Independent trucks are a cornerstone of skateboarding, and it’s rare to find a skater who hasn’t ridden a set at some point. Known as “Indies” within the community, these trucks have a long-standing reputation for durability and performance. This article explores the various models offered by Independent Trucks Co., from the classic Stage 11 to the high-performance Forged Titanium.
Founded in 1978 by two skaters who wanted reliable and long-lasting gear, Independent has become synonymous with quality in the skateboarding world. The brand’s commitment to durability is evident in every model they produce, making them a favorite among both amateur and professional skaters. With a team roster that includes legends like Tony Hawk, Chris Joslin, and Louie Lopez, it’s clear that Independent trucks are trusted by some of the best in the business. Having personally skated on various Independent setups, and even broken a few (pushing them to their limits), I feel confident sharing my honest perspective on why so many skaters are loyal to Independent trucks.
Independent Trucks Review
Independent Trucks Stage 11: The Standard for Reliability
The Stage 11 is the most recent iteration of the classic polished Independent truck, and it’s a go-to choice for many skaters. Over the years, Independent has consistently updated its product line to maintain its place at the forefront of skateboarding technology. Here’s a detailed look at its features:
First Impressions
My first experience with Independent trucks came from a desire to find something that wouldn’t break easily. What immediately stood out was how secure they made my board feel. The wide shape of the trucks allows for precise turns, while their height helps prevent wheel bite. They felt incredibly stable under my feet, even if they did feel slightly heavier compared to other brands.
Stock Bushings
The stock bushings on the Stage 11 trucks are quite adaptable. Whether you prefer your trucks tight or loose, the bushings will adjust to your preferred tension. Over time, the bushings may start to crack, but they remain rideable as long as you don’t alter the tightness.
Price
While Independent trucks aren’t the most budget-friendly option, their superior durability and longevity often make them a worthwhile investment for serious skaters. In the long run, spending a bit more upfront on Indies could actually save you money, as they tend to last much longer than other trucks, and are a core component of your skateboard.
Durability
Independent trucks are renowned for their durability. They can withstand heavy use and may last for years if you’re not constantly pushing them to their absolute limits. However, like all skateboard components, they are not indestructible. If you frequently skate gaps, you might need to replace them more often.
Grind Capability
The design of Independent trucks is ideal for grinds on rails and copings. Their weight helps to keep you locked in on transitions, ledges, and pool coping. The “No Hang Up Yoke” technology further enhances grind performance, allowing for effortless exit from grind tricks. Once the axles are broken in, you’ll be able to smoothly glide through any grinds.
Weight
The base model of the Stage 11 weighs around 400g. This added weight is a result of the brand’s dedication to durability and resistance. For comparison, the classic Venture truck weighs approximately 365g.
Noticeable Features
The Stage 11 features a full-on baseplate, which greatly enhances its resistance to impacts and shocks. This also helps to protect the kingpin, further extending the trucks’ lifespan.
Adaptability
The Stage 11 trucks are exceptionally versatile, suitable for all kinds of skateboarding, and they really shine on transition or big rails. Though they may not be the first choice for technical skaters due to their weight, the shape of the hanger allows for solid grinds and easy lock-ins.
Independent Trucks Hollow: Lighter and More Reactive
The Independent Hollow trucks are a lightweight alternative to the Stage 11. By using aluminum instead of titanium for the hanger and baseplate, along with a hollow axle and kingpin, these trucks are approximately 7% lighter than the Stage 11, weighing in at 368g.
These trucks are an excellent option for skaters looking for a more reactive and maneuverable setup. Pro skaters like Lizzie Armanto and Louie Lopez have chosen Hollow trucks for their pro models, which speaks to their performance. However, it’s worth noting that the Indie Hollow trucks only come in a high profile, which may not suit all riders.
Independent Trucks Forged Hollow: The Sweet Spot of Lightweight Strength
The Stage 11 Forged Hollow is the second lightest truck in the Independent lineup. Weighing just 358g, they are about 10% lighter than the Stage 11. These trucks feature a mid-profile design (55mm) that makes them incredibly versatile. They are significantly lighter than both the Stage 11 and Hollow models, enhancing responsiveness and maneuverability while still providing sufficient resistance to heavy impacts. The fact that pro skater Chris Joslin uses the Forged Hollow for his pro model speaks to their quality and performance.
Independent Trucks Forged Titanium: The Pinnacle of Performance
Independent trucks titanium review
The Forged Titanium trucks are the lightest trucks ever produced by Independent. Weighing in at 344g, they are 15% lighter than the Stage 11, with an unparalleled strength-to-weight ratio. These trucks feature a mid-profile height of 53.5mm for optimal performance and wheel clearance. The lightness of these trucks comes from the hollow Chromoly kingpin and Ti64 titanium axle. While these trucks are the lightest and offer the best performance, they also come at the highest price.
Are Independent Trucks The Most Durable Skateboard Trucks?
From personal experience, Independent trucks have always proven to be the most durable. Unlike other brands, they haven’t broken unexpectedly on me. The shortest time it took me to break a pair of Indies was about a year, and that was with skateboarding almost every day for a few hours. The founders certainly held true to their promise of making long-lasting trucks.
Who Are They Made For?
Independent trucks are a great choice for any skater, but they really excel for impact skaters. If you mostly ride transition, such as quarter pipes, mini-ramps, bowls, or vert, these trucks are the classic choice. They’re also excellent for curb and rail skating, as they tend to wear down slower compared to brands like Venture and Tensor.
They are also a perfect fit for heavier skaters, as they are great at taking impacts and shocks. Given their weight, they can sustain greater force and torsion before breaking.
However, if you mostly engage in low impact tricks such as manuals, ledges, and flat bars, lighter trucks might be a better choice. Similarly, street skaters learning flip tricks might find classic Indies less responsive than lighter options.
Which Independent Trucks Should You Choose?
If you’ve never tried Indies before, the Standard Stage 11 is a great starting point. It will allow you to experience the unique feel of Independent trucks at a reasonable price. However, if you prefer lighter trucks, the Hollow and Forged Hollow models offer an excellent compromise between weight and price. If you are a low-impact, technical skater, the Forged Titanium trucks are worth the investment.
Are Independent Trucks Worth It?
Independent trucks are the best-selling trucks for a reason. They have built a solid reputation based on the durability and strength of their products. As long as you choose the right size, you can’t go wrong with any model.
Independent Trucks Size Chart
If you’re ready to try out a pair of Independent trucks, this chart will help you determine the right size for your deck:
| Independent Trucks Size | Board Size |
|---|---|
| 109 | For Decks 7.3” and under |
| 129 | For Decks from 7.4” to 7.7” |
| 139 | For Decks from 7.8” to 8.2” |
| 144 | For Decks from 8.0” to 8.5” |
| 149 | For Decks from 8.25” to 8.65” |
| 159 | For Decks from 8.6” to 9” |
| 169 | For Decks 9” and over |
Conclusion
While there will always be a debate between Independent Trucks and other brands, such as Thunder (which I’ve also skated for years), it really boils down to personal preference. I found that Thunder trucks made grinding easier, but that’s just my experience.
With Independent trucks, you’re investing in the most durable trucks on the market. Their longevity makes them a cost-effective choice. Ultimately, the best trucks for you are the ones that match your skating style and personal preferences. Experiment with different trucks if you can, and see what works best for you. This is more about personal preference than hard science.
[
