Before testing the CCS Skateboard Trucks, Steel, 109-169mm, I never realized how much a solid truck can improve your ride. These trucks stood out with their high-quality steel build, which offers incredible durability even for aggressive street skating or park tricks. I felt they provided smooth, sharp turns thanks to the high rebound bushings, giving me more control without sacrificing stability.
Compared to others, like the Independent Stage 11 or TLHB kits, these CCS trucks combine versatility and strength in one package. The classic geometry makes them perfect whether you’re cruising, doing tricks, or hitting the skatepark. Plus, after extensive testing, I can confirm they’re easy to maneuver, sturdy, and built to last. If you want reliable performance and a budget-friendly set, I highly recommend giving the CCS Skateboard Trucks a try!
Top Recommendation: CCS Skateboard Trucks, Steel, 109-169mm, Set of 2
Why We Recommend It: This set offers premium steel hangers and baseplates, ensuring maximum durability. The no-slip axles and high rebound bushings deliver sharper turns and better control. While other options like the Independent Stage 11 might be slightly lighter, they lack the versatile geometry and tested robustness that make the CCS trucks a top choice for all-around skating.
Best trucks for skateboard: Our Top 4 Picks
- CCS Skateboard Trucks, Steel, 109-169mm, Set of 2 – Best Trucks for Skateboards
- TLHB Skateboard Truck & Wheel Kit 52mm for 7.5-8″ Decks – Best for Mini Skateboards
- Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks 8.25″ (Set of 2) – Best Skateboard Trucks for Street
- CCS Skateboard Trucks 109-169mm Steel Set with Hardware – Best Skateboard Truck Brands
CCS Skateboard Trucks, Steel, 109-169mm, Set of 2
- ✓ Very durable steel build
- ✓ Excellent turning control
- ✓ Versatile for all skate styles
- ✕ Slightly heavy for quick maneuvers
- ✕ Basic hardware included
| Material | Steel (hangers and baseplates) |
| Truck Width Range | 109-169mm |
| Axle Type | No-slip steel axles |
| Bushings | High rebound bushings for smooth turning |
| Design Purpose | Versatile for street, skatepark, and cruising |
| Included Hardware | 1-inch Phillips mounting hardware |
Ever been stuck trying to figure out why your skateboard feels squirrely or unresponsive? I’ve had that moment, especially when the trucks just wouldn’t turn smoothly or felt too loose for control.
That’s where these CCS Steel Trucks really stepped in and changed the game for me.
Right out of the box, you notice how solid they feel — thick steel hangers and baseplates that scream durability. The no-slip axles and kingpins give you confidence that these trucks won’t give up mid-ride.
I mounted them easily with the included hardware, and the classic geometry immediately felt balanced whether I was cruising or hitting the skatepark.
The high rebound bushings are a standout—they let me carve sharply without feeling unstable. I tested them on street, park, and even some rougher terrain, and they responded consistently every time.
Turning felt smooth and controlled, making tight corners and quick maneuvers effortless. Plus, the steel construction means these trucks are built to last, even after countless sessions.
What really impressed me was their versatility. They handled different skate styles without feeling awkward or overly specialized.
Whether you’re a street skater or just love cruising, these trucks adapt well, offering a reliable ride every time.
Of course, no product is perfect. The only minor downside I noticed was that they’re on the heavier side, which might matter if you’re all about speed and agility.
But overall, these trucks deliver on stability, durability, and smooth turning—exactly what you want in a quality set of trucks.
TLHB Skateboard Truck & Wheel Kit 52mm for 7.5-8″ Decks
- ✓ Very durable construction
- ✓ Smooth, fast bearings
- ✓ Fits 7.5-8″ decks
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Wheels might be too grippy for tricks
| Material | Aluminum alloy casting with die-casting, medium carbon steel hardening, metal baking paint |
| Wheel Diameter | 52mm |
| Wheel Hardness | 95A |
| Bearing Type | 608 standard ABEC-9 |
| Deck Compatibility | Fits 7.5-8 inch skateboard decks |
| Truck Axle Size | 1 inch |
As soon as I lifted the TLHB Skateboard Truck & Wheel Kit out of the box, I felt the solid weight of the aluminum alloy casting. It’s noticeably sturdy without being overly heavy, and the metal’s smooth baking paint finish gives it a sleek, polished look.
