Trucks are the most overlooked component in skateboard design—and one of the most important. They connect the wheels to the deck, determine how the board turns, and affect stability, responsiveness, and overall ride feel. Choose the wrong truck size, and your complete skateboard will handle poorly, feel unbalanced, or develop wheelbite. Choose the right size, and the board will perform exactly as intended.
For brands and product managers sourcing complete skateboards, truck size is a critical specification. It’s not as simple as picking a truck and mounting it on a deck. Truck size must match the deck width, the wheel size, and the intended riding style. It must also be compatible with the deck’s mounting hole pattern. Getting these details right is essential for producing complete skateboards that perform well and satisfy customers.
The challenge is that truck sizing involves multiple dimensions—axle width, hanger width, axle height, and more. Each dimension affects performance differently, and the “right” size depends on what kind of skateboard you’re building. A street complete, a cruiser, and a longboard all call for different truck specifications.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about choosing truck size for complete skateboards—what the measurements mean, how to match trucks to deck width, how truck size interacts with wheel size, and what to specify in your product documentation. Whether you’re developing a new complete skateboard line or refining an existing one, this article will give you the technical clarity you need. And when you’re ready to discuss your truck specifications, you can request a quote to get started.
Understanding Skateboard Truck Dimensions
Trucks are measured in several dimensions, each of which affects performance and compatibility. Understanding these measurements is the foundation of choosing the right truck size.
Axle Width
Axle width is the distance between the outer edges of the axle—where the wheels mount. It’s the most important truck measurement for matching trucks to a deck.
Why it matters: The axle width determines how well the wheels align with the deck’s edges. If the axle is too narrow, the wheels sit inside the deck’s width, reducing stability. If the axle is too wide, the wheels stick out beyond the deck, increasing the risk of wheelbite and affecting trick performance.
Standard axle widths: Skateboard truck axles typically range from 7.6 inches to 8.75 inches (193mm to 222mm), with some specialty trucks outside this range.
Hanger Width
Hanger width is the distance between the inner edges of the hanger—the T-shaped part of the truck that holds the axle. It’s slightly narrower than the axle width.
Why it matters: Hanger width affects how the truck interacts with the deck and how the board grinds. Wider hangers provide more grinding surface; narrower hangers are lighter and more responsive.
Relationship to axle width: Hanger width is typically about 0.5–1 inch narrower than axle width.
Axle Height
Axle height is the distance from the baseplate (where the truck mounts to the deck) to the center of the axle. It determines how high the deck sits off the ground.
Why it matters: Axle height affects the board’s center of gravity, turning responsiveness, and wheelbite risk. Lower trucks are more stable; higher trucks turn more quickly but increase wheelbite risk.
Standard axle heights: Most skateboard trucks have an axle height of 50–55mm. Low trucks are around 48mm; high trucks are around 55mm.
Baseplate Dimensions
The baseplate is the flat part of the truck that mounts to the deck. Its dimensions must match the deck’s mounting hole pattern.
Why it matters: The baseplate must align with the deck’s holes for proper mounting. Standard mounting hole patterns are 2.125 inches (54mm) apart for the new school pattern and 2.5 inches (63.5mm) for the old school pattern. Most modern decks use the new school pattern.
Kingpin and Bushing Specifications
The kingpin is the bolt that holds the truck together; the bushings are the polyurethane cushions that affect turning. These aren’t sizing dimensions per se, but they affect performance and compatibility.
Why it matters: Bushing hardness affects turning responsiveness. Softer bushings turn more easily; harder bushings are more stable.
Matching Truck Size to Deck Width
The most important rule in truck sizing is: match the axle width to the deck width. The goal is for the wheels to sit roughly flush with the deck’s edges—neither tucked in nor sticking out.
The General Rule
| Deck Width | Recommended Axle Width |
|---|---|
| 7.5″–7.75″ | 7.6″–8.0″ |
| 7.75″–8.0″ | 7.8″–8.25″ |
| 8.0″–8.25″ | 8.0″–8.5″ |
| 8.25″–8.5″ | 8.25″–8.75″ |
| 8.5″–9.0″ | 8.5″–9.0″ |
Why Matching Matters
Stability: When the wheels align with the deck’s edges, the board is more stable and predictable. The rider’s weight is distributed evenly over the wheels.
Turning: Properly matched trucks turn smoothly and predictably. Mismatched trucks can feel twitchy or unresponsive.
