Randal trucks, the pioneers of the Reverse Kingpin (RKP) design 34 years ago, have laid the groundwork for countless longboard trucks. Their influence is so profound that many brands have adopted their design, allowing riders to interchange hangers and baseplates while maintaining optimal functionality. However, not all trucks adhere to the same dimensions, with varying pivot thicknesses and kingpin geometries. This article will delve into the world of truck compatibility, specifically focusing on how you can mix and match different baseplates and hangers to tailor your longboard setup. We will explore the Randal 28° and 35° baseplates, and how they can be integrated to achieve enhanced stability and performance.
Which Trucks are Randal Compatible?
The good news for longboarders is that the majority of cast trucks on the market are compatible with Randal’s design. This includes popular brands like Paris, Paris Savants, Caliber, Gullwing Chargers, Gullwing Reverse, and Sabre, all of which allow for the interchangeable use of Randal baseplates and hangers, and even among themselves. However, some exceptions exist, including Ronin, Bear, and Rogue trucks, which are primarily compatible with their own cast, forged, or precision counterparts. The table below shows a good overview of compatibility.
The compatibility chart shows the various trucks that can be interchanged, with some requiring a pivot cup swap to facilitate mixing and matching. It’s worth noting that the chart is not exhaustive; many other trucks with Randal geometry, such as PNL trucks, are also compatible, despite not being explicitly listed.
Truck Compatibility Chart Key
Why Utilize Randal Compatibility?
The ability to interchange hangers and baseplates with different angles opens up a world of possibilities for fine-tuning your ride. Here are some specific examples of how Randal compatibility can enhance your longboarding:
Experiment with Baseplate Angles: You can easily test different baseplate angles without having to buy new precision trucks. If you enjoy cast trucks but want a lower angle in the rear, you can get a Randal or compatible baseplate without a large financial investment. By using a split angle setup, you can gain stability at high speeds.
Swap Hangers for Varied Feel: The interchangeability of hangers lets you experiment with narrower hangers, hangers with rake, and different bushing seat designs. You can swap to Paris hangers for a divey, responsive turning feel and Caliber hangers for a more linear feel and direct steering. Alternatively, you can also opt for Gullwing reverse hangers for a different feel.
Access to a Variety of Baseplates: The Randal compatibility enables you to access a wide range of baseplates. Riders have been known to use 20-degree PNL plates with Paris Savants to maximize stability in the back. Morgan Owens, for example, uses a custom slalom-style downhill setup with a 20-degree PNL plate in the rear and Savant hangers.
Enhanced Stability at High Speeds: Many riders, like myself, use 28° and 35° Randal baseplates with Caliber hangers for a more stable ride at high speeds. I have regularly reached 80km/h and felt confident in the stability of my setup.
You can find 35 degree trucks on Amazon, although you’ll have to purchase the entire truck to acquire the baseplate, but it is well worth it. You can also find 35° baseplates on the Randal website and 28° baseplates at Sickboards.
Understanding the Benefits
Knowing about truck compatibility provides you with numerous options to enhance your longboarding experience. You can make the most of your current trucks by swapping parts, which is beneficial if you are looking for a more budget-friendly way to access narrower hangers or different baseplate angles without having to buy entirely new truck sets.
If you still have questions about the compatibility of your specific truck, I would recommend joining groups on facebook such as #WhatGearShouldIBuy or Reddit/Longboarding. They can assist with truck compatibility questions you can’t find the answers to.
