Independent Trucks Review - Standard, Forged, Hollow & Titanium (2024)

Every skater will at some point try Independent trucks in their journey. Yes. They are that much of a staple in the skateboarding industry.

You’ve probably seen their logo on some hoodies before, but today, we’re going to talk about the real deal. Their trucks. Indies, as they’re called by skaters.

Independent Trucks Co. has been around since 1978. The two founders created the brand to ensure they could ride solid and durable trucks themselves. As the brand grew, skaters from all around the world praised the durability of their products. Still to this day, they’re recognized as the most long-lasting truck of the bunch.

And if this isn’t enough, the Independent Trucks skateboard team is full of incredible skaters such as Tony Hawk, Bucky Lasek, Grant Taylor and Ben Raybourn for the transition legends, Chris Joslin, Mason Silva, Tiago Lemos, and Louie Lopez for the street riders.

I’ve ridden at least 5 different pairs of Independent Trucks. Broken a few. Hence, I’m pretty sure I can give an honest answer about “why do some skaters only swear by Independent Trucks?”

Independent Trucks Review - Standard, Forged, Hollow & Titanium (1)

Contents

  • Independent Trucks Stage 11: The Go To Skateboard Truck?
    • First Impressions
    • Stock Bushings
    • Price
    • Durability
    • Grind Capability
    • Weight
    • Noticeable Features
    • Adaptability
  • Independent Trucks Hollow
  • Independent Trucks Forged Hollow
  • Independent Trucks Forged Titanium
  • Are Independent Trucks The Most Durable Skateboard Trucks?
  • Who Are They Made For?
  • Which Independent Trucks Should You Choose?
  • Are Independent Trucks worth it?
  • Independent Trucks Size Chart
  • Conclusion

Independent Trucks Stage 11: The Go To Skateboard Truck?

Every one or two years, Independent redesigns its entire trucks catalogue to stay on top of the market. The Stage 11, as its name shows, is the latest iteration of the classic polished indie. The Stage 11 has been around for a while now, and for good reasons.

Through this review, we will first go into a deep analysis of the Stage 11, before talking about almost every Independent trucks currently available. I left out the Independent Inverted Kingpin as I haven’t skated them yet.

First Impressions

I first bought Independent Trucks because everyone said they were the most resistant. Tired of breaking my trucks, I was finally up to test the real thing.

After riding them for a bit, the trucks make you feel super-secure on your board. The wide shape allows for precise turns while its height prevents from low-impact wheel-bites.

I’ve never felt more stable on my board than on Indies. But it came at a price; they feel heavier than other trucks.

Stock Bushings

The stock bushing is quite malleable. Whether you skate tight or loose trucks, the bushing will adapt to your preferred tightness.

Eventually, after months of skateboarding, the bushings will crackle. As long as you don’t change the tightness of your trucks, they won’t budge so you can still ride them safely.

Price

Independent trucks aren’t the cheapest, but they are the most durable and can be consideres on of the top skateboard trucks for skaters that are serious about their business.

However, the longer average lifetime of the product surely justifies its higher price. It could actually cost you less money in the long run to invest in Indies early on. Consider investing in trucks as they are the hear and sould of your skateboard and the longest lasting component.

You could save some money on your deck or get cheaper wheels if you are on a tight budget.

Durability

They’re definitely one of the most long-lasting trucks. There is no doubt about that, Independent trucks are the most durable trucks you can buy. Depending on your skating, they might last you years before showing any signs of wear.

However, like any trucks, they aren’t unbreakable. If you mainly like to skate gaps, they probably won’t last you more than a year. I’ve broken a few, but they sure were resistant.

Grind Capability

Because of their form, Indies grind amazingly well on rails and copings. Their weight helps to lock in firmly on pool coping and crusty ledges. In addition, the “No Hang Up Yoke” technology helps to get out of grinds tricks without struggle.

Once you form those grind strides on the axles, you’ll have a great time blasting through grinds across transitions and curbs.

Weight

The Stage 11 base model weight in at 400g. If you didn’t get it already, resistance is what the brand is all about. Hence, Indies Stage 11 are on the heavy side of trucks.