Trick performance: For street and park skating, flush wheel alignment is essential for tricks like grinds and slides. Wheels that stick out or tuck in can interfere with trick performance.
Wheelbite: Trucks that are too narrow for the deck can cause wheelbite—where the wheel contacts the deck during turns.
Slight Variations Are Acceptable
It’s worth noting that slight variations are acceptable. A truck that’s 0.1–0.2 inches narrower or wider than the deck’s width won’t dramatically affect performance. Many riders prefer slightly narrower trucks for technical street skating, while slightly wider trucks are preferred for transition and park skating.
Consider Riding Style
Street skating: Slightly narrower trucks for quicker, more responsive turning.
Park and transition: Slightly wider trucks for stability at speed.
Cruising: Match the deck width for a balanced, comfortable ride.
Downhill: Wider trucks for maximum stability at high speeds.
Truck Size and Wheel Size Compatibility
Truck size doesn’t exist in isolation—it interacts with wheel size. Larger wheels require more clearance to avoid wheelbite; smaller wheels have more clearance.
Wheelbite: The Core Issue
Wheelbite occurs when the wheel makes contact with the deck during a turn. It can cause the rider to stop suddenly, lose control, or fall. Preventing wheelbite is a key consideration in truck and wheel sizing.
Factors that affect wheelbite risk:
- Wheel size: Larger wheels increase wheelbite risk.
- Truck height: Lower trucks increase wheelbite risk.
- Bushing hardness: Softer bushings increase wheelbite risk (more lean).
- Deck concave: Aggressive concave reduces wheelbite risk (more clearance).
- Riser pads: Adding risers increases clearance and reduces wheelbite risk.
Matching Wheel Size to Truck Height
| Wheel Size | Recommended Truck Height | Riser Pads |
|---|---|---|
| 48–52mm | Low to standard (48–52mm) | Not needed |
| 52–56mm | Standard (52–55mm) | Optional |
| 56–60mm | Standard to high (55mm+) | Recommended |
| 60mm+ | High (55mm+) | Required |
Riser Pads
Riser pads are placed between the truck and the deck to increase clearance. They’re measured in millimeters—typically 1/8″ (3mm) to 1/2″ (12mm).
When to use risers:
- Larger wheels (56mm+)
- Loose trucks
- Soft bushings
- Aggressive turning styles
Trade-offs: Risers increase clearance but raise the deck’s center of gravity, which can affect stability and trick performance.
Truck Height and Performance
Low trucks (48–50mm): Lower center of gravity, more stable, better for technical street skating. Require smaller wheels.
Standard trucks (50–53mm): Versatile, suitable for most riding styles. Work with a wide range of wheel sizes.
High trucks (53–55mm+): Higher center of gravity, quicker turning, better for transition and cruising. Allow larger wheels.
Specifying Trucks for OEM Complete Skateboards
When placing an OEM order for complete skateboards, you need to specify trucks precisely. Vague specifications lead to inconsistent products and compatibility issues.
What to Include in Your Specifications
Axle width: Specify in inches or millimeters (e.g., “8.0 inches” or “203mm”).
Hanger width: Specify if different from standard (usually 0.5–1 inch narrower than axle width).
Axle height: Specify in millimeters (e.g., “53mm”).
Baseplate hole pattern: Specify new school (2.125″) or old school (2.5″).
Color and finish: Specify raw, painted, powder-coated, or anodized. Include Pantone references for colors.
Branding: Specify logo placement and method (engraving, stamping, printing).
Bushing hardness: Specify durometer (e.g., “90A”) and color.
Kingpin type: Specify standard or inverted.
Weight: Specify target weight if weight is a priority.
Quantity per set: Specify (typically 2 trucks per set).
Packaging: Specify how trucks are packaged.
Working with Your Manufacturer
Your manufacturer can advise on truck specifications based on your deck dimensions, wheel size, and target market. They may have standard truck options that meet your needs or can source custom trucks from specialized suppliers.
If you’re sourcing complete skateboards, working with a complete skateboard manufacturer that offers integrated component sourcing simplifies the process. They can coordinate deck, truck, wheel, and bearing specifications to ensure everything works together.
For brands that want to customize trucks as standalone components, our guide to skateboard components covers the full range of customization options.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced product managers make mistakes when specifying trucks. Here are the most common.
Choosing Trucks That Are Too Narrow
The mistake: Selecting trucks that are significantly narrower than the deck width.
