Electric skateboards are an enjoyable and environmentally friendly way to get around, and they continue to grow in popularity as more riders discover how versatile and fun they are. In this FAQ guide, we’ll answer some of the most common questions people have about electric skateboards. We’ll also share a few of our favorite brands and boards, as well as a few tips you can use to save some money on your next electric skateboard purchase.
So without further ado, let’s get to the questions!
What is an Electric Skateboard?
While similar in appearance to a traditional skateboard, an electric skateboard contains a motor and is propelled electrically. The electric motor is powered by a battery, which gives the skateboard its range and power. Like regular skateboards, electric skateboards typically have four wheels but they are uniquely controlled by the use of a handheld remote control.
How do Electric Skateboards Work?
Electric skateboards are a recent development in the skateboarding world. They work much like traditional skateboards, but instead of using your feet and legs to power the board, an electric motor provides the power. This motor is powered by a battery, which is usually mounted to the bottom of the board’s deck. The trucks and wheels of electric skateboards are much the same as those used on traditional skateboards.
How Much is an Electric Skateboard?
The cost of electric skateboards can vary depending on the brand and the features that you need. However, on average, they range from a few hundred dollars to more than $1,000. There are some deals to be found online, so it is worth doing some research before you buy. If you’re looking for the best deals, a good starting point is our regularly-updated page of electric skateboard discounts.
How Fast do Electric Skateboards Go?
The majority of today’s electric skateboard models are capable of hitting speeds of anywhere between 10 mph and 40 mph.
Having said that, the top speed of a skateboard depends on a number of factors. For starters, the top speed of a skateboard is determined by motor power and the quality of the board’s components.
Speed can also be affected by the terrain and weather conditions. For example, if the terrain is very hilly and the weather is windy and rainy, it will have a negative impact on how fast the skateboard can go and result in slower performance.
Lastly, rider weight also has an effect on the top speed of a skateboard. The heavier the rider, the slower the top speed will be.
Are Electric Skateboards Legal?
It’s legal to ride electric skateboards in most places, but the definitive answer to this question will depend on your specific municipality. It is highly recommended that you confirm local laws regulating the use of electric skateboards and where they can be legally ridden in your area.
Do Electric Skateboards Have Brakes?
Yes, electric skateboards feature braking systems that work in conjunction with the board’s remote control to slow the skateboard down and bring it safely to a stop. Most electric skateboards use a regenerative braking system that uses the electric motor to slow the board down while simultaneously recharging the battery.
How Long do Electric Skateboards Last?
The lifespan of an electric skateboard depends on a few factors, including the type and quality of the board’s components and deck, as well as how the skateboard has been ridden and maintained. Generally speaking, most electric skateboards should last for several years with proper care.
One of the most important things you can do to prolong the life of your electric skateboard is to keep the battery in good condition. Make sure to keep it clean and dry, charged, and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures.
In addition to the board’s battery, you’ll also want to keep an eye on the bearings and wheels, which wear out over time.
Are Electric Skateboards Waterproof?
The majority of electric skateboards are not waterproof. However, most do offer some level of water resistance and include an IP rating, meaning they can handle light splashes and puddles without any major problems. If you’re going to be riding in wet weather, make sure to take precautions against heavy downpours and flooding as nearly all electric skateboard brands strongly advise against riding in rainy conditions.
Which Electric Skateboard Should I Buy?
If you’re just starting out, a basic board that’s good for cruising and street carving is a good place to start. If you’re looking for something more powerful, there are higher-performance options that are designed for speed, all-terrain, and long-range riding.
One of the most important things to consider when purchasing an electric skateboard is where you’ll be riding it. Do you need a board for city commuting or are you interested in also doing some off-road trailblazing? What are your range requirements and budget? All of these are important considerations to make as you’re shopping around for the best board for your situation. Our in-depth electric skateboard reviews are a great place to begin your research.
How Dangerous are Electric Skateboards?
