New deck, fresh trucks, everything ready to build… and then you realise the bolts are too short. Classic. Skateboard mounting hardware isn't the most exciting part of your setup, but getting the length right matters. Here's a straightforward guide to skateboard bolt sizes, riser pads and fitting your trucks without the guesswork.
Quick answer: what size skateboard bolts do I need?
For a typical seven-ply street skateboard without riser pads, 7/8-inch or 1-inch bolts are the usual starting point. If you're using risers between your trucks and deck, you'll generally need longer bolts. The correct length also depends on the deck thickness and truck baseplate, so treat the chart below as a guide rather than a guarantee.
Skateboard bolt size chart
| Riser thickness | Common bolt length | Approximate length in mm |
|---|---|---|
| No risers | 7/8"–1" | 22–25 mm |
| 1/8" risers (about 3 mm) | 1"–1 1/8" | 25–29 mm |
| 1/4" risers (about 6 mm) | 1 1/4" | 32 mm |
| 1/2" risers (about 13 mm) | 1 1/2" | 38 mm |
These are common sizing ranges for standard skateboard setups. Thicker decks, unusual baseplates and certain cruiser or longboard setups can need something different. Always check that the nut can engage the bolt's threads properly once everything is assembled.
7/8-inch vs 1-inch skateboard bolts: what's the difference?
It's just the length. A 7/8-inch bolt is about 22 mm long, while a 1-inch bolt is about 25 mm. Both are commonly used on modern street boards without risers.
Why choose one over the other? If your deck and baseplate are relatively slim, 7/8-inch hardware may fit neatly. A 1-inch set gives a little more length to work with. But neither should be chosen purely by habit: once the truck is fitted, the locking nut needs enough thread engagement to stay secure.
If you're unsure, measure your existing hardware or ask a skate shop to check your particular deck-and-truck combination.
Do I need longer bolts with riser pads?
Usually, yes. Risers sit between the truck baseplate and the deck, increasing the distance the bolt has to travel. That's why the bolt that worked perfectly before you added a riser might suddenly be too short.
A small 1/8-inch riser often works with 1-inch or 1 1/8-inch hardware; a 1/4-inch riser commonly calls for 1 1/4-inch bolts. These aren't absolute rules, especially with thicker decks. If the nut barely catches the threads, stop and use appropriately longer hardware rather than forcing it.
Not sure whether you need risers in the first place? Read our guide to stopping skateboard wheelbite. Risers can increase wheel clearance, but they're not the only solution.
What actually comes in a skateboard hardware set?
A standard set for mounting two trucks usually contains eight bolts and eight matching locknuts — four bolts per truck. Some sets include a small Allen key; others don't. Check what's in the pack before you start building.
You'll also see coloured bolts in some sets. One or two different-coloured heads can make it easier to tell the nose from the tail at a glance. Handy, but not essential.
Allen vs Phillips skateboard bolts
Most conventional skate hardware uses one of two head styles:
- Phillips: a cross-shaped recess that works with a correctly sized Phillips screwdriver.
- Allen (hex): a hexagonal recess that needs a matching Allen key or skate tool.
Neither is automatically better for every skater. The important thing is using the correct driver and avoiding rounded-out bolt heads. If your tool keeps slipping, check the fit before applying more force.
What about countersunk and button-head bolts?
Most modern popsicle decks are designed for countersunk flat-head mounting bolts, which sit flush or nearly flush with the grip tape. Some longboards and specialist decks use different mounting arrangements, including button-head hardware. Use the head style that suits the deck's holes and mounting design; don't force an unsuitable bolt head into the wood.
If you're fitting new grip tape at the same time, our grip tape fitting guide explains how to locate and open the mounting holes neatly.
How to fit skateboard bolts and trucks
- Lay everything out. You should have two trucks, the deck, eight bolts, eight matching nuts and any risers you intend to use.
- Check the mounting pattern. Most modern street decks and trucks share the usual four-hole pattern, but unusual or older setups may differ.
- Feed the bolts through the deck. On a typical countersunk street setup, they go from the grip-tape side down through the deck.
- Add risers if needed. They sit between the underside of the deck and the truck baseplates, with the holes aligned.
- Position the trucks. On a conventional street setup, the kingpins generally face towards the centre of the deck. Check your truck manufacturer's instructions for any unusual design.
- Fit and tighten the nuts evenly. Hold the bolt head with the correct tool while tightening the nut. Don't overtighten and crush the deck or damage the hardware.
- Check the finished setup. Nuts should be securely engaged, baseplates should sit properly, and nothing should rattle or shift. Recheck the hardware after your first few sessions.
Building from scratch? Our truck sizing guide helps you match axle width to deck width, and our deck size guide covers the starting point.
Common skateboard bolt problems
The nut won't go on
First check that the bolt is long enough to pass through the deck, riser (if used) and baseplate. Make sure the nut and bolt are compatible and the threads aren't damaged. Don't force a nut onto crossed threads.
The bolts stick out too far
Longer isn't always better. Excess bolt length can look untidy and may catch on things. Choose the shortest appropriate size that still allows secure fastening for your setup.
My trucks keep coming loose
Check the bolts and locknuts for wear, damage and proper fit. Repeatedly loosening or reusing worn nylon-insert locknuts can reduce their locking performance. Replace questionable hardware rather than hoping it'll hold through another session.
The bolt head is spinning
Hold it with a properly sized screwdriver or hex key while tightening the nut from underneath. If the recess is stripped, replace the bolt.
FAQs
Are skateboard bolts universal?
Many standard street skateboard mounting sets are interchangeable, but bolt length, head shape and some specialist mounting patterns vary. Check compatibility instead of assuming.
Can I use 1-inch bolts without risers?
Often, yes. They're a common choice on standard street setups. Confirm that the fitted nuts are secure and the excess length isn't a problem.
Do skateboard bolts need to be super tight?
No. They need to hold the trucks firmly without damaging the deck or stripping the threads. Secure and evenly tightened beats overtightened.
Will longer bolts stop wheelbite?
Not on their own. Longer bolts simply allow you to fit thicker risers, which can increase wheel clearance. Check our wheelbite guide before changing your setup.
The FK takeaway
For most standard street setups without risers, start by checking 7/8-inch or 1-inch hardware. Add risers and you'll usually need more length. Measure, check the thread engagement and don't force anything. It's a tiny part of the board, but it's the bit keeping your trucks attached to your deck.
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