How to Pick Skateboard Trucks, Bushings & Wheels

The art of skateboarding combines many aspects that typically go unnoticed by the non-skating public, and the sport itself requires great skill and practice. Choosing the right size board is a critical aspect of skateboarding, and correspondingly so are the trucks, bushings and wheels that allow the rider to perform the wide variety of movements and tricks while riding. Trucks, bushings and wheels are all available in different sizes for skateboarders to choose from, and normally their riding style will dictate which types they choose. Some trucks, bushings and wheels are rigid for hard, fast riding, while others are soft and flexible for coasting and performing ground tricks. You should pick these items that correspond to your riding preference.

Instructions

    • 1

      Select trucks that correspond to your personal riding style. Trucks generally should be almost as wide as the board, usually within two inches. For example, a 5-inch truck is best suited for a deck between 7.5 and 7.75 inches wide. Truck heights also play a role. Low trucks--within two inches from the ground--should be used for flip tricks because of stability or general street skating. High trucks--three inches or higher--will produce higher speed when used with large wheels and are typically used by skaters who ride longer distances. Medium trucks are used by most beginning to amateur skaters for all-around performance.

    • 2

      Select wheels that correspond to your selected truck size, i.e., high trucks need larger wheels. Wheels are typically selected by diameter, which corresponds to height, and "durometer," which corresponds to wheel hardness or softness. Typically a standard board with medium size trucks will be best suited with a 52-to-54-millimeter wheel diameter( height) and a 99A hardness rating for best performance.

    • 3

      Select bushings according to your skateboarding experience level. A bushing is a small rubber gasket that the truck utilizes to pivot and turn. A stiff bushing provides greater stability and are best for beginners to amateur skaters, while a soft bushing needs more experience to control, and tricks are more difficult to execute.