In comparison, the classic Venture truck weight only 365g.

Noticeable Features

The classic indies have a full-on baseplate, which make them more resistant to chocs. In fact, this is the main reason these trucks are heavier than others.

As a benefit, the full baseplate protects your kingpin better, meaning it won’t break as easily.

Adaptability

Classic indies are the definition of versatility. You can definitely skate any obstacles with Stage 11.

Although, because of their weight, they might not be the first choice for technical skaters. They really shine skating transition or big rails. The shape of the hanger allows for crisp grinds and easy lock in.

Independent Trucks Hollow

The Independent Hollow comes as a lightweight version of the Stage 11 with hollow axle and kingpin. Independent swapped the titanium hanger and baseplate of the Stage 11 for aluminum ones. This helps reduce the weight of the truck, making it 7% lighter than the Stage 11. (368g vs 400g)

These trucks will appeal to more technical or lightweight skaters that want to ride a more reactive and maneuverable set-up. That’s exactly why Lizzie Armanto and Louie Lopez picked these trucks as the base for their pro models.

Also important to note: the Indie Hollow trucks only come in high. This may displease the riders that prefer the stability and reactiveness of a lower truck.

Independent Trucks Forged Hollow

The Stage 11 Forged Hollow is the second lightest truck in the Independent catalogue. 10% lighter than the Stage 11, it weighs in at 358g—which is 42g less still.

The trucks only come in mid-profile (55mm) which makes for the perfect polyvalent skateboard trucks. The Forged Hollow is significantly lighter than the Stage 11 and Hollow. This makes them reactive and effortless to maneuver, yet resistant enough to take on massive impact.

Once again, there’s no doubt why Chris Joslin jumps down massive gaps with Forged Hollow. He even chose this model for his pro Independent truck.

Independent Trucks Forged Titanium

Independent Trucks Review - Standard, Forged, Hollow & Titanium (2)

The Forged Titanium is the lightest truck ever released by Independent. 15% lighter than the Stage 11 with its 344g, they offer the highest strength to weight ratio out of all the Independent trucks.

The trucks only come in mid-profile with a length of 53.5mm for optimal performance and wheel clearance. Their lightness comes from the Hollow Chromoly kingpin and the Ti64 titanium axle. Both these additions help lose weight on the truck overall, without affecting its durability.

The only down side: as they’re the lightest trucks ever made by Independent, the Indies Forged Titanium are the most expensive trucks ever released by the brand as well.

Are Independent Trucks The Most Durable Skateboard Trucks?

I haven’t had Indies break on me unexpectedly like I experienced with other brands. The least time it took me to break one must have been a year, skateboarding nearly every day for 2 to 3 hours.

As mentioned at the start, Independent Trucks are made to last. We can safely say the founders kept true to their words.

Who Are They Made For?

Each skater will have a distinct opinion on this. All-in-all, they are the go-to trucks for any impact skaters.

If you plan on mostly riding transition such as quarter pipe, mini-ramp, bowl and vert, they’re the classic choice.

They’re also great for curb and rail skating. I noticed them wearing off slower than, for instance, Venture and Tensor trucks.

They will also be the perfect fit for heavy skaters. Once again, they’re great at taking shocks and impact. Being heavier, they can logically sustain greater force and torsion before breaking.

However, I won’t recommend them if you mostly like to skate low impact stuff such as manual pads, ledges and flat bar. Pick lighter trucks.

Same thing goes for street kids. You might experience more difficulties learning flip tricks riding classic Indies compared to lighter trucks.

Which Independent Trucks Should You Choose?

If you’ve never ridden indies before, start with the Standard Stage 11. It will give you a feel of the distinguishable indie curvature for a very reasonable price.

However, if you’re looking for lighter trucks, than the Hollow—and Forged Hollow—make a great compromise between price and weight. Finally, if you’re a low-impact technical skater the Forged Titaniums are worth their price.

Are Independent Trucks worth it?

There’s a reason independent trucks are the best-selling trucks. Indies built their reputation on the solidity and durability of their products, so you really can’t go wrong with any of their trucks—as long as you choose the right size.

