INTRODUCTION
As a well-known electric skateboard brand in the industry, we are often asked the question: which board is right for me?
Electric skateboards are expensive compare to traditonal skateboard so it’s understandable that you want to get the one that’s right for you and not waste your money.
In this article, we’ll help you narrow down the choices and show you things like what features you should care about.
Choosing an electric skateboard can be a bit overwhelming, especially with so many options available on the market. But don't worry! You will become familiar with the market as soon as you spend a little more time on a few rounds of research. Here are some factors to consider when selecting an electric skateboard.
RIDING STYLE
- Commuting
Commuting is one of the most popular uses for electric skateboards. Many urban dwellers have found electric skateboards to be a convenient and efficient mode of transportation for their daily commutes. A good commuting electric skateboard should offer reliable battery life, a comfortable ride, and a decent speed range. It should be lightweight and compact for easy portability, especially when using public transportation. Practical features, such as LED lights for visibility and wider wheels for stability on city streets, can also enhance the commuting experience.
- Carving
Carving refers to a riding style that mimics the motion of surfing or snowboarding, involving a series of "S" shaped turns. This style is usually preferred by riders who enjoy the feeling of fluidity and the thrill of leaning into turns. Electric skateboards used for carving should be flexible, allowing for smooth and responsive turns. They should also have high-quality trucks that offer good maneuverability. Typically, a carving board will have a longer deck and softer wheels to ensure a smooth ride and good grip during sharp turns.
- Off-Roading
Off-roading is for those who want to take their electric skateboarding adventures beyond city streets. Off-road electric skateboards are designed to handle a variety of terrains, including dirt, grass, and even gravel. They typically have sturdy construction and feature larger, knobbier wheels that provide excellent traction and stability on uneven surfaces. Off-road boards also require powerful motors to overcome challenging terrains, and a higher ground clearance to avoid getting stuck on rocks or roots. It's important for an off-road skateboard to have a robust battery life to ensure it can handle longer rides in the wilderness.
- Freestyle
Freestyle riding involves performing tricks and stunts. Riders who enjoy this style will often look for electric skateboards that are lightweight and responsive with a good balance of flexibility and stability. Features like kicktails can be advantageous for performing tricks.
- Downhill
Downhill riding is all about speed and control as riders race down steep hills. Electric skateboards used for downhill should have high top speeds, reliable brakes, and stable trucks. Stiff decks are generally preferred for downhill riding as they provide more stability at high speeds.
- Slalom
Slalom riding involves navigating through a course of obstacles, usually cones, in the shortest time possible. Boards used for slalom riding should be highly maneuverable with responsive trucks and a narrower deck for quick and sharp turns.
- Long-Distance Touring
For those who enjoy long rides or touring, electric skateboards with a longer deck and a high-capacity battery are preferred. These boards should provide a comfortable ride and have features that aid in endurance riding, like larger wheels and a more powerful motor.
- Street Riding
Street riding involves using features of the urban environment such as stairs, railings, and benches to perform tricks. Electric skateboards for this style should be robust and durable, often with a shorter deck and harder wheels for better control during tricks.
MOTOR POWER
Motor power standards differ by brand.
As the heart of an electric skateboard, motor power is one of the crucial thing to an E-skateboard. But remember not to be fooled by specs!
We suggest that you compare motor specifications within the same brand, as mentioned by Daniel Kwan in his video. This is because there is no industry standard for reference. This will give you an idea of how much of an upgrade the product is. Otherwise, comparing motor specifications between two different brands is meaningless, as there are different standards and methods used to measure motor power.
Look for a board with a motor that is powerful enough if you like the high-speed experience. Choose a board with enough power if you just want to curise around.
If you're interested in understanding the theoretical power output of the board, you can use a straightforward formula: P = UI, where P represents power, U stands for the voltage of the battery, and I is the amperage supplied by the ESC. For instance, if the ESC outputs 20A for a single motor, and the battery supplies 42 volts, then theoretically, the motor's peak power would be 840W.
However, it's essential to keep in mind that in the real world, there will be some power loss due to various factors.
TYPES OF MOTORS
- Hub Motors
Hub Motors are electric motors that are seamlessly integrated into the hub ofLiuBen a wheel, typically on the rear wheels. This makes them very discreet, as they are concealed within the wheel itself—a notable benefit for those who lean toward a minimalist or inconspicuous design in their electric vehicle or device. As these motors rotate, they directly power the wheel's movement, requiring no extra moving parts and offering an almost silent operation. They come in various fixed speed configurations, allowing for some flexibility in performance.
If you're feeling adventurous and have a robust battery and ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) enclosure, you can even take a skateboard equipped with hub motors to a skate park and ride it just like a traditional board. While the wheel options are somewhat limited, due to the motors using sleeves as wheels, there are plenty of replacement sleeves available, and new designs are regularly hitting the market.
One unique feature of hub motors is the ability to manually kick-push your board if the batteries die. With the regenerative braking feature, you can actually gain a little power back into the batteries. The quiet operation of hub motors can add to the enjoyment of the ride. Furthermore, their streamlined design translates to less required maintenance, potentially saving on long-term costs. However, it's worth noting that hub motors may not offer as much power as direct drive motors and are usually significantly less powerful than external motors.
