Skateboarding is an incredible physical activity that’s been gaining popularity worldwide. But, finding the right skateboard trucks, wheels, and bearings could be a little daunting task for beginners. With so many brands and various sizes available in the market, it could get confusing to figure out which one is best suited for your style and skill level. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the 12 best skateboard trucks wheels and bearings, along with a comprehensive buying guide to help you pick the perfect one for your needs. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of skateboarding with the best gear to support you.
Get ready for our reviews on the best skateboard trucks wheels and bearings, but first, here are some related Amazon products to check out:
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Best Skateboard Trucks Wheels And Bearings
Skateboard Trucks Wheels And Bearings: A Beginner’s Overview
Skateboard trucks are the metal components that connect the wheels to the skateboard deck. They consist of a baseplate, hanger, kingpin, and bushings. The baseplate is attached to the deck by bolts and holds the hanger, which contains the axle and the bushings. The kingpin is a long bolt that holds everything together and can be adjusted to change the tightness of the trucks. It’s important to choose the right size trucks for your board and adjust them to your preferences for a smooth ride and good control.
Skateboard wheels come in a variety of sizes, hardnesses (also known as durometer), and shapes. Larger wheels are faster and smoother over rough surfaces, while smaller wheels are generally more maneuverable. Softer wheels provide more grip and absorb more shocks, while harder wheels are better for sliding and tricks. The shape of the wheel also affects how it performs: rounded edges provide better traction, while square edges are better for sliding. It’s important to choose the right wheels for your style of skating and the terrain you’ll be riding on.
Skateboard bearings are small metal balls that allow the wheels to spin smoothly on the axle. They consist of an inner and outer ring, a cage to hold the balls in place, and several balls. ABEC ratings are used to indicate the precision of the bearings, with higher ratings (such as ABEC 7 or 9) indicating smoother and faster spinning. Proper maintenance, such as cleaning and lubricating, can help extend the life of your bearings. It’s also important to choose the right bearings for your wheels, as some bearings are designed for certain speeds and types of skating.
Why is it Important to Consider Buying Skateboard Trucks Wheels And Bearings?
Skateboarding is an exciting and fun activity loved by people of all ages. However, to experience a smooth and enjoyable ride, having high-quality skateboard trucks, wheels, and bearings is crucial. Here are some essential reasons why investing in these components is worth your money.
To replace old or broken parts
Over time, skateboard trucks, wheels, and bearings endure a lot of wear and tear due to consistent use and exposure to the elements. Whether performing tricks or cruising around town, the constant pressure and friction can cause these components to deteriorate and eventually fail. Skateboarders may notice that their board is no longer performing as it once did, making it difficult or unsafe to ride. This is especially true if the trucks are loose or the wheels and bearings are no longer spinning smoothly. In these cases, replacing the old or broken parts with new ones can make a significant difference in the board’s performance, making it safer and more enjoyable to ride. Additionally, replacing these parts can extend the life of the skateboard, as old or worn components can cause further damage to the board over time.
To upgrade the performance of the skateboard
Skateboarding is an outdoor activity that requires quite a bit of physical effort and skill. Skaters perform various maneuvers and tricks while riding the board. The skateboard’s performance, therefore, plays a crucial role in ensuring the skater’s safety and making the experience enjoyable. Skateboard trucks, wheels, and bearings are the essential components that make up a skateboard, and they directly affect its performance.
Upgrading the skateboard’s trucks, wheels, and bearings can significantly enhance its performance, making it easier for skaters to perform complex tricks and maneuvers. For instance, installing high-quality bearings can increase the rolling speed and reduce friction, making the board faster and smoother. Upgrading the wheels can also improve the skateboard’s performance, as it can affect the board’s grip, speed, and overall ride. Upgrading the trucks can provide greater stability and balance, allowing the skater to tackle more complex tricks and land them effortlessly. In conclusion, upgrading the skateboard’s components can enhance the skater’s overall experience and skills, making it a worthy investment.
To match the riding style of the skater
Different skateboarders have different riding styles, and to ensure that they have the best experience on their skateboard, it is important to match the skateboard trucks, wheels, and bearings to their riding style. For example, a skater who enjoys cruising or longboarding may want to choose softer wheels to absorb impact and improve their ride on rougher surfaces. On the other hand, a skater who enjoys more technical tricks may want harder wheels for more stability when landing and more speed while grinding.