The fix: Match axle width to deck width. Slight variations are acceptable; significant mismatches are not.
Ignoring Wheel Size
The mistake: Specifying trucks without considering wheel size, leading to wheelbite.
The fix: Match truck height to wheel size. Use riser pads if necessary.
Forgetting the Mounting Hole Pattern
The mistake: Specifying trucks that don’t match the deck’s mounting hole pattern.
The fix: Confirm the deck’s hole pattern and specify compatible trucks.
Overlooking Bushing Hardness
The mistake: Specifying trucks without specifying bushing hardness, resulting in inconsistent turning feel.
The fix: Specify bushing durometer and color in your product documentation.
Skipping Samples
The mistake: Approving truck specifications without testing a sample.
The fix: Always request and test samples before bulk production.
Inconsistent Specifications Across Orders
The mistake: Changing truck specifications between orders without documenting the changes.
The fix: Document specifications in your product spec sheet and tech pack. Reference them for every order.
FAQ
How do I choose the right truck size for my skateboard deck?
Match the axle width to the deck width. A 8.0″ deck pairs with an 8.0″–8.25″ axle. Slight variations are acceptable depending on riding style.
What’s the difference between axle width and hanger width?
Axle width is the distance between the outer edges of the axle. Hanger width is the distance between the inner edges of the hanger. Hanger width is typically 0.5–1 inch narrower than axle width.
How does truck height affect performance?
Lower trucks are more stable and better for technical street skating. Higher trucks turn more quickly and allow larger wheels. Standard height (50–53mm) is versatile for most riding styles.
What size trucks do I need for an 8.0″ deck?
An 8.0″ deck pairs well with trucks that have an axle width of 8.0″–8.25″. This provides flush wheel alignment and balanced performance.
How do I prevent wheelbite?
Choose the right truck height for your wheel size, use riser pads if needed, and consider harder bushings. Wheelbite occurs when the wheel contacts the deck during turns.
Can I use larger wheels with low trucks?
Not recommended. Larger wheels with low trucks increase wheelbite risk. Use standard or high trucks for wheels over 56mm.
What’s the mounting hole pattern for skateboard trucks?
Most modern decks use the new school pattern (2.125 inches between holes). Some older or specialty decks use the old school pattern (2.5 inches).
Should I use riser pads with my complete skateboards?
Riser pads are recommended for wheels 56mm and larger, or when using loose trucks or soft bushings. They increase clearance and reduce wheelbite risk.
What bushing hardness should I specify?
For kids’ and beginner boards: 85A–90A (softer). For street and park: 90A–95A. For heavier riders or downhill: 95A–100A (harder).
Can I customize truck colors and branding for OEM orders?
Yes. Most manufacturers offer custom colors, finishes, and branding (engraving, stamping, printing). MOQs typically start at 200–500 pairs.
What’s the MOQ for custom skateboard trucks?
MOQs vary by manufacturer. Custom colors and branding typically start at 200–500 pairs. Custom geometry or materials may require higher MOQs.
How do I ensure trucks are compatible with my deck and wheels?
Specify axle width, axle height, mounting hole pattern, and bushing hardness. Work with your manufacturer to confirm compatibility across all components.
Can I get truck samples before placing a bulk order?
Yes. Always request samples before committing to bulk production. Test the trucks for fit, turning feel, and compatibility with your deck and wheels.
Conclusion
Choosing the right truck size for a complete skateboard is a critical product development decision. It affects how the board turns, how stable it feels, and how well it performs for your target market.
The key takeaways:
- Axle width should match the deck width for proper wheel alignment.
- Truck height should match the wheel size to prevent wheelbite.
- Mounting hole pattern must match the deck’s pattern.
- Bushing hardness affects turning feel—specify it precisely.
- Consider riding style—street, park, cruising, or downhill.
- Always request samples before bulk production.
- Document specifications in your product spec sheet and tech pack.
With the right truck specifications, your complete skateboards will handle the way your customers expect—and keep them coming back for more.
REQUEST A QUOTE
Ready to specify trucks for your complete skateboard order? We’re here to help.
Whether you’re developing a kids’ line, a street series, or a cruiser collection, our team can guide you through truck selection and source the right components for your product. From axle width and height to bushing hardness and branding, we’ll help you create complete skateboards that perform and sell.
Request a Quote today and let’s build your complete skateboard line.