Longboards and skateboarders often confuse people with the way they ride. One of the most common questions that people ask about longboarding is, “Why are longboard trucks backward?” It’s natural to think that the trucks should point forward, but that is not the case. In this blog, we’ll explain Why Are Longboard Trucks backward and are set up differently from those on skateboards and the components of Longboard trucks.
Why Are Longboard Trucks Backwards
First, let’s talk about the anatomy of a longboard. A longboard typically consists of a deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, and other components. Longboard trucks are the metal pieces that connect the wheels to the deck. Unlike skateboard trucks, longboard trucks are usually wider and have a more relaxed turn radius. Most importantly, longboard trucks are mounted in a way that allows the board to carve and turn more easily. This brings us to our next point.
The reason Why Are Longboard Trucks Backwards is to allow the rider to create a deeper carve or turn when going down a hill. The backward setup allows the longboarder to shift their weight in a way that creates a more efficient turn on the board. To put it simply, longboard trucks are backward to give the rider more control when navigating down a hill.
Another reason why longboard trucks are set up this way is to allow the rider to get better traction when carving. Moving the trucks toward the back of the board increases the wheelbase, which creates more stability and traction. This is especially important when going downhill, as it allows the rider to maintain control at high speeds.
It’s also worth noting that the shape of the longboard deck plays a crucial role in the backward orientation of the trucks. Most longboards have a directional shape, meaning that one end is more pointed than the other. The backward setup of the trucks complements the shape of the board and allows for better control and stability when making sharp turns.
The Vital Role of Trucks in Longboarding
Longboarding is an exciting sport that has become more popular in recent years. Though it may seem like a simple activity that only requires a board and a good balance, there is more to it than that. Longboarding requires different components that work together to create an enjoyable and safe ride. One such critical component is the truck. In this blog post, we will explore the crucial role that trucks play in longboarding.
Firstly, it’s important to understand what trucks are and how they work. Trucks are the metal parts that are mounted onto the deck of your longboard. Their function is to connect the wheels to the deck, allowing the rider to turn and maneuver effectively. There are two sets of bushings in each truck that help absorb shock and enable turning. The hanger is the T-shaped part of the truck that pivots and allows the board to be turned. The axle is what holds the wheels in place.
Size and Shapes of Longboarding Trucks
Longboarding trucks come in different sizes and shapes, each with its specific features and benefits. Generally, the width of the hanger is measured from one end to the other and ranges from 5 inches to 10 inches. The width of the hanger determines the stability and maneuverability of your longboard. A wider hanger offers more stability and is best for cruising or downhill longboarding, while a narrower hanger offers greater maneuverability suitable for freeriding.
The angle of the kingpin
The angle of the kingpin also affects the turning of your longboard. A higher-angle kingpin is more responsive and offers quicker turns, while a lower-angle kingpin gives a more stable ride.
The bushings in your truck also play a crucial role in your riding experience. Softer bushings offer a more responsive turning, while stiffer bushings tend to be more stable and provide better support when going downhill.
Lastly, the durability and quality of the trucks affect their performance. Poor-quality trucks can cause the rider to lose control and create dangerous situations. Quality trucks can improve the overall experience of longboarding and keep the rider safe.
Understanding the Key Components of Longboard Trucks | To Explore Why Are Longboard Trucks Backwards
One essential part of a longboard is its trucks. Longboard trucks are responsible for turning, carving, and keeping the wheels firmly attached to the deck. In this article, we will provide you with an in-depth understanding of the different components of longboard trucks so that you can select the best ones for your longboarding needs.
Baseplate:
The baseplate is an essential component of longboard trucks as it attaches the truck to the board. It is responsible for providing stability and precision to the rider. The angle of the baseplate determines the turning radius of the longboard. The higher the angle, the tighter the turns, making these ideal for downhill longboarding. Low-angle baseplates provide better stability during cruising and carving. Generally, baseplates are made from aluminum, which is strong and durable.
Hanger:
The hanger of the longboard truck is the T-shaped piece that holds the axle and wheels in place. It is essential to select a hanger that is compatible with the width of your deck for optimal performance. The length of the hanger plays a critical role in determining the stability of the longboard. Wide hangers provide better stability, while narrow ones have a sharper turning radius.
Bushings:
Bushings are rubber rings that sit inside the hanger and allow the longboard to turn smoothly. They absorb shock and vibrations, ensuring a smooth ride. There are different degrees of hardness when it comes to bushings, and each one provides a different level of resistance to turning. Soft bushings provide a great turning radius but less stability. On the other hand, hard bushings provide more stability and are better suited for downhill longboarding.
Pivot Cups:
Pivot cups are located at the top part of the truck hanger where it meets the baseplate. They help to absorb shocks and vibrations during longboarding. Pivot cups made of urethane are the best since they offer better durability.
Kingpins:
The kingpin is the long screw that holds the hanger to the baseplate. A tighter kingpin provides more stability but results in a sharper turning radius, while a looser kingpin provides a more significant turning capacity but less stability. Riders can adjust the tightness of the kingpin to suit their needs.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the reason why longboard trucks are backward is to give the rider more control, stability, and traction when carving or going downhill. This setup allows the longboarder to create a deeper carve or turn, which is essential when navigating steep hills or making tight turns. Furthermore, the backward orientation of the trucks complements the shape of the board and increases stability and traction. Now that you know why the trucks on longboards are backward, you can appreciate the skill and control required to ride one.