Independent Trucks Size Chart

If this review made you to want to test out a pair of Independent trucks, check out this chart to know exactly the size that fits your deck.

Independent Trucks SizeBoard Size
109For Decks 7.3” and under
129For Decks from 7.4” to 7.7”
139For Decks from 7.8” to 8.2”
144For Decks from 8.0” to 8.5”
149For Decks from 8.25” to 8.65”
159For Decks from 8.6” to 9”
169For Decks 9” and over

Conclusion

I’m not touching the Independent Trucks VS Tunder debate, it’s what you prefer and I skated Thunders for years. Love them! I feel like they made grinding easier for me, but it’s just anecdotal.

With INdependent trucks you can’t go wrong, they are the most durable trucks and from a budget point of view, the best choice. Not because they are cheap, it’s about how long they last.

If you like to experiement, that argument won’t work. In the end it’s up to you what you like best. If you can, try different trucks and see what works for you. This is not hard science, it’s all about your style and what works best for you.

Independent Trucks Review - Standard, Forged, Hollow & Titanium (3)

Ruben Vee

I’m an aged skateboarder and I still shred responsibly. I started skateboarding 25 years ago but also love surfing, snowboarding, or anything that involves a board.

Independent Trucks Review - Standard, Forged, Hollow & Titanium (2024)

FAQs

Are hollow trucks worth it? ›

Out of the box, these skate very well. They felt predictable and responsive while turning. They grind incredibly smooth, and the hollow axle and kingpin make them light. My first impression was that these are worth all of their hype and the extra $5-10 to get the lighter, hollow versions.

What are forged hollow trucks? ›

Forged baseplates are compression molded making them lighter, stronger, and more impact resistant compared to cast or poured-mold baseplates. Forging also eliminates the most common manufacturing defects and imperfections. Hollow axle trucks cut down on the materials used in the axle, so your trucks feel lighter.

What trucks are better Thunder or independent? ›

Independents perform the best in skate parks, bowls, and ramps. They are the heaviest, last longer, but turn slower. Thunders are great for street skateboarding, are more responsive and turn better. The downside is they wear down faster.

Are hollow trucks lighter? ›

Hollow Axle & Kingpin - Hollow axle trucks cut down on the materials used in the axle, so your trucks feel lighter. Hollow kingpins further reduce weight while still maintaining strength in this critical area.

Are box trucks a good investment? ›

A box truck business is one of the profitable types of businesses yet also the most competitive. While many box truckers are lucky enough to experience success at the start, the chances of it continuing only diminish as time passes. This is prominent with truckers who don't know how to properly handle their businesses.

Do Independent Trucks have a lifetime warranty? ›

Independent Trucks are GUARANTEED FOR LIFE against manufacturer defect in materials, workmanship, or if they bend, break, the axles slip, or the truck[s] becomes inoperable under normal wear and tear of skateboarding.

Are Independent Trucks made in USA? ›

Independent Truck Company is a skateboard truck manufacturer based in Santa Cruz, California. Established in 1978, the company is owned by NHS, Inc. and sponsors an extensive list of team riders. Santa Cruz, California, U.S.

What are independent forged trucks? ›

Independent's forged hollow Stage 11 skateboard trucks are 10% lighter than regular Stage 11's and stronger on impact than any other hollow axle truck on the market. Forged - Forged baseplates are compression molded making them lighter, stronger, and more impact resistant compared to cast or poured-mold baseplates.

How heavy are Indy hollows? ›

Independent Forged Hollow Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks
Size7.6 axle9.125 axle
Hanger (mm):127.0166.0
Board Range (in):7.4 - 7.758.88 - 9.4
Height (mm):53.553.5
Weight (g):331.0369.9
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What does the independent truck logo mean? ›

Independent Truck Company chose the rounded cross logo at its founding in the late 1970s. From day one, the Independent logo has represented the passion for skateboarding. The Independent rounded cross design is not an Iron Cross, which has straight sides, and is not a racist hate symbol.

What bushings do Independent Trucks come with? ›

To give you a feel for which durometer to go for, Independent Trucks come built with the Medium Orange 90A bushings. So go harder or softer than that depending on what you want.

