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How to Find the Best Electric Longboard

How to Find the Best Electric Longboard

An Electric Skateboard is a great way to get around. It is not only loads of fun, but it is also an intelligent mode of transport. Electric skateboards have evolved significantly, offering impressive ranges, and are capable of reaching impressive speeds. With zero exhaust emissions, electric skateboards are good for our beautiful planet. 

This guide will cover the Best Electric Skateboards on the market, how they work, and what to look for when purchasing one.  

The top picks at a glance:

Best Electric Skateboards

Below is a quick overview of the Best Electric Skateboards:

Evolve Hadean Bamboo Street Electric Skateboard

  • Deck Material: 3-Ply bamboo and 2-Ply Fiberglass
  • Deck Length: 39.7” (101cm)
  • Wheels: Evolve Custom Formula 97mm, 76a Polyurethane Wheels
  • Motor: Dual 3000W
  • Battery: 43.2V, 16AH, 691.2W
  • Range: 40 miles (65km)
  • Speed: 31 mph (50km/h)
  • Hill Climbing Ability: 35% plus
  • Brakes: FOC Regenerative Braking

Miles Sex Panther

  • Deck Material: Carbon Fiber
  • Deck Length: 42” (107cm)
  • Wheels: ABEC/KEGAL/AT
  • Motor: Dual 1500W
  • Battery: 43.2V 10AH 12S3P 632Wh 
  • Range: 40 miles (64km)
  • Speed: 30mph (48km/h)
  • Hill Climbing Ability: 30%
  • Brakes: N/A

Maxfind FF-Belt

  • Deck Material: Carbon Fiber
  • Deck Length: 38” (96.5cm)
  • Wheels: 105mm (4.1”)
  • Motor: Dual 1500W Belt Motors
  • Battery: 12S3P 48V Samsung
  • Range: 25-50 miles (40km-80km)
  • Speed: 28mph (45km/h)
  • Hill Climbing Ability: 35%
  • Brakes: New Hobbywing-9028 FOC ESC  

Verreal RS

  • Deck Material: 7-Ply Maple and 2-ply Bamboo
  • Deck Length: 36.5” (92.7cm)
  • Wheels: 90mm, 97mm, or 120mm Cloud Wheels
  • Motor: Dual 1500W 6368 Belt Motors
  • Battery: 20Ah (720Watt Hours) Mega battery Pack
  • Range: 31 miles (50km)
  • Speed: 25-27mph (40km/h-44km/h)
  • Hill Climbing Ability: 25%-30%
  • Brakes: Regenerative Brake and Safe Brake

Backfire Zealot S 

  • Deck Material: Flexible Maple, Carbon Fiber, and ABS
  • Deck Length: 39” (99.cm)
  • Wheels: 96mm Replaceable Wheels
  • Motor: Dual 875W Hobbywing High Torque Motors
  • Battery: 50.4V 346Watt Hours
  • Range: 19-24 miles (31km-39km)
  • Speed: 30mph (48km/h)
  • Hill Climbing Ability: 30%
  • Brakes: FOC Regenerative Brakes

Types of Electric Skateboards

Electric Skateboard

Electric skateboards fall into two categories.

Cruiser Electric Skateboards

As the name suggests, cruiser-style electric skateboards are designed for a laid-back cruise and just having fun. They are an ideal option if you travel short distances at slow-medium speeds. 

Longboard Electric Longboards

Longboard electric skateboards are perfect for travelers looking for an alternative mode of transport. They have longer flexible decks, which make commuting comfortable and fun. Street Longboard electric skateboards are equipped with soft and smooth wheels and offer a broad wheel profile and a large contact patch for maximum grip and control. 

All-terrain (off-road) electric skateboards are equipped with narrow wheels, feature tread, and are made from rubber or polyurethane. These wheels offer less resistance and loads of traction and can be pneumatic or air-less.

How do They Work?

An electric skateboard is similar to a traditional skateboard. Instead of the skater propelling the skateboard forward and gravity pulling it along, an electric skateboard is set in motion by an electric motor or dual electric motors. 

There are two types of electric motors, hub-driven, and belt-driven. The electric motors propel the board forward and are powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

The front wheels are responsible for driving the skateboard, while the rear wheels are responsible for braking. Acceleration, speed, and braking are controlled by the skateboarder, via a wireless hand-held remote control. 

What to Look for When Purchasing an Electric Skateboard

electric skateboard

Brand

When purchasing an electric skateboard, you must do so from a reputable and well-known manufacturer, especially if you are looking for a reliable mode of transport.

Reputable manufacturers use the latest technology, premium materials, and components. Generally, spare parts are readily available, plus they offer a warranty and after-sales service.

Deck Composite

Electric skateboard decks are made from bamboo, carbon fiber, or in some cases, a combination of the two. Although they are visually different, the main difference between the material is the amount of flex. Carbon fiber decks are stiff with minimal flex, while bamboo boards offer loads of flex and comfort.

Motor Type

Electric skateboard motors are either hub-driven or belt-driven. Hub-driven Motors are becoming popular because they can be kick-pushed, are extremely quiet, and present significantly less lag. Belt-driven Motors offer superior acceleration and braking but have higher maintenance costs and cannot be kick-pushed easily.