Similarly, the truck width can also impact the ride experience. A skater may want wider trucks for more stability and control while performing tricks, while others may prefer narrower trucks for easier turns and quicker response. The type of bearings can also affect the skateboard’s performance, with higher quality bearings allowing for faster and smoother rides. Overall, selecting the right skateboard components based on the skater’s riding style can greatly improve the experience and overall enjoyment of skateboarding.
To customize the aesthetic look of the skateboard.
Skateboarders often have a unique style that they want to express through their skateboard. One way to achieve this desired look is by customizing the trucks, wheels, and bearings. By selecting different colors, designs, and shapes, skateboarders can create a totally unique board that reflects their personality.
In addition to the aesthetic appeal, customizing the trucks, wheels, and bearings can also improve the board’s performance. High-quality components can enhance maneuverability, speed, and durability. This can lead to a better skating experience, as the board operates smoothly and reliably. Ultimately, customizing skateboard components is a way to incorporate personal style and increase overall skating performance.
A Comprehensive Guide to Choose the Best Skateboard Trucks Wheels And Bearings
One of the most important factors when it comes to skateboarding is having the right equipment. Specifically, skateboard trucks, wheels, and bearings all play a crucial role in determining the overall performance of your board. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when shopping for these components.
Size
The size of skateboard trucks, wheels, and bearings plays a crucial role in the overall performance and ride experience of the skateboard. Skateboard trucks should be chosen in accordance with the size of the deck and wheels to ensure proper balance and stability. Smaller wheels and bearings may provide a smoother and faster ride, while larger ones offer more stability and control for tricks.
Additionally, the size of these components can affect the ground clearance, speed, and maneuverability of the skateboard. Depending on the type of skating, riders may opt for larger or smaller components to accommodate their specific style and needs. Therefore, considering the size of skateboard trucks, wheels, and bearings before buying is essential to achieve the desired performance and ride experience.
Material
When buying skateboard trucks, wheels, and bearings, the material used in their construction is essential to consider. Different materials have unique properties that impact the overall performance of the skateboard. For example, trucks made of aluminum or titanium are more durable and provide better stability, while wheels made of urethane are softer and greater shock absorbers. Similarly, bearings made of high-quality steel or ceramic provide better speed and longevity compared to cheap, low-quality bearings. Therefore, understanding the material used in each component and its impact on performance helps in selecting the right gear for one’s riding style and preferences.
Another reason to consider material when purchasing skateboard components is safety. A low-quality material can break or bend, leading to accidents and injuries. Choosing high-quality materials ensures that the skateboard holds up well and performs optimally, enhancing the rider’s safety and overall experience. Additionally, a well-matched set of components, such as trucks, wheels, and bearings, offer the best synergistic performance and unmatched consistency, guaranteeing a smoother ride and better control. Therefore, the material used in skateboard components is critical in ensuring both performance and safety, making it a top priority when purchasing any gear.
Hardness
Hardness is an important factor to consider when buying skateboard trucks, wheels, and bearings because it affects the performance and durability of the equipment. Skateboard wheels come in various levels of hardness, measured on the durometer scale from 0 to 100. Softer wheels (0-50) provide a smoother ride, better grip, and absorb shock better making them ideal for cruising and carving. On the other hand, harder wheels (50-100) have less grip and are better suited for tricks on smooth surfaces like skate parks. Skateboard bearings also come in different levels of hardness, which can affect the speed and durability of the bearings.
Lastly, skateboard trucks also come in different levels of hardness, which is generally categorized by low, medium, and high hardness. Choosing the right hardness level based on your weight, type of skating, and personal preference can help you get the most out of your skateboard. If you are a beginner, it’s best to go for medium-hardness wheels and bearings, while experienced skaters can go for harder wheels and trucks for better control and stability during tricks.
Shape
When buying skateboard trucks, wheels, and bearings, it is important to consider the shape of each of these components because it can significantly affect the overall performance and feel of your skateboard. For instance, the shape of your skateboard wheels can determine the level of grip and speed you can achieve, while the shape of the trucks can affect how easily you can turn and maneuver. The shape of your bearings can also influence your speed and acceleration, as well as the smoothness of your ride. Therefore, carefully considering the shape of each component before purchasing can help you attain the best-suited setup for your personal preferences and riding style.
