Electric skateboards have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their efficiency and convenience. They are a fun and eco-friendly mode of transportation that has gained a considerable following among thrill-seekers, commuters, and enthusiasts alike. However, even with their widespread usage, not everyone understands how do electric skateboards work and what makes them so unique.
If you’re one of those people, fear not! Read about the mechanics behind electric skateboards, including their batteries, motors, and controllers, to help you better understand how they operate. Whether you are a seasoned rider or a curious beginner, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how do electric skateboards work, do electric skateboards have brakes, how long do electric skateboards last, and why they are revolutionizing the way we move.
How Do Electric Skateboards Work Explained
When thinking about investing in an electric skateboard, it is worth understanding how do electric skateboards work, and why they are worth having.
Creating electric skateboards involves a significant amount of technology since they operate by transmitting signals from the remote to the ESC. Afterward, the ESC transfers power from the battery to the motors, which then propel the wheels.
The way you ride an electronic skateboard is quite different from riding a regular skateboard. This is because the process of riding becomes more complex when you add electronics to the mix. If you want to learn how electric skateboards work, keep reading to learn the basics.
To operate a regular skateboard, one must use physical force to push off the ground with their foot. On the other hand, an electric skateboard is motorized and requires no physical propulsion, as the motor rotates the wheels and provides the necessary momentum for movement.
Is it hard to keep your balance on an electric skateboard?
Balancing on a remote-powered skateboard is similar to balancing on a regular skateboard in terms of standing and leaning to stay upright. The only notable difference is that you don’t have to balance on one leg for momentum when pushing off. Still, you should be cautious when starting or stopping since there may be slight bumps on the board. Turning remains the same for both boards.
Can you ride an electric skateboard without a battery?
When the battery of Evolve electric boards exhausts, they can transform into regular skateboards. This means you can effortlessly ride and slide along the road to reach your destination.
Can electric skateboards get wet?
When first getting to know how do electric skateboards work, you should also learn that although an electric skateboard may claim to be water-resistant, it is important to note that it is not entirely waterproof. Even boards with high IP ratings can still suffer from electrical and drive system damage after prolonged exposure to wet conditions.
What not to do with an electric skateboard?
When getting to know how do electric skateboards work, you must also keep in mind that electric skateboarding on wet surfaces is unsafe, just like regular skateboarding. Additionally, water can harm the battery and the controller, so it’s important to prevent water from entering the battery case. Moreover, avoid exposing your electric skateboard to extreme temperatures below 0°C / 32°F or above 35°C / 95°F.
Do electric skateboards come with grip tape?
Grip tape is a rough material that is applied to the top of a skateboard deck. It provides a textured surface for the rider to stand on, and is similar to sandpaper. Some electric skateboards have a layer of foam between the tape and deck which provides shock absorption and reduces fatigue, allowing for longer rides without needing a break.
Do electric skateboards have breaks?
Electric skateboards have brakes, unlike regular skateboards, which is one of their greatest advantages. As electric skateboards can reach high speeds quickly, brakes are necessary for safety and better control.
What Features Should You Look for In An Electric Skateboard?
Deck
The deck is the main platform of an electric skateboard, similar to a normal skateboard. Typically made of wood or a composite material like bamboo, fiberglass, or carbon fiber, it’s where the rider stands. Depending on the skateboarding style, the size and shape of the deck can differ.
Trucks
The trucks are the metal components of an electric skateboard that connect the wheels to the deck and facilitate the skateboard’s turning. The operation of these trucks is identical to that of a standard skateboard.
Skateboard trucks usually comprise two main parts: the baseplate, which attaches to the deck using bolts and has drilled holes; and the hanger, which holds the wheels and is connected to the baseplate with bushings. These trucks are primarily made of aluminum. It is crucial to have suitable trucks for a skateboard as they decide the skateboard’s stability and turning ability.
