When setting up or maintaining a longboard, one of the most common questions that arise is: Which way do the trucks go on a longboard? On a longboard, the trucks usually go with the kingpin (the big bolt) facing inward, toward the middle of the board. This setup makes the board more stable and easier to turn.
For beginners and even some experienced riders, understanding the correct truck orientation can be confusing. Yet it’s an essential aspect of longboard assembly and performance. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into longboard trucks’ orientation, and how they affect your ride. Let’s get rolling!
Which way do trucks go on a longboard?
Before diving into placement specifics, it’s essential to distinguish between the two primary types of longboard trucks. They are Reverse Kingpin Trucks and Traditional Kingpin Trucks (TKP). Correctly orienting your trucks is crucial for safe and efficient riding. Here’s how to determine the correct direction.
How Trucks Are Positioned on a Reverse Kingpin Longboard
Reverse kingpin trucks are the most common type of trucks used on longboards. These trucks are designed to offer more stability and control. They are ideal for cruising, carving, and downhill riding.
On a longboard with reverse kingpin trucks, the kingpin (the bolt) should face outward, away from the center of the deck. This orientation ensures maximum stability and turning responsiveness.
Reverse kingpin trucks are designed to perform best with this outward orientation because it optimizes the turning geometry and prevents wheel bite (when the wheels rub against the deck).
How Trucks Are Positioned on Traditional Kingpin Trucks
Although traditional kingpin trucks are more commonly found on skateboards. But some riders use them on longboards for specific setups like freestyle or technical tricks.
For traditional kingpin trucks, the kingpin faces inward, toward the center of the deck. This setup is different from reverse kingpin trucks but is designed for tighter turns and trick-focused riding.
Traditional kingpin trucks on longboards are less stable at higher speeds. So they’re best suited for low-speed activities.
Factors to Consider When Positioning Trucks
Riding Style: Your riding style significantly impacts how your trucks should be set up. Whether you prioritize stability for downhill speed or flexibility for freestyle moves, adjusting the trucks to match your style is essential.
Wheel Clearance: Wheel clearance is crucial to avoid wheel bite, which can disrupt your ride. Proper spacing ensures smooth turns and safety, often achieved with riser pads or specific deck designs.
Baseplate Angle: The angle of the truck’s baseplate determines how your board handles turns and stability. Choosing the right angle helps optimize the ride for your preferred activity, whether it’s downhill racing or carving.
Bushings: Bushings play a key role in how your trucks respond to weight shifts. The durometer and shape of the bushings influence turning ease and stability, allowing for a customizable riding experience.
Deck Style: The type of deck you use affects how the trucks perform. Matching your deck style with the right truck setup enhances overall control, stability, and maneuverability.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Longboard Skateboard Trucks
Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you mount your longboard trucks correctly:
Step 1: Identify the Truck Type
Check whether your trucks are reverse kingpin (RKP) or traditional kingpin (TKP). Most longboards come with RKP trucks, but it’s always good to verify.
Step 2: Inspect the Baseplate Orientation
Look for the kingpin and pivot cup (a small indentation where the hanger rests). For RKP trucks, the kingpin should face outward when attached to the deck.
Step 3: Attach Trucks to the Deck
Using bolts and a skate tool, secure the baseplate to your deck. Ensure the kingpin faces the correct direction based on the truck type.
Step 4: Adjust Bushings and Tighten the Kingpin Nut
Customize your setup by adjusting the tightness of the kingpin nut. Looser settings allow for smoother turns, while tighter settings provide more stability.
Step 5: Install Wheels and Bearings
Slide your wheels onto the axle, secure them with nuts, and spin them to ensure they’re properly aligned.
Step 6: Double-Check Orientation
Before riding, double-check that your trucks are facing the correct direction. Misaligned trucks can cause wobbly rides and make it difficult to turn.
How Truck Orientation Impacts Riding Performance
Mounting your trucks correctly is not just about functionality; it significantly affects your riding experience. Let’s explore how:
- Stability at High Speeds
For downhill riders, proper truck orientation ensures that your board remains stable even at high speeds. Incorrectly mounted trucks can cause speed wobbles, which are dangerous. - Turning and Maneuverability
Truck orientation directly impacts how your board turns. Reverse kingpin trucks, when oriented correctly, offer smooth and predictable turns, ideal for carving or cruising. - Preventing Wheel Bite
Mounting trucks with the wrong orientation can lead to wheel bite, where the wheels rub against the deck during turns. This can cause sudden stops and lead to accidents. - Aesthetic Alignment
While not a performance issue, properly mounted trucks align symmetrically with the deck, giving your longboard a polished and professional look.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Mounting Longboard Trucks
Mounting trucks incorrectly can impact your board’s performance and safety. Watch out for these common errors:
Backward Trucks: Ensure the kingpin faces the correct direction to avoid performance issues.
Mismatched Trucks: Using different types, like combining RKP and TKP trucks, can disrupt balance and handling.
Bushing Issues: Incorrectly installed or unsuitable bushings can lead to poor turning and instability.
Loose Mounting Bolts: Double-check that all bolts are tight to prevent the trucks from loosening during a ride.
FAQs About Longboard Truck Orientation
How can I tell if my trucks are mounted correctly?
Stand your board upright and look at the kingpins. For reverse kingpin trucks, they should face outward, away from the center of the deck.
What happens if I mount my trucks backward?
Backward-mounted trucks can make turning unpredictable and significantly reduce stability, especially at higher speeds.
Are there exceptions to the kingpin orientation rule?
While the kingpin-outward rule applies to most longboard setups, some custom configurations for advanced riders might differ. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Can I use skateboard trucks on a longboard?
Yes, but it’s not ideal. Skateboard trucks (traditional kingpin) are designed for tricks and tight turns, not the stability required for longboarding.
Conclusion
Knowing which way do trucks go on a longboard is fundamental to enjoying a safe, smooth, and optimized ride. For most setups, the rule is straightforward: reverse kingpin trucks face outward, and traditional kingpin trucks face inward. By correctly mounting your trucks and understanding how they affect performance, you’ll enhance your riding experience and reduce potential risks.
Whether you’re cruising the streets, carving down hills, or commuting a properly assembled longboard ensures you’re ready to ride with confidence. Remember to periodically check your trucks and other components to keep your board in top shape.