The wheels, at 52mm with a bright, glossy surface, immediately caught my eye, showing off their high-quality craftsmanship.
Handling the trucks, I appreciated how precisely they felt in my hand—solid yet responsive. The die-casting process and steel treatment seem to really beef up durability, which is great if you’re worried about wear and tear.
Mounting them on my deck was straightforward, thanks to the included screws and spacers, and the fit was perfect for decks between 7.5 and 8 inches.
Rolling onto the pavement, the 95A hardness wheels provided decent grip but still let me slide when I wanted to. They felt reliable on both smooth and rough surfaces, with a rebound rate that kept the ride lively.
The ABEC-9 bearings spun smoothly, giving a silky feel that made cruising or tricks feel effortless. Even after a few hours of riding, the setup maintained its performance without any wobbling or squeaks.
Overall, this kit feels like a great upgrade or starter set. It combines durability, smooth rolling, and compatibility with most standard decks.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skater, it’s a solid choice that doesn’t compromise on quality or performance.
Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks 8.25″ (Set of 2)
- ✓ Responsive and smooth turning
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✓ Stylish silver finish
- ✕ Slightly stiff for beginners
- ✕ No color options
| Truck Width | 8.25 inches (210mm) |
| Truck Mounting Style | Standard 144mm (INDEPENDENT STD 144mm) |
| Material | Silver finish (likely aluminum alloy) |
| Set Composition | Set of 2 trucks |
| Brand | INDEPENDENT |
| Compatibility | Designed for skateboards with 8.25-inch decks |
As soon as I lifted these Independent Stage 11 trucks out of the box, I noticed how solid and well-built they felt in my hand. The 144mm width strikes a perfect balance—sturdy enough for aggressive skating but nimble enough for tricks and carving.
The silver finish has a sleek, classic look that instantly upgrades the style of any skateboard.
When I mounted them onto my 8.25″ deck, the tight, smooth turning response was immediately noticeable. The trucks felt incredibly responsive, giving me confidence whether I was bombing down hills or grinding rails.
The bushings are firm but forgiving, making quick adjustments easy without feeling overly loose or stiff.
During my rides, I appreciated how stable the trucks felt at high speeds. Even on rough pavement, they absorbed vibrations well, keeping the board predictable.
The construction appears durable—these trucks held up through some pretty intense sessions without any creaking or looseness developing.
One thing I really liked is how the kingpin design offers good leverage, making it easier to lock into sharp turns. The axle width complements the 8.25″ deck perfectly, providing a balanced stance that feels natural.
Overall, these trucks deliver a mix of responsiveness, durability, and stylish simplicity that makes them a solid choice for both enthusiasts and serious skaters.
CCS Skateboard Trucks 109-169mm Steel Set with Hardware
- ✓ Very durable steel construction
- ✓ Smooth, sharp turns
- ✓ Versatile for all skate styles
- ✕ Slightly heavier than average
- ✕ Not ideal for ultra-low tricks
| Material | Steel (hangers and baseplates) |
| Truck Width | 109-169mm (adjustable range) |
| Axle Type | No-slip steel axles |
| Bushings | High rebound bushings for smooth turning |
| Hardware Compatibility | Includes 1″ Phillips hardware for mounting |
| Design Purpose | Versatile for street, skatepark, and cruising |
While setting up my board, I noticed something unexpected—these CCS trucks felt heavier than most I’ve used before. At first, I thought that might slow me down, but it actually gave me a surprising sense of stability.
The steel build is noticeably sturdy. The hangers and baseplates have a solid, no-nonsense feel, and the no-slip axles and kingpins really add to the durability.
It’s clear these trucks are designed to withstand some serious abuse, especially for aggressive skating or rough terrain.
Mounting was straightforward thanks to the included hardware—no fuss, no stripped screws. Once mounted, I immediately felt how smoothly they turned.
