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Specs are compiled from manufacturer listings and verified buyer reviews and can change over time — please confirm the key details on the product page before buying.
Finding cheap skateboard trucks usually means gambling with your board’s feel. Go too soft and the ride gets wobbly and unstable at speed or when carving. A low price tag often hides bushings that flatten after a week or an axle that won’t keep a wheel straight. A few brands now deliver solid turning and real durability at budget prices.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind WellFizz. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
These eight affordable options cover every width and use-case you need. These are the best cheap skateboard trucks that actually hold up to a season of daily pushing, grinding, and cruising.
Our Picks at a Glance
![[CCS] Skateboard Trucks - 109mm, 129mm, 139mm, 144mm, 149mm, 169mm](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61exLYXhJuL.jpg)
How To Choose The Best Cheap Skateboard Trucks
You don’t need top-tier money for responsive, durable trucks. But the “budget” aisle is packed with gear that looks the same on the shelf and performs very differently under your feet. Here is what separates cheap trucks worth riding from those that will have you hunting for a wrench every week.
Hanger Width: How It Matches Your Deck
The hanger is the horizontal bar that holds the wheels. A 5.0-inch hanger (roughly 129mm) fits a deck that is around 7.5 to 8.0 inches wide. A 5.25-inch hanger (roughly 139mm) fits an 8.0 to 8.5-inch deck. If the hanger is too narrow, your board will feel tippy and unstable when you carve. If it is too wide, you will have a harder time flipping the board for tricks. Measure your deck at its widest point and match the hanger width as closely as you can.
Durometer (Bushing Hardness): The Feel Under Your Feet
Durometer is the hardness rating of the little rubber pieces inside the truck that let you turn. A lower number — think 87A to 90A — gives you a soft, easy lean that feels great for cruising and casual carving. A higher number like 99A or 101A is very stiff, which keeps the board stable during hard landings and fast downhill runs. Many budget trucks come with bushings in the 87A to 90A range, which work well for lighter riders but often feel too mushy for anyone over 180 pounds. Plan on swapping them if the stock bushings feel like jelly.
Aluminum vs Steel Construction
Nearly all affordable trucks use an aluminum hanger because aluminum is lightweight and does not rust. A steel baseplate is heavier but can take more abuse without deforming. Aluminum trucks keep your setup light for ollies and kickflips; steel-heavy builds feel more planted and durable for street skating and ledges. Read the material line closely — a truck that says “aluminum alloy” is lighter but might wear faster on rough concrete than a steel-reinforced one.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Hanger Width | Axle Length | Durometer | Material | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlas Truck Co. TKP★ Best Overall | Street cruising, beginners | Not listed | Not listed | 91A | Multiple (CNC) | Amazon |
| Havoc AluminumBest Value | Value, light builds | 5.25 in | 8.25 in | 90A | Aluminum | Amazon |
| [CCS] SteelTop Performer | Everyday durability | From 109mm to 169mm | Not listed | Not listed | Steel | Amazon |
| Core Aluminum Alloy | Budget-savvy skaters | 5.0 in | 7.75 in | Hard | Aluminum | Amazon |
| INDEPENDENT Mid | Pro-level feel | Not listed | Not listed | 99A or 101A | Aluminum | Amazon |
| Tensor Alloy | Lightweight street | 5.25 in | 8.0 in | Not listed | Aluminum | Amazon |
| Cal 7 Complete Set | Full starter kit | 5 in (129mm) | Not listed | 99A (wheels) | Aluminum | Amazon |
| THUNDER LIGHTS | Super-light feel | Not listed | Not listed | Hard | Aluminum | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Atlas Truck Co. Traditional Kingpin Street Skateboard Truck
The Atlas TKP brings CNC-machined precision to a price that usually buys cast metal.
You get a smooth, precise turn because these trucks share the same CNC-machined pivot ball and machined axle as Atlas’s RKP (reverse kingpin — a truck design where the kingpin faces inward for more stability at speed) line, so the fit-and-finish rivals trucks costing three times as much. At a 1.5-pound weight for the pair, they are not the absolute lightest option here, but the strength-to-weight ratio stands out — the durometer (bushing hardness) reads an exact 91A, which gives you a slightly firmer lean than the 90A Havoc trucks. That means more stability when you push hard through a carve, so you stay planted during tight turns.
Buyers consistently call them “great for beginner to advanced riding,” noting that the bushings feel sufficient right out of the package. The single recurring note of caution is that advanced skaters should probably not send these off ledges or drop down stairs — the CNC bits make them precise, but the frame is not a hollow-forged pro truck. If you are spending most of your time cruising streets, carving pavement, or learning your first ollies, these will feel fantastic underfoot.
