Skateboarders often want to mix things up every once in a while. We often want to try the smooth, flowy ride of a longboard, and sometimes want to experience the sharp turns and technical tricks of a skateboard. And if you are one of us, you probably have wondered if you can put longboard trucks on a skateboard.
The good news is that it is possible to do so, and it can provide you with a different riding experience. However, before you start swapping out your trucks, there are a few things you need to know!
Here, we will see how to put longboard trucks on a skateboard, including the things you’ll need, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of this modification. So, buckle up and get ready for a wild ride because and see if we can make this hybrid dream a reality.
Not confident about trying a new setup? Here are the best complete skateboards that are ready to ride straight out of the box.
I’ve always been curious about trying new setups to enhance my ride. One modification that piqued my interest was putting longboard trucks on a skateboard.
After some trial and error, I can confidently say that YES, you can put longboard trucks on your favorite skateboard!
Swapping the trucks can provide you with a different riding experience. Longboard trucks, with their wider baseplates and taller hangers, offer a smoother and more stable ride, which can be beneficial for cruising, carving, and downhill skating.
Types of Longboard Trucks
Before we dive into the process of putting longboard trucks on a skateboard, you need to understand the different types of longboard trucks that exist.
There are two main types:
Traditional kingpin trucks (TKP)
Reverse kingpin trucks (RKP)
Traditional kingpin trucks are the standard trucks that come with most skateboards, while reverse kingpin trucks are typically found on longboards.
The main difference between the two types of trucks is the position of the kingpin, which is the bolt that holds the truck together.
In standard kingpin trucks, the kingpin is positioned perpendicular to the deck, while in reverse kingpin trucks, the kingpin is angled toward the center of the deck. This design gives reverse kingpin trucks a wider turning radius and more stability, which is why they are popular among longboarders.
How to Put Longboard Trucks on a Skateboard?
If you are interested in trying this modification, there are a few things to keep in mind.
You’ll need to make sure the longboard trucks you choose are compatible with your skateboard deck.
Adjust the height of your skateboard wheels to accommodate the taller trucks.
You may need to experiment with different bushings to find the right combination for your riding style.
Things Required
Longboard trucks
Skateboard deck
Mounting hardware (bolts and nuts)
Skate tool
Bushings (optional)
Guide
Putting longboard trucks on a skateboard is similar to putting regular skateboard trucks on a deck. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Remove the old trucks from your skateboard. Use a skate tool to unscrew the bolts and remove the trucks from your deck.
Step 2: Measure the width of your deck. Longboard trucks are wider than regular skateboard trucks, so you’ll want to make sure you choose the right size. Measure the width of your deck and choose a truck that matches.
Step 3: Place the new RKP trucks on your skateboard. Make sure the kingpin is facing toward the center of the board.
Step 4: Screw in the bolts. Use a skate tool to tighten the bolts into place – tighten them evenly to ensure the trucks are secure.
Step 5: Adjust the tightness of the trucks. Use a skate tool to adjust the tightness of the trucks. Loose trucks are better for carving, while tighter trucks are better for stability.
And that’s it! With these simple steps, you can easily put longboard trucks on your skateboard and enjoy a more stable and maneuverable ride.
Putting Longboard Trucks on a Cruiser
If you are looking to put longboard trucks on a cruiser skateboard instead of a regular one, the process is relatively straightforward. Because cruisers are typically longer and wider than traditional skateboards, they can accommodate longer trucks without any issues.
In fact, some skateboarders actually prefer the stability of longboard trucks on their cruisers.
To put longboard trucks on a cruiser skateboard, you’ll need the following tools:
Longboard trucks
Cruiser board deck
Hardware
Skate tool or wrench
Screwdriver
Once you have these tools, follow these steps:
1. Remove the existing trucks from your cruiser deck using a skate tool or wrench.
2. Place the longboard trucks onto the deck, making sure they are aligned with the pre-drilled holes.
3. Insert the screws through the holes in the deck and into the truck baseplate.
4. Tighten the screws using a screwdriver or skate tool.
Note: The process is the same to put both types of trucks – standard and reverse kingpin on the cruiser board.
Benefits of Putting Longboard Trucks on a Skateboard
Still confused why you should swap the truck? Here are some benefits of putting longboard trucks on a skateboard:
Smoother Ride
Longboard trucks are designed to absorb shock and vibrations, which can make for a smoother ride. This is due to the fact that longboard trucks have more bushings than skateboard trucks, which helps to absorb the impact of riding on rough terrain.
This can be especially beneficial if you like to ride on uneven surfaces or if you are prone to experiencing foot fatigue.