Which semi truck is the most reliable? ›

Most reliable semi truck - Kenworth

Kenworths are 18 wheeler trucks built by truckers for truckers. They have experienced drivers who advise on the design and features of their semi trucks. Kenworth semi trucks are known for making the driver's day on the road less stressful with their smooth navigational technology.

What truck has the least amount of problems? ›

From Ram to Toyota, most companies offer some type of full-size pickup. And these three, including the 2022 Toyota Tundra, 2022 Ram 1500, and 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500, might have the fewest problems.

What truck has the best owner satisfaction? ›

Nissan Named Top Brand In Truck Owner Satisfaction In J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Customer Service Index (CSI) Study. Nissan has been recognized as the number one truck brand in dealership service satisfaction in the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Customer Service Index (CSI) Study.

Are Thunder Hollow Lights worth it? ›

The Thunder Hollow Lights ($55) are great skateboarding trucks for anyone who is all about keeping things as light as possible. They slide well, they're durable, and they turn great. There really are no negatives. It's all a matter of personal preference, I suppose.

What trucks are considered light trucks? ›

Light-duty trucking is a United States designation for trucks and vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight up to 8500 pounds and payload capacities up to 4000 pounds.

Do lighter trucks make a difference? ›

Surprisingly they are just as strong as regular trucks but they are more expensive. Keep in mind light trucks won't make you a better skateboarder. What is this? The baseplate and hangar consist of magnesium and the hollow kingpin and axles further reduce their weight.

How many miles should a box truck last? ›

A box truck with a diesel engine should be able to last somewhere between 250,000 and 155,000 miles, while a gas truck will last for around 155,000 miles if it's maintained properly. In poor condition, a gas engine could last for as little as 12,000 miles.

How much should you put down on a box truck? ›

You should expect to pay 50% of the intended purchase amount as a down payment, which will reduce your monthly payments by 50% as well. Having the most reliable box truck for your business, acquired with affordable and fixed monthly payments, can have a lot of benefits for your business.

Why are independent trucks so expensive? ›

Costly to Produce

The high cost of skateboard trucks has to do with the materials that are used in their production. Skateboarders require a very specific type of truck for optimum performance, which adds to the expense.

Do independent trucks come as a pair? ›

Grade 8 Kingpin

Independent Trucks are Built to Grind and Guaranteed for Life. All Independent skateboard trucks are sold as single items, one pair of trucks = 2 units.

How do you tell what size your independent trucks are? ›

To determine the width of a skateboard truck, you measure the width of the axle (outer width) and the width of the hanger (inner width). The trucks should always fit the width of your Skateboard.

Who owns Independent Trucks? ›

Image of Who owns Independent Trucks?
NHS, Inc. is a United States sports equipment distribution company based in Santa Cruz, California. It was founded by Richard Novak, Doug Haut, and Jay Shuirman, three surfer friends from Santa Cruz, California, teamed up to start NHS. The acronym NHS comes from their surname initials.
Wikipedia

What truck is 100% made in America? ›

Ford's F-150 through Super Duty truck series is the only full-size American pickup truck still 100% assembled in the United States.

Why did Independent Trucks change their logo? ›

While the company maintained that the logo was never intended to represent any political ideology or hate group, they changed it to avoid further controversy. In a statement released by the company, Independent Trucks said, "Independent Truck Company does not and has never stood for the promotion of hate.

How much does independent 159 Forged Hollow weigh? ›

Independent Hollow Forged 159 Stage 11 polished skateboard trucks. Super lightweight mid-profile truck with 356 aluminium hanger, forged aluminium baseplate, hollow chromoly steel axle and 53.5 height. Weight: 362g each.

How tall is the independent forged hollow MiD? ›

The new MiD Forged Hollow is 50.5mm tall and built on Independent's legendary geometry with full size cushions for maximum turning action and comes in 129, 139, 144, 149, 159 sizes.

How much does an Indy Forged Hollow 139 weigh? ›

Weight: 338g each. Hanger: 137mm. Axle: 8". Height: 53.5mm.

