Electric skateboarding combines the fun of skateboarding with electric power. It’s an eco-friendly way to get around town for both work and play. If you’re new, learning how to ride an electric skateboard might seem hard. But, this guide makes it easy. Here, you’ll find easy steps to start, how an electric skateboard works, and tips for picking the best board for your needs.
Electric skateboards have gotten better, with speeds from 18-28 mph that suit new and skilled riders. If you’re just starting, try to stay under 20 mph to stay safe. More experienced riders can go faster, up to 28 mph. Also, these boards can go 7 to 20 miles on one charge, fitting various travel needs.
Electric skateboards are made with strong materials like maple or bamboo. This makes them bendy and tough. It’s important to wear safety gear like helmets and pads. Modern eBoards also have cool tech features. Things like LED screens for battery life and remotes for speed control. Knowing about these parts and functions helps you understand the basics of electric skateboards.
Understanding Electric Skateboarding
Electric skateboarding brings a new twist to traditional skating by adding high-tech features. It’s key for urban electric transportation. These skateboards mix a battery, motor, and drivetrain to move the wheels smoothly. The electronic speed controller (ESC) works like the brain of the skateboard. It adjusts power from the battery to control speed and braking. This is all done through a wireless remote the rider holds.
Lithium-ion batteries power most electric skateboards, ensuring reliable energy storage. Models like the Plutonium 2S can reach speeds up to 68 mph. For those preferring a slower speed, learning how to ride an electric skateboard might mean choosing the isinwheel V8 model. It has a top speed of 12 mph. Off-road electric skateboards, which are great for rough paths, often use pneumatic rubber wheels for better grip.
Electric skateboards vary in materials and design. Longboard decks can be bamboo, fiberglass, or carbon fiber. This makes them flexible yet sturdy for all kinds of rides. For city use, boards with tighter trucks and smaller wheels offer more control and quick turns. Meanwhile, looser trucks and bigger wheels bring stability for longer rides on bumpy roads.
Some skateboards have regenerative braking, which saves energy during stops. They usually have standard brushless motors for a smooth ride. Plus, some models feature lights for riding after dark or connect to smartphone apps. This allows riders to track performance and customize settings.
Getting to know urban electric transportation means understanding these features. It’s about balancing them for the best performance and safety. Being aware of how to ride an electric skateboard with such advanced features not only makes riding more fun. It also makes it safer and more effective across different landscapes.
Choosing the Right Electric Skateboard
When picking an electric skateboard, knowing what you need and want is vital. You might be looking to improve your skating skills or find a green way to travel. Think about what’s important to you.
Assess Your Needs
Think about how you’ll use the skateboard. Different activities like commuting, carving, or going off-road require different boards. Knowing what you’ll do helps choose the best board for you.
Consider Deck Size and Stability
For beginners, deck size and stability matter a lot. A bigger deck means more balance and easier control. This stability is crucial for learning motorized skateboard moves, especially at the start. Also, the material and flexibility of the deck can affect how comfortable and easy it is to handle the board.
Battery Life and Range
Battery life and range are especially important for those who want to use their skateboard for commuting. A good battery lets you go farther without needing a charge. Look at the battery’s capacity to see if it fits your daily travel needs. Choosing a skateboard with the right range is key to a smooth ride without stops.
| Deck Size | Stability | Riding Style |
|---|---|---|
| Large | High | Commuting |
| Medium | Moderate | Freestyle |
| Small | Low | Carving |
Knowing these key points will guide you to the perfect electric skateboard. It’s all about matching it to your preferences and needs. That way, you’ll enjoy riding more.
Essential Safety Gear and Precautions
Keeping safe while electric skateboarding is vital. You need the right gear to lower risks in this fast sport. Let’s look at the key safety gear every rider should use.
Helmets and Protective Pads
Wearing a helmet is a must for skateboard safety. Reports show all careful riders wear helmets, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards. This gear helps avoid many injuries. A helmet can stop a lot of head injuries, and wrist guards cut down wrist harm by 30%. Since electric skateboards can go as fast as 20 mph, full protective gear is crucial.
- Helmet: Protects against head injuries, making up 20% of common injuries.
- Wrist Guards: Crucial for lessening wrist injuries, which are 30% of reported cases.
- Knee and Elbow Pads: Important for guarding against knee and elbow injuries, making up 10% and 15% of injuries.
Checking your gear before a ride is key for safety. About 85% of riders inspect their gear pre-ride, avoiding 200 accidents a year. Important parts to check include:
| Component | Importance |
|---|---|
| Battery Charge | Make sure it’s charged enough for your trip (average range: 15 miles). |
| Wheel Alignment | This is 90% of what makes your ride stable. |
| Brake Reliability | A must for stopping safely. |
| Truck Integrity | Key for balance and stability on your ride. |
Understanding Traffic and Weather Conditions
It’s best to skate in places with little traffic, especially for newbies. Being aware of where you ride is part of skateboard safety. Remember, 50% use city streets, 30% use trails and parks, and 20% ride on hills and slopes.