In summary, hub motors are ideal for those who appreciate quiet rides, enjoy a bit of traditional skateboarding, and aren't keen on spending a lot of time or energy on maintenance and repairs.
- Belt Motors
Belt-driven motors are a popular type of external motor drive. These motors utilize brushless motors equipped with a pulley, which connects to a larger pulley on the wheel via a belt. This configuration provides various gear ratio options, as well as high torque and speed, making them an ideal choice for those who reside in hilly areas or want a vehicle capable of mixed-terrain use. Some enthusiasts even opt to switch from belt to chain drives to boost durability further. They can be set up in either single or dual-motor configurations.
One of the primary advantages of belt-driven, and external motors in general, is the vast customization they offer. You have the freedom to choose various wheel characteristics, such as diameter, hardness, and color, enabling a highly personalized electric vehicle or device. Types of external motors include belt, gear, or chain drives, each affecting the motor's performance in different ways, from torque and endurance to top speed.
However, these systems do come with numerous moving parts that may need occasional adjustments and could vibrate out of alignment or loosen over time. Depending on your specific setup and the torque these motors generate, you may have to fine-tune the motor mounts, belts, and motors themselves after intense usage. Once perfectly adjusted, the power output is nothing short of exhilarating.
While belt-driven motors might produce more operational noise compared to hub motors, some users actually appreciate this feature, associating the sound with a sense of power and speed. The tires of external motors often feature thicker polyurethane material, contributing to a more comfortable ride. In terms of raw power, external motors, including belt-driven types, generally outperform both direct drive and hub motors.
The adaptability of belt-driven motors is a key feature. You can install them on almost any skateboard truck and a wide range of wheel types, including all-terrain wheels that can accommodate a pulley. There's also a robust online community focused on belt-driven systems, offering extensive support and welcoming questions of all kinds.
In short, belt-driven motors are best suited for riders who value high performance, torque, and customization. They are a go-to choice for those who traverse mixed terrains, enjoy tinkering with their setups, and don't mind a bit of maintenance for the sake of superior power and adaptability.
- Direct Drive Motors
Direct drive motors combine best of both worlds—high torque and speed of belt drives, along with the direct power of hub motors, no need for belts, mounts or pulleys. The power delivery to wheels is fully adjustable, like with belt-driven systems, giving precise control over acceleration. Plus, these motors are good at dissipating heat, so they're ideal for uphill racing for longer times.
These motors offer a balanced mix of ease-of-use, quick acceleration, and power control. You can even use any skateboard wheel that fits an adapter, including all-terrain ones. And if you forgot to charge battery, you can still kick-push the board.
But direct drive motors have some drawbacks too. They're pretty large, so they sit close to ground and are more likely to get damaged from stuff like rocks. They ain't invulnerable; even a small rock could do some damage. If you're into pneumatic wheels for street and off-road, direct drives can be real beneficial. And if you dare to go low and fast on urethane wheels, you'd better start learning how to carve and weave, and quick.
All in all, direct drive motors are a versatile option, delivering high-speed and torque while also offering the convenience of direct power. Their larger size could be a downside, as it leaves them vulnerable to road debris. They're a strong fit for riders looking for a mix of power and efficiency, as long as they're aware of the potential drawbacks.
- Gear Drive Motors
Gear drives might look like a newer technology, but DIY enthusiasts—also known as "gearheads"—have been tinkering with this systems for quite a while. These drives are usually compact, close fixed gear systems that bring together best features of other motor types. You get the freedom to swap wheels, the torque akin to belt drives, all in a neat package that lets you tackle both mountain trails and city streets.
Most gear drive systems are super responsive and amazingly compact. Some high-end DIY all-terrain setups even let you switch out gears, although fixed gear systems is more common. There are some downsides though; the gear noise can be loud enough to bother some people (or just plain annoying for the rest). The systems are also complex and can be pretty pricey. They may be an expensive endeavor for DIY builders, but the investment is totally worth it if you can foot the bill. If you're a hardcore off-road racer looking for a high-speed, sealed system, gear drives might just be your ideal motor and drive train combo.
So, if you're an off-road enthusiast in search of a high-speed, sealed system or a DIY builder willing to invest in premium performance, gear drives could be the perfect fit. Their complexity and cost may be a barrier for some, but for those craving compactness, responsiveness, and the freedom to customize, it's often money well spent.
BATTERY LIFE
Battery life is an essential factor to consider, as it determines how long you can ride on a single charge. Look for a board with a battery that can provide sufficient range for your riding needs.
At Maxfind Board, we conduct battery life tests by riding for more than 200km with a rider weighing 75kg. We strive to gather the most objective data possible to ensure that our customers achieve the ideal range they desire.
DECK SIZE AND SHAPE
Deck size and shape can affect the stability, maneuverability, and comfort of your ride. Consider your body size, riding style, and terrain to choose the right deck.
WHEELS AND TRUCKS
Wheels and trucks are essential components of an electric skateboard. Choose wheels that match your riding style and terrain, and trucks that are durable and responsive.
PRICE
Electric skateboards can vary greatly in price. It is suggesting that when looking for an electric skateboard, you should determine your budget first and then look for a board in that price range. This will help you to find the board that offers the best value for your money, without getting overwhelmed by the wide range of options available in the market.