10
Ready to turn your regular skateboard into an off-road beast? This Mountain Skateboard Conversion Kit is your ticket to adventure! It lets you upgrade your existing board with a powerful 190KV N63 motor and a super strong motor bracket. This means you can tackle tougher terrain and enjoy a smoother, more powerful ride. It’s designed for those who want to explore beyond the pavement.
What We Like:
- It makes your skateboard ready for rough paths.
- The stronger motor bracket adds durability.
- The 190KV N63 motor provides plenty of power.
- You can upgrade your current board instead of buying a new one.
- Installation is straightforward for most DIYers.
What Could Be Improved:
- The kit might require some basic mechanical skills to install.
- Clearer, step-by-step video instructions would be helpful for beginners.
- Compatibility with all skateboard deck types could be wider.
This conversion kit is a fantastic way to unlock new riding possibilities. It transforms your board into a capable off-road machine, offering a thrilling experience on diverse terrains.
4. FLIPSKY 12 Inch Double Kingping Trucks for DIY Electric Skateboard
Rating: 8.6/10
The FLIPSKY 12 Inch Double Kingping Trucks are a fantastic upgrade for your DIY electric skateboard. They are built tough and designed for serious performance. This “Gold Screw Version” comes with a motor mount, making it a complete package for your Esk8 project. You get strong, reliable trucks that can handle a lot.
What We Like:
- Super strong aluminum: The trucks are made using a special process where molten aluminum flows into the mold naturally. This gets rid of air bubbles, making them extra strong.
- Heat-treated for hardness: After they are made, the trucks get heat-treated. This makes the aluminum even harder, reaching around HRB65.
- Heavy-duty support: They can easily support over 150kg of weight, so you don’t have to worry about them breaking under pressure.
- Ready for your build: The included motor mount means you can get your electric skateboard project rolling faster.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited information on specific riding styles: While they are strong, more details on how they perform for different types of skateboarding (like carving or downhill) would be helpful.
- Availability: Sometimes high-quality parts can be hard to find, so keeping an eye on stock is important.
These FLIPSKY trucks offer exceptional strength and are a solid foundation for any electric skateboard build. You’ll appreciate their durability and the ease of getting started with the included motor mount.
5. FLIPSKY 15.2 Inches Double Kingping Trucks for DIY Electric Skateboard
Rating: 8.6/10
Ready to build your dream electric skateboard? The FLIPSKY 15.2 Inches Double Kingping Trucks are here to help. These trucks are built tough for DIY eskate projects. They are designed for stability and performance, letting you customize your ride. The extra-wide stance offers a solid base for your board.
What We Like:
- Super strong aluminum: The trucks are made using a special process where melted aluminum flows into the mold using its own weight. This pushes out all the air, making the trucks stronger.
- Heat treated for toughness: After they are made, the trucks get heat treated. This makes the aluminum really hard, reaching HRB65.
- Can handle heavy loads: These trucks can easily support over 150kg, so they are perfect for riders of all sizes and for carrying gear.
- Precise sizing: They have a custom 15.22-inch width, giving you a stable and predictable ride.
- Great for specific parts: FLIPSKY recommends using them with 7.48-inch ATM wheels and 6374 10mm D-shaft motors for the best results.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited wheel size compatibility: While 7.48-inch ATM wheels are recommended, other wheel sizes might not fit as perfectly.
- Motor shaft detail: The recommendation for 10mm D-shaft motors is specific, so ensure your chosen motors match this requirement.
These FLIPSKY trucks offer a robust and customizable foundation for your DIY electric skateboard. They are a solid choice for anyone looking to build a powerful and reliable eskate.
Choosing the Right Electric Skateboard Trucks: Your Complete Guide
Electric skateboard trucks are super important parts of your ride. They connect your wheels to your deck and help you steer. Picking the right ones makes a big difference in how your electric skateboard feels and performs. Let’s dive into what you need to know.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for electric skateboard trucks, keep these features in mind:
- Width: Trucks come in different widths. You need trucks that match the width of your skateboard deck. Wider decks need wider trucks for better stability.