What happens if your trucks are too small? ›

What Happens When Your Trucks Are Too Narrow. When you're trucks don't match your board and aren't wide enough you'll get the carpet riding effect. You won't be able to see your wheels, just your deck.

How heavy are thunder lights? ›

Product information
Item Package Dimensions L x W x H‎6.81 x 5.63 x 2.56 inches
Item Dimensions LxWxH‎5 x 10 x 6 inches
Item Weight‎0.8 Pounds
Brand Name‎Thunder Trucks
Color‎Multicoloured
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What are independent truck drivers called? ›

Owner-Operator

Owner-operators lease or own their trucks and operate under their own DOT authority. An owner-operator is more than a truck driver. They are also a trucking company, even if it's one guy and his truck.

Why do truck drivers buy their own trucks? ›

There are some reasons why truckers choose to become owner-operators. The main reason is the potential for higher earnings. Owner-operator can set their rates and negotiate directly with clients.

Why are company trucks always white? ›

Companies often use an additive known as titanium dioxide, a pigment that is both cost-effective and provides a vibrant white, opaque finish. White fleet vehicles allow for easier display of graphics such as logos or text as the white background offers a nice contrast to any color, making your branding stand out.

Should I get hard or soft bushings? ›

Soft bushings will give you the loosest turn, hard bushings will make the turn stiffer and medium bushings are the middle ground most people opt for. Changing them is easy and just requires a skate tool to take off your kingpin nut.

What are the best bushings for daily driving? ›

Rubber bushings are more desirable for daily commuting over long distances or the smoothest driving experience while polyurethane upgrades a handling for better performance and provides more durable suspension for working vehicles.

Are bushings worth it? ›

Polyurethane bushings can improve a car's handling, but they also stiffen the ride. The bushings between your car's suspension components are critical to both ride quality and responsiveness. Stock bushings are meant to balance compliance and performance. Once they get old and cracked, you lose both.

What semi truck lasts the longest? ›

Most Reliable Long Haul Trucks

Volvo- Volvo trucks are extremely popular internationally. These high-quality trucks have a great support network, so you know you will be able to keep your Volvo semi-truck on the road for many years. Mack- Macks are built to handle long trips and the toughest road conditions.

Which semi truck engine lasts the longest? ›

PACCAR engines are considered by far the most reliable diesel semi truck engines. They are used by only two truck brands: Kenworth. Peterbilt.

Which semi truck engine last longer? ›

Diesel vs Gas Engine

One of the biggest reasons for the exceptional durability of the semi truck is the diesel engine design. Diesel engines have many advantages for professional drivers: Diesel fuel is lighter and more efficient, which makes it safer and less volatile for most engines.

What is the #1 truck for reliability? ›

Based on reliability, the best truck to buy in 2022 is the Toyota Tacoma, which comes in with a Consumer Reports score of 74. This truck is followed closely by the Ford Lightning, which received a 73. Both of these trucks would be a great buy in 2022.

What trucks will last 300000 miles? ›

When handled with care, the Silverado can last 300,000 miles and beyond. Some owners use their trucks for up to 20 years. Regular maintenance is key, or your Silverado may not make it past 150,000 miles. Expect to spend a little under $700 to maintain the Chevy Silverado each year.

What is the most unreliable truck on Consumer Reports? ›

The 2022 Jeep Gladiator achieved the dubious honor of getting named the most unreliable pickup truck by Consumer Reports, per USA Today. No other truck fared worse for reliability. For the top 10 unreliable car list, it took the third spot, while the 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500 and the GMC Sierra 1500 placed fourth.

What is the 1 best selling truck? ›

FAQs. What Is The Number One Best-Selling Truck? The Ford F-Series is still the number one best-selling truck for 46 consecutive years. Ford delivered over 650,000 examples of the F-Series in 2022.

What trucks do millionaires drive? ›

Customer experience and market research company MaritzCX found that the Ford F-150 pickup truck was the most popular vehicle in the U.S. for people earning more than $200,000 a year. In fact, even the ultra-rich may not be splurging on exotic vehicles.