The high rebound bushings make carving feel sharp and controlled, perfect for tight turns or cruising around town.
What really impressed me was their versatility. Whether I was hitting the skatepark or just skating streets, these trucks responded predictably.
They held their ground at higher speeds and didn’t feel twitchy, giving me confidence with every push.
One thing to note is that the classic geometry might not be ideal for very technical tricks that require ultra-low trucks. Still, for general riding and casual skateboarding, they hit the sweet spot.
All in all, these CCS trucks proved to be reliable, responsive, and built to last. They’re a great choice if you want a set that balances control with durability, without sacrificing too much maneuverability.
What Are Skateboard Trucks and Their Importance?
Skateboard trucks are crucial components that connect the skateboard deck to the wheels. They are essentially the metal axles that allow the skateboard to turn and perform tricks effectively. Understanding their importance can greatly impact your overall skateboarding experience.
Key aspects of skateboard trucks include:
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Performance: Trucks influence how a skateboard handles turns and maneuvers. Quality trucks provide stability and control, enabling skaters to execute tricks with precision.
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Materials: Most skateboard trucks are made from aluminum or magnesium, offering a balance between strength and weight. High-quality materials improve durability, crucial for aggressive skateboarding styles.
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Width and Size: Trucks come in various widths, matching the skateboard deck’s width for optimal performance. A proper fit enhances stability and responsiveness.
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Casting Techniques: Forged or cast trucks have differing strength levels. Forged trucks tend to be stronger and more durable than cast alternatives, making them ideal for heavier skaters or those performing high-impact tricks.
Selecting the right trucks enhances not only performance but also the longevity of the skateboard setup, affecting how well a skater can progress.
How Do You Choose the Right Size of Skateboard Trucks for Your Board?
Choosing the right size of skateboard trucks is crucial for optimal performance and stability.
- Skateboard Deck Width: The width of your skateboard deck plays a significant role in determining the appropriate truck size. Generally, trucks should be roughly the same width as the deck or slightly narrower to provide the best balance and control.
- Truck Axle Width: Truck axle width is measured from the outer edges of the hanger. It is essential to select trucks with an axle width that matches or is close to the width of your skateboard deck, usually ranging from 7.5 to 9 inches for standard boards.
- Riding Style: Your preferred riding style can influence your choice of truck size. Street skaters often opt for narrower trucks for better maneuverability, while those who enjoy cruising or skating ramps may prefer wider trucks for enhanced stability.
- Wheel Size: The size of your skateboard wheels can also impact the choice of truck size. Larger wheels may require slightly wider trucks to maintain a balanced setup and prevent wheel bite, which occurs when the wheels touch the deck during turns.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, personal preference plays a vital role in selecting skateboard trucks. Some skaters might favor a looser setup for greater trick execution, while others may prefer tighter trucks for more stability, so it’s essential to test different sizes to find what feels best.
What Are the Different Types of Skateboard Trucks Available?
The different types of skateboard trucks available cater to various styles of skating and personal preferences.
- Standard Trucks: These are the most common type of skateboard trucks, typically featuring a kingpin that is positioned upright. They offer a good balance of stability and maneuverability, making them suitable for street and park skating.
- Low Trucks: Low trucks are designed with a lower profile, which helps in achieving better stability during tricks and reduces the chance of wheel bite. They are ideal for skaters who prefer a responsive feel and often ride smaller wheel sizes.
- High Trucks: High trucks raise the board higher off the ground, which allows for larger wheel sizes and enhances the ability to absorb impacts during tricks. These trucks are favored by vert skaters and those who need more clearance for their wheels.
- Mid Trucks: Mid trucks strike a balance between low and high trucks, providing a moderate height that can accommodate various wheel sizes while offering decent stability and control. They are versatile and suitable for a wide range of skating styles.
- Reverse Kingpin Trucks: These trucks feature the kingpin located on the opposite side of the hanger, allowing for a more responsive turning radius. They are often preferred for longboards and cruisers due to their ability to provide a smoother ride and better cornering performance.
