Thunder Hollow Lights Skateboard Trucks Review: Are They Worth the Hype?

Having spent considerable time researching and experimenting with various skateboard trucks, I, like many, am always on the lookout for the next best thing. The Thunder Truck Co. has consistently garnered attention, and after hearing positive feedback from fellow skaters, I decided to try out the Thunder Hollow Lights. I’d been gradually increasing my deck size, and my old Royal Crown Raw 5.25″ trucks were simply too narrow for my new 8.5″ board. This led me to a set of Thunder 149s, and I managed to find a great deal on a set of Polished Thunder Hollow Lights at a local skate shop. Here’s my in-depth review.

Positive Aspects of Thunder Hollow Lights

The first thing I noticed about the Thunder Hollow Lights was their incredibly light feel. Compared to my older trucks, the difference was substantial. While not as featherlight as the Titanium Lights, they are noticeably lighter than most other trucks I’ve encountered. The turning responsiveness is exceptional, offering quick and sharp turns without the dreaded “two-wheeling.” Grinding feels smooth, likely due to the polished finish. These trucks also look fantastic, with a shiny metal finish, bright white bushings, and the visually appealing hollow axle and kingpin.

Negative Aspects of Thunder Hollow Lights

However, it’s not all perfect. Due to their specific geometry, Thunder trucks can be prone to wheel bite, particularly with the low versions, though it can still happen with highs. Using shock pads or waxing wheel wells can help mitigate this. The hanger’s perpendicular orientation to the deck means that only the wheels touch during slides, requiring wax on ledges to prevent sticking. Additionally, some skaters find Thunders less ideal for manuals, particularly on steeper decks, though I personally found them comparable to other trucks on my flatter decks.

Weight Comparison: Are Thunder Hollow Lights Truly Lighter?

Let’s analyze the weight of different popular truck brands in the 149 size range, focusing on the weight of a single truck:

As this table demonstrates, only the Thunder Titanium Hollow and Tensor Maglight trucks are lighter than the Thunder Hollow Lights, primarily due to their use of lighter metals. While the difference between the Indy Titaniums and Thunders Hollow Lights is slight, it’s noticeable. A set of Thunder Hollow Lights will make your setup 128 grams lighter than if you had a set of Indy Stage 11, but would be 108 grams heavier than a Tensor Maglights. While a few grams might not revolutionize your ollie, it can contribute to an overall lighter feel and reduced fatigue.

Thunder Hollow Lights trucks

Thunder Hollow Lights Compared to Other Thunder Models

Thunder Hollow Lights function as you’d expect from the brand, offering ultra-responsive turning, excellent stability and control, and a smooth ride. Thunder now primarily offers mid-height trucks around 50-52mm, lower than Independent Standards (55mm) but taller than old Thunder Lows (47mm). The primary differences between Thunder models lie in weight, materials, and cost. They range from the heavier and less expensive Team Editions to the lighter and pricier Lights, Team Hollows, Hollow Lights, and Titanium Lights, with a range of colors to suit individual preferences.

Thunder Hollow kingpin and axle close up

Thunder vs Independent: A Classic Skateboard Debate

The debate of Thunder versus Independent trucks is ongoing. While many skaters swear by Indy trucks, I personally find them less appealing due to their heavier, less responsive feel. I find myself working harder when skating with Indys, from popping ollies to executing kick turns. However, Indys are favored by many for verts, ramps, and transition. In my experience, the Thunder Hollow Lights feel lighter, requiring less effort, which is beneficial for longer skating sessions, especially as an older skater.

independent and Thunder trucks compared

Thunder Hollow Lights on the Streets

Thunder’s reputation is bolstered by their team’s performance in street skating, featuring names like Sean Malto, Mark Appleyard, and Shane O’Neil. The Thunder Hollow Lights seem to provide a more cushioned ride, although it’s not due to bounciness or softness. They feel more forgiving over pebbles, cracks, and rough surfaces, and landing feels more stable. Although I won’t be testing any 8-stair gaps soon, I believe that the stability would translate well when landing from heights.

Thunder Hollow Lights in the Park

Transition is where some criticize Thunders. While some might prefer Indys for bowls, I’ve found that Thunders’ sharp turning is ideal for carving. While the lows may be less suited for transition, the mid heights perform admirably. The primary concern is that the wheels can stick on slides due to their increased distance from the baseplate compared to other brands. This, however, is only a minor inconvenience when locking into nose and tail stalls.

The Stock Bushings

The stock 90A bushings on the Thunder Hollow Lights are fantastic, feeling great right out of the box with no break-in period needed. I prefer to keep my trucks loose, and tightening the nut flush with the top of the kingpin worked well. The bright white color of these bushings is also a nice aesthetic touch. While pro models offer various colors, Thunder also sells aftermarket bushings for those who prefer a stiffer feel, up to 100A durometer.

Thunder Hollow Lights bushings

Final Verdict

The Polished Thunder Hollow Lights 149s are truly excellent skateboard trucks. They deliver the performance I look for: lightweight yet durable, responsive and smooth turning, and stable riding. If you’re in the market for new trucks, particularly if you’re looking to reduce weight, I wholeheartedly recommend giving the Thunder Hollow Lights a try. They might just be the upgrade you need.