What trucks lose value the fastest? ›

So here's the list of the top 10 pickups with the fastest depreciation.
  • Ford F-150. 2022 Ford F-150 | Ford. ...
  • Nissan Titan. 2022 Nissan Titan | Nissan. ...
  • Ram 1500. 2022 Ram 4000 | Stellantis. ...
  • GMC Sierra 1500. 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 | GMC. ...
  • Chevy Silverado 1500. ...
  • Ford Ranger. ...
  • Toyota Tundra. ...
  • Chevy Silverado 3500.
Feb 24, 2022

Are 2x4 trucks worth it? ›

Cost-Effectiveness: Typically, 4x2 trucks are less expensive than 4x4's. Additionally, maintenance and repair costs are often lower, as well. Also, insurance companies acknowledge that 4x2 trucks experience fewer accidents and moving infractions, which means they usually cost less to insure than 4x4 trucks.

Is it worth buying a dually truck? ›

What Are The Advantages of a Dually Truck? Because of the additional rear wheels and stronger rear axle, dually trucks have increased payload capacities and towing capacities. If you're looking to tow a fifth-wheel RV or transport ATVs in the truck bed, a DRW truck will give you more power and stability.

Why is it good to have a dually truck? ›

Pros of a Dually Truck

You'll have access to greater towing and payload capabilities. They provide better stability and control on Tacoma roads while towing large objects. Dually trucks can haul things like fifth-wheel trailers, which non-dually trucks typically cannot do.

How long do dually trucks last? ›

Maintenance Is Important to Longevity

That said, while most gas engines are intended to last at least 200,000 miles on average, a diesel truck that is well-maintained can potentially last 350,000 to 500,000 miles.

Is it safe to drive a dually with a flat tire? ›

As is the case with other vehicles, it is still okay (in most cases) to slowly limp somewhere safe on a flat with a dually or multi-axle trailer, but anything more than that is a risk not worth taking.

Is it better to tow a 5th wheel dually or single? ›

In short, a dually is not required to tow a fifth wheel. However, the dual wheels do help stabilize the truck and therefore reduce sway while towing. They also provide a higher weight capacity. That being said, dual rear wheels may affect your comfort during daily driving — in the end, the decision is up to you.

Why would anyone buy a 2WD truck? ›

With two-wheel drive, the engine sends power to two of the car's wheels while allowing the other two wheels to spin. Because the engine doesn't have to use energy to power all four wheels, and because two-wheel drive systems weigh less than four-wheel drive, two-wheel drive vehicles are lighter and more fuel-efficient.

What is stronger two 2X4 or one 4x4? ›

2 2x4s glued together should be stronger than 1 4x4 because of the glue, but not necessarily stronger in the case of the OP's planks screwed together.

Are 2WD trucks good in snow? ›

For 2WD cars, a front-wheel drive vehicle tends to do much better in the snow than a rear-wheel drive vehicle. Front-wheel drive cars can handle a moderate amount of snow and should meet the needs of anyone trying to get from home to work and back on roads without snow.

How many miles per gallon does a diesel dually truck get? ›

They usually do not use gasoline. Freight trucks generally use diesel fuel. And depending on the factors they usually get a whopping 3–9 miles per gallon of diesel. What kind of actual miles per gallon are you getting over the long haul with your hybrid?

Is a dually better for towing? ›

Duallies win when it comes to increased towing and payload capacity. If you need to haul a trailer that weighs over 20,000 lbs, this is the best option! Truck camper owners appreciate the increased payload capacity of these trucks, too.

What do I need to know about owning a dually truck? ›

Duallys often come with heavier axles, heavier suspension setups, and just more meat on the bones than SRW options. That's important because with the added rear tires, dually trucks are rated for quite a bit more in terms of payload and towing capacity.

Do dually trucks have more power? ›

Dually trucks almost always house the most powerful engines offered by the manufacturer, as they're built to haul and tow with their higher than average rear axle ratios.

Are dually trucks more stable? ›

Stability: When a truck carries a heavy load, the weight shifts towards the rear of the vehicle. This can cause the rear wheels to lift off the ground, resulting in instability and loss of control. A dually truck, with its two additional rear wheels, provides more stability and can handle heavy loads more safely.

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