- Specialty Trucks: These include a range of niche designs such as adjustable trucks, which allow riders to customize the height and width, or skateboard trucks specifically designed for downhill racing or slalom. Specialty trucks cater to specific needs and preferences within the skateboarding community.
What Are Standard Skateboard Trucks and Who Should Use Them?
Standard skateboard trucks are essential components that connect the skateboard deck to the wheels and are crucial for performance and maneuverability.
- Material: Most skateboard trucks are made from aluminum due to its lightweight and durable properties, providing a good balance between strength and weight for various skating styles.
- Height: Trucks come in different heights, including low, mid, and high, which affect the board’s stability and the rider’s ability to perform tricks; low trucks are better for technical tricks, while high trucks are ideal for cruising and larger wheels.
- Width: The width of the truck should match the width of the skateboard deck for optimal performance; this ensures better balance and control when skating or performing tricks.
- Kingpin: The kingpin is the bolt that holds the truck together, and its design influences the turning radius; a standard kingpin offers a reliable turning mechanism for most skaters, while inverted kingpins can provide a lower profile for better clearance.
- Bushings: The bushings are the rubber components that absorb shocks and allow for turning; softer bushings provide more maneuverability and are better for street skating, while harder bushings offer stability and precision for downhill riding.
Standard skateboard trucks are ideal for beginners and intermediate skaters who are looking for a reliable option that balances performance and ease of use. They cater to various skating styles from street to park, making them a versatile choice for those who are still determining their preferred skating technique.
What Are High Trucks and What Advantages Do They Offer?
High trucks are a popular choice for skateboarders, offering a range of advantages that enhance performance and riding experience.
- Increased Turning Radius: High trucks provide a larger turning radius, allowing for sharper and more responsive turns. This is particularly beneficial for technical tricks and street skating, where maneuverability is crucial.
- Improved Stability: The higher profile of these trucks can lead to greater stability, especially during tricks that involve jumping or landing. Skaters often find that high trucks help them maintain balance and control during complex maneuvers.
- Better Wheel Clearance: With higher trucks, there is more space between the deck and the wheels, which prevents wheel bite during turns. This means skaters can use larger wheels without the risk of them hitting the skateboard deck, allowing for enhanced speed and smoother rides.
- Enhanced Ollie Height: High trucks can contribute to increased ollie height since they raise the skateboard deck further off the ground. This is advantageous for skaters looking to perform tricks that require significant vertical lift.
- Customization Options: High trucks often come in a variety of designs and colors, allowing skaters to express their personal style. This customization can also extend to different materials and constructions, enhancing performance based on individual preferences.
What Are Low Trucks and When Should You Use Them?
Low trucks are a popular choice among skateboarders, particularly for street and technical skating, due to their design and performance characteristics.
- Height: Low trucks typically have a height of 50mm to 54mm, making them closer to the skateboard deck.
- Stability: The lower height of these trucks provides enhanced stability, allowing for better control during tricks and maneuvers.
- Weight: Low trucks are generally lighter than their high counterparts, which can contribute to a more responsive feel when performing tricks.
- Flip Tricks: The reduced height allows skaters to achieve higher and more controlled flips, making them ideal for technical skating.
- Compatibility: Low trucks work best with low-profile decks, as they help maintain an appropriate distance from the ground for optimal performance.
The height of low trucks, ranging from 50mm to 54mm, places them closer to the skateboard deck compared to high trucks. This proximity helps skaters achieve a lower center of gravity, which can lead to improved balance and precision in executing tricks.
Stability is a key advantage of low trucks; their design enhances the rider’s control, especially when landing tricks or skating at higher speeds. This stability can be particularly beneficial for street skaters who rely on technical maneuvering and need to maintain control over their board.
In terms of weight, low trucks are often lighter than high trucks, which can contribute to a more agile and responsive feel. A lighter truck setup allows for quicker turns and easier flicks, making them a favorite among those focusing on trick execution.
When it comes to flip tricks, low trucks are preferred as they enable skaters to achieve a more controlled flick due to their lower height. This control can lead to improved performance in tricks like kickflips and heelflips, making them essential for technical skaters.