Personally, I’ve noticed a significant difference in the smoothness of my ride when using longboard trucks on my skateboard, which has allowed me to ride for longer periods of time without feeling as fatigued.
Carving and Cruising
Longboard trucks are perfect for carving and cruising, which can make it easier to ride around and explore your surroundings. This is because longboard trucks have a larger turning radius than skateboard trucks, which allows for smoother and wider turns.
With longboard trucks on my skateboard, I find it easier to make wider turns and navigate through crowded areas. Additionally, longboard trucks have a higher degree of stability at higher speeds, which can be particularly useful for downhill rides.
Since longboard trucks are wider and more stable, they offer a greater sense of control and balance when riding.
This can be especially beneficial for beginners who are still learning to ride, as it can help them to maintain their balance and feel more confident on their board.
Versatility
Who does not want a board that can be used for tricks and cruising? With longboard trucks on your skateboard, you can still perform tricks and maneuvers, but you can also cruise and carve like you would on a longboard.
This makes longboard trucks a great choice if you enjoy both street skating and cruising. Additionally, longboard trucks are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, which makes it easy to find the perfect fit for your riding style.
Drawbacks of Installing Longboard Trucks on a Regular Skateboard
While putting longboard trucks on a skateboard can provide a unique riding experience with many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider.
Here are some of the potential drawbacks of putting longboard trucks on a skateboard:
Reduced Maneuverability
Longboard trucks typically have a larger turning radius and are less responsive, which makes them harder to perform tight turns and quick changes in direction. They are designed for cruising and carving, which means they may not be as well-suited for certain types of tricks and maneuvers.
Heavier Weight
Longboard trucks are generally heavier than skateboard trucks, which can add extra weight to your board. This can make it harder to perform certain tricks that require a lighter board, such as Ollies and kickflips.
Compatibility Issues
Longboard trucks may not be compatible with all types of skateboards, particularly if the deck is too narrow or short. For example, if you have a mini-cruiser or a penny board, longboard trucks may not fit properly or may not provide the desired riding experience.
Can You Ollie With Longboard Trucks?
Technically speaking, you can Ollie with longboard trucks. However, it may be a bit more challenging than Ollieing with traditional skateboard trucks.
This is because longboard trucks are wider and heavier than skateboard trucks, which can make it more difficult to get the necessary pop and lift for an Ollie.
After attempting Ollie with longboard trucks, I can say with a heavy heart that it’s definitely not my go-to trick. I find that it takes more effort and finesse to get a clean Ollie, and even then, the height and distance may not be as impressive as with traditional skateboard trucks.
That being said, if you are determined to Ollie with longboard trucks, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success. Experiment with different foot placements and weight distribution, and try practicing on a smoother surface to reduce the impact of the heavier trucks. And of course, as with any trick, practice makes perfect!
Final Words
Putting longboard trucks on a skateboard is a bit like mixing two different types of hot sauce – it can either be a spicy success or a disastrous mess.
But if you are up for the challenge, there’s no denying that longboard trucks can add a whole new level of stability, control, and carving to your skateboard. And who knows, you may just discover a whole new world of tricks and techniques that you never thought possible.
At the end of the day, the most important thing is to have fun and ride in a way that makes you happy. So, go ahead and give it a try – who knows, you may just discover a new style of riding that takes your skills to the next level!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are skateboard and longboard trucks the same?
Nope, they are not the same. Skateboard trucks are typically narrower and lighter, while longboard trucks are wider and heavier. It’s kind of like the difference between a go-kart and a monster truck. Both have their uses, but they’re not interchangeable.
Can I put longboard trucks on a cruiser board?
Absolutely! In fact, putting longboard trucks on a cruiser board can give you a whole new level of stability and control for cruising around town.
Do all longboard trucks fit all decks?
Unfortunately, no! Not all longboard trucks can fit all decks. So, before you start swapping out your trucks, be sure to do your research and choose the right ones for your setup. You don’t want to end up with a Frankenboard that looks like it belongs in a horror movie.
Do any trucks fit any skateboard?
Again, the answer is no. While some trucks may be more versatile than others, you still need to make sure that the size and shape of your trucks match up with the size and shape of your deck. Otherwise, you may end up with a wonky ride that’s more frustrating than fun.
I got inspired by my father after watching him performing heroic tricks on a skateboard. Started at the age of 8 and performed in multiple competitions, now I coach professionals for tournaments. It's not just a sport for me - more like a passion and meditation! After years of experience with different skateboarding products, here are my reviews about Best Skateboard Brands and Best Skateboard for Beginners. It's an era of technology, you can also check unbiased reviews of Best Electric Skateboards. You can also read Benefits of Skateboarding.
