E-boards are currently the lightest and fastest means of transport out there. And compared to a car, more energy-efficient. At the moment they are possibly the most trendy as well, up there with the e-scooters. If you are looking to join the lastest mobility trend, but don’t know where to start, it helps to know what the four main types of e-skateboards are. Equipped with this knowledge, you’ll be able to make a better decision as to what’s right for you.
Shortboards
These are the iconic skateboards that everyone thinks of when referring to boards. They bear the name shortboards, because there are also longboards, but more on that below. They usually have decks with an upward curve which makes performing tricks a slightly easier task. Electric boards are generally not used for tricks, but you can make sure those curves are not purely decorative.
People go for shortboards because they are lighter. This is important in terms of portability because you will not spend all your time riding them. After all, at some point, you will have to carry them around. And because they are lighter and use less material, they also tend to be cheaper. It is not a rule set in stone though, as you may pack it full with gear that will make it expensive regardless of its compact build.
When it comes to shortboards, Exway electric boards are some of the best out there. The decks are made from multi-directional fibreglass so you get an elastic and tough deck. And you’ll need shock-absorbing grip tape, perhaps with foam. And there are applications on top that allow you cruise control.You can look for parabolic wheel cutouts so you can have more options in regard to wheels at a later date.
Longboards
This is the go to choice for people who have never been on a board before. As you can imagine, this comes from the stability that is offered by longer decks. Besides the long decks, their reputation as stable boards rests on softer wheels as well. One might be tempted to believe that this means that electric longboards don’t pack a lot of power. Well, that is not quite the case.
Case in point, the Exway electric longboard range features models that are sleek and powerful. They can reach a whopping speed of 45 kilometres per hour – you will appreciate the extra stability while underway. The ultimate range is similar to the smaller boards (at around 25-30 kilometres). With a decent shock-absorbing grip tape you can cruise all those bumps and cracks in the asphalt.
These are but some of the features, along with the stability and smooth ride, that make longboards the perfect choice for those that are just starting out with e boards. Not everyone is into boards because of tricks, some just want to be able to get to work in restrictive business casual clothing. In such case go for a longboard with limited deck flexibility.
Penny Boards
These boards are not as prevalent, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t any good. They are the most compact design of skateboard. Since they are usually made of plastic, they are also very light which makes them easily portable. And the smaller size means fewer components which translates into a lower price point.
However, penny boards require greater riding skills. Even though they usually have a hub motor (almost exclusively so) which is much easier to ride when you run out of power, your main steering technique has to involve your legs. Same goes for braking. So, take a look at them and if you are not sure you can handle maneuvering them, then simply go for one of the others.
Off Road Electric Skateboards
It is possible that you never heard about off-road skateboarding until now. That’s ok, this is not a popular way to ride an e-board and is mostly for show. Yes, you can find a skateboard that has the capability to cover what is considered off-road terrain. To climb hills, to pass through uneven surfaces and to handle dirt, gravel and loose soil.
The major downside to achieving this is that you need stronger components. You need a lower centre of gravity, you need huge wheels and wide trucks, you need a dual motor to carry all that and you certainly need a battery with more power. So, the end result is a heavier and bulkier board. And even though having two motors sounds like you’ll have the skateboard equivalent of a four-wheel drive, it also implies more time spent charging it, and at a higher cost, too.
Off road skateboarding has many limitations in terms of speed and range and is a slight misnomer (when compared to bicycles and mountain bikes, let’s say). On the other hand, there are real hybrids with unparalleled compatibility with most wheels, so with a little skill, you can quickly go from pleasure boarding a hill, to a practical board that will get you to work.
Choose a Widely Used Brand
There are a lot of ins and outs when it comes to choosing your first electric skateboard. And while everyone has something to say as to what constitutes a practical and good option for you, ultimately you will need to make the decision on your own.
My advice would be to go with a brand that is reliable and the choice of many other e-skaters out there (like Exway electric boards). This will give you a whole community of users that can serve as a safety net when you encounter issues with, well, anything related to these boards. And this will happen, sooner or later, as your board will not be always good as new even if you take good care of it.
That is your safe bet. If you really fall in love with e boards than at one point you can become an adept and assemble your own, piece by piece. Until that moment comes, stick to the basics.
