{"id":5814,"date":"2023-09-20T00:39:06","date_gmt":"2023-09-20T04:39:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/skateboardsalad.com\/?p=5814"},"modified":"2023-10-19T23:21:42","modified_gmt":"2023-10-20T03:21:42","slug":"what-is-an-axle","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/skateboardsalad.com\/general\/what-is-an-axle\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is an Axle? Skateboard Truck Parts Decoded"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Do you ever wonder what keeps your wheels spinning when busting out those kickflips, grinds, and ollies? It’s all in the axle! So, picture this: You’ve got your board, right? Wooden deck, grip tape, the whole nine yards\u2014but the real magic? That’s underneath the trucks. The trucks are those T-shaped metal pieces bolted to the deck, and the axle<\/strong> is the long pin that runs through the center of your wheels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is an axle in skateboarding?<\/strong> The axle is the sturdy metal rod running through the truck hanger, a few inches peeking out on either side where the wheels take place, locked in by the axle nut.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What should you know about the skateboard axle and truck?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

I do not call myself an aficionado. Yet, from my shared experiences, I’ve learned to appreciate the impact of different parts, especially axles and trucks<\/strong>. At its core, a skateboard truck’s size and height directly influence your riding experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to truck size<\/strong>, you’re essentially talking about two crucial measurements – the hanger’s length and the axle’s length<\/strong>. The hanger is your grinding hotspot, where metal meets concrete, rail, or ledge. Remember, your skateboard should generally line up pretty close with the full axle length, bolt to bolt<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here’s a quick table outlining the do’s and don’ts when it comes to the axle of a skateboard:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do’s<\/strong><\/th>Don’ts<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Check for proper alignment after every major impact.<\/td>Over-tighten the nuts, which can damage the wheels or bearings.<\/td><\/tr>
Clean and lubricate the axle regularly to ensure smooth rotation.<\/td>Use mismatched or damaged nuts on the axle.<\/td><\/tr>
Use proper tools, like a skate tool or wrench, when adjusting the axle nuts.<\/td>Skate with bent axles; it can cause uneven wear and potential accidents.<\/td><\/tr>
Ensure that the wheel is centered and spins freely after adjusting the axle nut.<\/td>Ignore rust or visible damage; it can weaken the axle over time.<\/td><\/tr>
Replace the axle if you notice any significant bending damage or if it\u2019s worn down.<\/td>Replace the axle if you notice any significant bending damage, or if it\u2019s worn down.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>
Do’s and don’ts of an axle <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Does the truck material really matter?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

From my experience, the material of your trucks can make a noticeable difference<\/strong> in your ride. Having experienced steel and aluminum trucks<\/a>, I felt a distinct contrast. Aluminum trucks felt lighter, making it easier to pull off some tricks. But there’s a flip side to it. They feel a little less stable, as they are less dense than steel. But again, this difference might be more or less notable, depending on your riding style.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

So, if different trucks have different specialties, what about the construction material? Are there any bearings on your ride? Here’s the reality: The construction affects how the truck rides, flips, and grinds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most trucks are made of an aluminum<\/strong> hanger and baseplate combination, with steel axles as standard. But don’t be freaked out if you come across some that boast titanium or magnesium\u2014we’re nothing if not diverse in the skateboarding world! You’d find some materials in their solider and lighter, hollow versions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In short, expect materials like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n