Kingpin durability focus
- CNC-machined pivot ball and axle for smooth, predictable turn feel
- 91A durometer strikes a firm but responsive middle ground
- Comes as a pair of two trucks, ready to mount
Heavyweight feel
- Not built for heavy-impact ledge drops or advanced freestyle abuse
- Logo paint application is sloppy on some units
For traditional setups: Riders who want machined precision on a tight budget, especially for street cruising and learning tricks without breaking expensive hardware.
If weight matters: You are regularly hitting stair sets or heavy ledges — the Atlas is not a pro-destruction truck, and the paint finish is inconsistent.
2. Havoc Skateboard Trucks Made of Lightweight Aluminum
A 907-gram pair that a buyer described as “surprisingly sturdy and well adjusted for the price.”
The biggest appeal of the Havoc trucks is how they feel underfoot: lightweight enough to not weigh down an 8-inch deck, yet tough enough that experienced skaters rank them in their personal top five truck brands. The 90A durometer bushings are softer than the Atlas’s 91A, which means a more relaxed, easier turn when you lean — ideal for cruising and mellow street skating. Pay attention to the axle length, which measures 8.25 inches tip to tip, a perfect fit for boards 7.8 to 8.4 inches wide.
The catch is the bushings. The stock 87A bushings work fine for riders under 150 pounds, but anyone heavier will need to swap them for a stiffer set to avoid that squishy, slanted feel. The data also shows that these trucks do not come with mounting hardware, so have your own bolts and nuts ready. The truck quality is the most-praised aspect among owners — 37 call it out as a positive — and the value-for-money score is equally strong.
Lightweight aluminum build
- Extremely lightweight at 907 grams for the pair
- Smooth turning feel with the 90A baseline bushings for casual riding
- Praised as “surprisingly sturdy” by skaters who have tried many brands
Less impact absorption
- Stock bushings are too soft for riders over 150 pounds
- No mounting hardware included in the box
For cruising: You want a featherlight, wallet-friendly pair for cruising and carving on a standard 8-inch deck, and you are willing to upgrade the bushings later.
For heavy tricks: You are a heavier skater who hates swapping parts — the stock bushings will frustrate you immediately.
3. [CCS] Skateboard Trucks – 109mm, 129mm, 139mm, 144mm, 149mm, 169mm
A steel-build truck backed by a skate shop that has been refining gear since 1985.
CCS is not a fly-by-night import brand — the company is a real skate shop from Portland, Oregon, with a legacy that started in 1985. That history shows in the design: quality steel hangers married to steel baseplates, anti-slip axles, and premium high-rebound bushings that deliver a predictable turn arc. The 139mm size (fitting 8.0 to 8.25-inch decks) is the most popular pick because it matches the vast majority of standard street boards, but the range goes all the way from 109mm up to 169mm. Unlike the Havoc trucks, this set includes 1-inch Phillips mounting hardware, so you have everything you need except the deck.
Build quality is the top aspect owners praise — 26 call it out as excellent. The durability score is just as high: buyers describe them as “solid” and able to “take a beating.” The only disagreement in the data is whether the hardware always ships inside the package, but the manufacturer says it is included. The stock bushings are intentionally stiff and require a break-in period, so expect the first few sessions to feel tight before they loosen up to your preferred turning radius.
Multiple size options: Steel construction at a price that would buy aluminum everywhere else — these will outlast many cheaper pairs through repeated ledge grinding and hard pavement.
Basic bushing quality: The glossy finish is polarizing; some owners find it too slick for the raw aesthetic they wanted.
For budget builds: Skaters who prioritize durability and want a proven brand that includes all the mounting bits in the box.
For precision: You need the absolute lightest truck possible — CCS steel is noticeably heavier than aluminum alternatives.
4. Core Skateboard Trucks – Aluminum Alloy, Premium Bushings
A 7.75-inch axle truck from a company that has been assembling in the USA for over two decades.
Core has been making budget-friendly skate parts since before you probably started riding. The formula is straightforward: lightweight aluminum alloy hangers, heavy-duty baseplates, and Super High Rebound (SHR — bushings that snap back quickly after a turn) bushings and pivot cups made in the USA. The 5.0-inch hanger width (7.75-inch axle length) matches decks from 7.5 to 8.0 inches — the balance for most standard street setups. At 1.7 pounds for the pair, these are heavier than the Havoc trucks, but the added heft comes from thicker baseplates that owners say grind fine without bending.
The truck quality is praised by 23 owners as the best thing here. The consistent wisdom from the review pages is that the stock bushings are the weak link — one owner reported them failing after only four days of use. The fix is a set of Bones or Independent bushings, turning these into a pair that rides on par with trucks costing more. The appearance gets positive marks too, with the metallic blue and white colorway looking crisp on any board.
