Considering truck height when choosing skateboard wheels is essential for a smooth and safe riding experience. The key elements to understand include the following:
Wheelbite and Wheel-to-Truck Match: "Wheelbite" is one of the main downsides that can arise when wheels and trucks are not well-matched in terms of height. Wheelbite occurs when the wheels touch the board during a turn or landing, causing an abrupt and unpleasant stop. This phenomenon can lead to falls and accidents, jeopardizing both the rider's safety and the skateboard's integrity.
Risks of Using Incompatible Wheels: If the wheels are too large compared to the truck's height, there's a higher chance they'll touch the board during maneuvers. On the other hand, if the wheels are too small, you might not fully utilize the skateboard's capabilities and the entire suspension system.
Increasing Truck Height with Riser Pads: It's important to note that truck height can also be adjusted using riser pads. Riser pads are plastic inserts placed between the truck baseplate and the board. This option allows you to adapt truck height to your preferences and needs, enabling the use of medium-sized wheels even with initially low trucks.
Matching Truck Height and Wheel Sizes: Truck height is divided into three categories: low, mid, and high. Each category has a specific height range, which influences suitable wheel sizes:
- Low Trucks: Height range is generally between 46 and 49 mm. These trucks are designed to be used with smaller wheels, typically up to 53 mm in diameter.
- Mid Trucks: Height range is usually between 50 and 53 mm. These trucks can accommodate medium-sized wheels, up to about 56 mm in diameter.
- High Trucks: Height range varies from 53.5 to 58 mm. These trucks allow the use of larger wheels, up to 60 mm in diameter.
Precise Choice for Optimal Experience: Selecting wheels and trucks that are compatible in terms of height is essential to ensure a seamless riding experience, reducing the risk of wheelbite and enhancing your skateboard's maneuverability. When purchasing new wheels, it's important to consider the height of existing or planned trucks to ensure a proper combination and safe riding. Remember that you can also adjust truck height with riser pads to match your preferences and use medium-sized wheels with initially low trucks.
Use the "Wheel diameter" filter to select skateboard wheels with the most suitable diameter for your needs.