- Height: Truck height affects how high your board sits off the ground. Lower trucks give you more stability at high speeds. Higher trucks give you more turning ability and clearance for bigger wheels.
- Bushings: These are the rubbery parts that let you turn. They come in different hardness levels. Softer bushings make turning easier. Harder bushings give you more stability.
- Motor Mount Compatibility: If you’re building an electric skateboard, make sure the trucks can easily attach to motor mounts. Some trucks are designed specifically for electric skateboards.
- Durability: You want trucks that can handle bumps and rough roads. Strong materials are key.
Important Materials
The materials used in trucks really affect their strength and weight.
- Aluminum Alloy: This is the most common material. It’s strong and relatively lightweight. High-quality aluminum alloys are best for durability.
- Steel: Some parts, like the kingpin (the bolt that holds the bushings), are often made of steel. Steel is very strong and helps the truck last longer.
- Plastic: Some bushings are made of plastic. Different types of plastic offer different levels of hardness and rebound.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make truck quality better or worse.
- Manufacturing Process: How the trucks are made matters. Trucks made with precision engineering are usually stronger and smoother. Cheaply made trucks might have rough edges or weak points.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands often use better materials and have stricter quality control. They usually stand behind their products.
- Weight: While not always a direct indicator of quality, very lightweight trucks might be made from weaker materials. Stronger trucks can sometimes be a little heavier.
- Smoothness of Pivot: The pivot point is where the hanger turns on the baseplate. A smooth pivot makes for easier and more responsive turning. Poorly made pivots can feel stiff or sticky.
User Experience and Use Cases
The trucks you choose will change how you ride.
- Cruising: For relaxed rides around town, wider trucks with softer bushings are great. They offer stability and easy turning.
- Speed and Stability: If you love going fast, you’ll want narrower trucks or trucks with harder bushings. This makes the board more stable at high speeds.
- Tricks and Freestyle: For skaters who want to do tricks, responsive trucks are essential. Softer bushings can help with quick turns and board control.
- Electric Skateboard Builds: For DIY electric skateboards, you need trucks that can easily hold motor mounts and batteries. Some trucks are specifically made for this purpose. They often have extra features like reinforced hangers.
Choosing the right electric skateboard trucks is like picking the right shoes for running. They are essential for a good and safe ride.
Frequently Asked Questions about Electric Skateboard Trucks
Q: What is the most important part of an electric skateboard truck?
A: The bushings are very important. They control how easily your board turns and how stable it feels. Different hardness levels fit different riding styles.
Q: How do I know what size truck to get?
A: The width of your trucks should match the width of your skateboard deck. A good rule of thumb is that the wheels should be almost even with the edges of your deck.
Q: Can I use regular skateboard trucks on an electric skateboard?
A: You can, but electric skateboard trucks are often stronger and designed to handle the extra weight and power. Some are made to easily attach motor mounts.
Q: What does “kingpin” mean?
A: The kingpin is the bolt that goes through the bushings and holds the hanger to the baseplate. It’s a key part for steering.
Q: Are expensive trucks always better?
A: Not always, but higher-priced trucks often use better materials and have more precise manufacturing, which usually means better performance and durability.
Q: How often should I replace my truck bushings?
A: You should replace them when they start to look cracked, worn down, or if they don’t feel right anymore. This can happen after many miles of riding.
Q: What is the difference between reverse kingpin (RKP) and traditional kingpin (TKP) trucks?
A: RKP trucks are more common on longboards and electric skateboards. They offer a deeper, more stable turn. TKP trucks are usually found on street skateboards and are better for grinding.
Q: Can I adjust how my trucks turn?
A: Yes, you can tighten or loosen the kingpin nut. Tightening makes the trucks stiffer and more stable. Loosening makes them turn more easily.
Q: What is a “wheelbite”?
A: Wheelbite happens when your wheels touch the underside of your deck during a turn. This can stop your board suddenly. Using wider trucks or harder bushings can help prevent it.
Q: Where are electric skateboard trucks made?
A: They are made all over the world. Many high-quality trucks come from places like the USA, China, and Europe. Look for brands known for good quality.
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.