Premium bushing included
- Thick, durable baseplates that survive high-impact ledge grinds without bending
- Assembled in the USA with SHR pivot cups for smooth response
- Two decades of brand reputation in the budget skate market
Average grind performance
- Stock bushings are near-universally considered junk and need immediate replacement
- At 1.7 pounds, they are heavier than pure aluminum competition
For smooth rides: Skaters who know they will upgrade the bushings anyway and want a thick, affordable base that resists bending on ledges.
For grinds: Anyone who wants a rideable set straight out of the package — the stock bushings will likely frustrate you.
5. INDEPENDENT Polished Mid Skateboard Trucks
The brand that has been the number-one choice of professional skateboarders since 1978, now in a polished mid profile.
Independent is the benchmark in skate trucks, and the Polished Mid model brings that same forged-aluminum durability into a lighter package than the classic Stage 11. The 99A or 101A durometer bushings (hardness depends on the exact variant) give you a stiff, responsive turn that holds steady during hard landings and high-speed runs. At 540 grams per truck, the Mid is lighter than a standard Indy but still feels planted — buyers report noticeably higher ollies thanks to the lower ride geometry.
The durability is exactly what you expect from Independent: owners describe them as holding up well through a full year of aggressive skating. The 170 ratings and 4.5-star consensus confirm that reputation. The one adjustment is that the stock bushings might feel too stiff if you prefer a loose, carvy feel, but swapping to a softer Do-Doh bushing solves that. The polished silver finish keeps the raw, classic Indy look that has been on pro boards for decades.
Polished finish durability: The swappable hollow axle and inverted kingpin design let you rebuild the truck instead of replacing it, meaning a higher upfront cost but a longer usable life.
Higher price point: The stock bushings run firm from the start — expect a break-in period or a quick swap if you like soft turns.
For park skating: You want the pro-level feel and rebuildability of Independent without paying the Stage 11 price.
On tight budget: You are just starting out and not sure you will stick with skating — the premium is wasted if you are still learning basic stance.
6. Tensor Trucks Alloy Black Skateboard Trucks – 5.25″ Hanger 8.0″ Axle
A lightweight alloy truck from a brand owners mention is “the best in the price range” for an 8.0-inch setup.
Tensor is a well-known name in skate parts, and this Alloy Black model is their entry-level contender for standard street boards. The 5.25-inch hanger with an 8.0-inch axle length is a direct match for decks between 7.75 and 8.25 inches, which covers the vast majority of street and park boards. Constructed from high-quality aluminum, the pair feels noticeably light when you hold it, making kickflips and shuv-its easier to rotate. The black finish looks clean and resists scuffs better than raw metal.
The most common piece of advice from owners is to replace the stock bushings immediately. The bushings are described as “pretty garbage” by multiple skaters, with one even reporting a defective pair that would not tighten properly. Beyond that flaw, the trucks themselves are praised for their build quality and value versus premium brands. The data shows the Tensor trucks are roughly 4.9 ounces lighter per truck than the Atlas, so if shaving every gram matters, this is the lighter route.
Alloy construction strength: Tensor alloy construction keeps the weight low and the price reasonable for a branded truck — buyers consistently say they are “great trucks for the money.”
Recurring axle slip: Stock bushings are unreliable enough to be the top complaint; budget for a set of aftermarket bushings before your first ride.
For street skating: Skaters who want a lightweight, brand-name truck and do not mind spending a few extra dollars on upgraded bushings.
For vert: You expect a perfect ride straight out of the package — the bushings are a clear weak spot in an otherwise good build.
7. Cal 7 129mm Trucks with Wheels, Bearings, Hardware
A complete hardware bundle that adds wheels, bearings, and riser pads to your aluminum truck purchase.
Unlike every other pick on this list, the Cal 7 set is a partial complete kit: you get 129mm (5-inch) aluminum trucks, 52 x 31mm 99A PU wheels, and ABEC 7 bearings all in one box. That means you only need to add a deck and you are rolling. The 129mm width is a good match for decks around 7.5 to 8.0 inches, which makes this an ideal starter pack for a kid’s first board or a quick budget rebuild. The 3mm riser pads are included to prevent wheel bite and dampen road vibration.
Quality is the most-cited positive aspect, with 14 owners calling it out. The tuning performance receives more mixed feedback — the bushings run very soft from the start, so heavier riders over 200 pounds will need stiffer bushings to avoid a slanted, unstable feel. The wheels and bearings are functional for casual skating but will not match dedicated aftermarket parts. For the price, this is a fast way to get rolling if your old setup has worn wheels and crusty bearings, but expect to upgrade the bushings and possibly the wheels as you progress.
Complete wheel set included: It replaces multiple worn-out parts (trucks, wheels, bearings, hardware) at once, simplifying a full rebuild into a single purchase.
Lower truck precision: The bushings and wheels are entry-level quality — fine for learning, but you will outgrow them within a few months of regular skating.