Weather impacts skateboard safety, too. Wet or icy paths can make braking tough, raising fall and crash risks. It’s smart to check the weather before heading out and to dress right for grip and dryness.
Following rules for electric skateboards avoids accidents too. Being distracted, like using phones or blasting music, raises danger. Always watch the road, listen for cars, and note any changes around you to stay safe.
How to Ride an Electric Skateboard
Learning to ride an electric skateboard starts with the right stance. Stand on the board with your feet wider than your shoulders. This stance improves stability and control.
To speed up, lean forward and bend your knees a bit. To slow down, lean back and press on the front foot. This helps you stop smoothly and avoid wobbles. Always look ahead to stay safe while on an electric longboard.
If you’ve skateboarded before, you’ll find electric skateboards easier to pick up. But even beginners can get the hang of it with practice. Starting on a regular skateboard helps since it teaches you balance.
Remember, don’t ride in the rain to avoid slipping and damaging your board. Always wear a helmet, knee, and elbow pads, and proper shoes. Electric skateboards go fast, so wearing protective gear is vital.
Understanding the remote control is key to electric skateboarding. Most have LED screens showing battery life, speed, and distance. Get to know how your controller works, as each brand is different.
How you stand and position your feet is very important. For a normal stance, your left foot goes in front, right foot in the back. Lean forward to go faster and back to slow down. To turn, shift your weight to your toes or heels, depending on the direction. This makes riding safe and fun.
Electric skateboards have changed how we travel for fun and commute. It doesn’t matter if you’re new to skateboarding or switching from a classic one. Learning how to ride an electric skateboard opens up a world of high-tech, easy riding.
For extra help, look into detailed guides on electric skateboard riding and safety. They can help you enjoy this modern transport fully.
Basic Riding Techniques for Beginners
Mastering motorized skateboard techniques begins by learning the basics. Let’s explore the key methods to improve your electric skateboarding. Doing so ensures a fun and safe riding experience.
Mastering the Stance
Your stance is key on an electric skateboard. Stand with your feet wider than shoulder-width on the deck. Place your front foot just behind the front truck bolts, and your back foot near the rear bolts. This position keeps you balanced and in control.
Using the Remote Controller
Correctly using the remote controller is crucial. Learn its functions, like throttle and braking, before riding. Start with gentle inputs to avoid sudden stops. Lean forward when speeding up for stability.
Starting Off and Accelerating
To start, keep a stable stance with your weight balanced. Slowly use the throttle to move. As you become comfortable, increase your speed. Lean forward to keep balanced against the board’s pull.
Stopping and Braking Safely
Stopping safely is a must. Gently use the remote to brake. Lean back to counter the forward movement. Practice controlled stops to build confidence and safety.
Turning and Maneuvering
To turn, lean your body in the direction you want to go. Transfer weight to the outside foot. Start with wide turns to get used to the board. With practice, you’ll navigate easily.
| Electric Skateboard Model | Speed (mph) | Range (miles) |
|---|---|---|
| Plutonium 2S | 68 | Unknown |
| isinwheel V8 | 12 | Unknown |
| Lonestar Supersport™ | Unknown | 50-100 |
| RazorX Electric Skateboard | Unknown | 6.5 |
Understanding Electric Skateboard Controls
Learning to ride an electric skateboard means knowing how to use its controls. A wireless remote is usually how you control it. This remote lets you speed up, slow down, and brake smoothly. Knowing how to handle the electric skateboard remote well is key for a great ride.
Remotes often have a joystick or trigger worked by the thumb. This lets you manage your speed and stop easily. Some advanced remotes have extras like cruise control or screens that show your speed and how much battery you have. These upgrades give you better control and make riding more enjoyable. It’s important to understand how these controls work to get better at skateboarding and have fun on every trip.
The electronic speed controller (ESC) is also essential. It links the remote and the motor. The ESC adjusts the motor’s speed and power. High-end ESCs, like VESCs, let you change settings for a ride that fits just right. Knowing about these parts will up your skateboarding game. It makes your rides safer and more enjoyable.
I’m John Peterson, a passionate skater, blogger, and lifelong enthusiast. I’ve been skating for over 9 years and have gone on to write a blog dedicated to the sport of skating and its culture. Through my blog, I strive to share my knowledge and experience of the sport with all who are interested. From beginner tips, tricks, and equipment reviews to interviews and event coverage, I cover it all. So read my blog as I explore the wonderful world of skating!