Due to the fact that electric skateboards are powered by motors and capable of reaching much higher speeds than traditional skateboards, they can be a bit more dangerous to ride. Beginners should take their time and get plenty of miles under their belt before attempting to push the limits of what their electric skateboard is capable of doing. In addition to experience, it’s also important to be cautious about the conditions you’re riding in. Wet weather and heavy pedestrian or vehicle traffic dramatically increase safety risks when skateboarding, so exercise extreme caution in those situations or avoid these types of scenarios altogether.
Are Electric Skateboards Hard to Ride?
Electric skateboards do require a bit of balance and experience to ride them confidently. But with a little practice, anyone can learn to ride. Electric skateboards are a fun, convenient way to get around town, and with a little riding time under the belt, anyone can master them.
Are Electric Skateboards Worth it?
Electric skateboards are a great way to quickly get from point A to point B, and they are very enjoyable to ride. In some cases, they can be a bit expensive, but they’re well worth the cost in our opinion. Electric skateboards are also extremely portable and easy to carry around, making them an ideal mode of transportation for students and city commuters. At the end of the day, if you’re looking for a fun, cost-effective way to get around town, then an electric skateboard is a great option.
What is an Electric Skateboard ESC?
An electric skateboard ESC, or electronic speed control, is a device that helps manage the speed of an electric skateboard. It does this by receiving input signals from a variety of sensors located on the electric skateboard and sending output signals to the motor. This helps to ensure smooth and consistent acceleration and braking, regardless of the terrain or load on the electric skateboard.
What's Better — a Hub Motor or Belt Drive?
Belt drive electric skateboards provide more torque and generally feel more responsive than hub motor models. Belt drive boards also give you access to a wider variety of wheels. With that said, they are also noticeably louder than boards with hub motors. Ultimately, the answer to this question will depend on the rider and what’s most important to them in a board.
How Long do Electric Skateboard Batteries Last?
The lifespan of an electric skateboard battery really depends on how it’s used. Electric skateboard batteries have a lifespan that’s directly related to the amount of use, charge cycles, and how well they are taken care of.
It’s also important to note that the weather can affect the battery life. Extreme temperatures and moisture can shorten the lifespan, so it’s important to keep your board in a cool, dry place when not in use.
Most lithium-ion batteries have a lifespan of around 500-1,000 charge cycles. If an electric skateboard battery is only being used for short rides around town, then it may last for up to two years or more. However, if the skateboard is being used for longer rides or if it is being charged frequently, then the battery may only last for around one year.
Which Electric Skateboard is the Best?
There is never a one-size-fits-all answer to this question, unfortunately. All riders are different, and there are many factors to consider when trying to find the best electric skateboard for your needs. Some of these considerations include budget, rider weight, range and speed requirements, terrain, and more. Another important factor to take into consideration is the brand’s warranty, as this will play an important role if you run into trouble with manufacturing defects.
Are Electric Skateboards Good for Beginners?
Electric skateboards can be a lot of fun, but they can also be dangerous. Before you purchase and begin riding an electric skateboard, it’s important to understand the risks and how to safely operate the board.
If you have never ridden a skateboard before, it’s always a good idea to start off slowly with a regular skateboard first. Once you’ve improved your balance and have some experience under your belt, then you can jump on your electric skateboard.
Remember that it’s always important to wear protective safety gear, such as a helmet and pads. Electric skateboards can go insanely fast, so it’s critical to follow best practices when it comes to rider safety.
What's the Best Electric Skateboard Brand?
When it comes to electric skateboards, quality is key. You obviously want a board that’s going to last, and that means choosing a brand with a good reputation. Customer service is also important and should not be overlooked; if something goes wrong with your board, you’ll want to be able to count on the company to help you out. Finally, make sure the brand offers a good warranty. That way, if anything happens to your board, you’ll be able to get it fixed or replaced without spending a lot of additional money.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it! This resource of electric skateboard FAQs is a regularly-updated work-in-progress, so we will continue to add to it as we receive new questions. Whether you’re looking to buy an electric skateboard or already own one and just want to learn a bit more about it, we’re sure that this FAQ guide will be helpful.
We’d love to hear your comments and if you have some questions that weren’t included, please post them below and we’ll be sure to get you an answer! Happy riding…