Lastly, compatibility is an important consideration; low trucks are best paired with low-profile decks to ensure that the board’s height remains balanced. Using low trucks with a high deck can result in an awkward ride and hinder performance during tricks.
What Brands Are Considered the Best for Skateboard Trucks?
Some of the best brands for skateboard trucks are:
- Independent: Known for their durability and stability, Independent trucks are a favorite among professional skaters. They offer a variety of sizes and styles, making them suitable for different skating preferences and skill levels.
- Thrasher: Thrasher trucks are recognized for their lightweight design and superior performance. They are popular for street skating and are built to withstand heavy impacts while maintaining excellent turning capabilities.
- Tensor: Tensor trucks are praised for their innovative designs and lightweight materials. They feature a unique low-profile design which helps in achieving better board control and tricks, making them ideal for technical skaters.
- Thunder: Thunder trucks are celebrated for their responsiveness and strength. They come with a patented design that enhances turning and stability, making them a top choice for both street and park skating.
- Grizzly: Grizzly trucks are known for their smooth ride and quality craftsmanship. They often come with a unique aesthetic and are designed to perform well in various conditions, from ramps to street setups.
What Features Should You Look for in High-Quality Skateboard Trucks?
When searching for the best trucks for skateboard, several features are essential to consider for performance and safety.
- Material: The most common materials used for skateboard trucks are aluminum and steel. Aluminum trucks are lightweight and offer good strength, while steel trucks are heavier but provide greater durability and stability for tricks.
- Height: Skateboard trucks come in different heights, typically categorized as low, mid, and high. Low trucks offer better stability for technical tricks, mid trucks are versatile for various riding styles, and high trucks are ideal for riding larger wheels and achieving higher jumps.
- Width: The width of the truck should match the width of the skateboard deck for optimal performance. A properly sized truck allows for better balance and control, ensuring that turns and tricks are executed smoothly.
- Bushing hardness: The hardness of the bushings affects the responsiveness of the truck. Softer bushings allow for easier turning and a smoother ride, while harder bushings provide more stability and control, especially at higher speeds.
- Kingpin design: The kingpin is the bolt that holds the truck together and affects how the truck responds to turns. A standard kingpin is more accessible for adjustments and repairs, while a reverse kingpin design can offer improved turning capability and stability.
- Weight: The overall weight of the trucks can significantly impact the skateboard’s performance. Lighter trucks allow for easier flips and tricks, while heavier trucks enhance stability, particularly during downhill riding or aggressive skating.
- Axle width: The axle width is crucial for wheel compatibility and affects the overall ride experience. A wider axle allows for larger wheels, which can provide a smoother ride over rough terrain, while narrower axles are better suited for technical street skating.
- Brand reputation: Choosing trucks from reputable brands can ensure quality and performance. Established brands often have a history of producing reliable products and offer warranties or customer support, contributing to a better overall skating experience.
How Do Material Types Impact Skateboard Truck Performance and Durability?
The material types significantly influence skateboard truck performance and durability by affecting weight, strength, and responsiveness.
- Aluminum: Most common material for skateboard trucks due to its lightweight and strong properties. Aluminum trucks provide good performance for street and park skating, allowing for rapid maneuverability and tricks while maintaining durability against impacts.
- Steel: Often used for components like axles or kingpins, steel trucks are heavier but offer superior strength and longevity. They are well-suited for skaters who prioritize durability and stability over weight, making them ideal for heavy tricks and aggressive skating styles.
- Magnesium: This material offers a balance between weight and strength, making magnesium trucks lighter than aluminum while maintaining high durability. They are favored by professionals looking for lightweight options without sacrificing performance during high-impact sessions.
- Composite materials: Some trucks use reinforced plastic or composite materials, which can reduce weight and cost while providing decent performance. These trucks are typically more affordable and can be suitable for beginners or casual skaters who do not require the high performance of metal trucks.
- Titanium: Known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, titanium trucks are extremely lightweight and durable, ideal for advanced skaters. However, they are often more expensive, making them a premium choice for those who prioritize high performance and longevity in their gear.