For beginners: Parents building a first board for a child or skaters refreshing a complete setup without buying each part separately.
For upgrades: Experienced skaters who already own quality wheels and bearings — buying just the trucks separately makes more sense.
8. THUNDER LIGHTS POLISHED
A polished aluminum truck that weighs only 11.2 ounces and uses hollow technology to shed weight without shedding strength.
Thunder Trucks has built a reputation for making some of the lightest production trucks on the market, and the Thunder Lights Polished model is a prime example. The design uses hollow axles, hollow kingpins, and lightweight forged baseplates to achieve a feathery 11.2-ounce per-truck weight. That is significantly lighter than the Atlas (approximately 24 ounces per pair) and makes a noticeable difference when you are flipping the board or trying to ollie higher. The polished metallic finish keeps a classic, minimalist look.
The quality score is the highest-rated aspect here, with 6 owners praising the construction. The weight is the second most discussed feature — 5 call it out as “super light.” That tracks with the brand’s engineering focus. A practical note from the data: these trucks start out very loose and will tighten up naturally with use, so do not overtighten the kingpin nut before riding them a few times. The bushings are “hard” durometer by default, meaning they provide stability at speed but require a break-in period to reach their full turning range.
Lightweight responsive feel
- Ultra-lightweight thanks to hollow axles, kingpins, and forged baseplates
- Polished finish maintains a clean, professional appearance
- Holds up well to daily skating with no structural complaints
Less stability at speed
- Some units may ship with regular non-hollow axles despite the listing
- Breaks in loose and requires several sessions before the turn settles
For technical tricks: Riders who obsess over weight and want a hollow-axle truck that cuts every possible gram without feeling fragile.
For downhill: You prefer a stiff, locked-in feel from day one — the Thunder Lights need a break-in period before they feel dialed in.
Understanding the Specs
Durometer Hardness (A Scale)
This number measures how hard the urethane bushings are. A lower number — 87A to 90A — means a softer bushing that lets the truck turn more easily when you lean. A higher number like 99A or 101A means a very stiff bushing that resists turning, giving you more stability when you land hard or ride fast. Most budget trucks land between 90A and 91A, which is a middle ground for general cruising and light park skating. Heavier riders or those who do tricks often need harder bushings.
Hanger Width & Axle Length
The hanger width is the metal bar that connects the two wheels on each side of the truck. It is measured in inches or millimeters. The axle length is the total distance from one wheel tip to the other. These two measurements together tell you if a truck will match your deck: a 5.0-inch (129mm) hanger fits a 7.5- to 8.0-inch deck, while a 5.25-inch (139mm) hanger fits an 8.0- to 8.4-inch deck. A mismatched hanger makes the board feel tippy or hard to flip.
Aluminum vs Steel Construction
Aluminum is light, resists rust, and is the standard material for nearly all modern trucks. Steel is heavier but can absorb more repeated impacts without deforming. A truck made primarily from aluminum will be easier to ollie and flip, but a steel-reinforced baseplate or hanger will survive hard ledge grinds longer. Read the material line before buying — some trucks mix both, using an aluminum hanger on a steel baseplate for the best of both worlds.
Stock Bushings vs Aftermarket Upgrades
Bushings are the small rubber cones that sit around the kingpin and control how the truck pivots. Many budget trucks ship with cheap, soft bushings that flatten or degrade within days. Swapping them for a brand like Bones, Independent, or Riptide costs very little and transforms the feel of the entire truck. If your board leans to one side permanently, the stock bushings are the first thing to replace — not the truck.
FAQ
Will cheap skateboard trucks bend easily?
What size truck do I need for my deck?
Are budget truck bushings always bad?
Do I need to buy mounting hardware separately?
Can I use longboard trucks on a skateboard?
How do I know if the truck is too loose or too tight?
What does 90A durometer mean for bushings?
Should I choose polished or raw finish trucks?
Are cheap trucks good for learning tricks?
What is the difference between 90A and 99A wheel durometer?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most buyers looking for the best cheap skateboard trucks, the Atlas Truck Co. TKP offers the highest precision-to-price ratio with its CNC-machined pivots and 91A durometer. If you want the lightest possible pair for flipping tricks, the THUNDER LIGHTS are the lightest option here at 11.2 ounces each. And for anyone building a full setup from scratch, the Cal 7 kit bundles wheels and bearings so you only need a deck to roll.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of July 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
As an Amazon Associate, WellFizz earns from qualifying purchases. This does not affect which products we feature.
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Mo Maruf
I created WellFizz to bridge the gap between vague wellness advice and actionable solutions. My mission is simple: to decode the research and give you practical tools you can actually use.
Beyond the data, I am a passionate traveler. I believe that stepping away from the screen to explore new environments is essential for mental clarity and physical vitality.