Rogue Precision Slalom Trucks have taken the downhill skateboarding world by storm. Known for their stability at high speeds and maneuverability in tight corners, these trucks offer a unique riding experience. This comprehensive review delves into their performance characteristics, tuning options, and riding tips to help you determine if Rogue Trucks are right for you.
Performance Analysis: Stability and Control
Rogue trucks are engineered for stability. Their trailing link axle design, low-angle rear baseplate, and most notably, the insert bushing, contribute to this inherent stability. The insert bushing provides a strong center point, resisting unwanted articulation and keeping the trucks tracking straight. This allows riders to maintain control and confidence at high speeds, even on rough terrain.
Overcoming the initial resistance of the insert bushing reveals the truck’s impressive turning capabilities. The insert bushing then fights back, returning the hanger to center. This provides a unique feel, supporting the rider through deep leans and offering predictable control. However, this strong return-to-center can also make the trucks feel less reactive initially.
Tuning Options: Customizing Your Ride
Rogue trucks offer a wide range of tuning options to dial in the perfect feel. Experimenting with different insert bushing hardnesses significantly impacts performance. Harder inserts provide more stability and grip, while softer inserts offer quicker response and easier slides.
A unique option is replacing the urethane insert with a spherical bearing. This eliminates rebound and reduces road feedback, resulting in a smoother lean. While potentially sacrificing some stability, spherical bearings enhance initial responsiveness, making the trucks feel less sluggish.
Further customization includes swapping the stock pivot tubes for harder ones. Upgrading to 97a Venom pivot tubes noticeably improves responsiveness without compromising the smooth, controlled lean. Wedging the baseplates to higher angles (e.g., 53/23 degrees) is another popular modification, enhancing turn initiation and overall agility.
Riding Style and Recommendations
Rogue trucks excel when ridden aggressively at higher speeds. They reward a forward-weighted stance, with the front foot positioned slightly behind the front truck bolts. Initiating turns and slides requires a deliberate input, avoiding excessive setup carving.
For optimal performance, consider these recommendations:
- Asymmetrical Hanger Widths: Running a narrower front truck (106mm) and wider rear truck (116mm) enhances stability and control, particularly at the limit.
- Harder Rear Insert: Regardless of hanger width, a harder insert in the rear truck promotes a more planted feel and prevents the rear from sliding out prematurely.
- Riser Pads: Using riser pads with flush-mounted trucks can improve leverage and overall feel.
Addressing Potential Drawbacks
While generally well-regarded, Rogue trucks have some potential drawbacks:
- Initial Sluggishness: The strong center of the insert bushing can make the trucks feel less responsive initially. However, tuning options like softer inserts, spherical bearings, or harder pivots can mitigate this.
- Bump Steer: While stable overall, Rogue trucks can transmit more road feedback than some other precision trucks, particularly over cracks and bumps.
- Long Kingpins and Axles: Older versions of Rogue trucks had excessively long kingpins and axles, potentially causing interference. Newer versions have addressed this issue.
Conclusion: Are Rogue Trucks Right for You?
Rogue trucks offer a unique blend of stability, control, and tunability, making them a popular choice for downhill and freeride skateboarding. While requiring a specific riding style and potential tuning adjustments, these trucks reward aggressive riders with a confident and exhilarating experience. By understanding their performance characteristics and utilizing the available customization options, you can unlock the full potential of Rogue trucks and take your riding to the next level.