In addition, the shape of these components can also impact the compatibility and interchangeability of different parts. For example, some skateboard wheel shapes are only compatible with certain truck models or sizes, while particular bearing shapes may require specific wheels to fit correctly. Therefore, by considering the shape of each component before purchase, you can help ensure that you are getting the right combination of parts that will work together efficiently and effectively. This can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run by avoiding ill-fitting or incompatible parts.
Brand
Brand is an important factor to consider when buying skateboard trucks, wheels, and bearings because it directly affects the quality of the product. Reputable brands will have a track record of producing well-designed and durable equipment, while lesser-known or generic brands may produce products that are less reliable. In addition, purchasing from a trusted brand can provide assurance that you are getting the right product suited for your needs, as they are more likely to have a range of options available for various styles and skill levels.
Choosing products from known brands can also ensure that you are receiving a high level of customer support and easy access to replacement parts or repairs. With skateboard equipment, regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your skateboard. By investing in well-known brands, you can have peace of mind knowing that if or when you need repairs or replacements, it will be easier to locate the necessary parts or receive support from the brand. The importance of brand recognition should not be overlooked when it comes to skateboard equipment, as it can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
Price
When it comes to purchasing a skateboard, many people tend to overlook the importance of the price of the skateboard trucks, wheels, and bearings. However, it is crucial to consider the price before making a purchase as it affects the performance, durability, and quality of the skateboard.
Higher-priced skateboard trucks, wheels, and bearings tend to be manufactured with better materials, which results in increased durability, precision, and overall performance. Subsequently, purchasing cheaper components can lead to quicker wear and tear, less precision, and overall poorer performance, resulting in an unsatisfying skateboarding experience. Additionally, higher-priced components can also provide a better grip and smoother ride, allowing for greater control, accommodating various styles of skating, and reducing the chances of injury.
FAQ
What types of skateboard wheels are available and how do I choose the right ones for me?
Skateboard wheels come in different sizes, shapes, and materials, all of which affect their performance and function. Standard skateboard wheels size is around 50-54mm, which provide good balance between speed and stability. Street skateboarders go for smaller and harder wheels for tricks, while longboarders prefer larger, softer wheels for cruising and carving.
When choosing the right skateboard wheels for you, consider your skateboarding style, terrain, and personal preferences. For example, if you are going to skate on rough surfaces, choose softer wheels that can absorb some vibrations. If you are into cruising and less interested in tricks, then choose larger, softer wheels that perform well on different terrains. Ultimately, the right skateboard wheels should fit your needs and the style of skateboarding you enjoy.
How do I install or replace skateboard bearings?
To replace skateboard bearings, start by removing the wheels from the trucks. Then use a skate tool or wrench to pop the old bearings out of the wheels by applying pressure from the axle or using a bearing press. Next, clean the wheel hub and inside of the bearings with rubbing alcohol and allow them to dry completely. Finally, insert the new bearings into the wheels, making sure they are seated flush, and re-attach the wheels to the trucks.
To install new skateboard bearings, start by removing the old bearings from the wheels using a bearing puller or by prying them out with a skate tool or screwdriver. Next, clean the wheel hub and inside of the new bearings with rubbing alcohol and allow them to dry completely. Then place the new bearings into the wheel, making sure they are seated flush and apply pressure to the center of the bearing to fully seat it into the wheel. Finally, reattach the wheel to the trucks and repeat the process for all other wheels.
Can skateboard trucks be adjusted and how do I do it?
Yes, a mountain bike hybrid is designed to handle both on-road and off-road biking. It combines the features of a traditional mountain bike, such as a sturdy frame, wider tires, and suspension system, with the features of a road bike, such as a lightweight frame and narrow tires. This makes it versatile enough to tackle different terrains and riding conditions.
Whether you want to ride on dirt trails or smooth roads, a mountain bike hybrid can provide a comfortable and stable ride. It is a great option for beginners who want to explore different types of biking without investing in multiple bikes. However, it’s important to choose the right type of hybrid bike based on your specific needs and riding preferences.
What materials are skateboard trucks made of and how does it affect performance?
Final Thoughts
To sum up, choosing the best skateboard trucks, wheels, and bearings is vital for any rider who wants to have a smooth and efficient riding experience. The top 12 products reviewed in this article are some of the best options available in the market today, offering excellent durability, stability, and performance. Therefore, if you are looking for the best skateboard trucks, wheels, and bearings that can take your skateboarding to the next level, you can confidently pick any product from our list and hit the streets with confidence and style.