Wheels
Nowadays, you can find various kinds of wheels for electric skateboards. The most popular ones are Street wheels, All-terrain wheels, and Urban-terrain wheels. Typically, smaller wheels can accelerate faster and provide greater agility, while larger wheels can achieve higher speeds. Additionally, you should also consider the durometer of the wheel, which refers to its hardness.
Usually, harder wheels result in faster speeds, but they offer less grip and a less comfortable ride. On the other hand, softer wheels provide better grip and a smoother ride, but they may decrease speed and battery life.
Motors
When learning how do electric skateboards work, you may think they have motors, and in fact, they do! Electric skateboard motors are what make the board move. They run on batteries and can be adjusted with remote control. There are different types of motors, including hub, belt-drive, direct drive, and gear-drive motors.
Battery
Electric skateboards use rechargeable batteries to power the electric motor. The most commonly used type of battery is lithium-ion due to its high energy density. The battery’s capacity is measured in watt-hours (Wh), which determines the skateboard’s range. Having a battery with a larger capacity (higher Wh) can result in a longer range between charges.
Electronic Speed Controller (ESC)
The electronic speed controller (ESC) is the component that regulates the speed of an electric skateboard. It is positioned between the skateboard’s motor and battery, and it receives instructions from the remote control to determine the amount of power required to send from the battery to the motor.
Remote control
The remote control is a small device held in the hand that has a joystick or trigger. The rider can use it to control the speed of the electric skateboard and change the speed or braking modes.
Types of Electric Skateboards
Longboard Electric Skateboards
Electric skateboards come in various types, but the most popular ones are the longboard ones. They are perfect for leisurely rides around town, commuting, and engaging in low-speed activities.
Longboard electric skateboards are typically easy to ride and carry around because they are between 36 and 42 inches in length. Generally, they are designed to cruise at speeds between 10 and 20 miles per hour. It is recommended that only adults who are at least 5’3″ tall and weigh between 100 and 250 pounds should ride them.
Shortboard Electric Skateboards
Shortboard electric skateboards are shorter and more powerful than longboard electric skateboards. They are suitable for individuals who desire to move around quickly or engage in more aggressive activities like racing or freestyle boarding. These skateboards are generally ideal for people between the height of 5’3” and 6’0” and weighing between 80 and 200 pounds.
Shortboard electric skateboards are equipped with two motors and can achieve a top speed of 25 miles per hour. They have an operating distance of approximately 20 miles and require 3 to 5 hours to charge completely. These boards are ideal for individuals who want to move around town faster, particularly in congested urban areas where traffic is a frequent problem.
Off-road Electric Skateboards
If you’re a skateboarding enthusiast who wants to take your skills to new heights, an off-road electric skateboard might be just what you need. These boards are perfect for those who want to ride on different types of surfaces such as pavement, grass, gravel, sand, mud, and hills.
They typically range between 36 and 42 inches in length and are ideal for riders who are at least 5’3″ tall and weigh between 100 and 250 pounds.
Electric skateboards that are designed for off-roading usually have two or three motors which give them a lot of power and speed. These skateboards can travel up to 20 miles on a single charge and take around 3 to 5 hours to fully charge.
Video What’s Inside an Electric Skateboard?
If you’re curious about how do electric skateboards work, you’ve come to the right place! In this video, you’ll learn about every step of the process, from the battery to the wheels and everything in between.
So whether you’re an experienced rider looking to upgrade your board or a beginner interested in getting started with electric skateboarding, this video is the perfect resource for you.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, electric skateboards are an exciting innovation in the world of skateboarding. When it comes to how electric skateboards work, they combine traditional skateboarding with modern technology to offer a unique experience. As we have seen, they work by using a powerful electric motor and a battery pack to power the wheels and control the speed. With their compact size, lightweight, and ease of use, electric skateboards are becoming increasingly popular among young people and commuters alike.
However, it is important to mention that safety should always be a top priority when operating an electric skateboard. It is essential to wear protective gear, use proper techniques, and follow local laws and regulations. Electric skateboards are an excellent way to have fun, stay active, and reduce your carbon footprint. So go ahead and try one out for yourself!