Motor Power (Wattage)

Purchasing an electric skateboard that feels like a donkey and struggles to get you up hills, can be disastrous. It is vital to check the power (wattage) output before deciding. New-age electric skateboards are equipped with dual 3000W, dual 1800W, or dual 1500W motors.

These are perfect for teens, young adults, and adults and do not suggest that you go smaller (an exception would be the Dual 875W Hobbywing High Torque Motors. More wattage (W) equates to more power from the motors, and less wattage (w) equates to less power from the Motors.

Speed and Range

You must check the speed and range specifications before purchasing an electric skateboard. Ensure the distance you need to travel falls into these parameters. Keep in mind, that the speed and range specifications often relate to tests done in optimum skating conditions.

Therefore they can be slightly inflated. A small light skater traveling on flat smooth surfaces with no wind will present different results from a heavier skater going up hills on a bumpy road into 12 knots of wind.  

Board Capacity

Always pay attention to the board capacity when you purchase a skateboard, and if you happen to let one of your mates have a go. Exceeding the weight capacity can result in a snapped deck.

It can also cause minute hairline cracks which can significantly affect the integrity. It can also cause mechanical failure by putting large amounts of stress on the working and moving components such as the motors, brakes, bearings, and trucks.

Board Weight

If you are commuting and may have to carry your skateboard for extended periods, it is best to look for a lighter electric skateboard. They range from just under 10 pounds up to 26 pounds. 

Best Electric Longboards

Below is a list of the best electric longboards:

Evolve Hadean GTR Street

Evolve Hadean GTR Street

Evolve Electric Skateboards was founded by Australian skateboarder and surfer Jeff Anning and his wife in 2012. Passion and obsession for both board riding and nature quickly resulted in some of the best electric skateboards in the world. The Evolve Hadean Bamboo GTR Street is a premium electric skateboard.

It features a 39.7” (L) flexible all-natural 3-ply bamboo deck, Evolve Custom Formula 97mm, 76a Polyurethane Wheels, dual 3000W electric motors, and FOC Regenerative Braking with smooth engagement and adjustable brake curves.

This fantastic electric skateboard is suitable for footpaths, concrete, asphalt, and sealed surfaces. It is a comfortable skateboard, is stable, with aggressive styling.

Pros

  • Excellent Electric Skateboard from Evolve
  • 39.7” (L) Super Flexible All-natural 3-ply Bamboo Deck
  • Evolve Precision Ceramic Bearings
  • Evolve Super Carve Trucks
  • Evolve Phaze Remote with CNC aluminum-reinforced body
  • 40 miles (65km ) Range
  • 31 mph (50km/h) Top Speed
  • 43.2V, 16AH, 691.2W Rechargeable Battery
  • 35% Hill Climbing Ability
  • 3.5h-4h Recharge Time
  • 220 Pound (100kg) Weight Capacity
  • 22 Pound (10.3kg) Board Weight
  • 12 Month Warranty

Cons

  • Expensive

Miles Sex Panther

Miles Sex Panther

Miles Skateboards is located in San Diego, California, and have been producing quality electric skateboards since 2018. Their current range includes the Phantom, the Rampage, and my personal favorite, the Sex Panther.

The Sex Panther is a world-class electric skateboard featuring a 42” (107cm) carbon fiber deck, ABEC/KEGAL/AT Wheels, and powerful dual 1500W electric motors.

It is a good-looking skateboard with eye-catching graphics. The acceleration is smooth, and the braking is soft and controlled. It is a perfect option for skaters wanting a faster skateboard with exceptional range.

 Pros

  • Quality Electric Skateboard from Miles Skateboards
  • 42” (107cm) Carbon Fiber Deck
  • Available in direct or belt drive
  • Silky Smooth Acceleration
  • ABEC-Bearings
  • Miles Remote features 3 Speed Modes, LCD Display, and Cruise Control
  • Hobbywing ESC
  • Premium ABEC/KEGAL/AT Wheels
  • Dual 1500W Direct Drive Electric Motors
  • 43.2V 10AH 12S3P 632Wh Battery
  • 40 miles (64km) Range
  • 30mph (48km/h) Top Speed
  • 30% Hill Climbing Ability
  • 330 pounds (150kg) Weight Capacity
  • 6 Months Warranty

Cons

  • 5-7 h Recharge Time

Maxfind FF Belt

Maxfind FF Belt

The FF Belt is a high-performance electric skateboard made by Maxfind located in Shenzhen, China. The company has been manufacturing high-performance electric skateboards since 2015. Now I know what you may be thinking, but these guys are serious about electric skateboards.

Maxfind is responsible for creating the first generation of hub-driven motors. This accomplishment is impressive, considering that hub-driven Motors are becoming the motor of choice amongst longboarders. Ironically, I have their FF Belt Skateboard on this list, which happens to be an excellent belt-driven electric skateboard.

There is loads of innovation and technology, and it looks good too. It features a 38” (96.5cm) carbon fiber deck, 105mm shock-absorbing wheels, powerful dual 1500W electric motors, and New Hobbywing-9028 FOC ESC brakes. The ride is smooth, comfortable, and fun, with more than enough power.

Pros

  • Impressive Electric Skateboard from Maxfind
  • 38” (96.5cm) Super-Flex Composite Deck
  • Dual 1500W Belt Motors
  • 12S3P 48V Samsung Battery
  • Fast-Swap Battery Design
  • Double Kingpin Trucks
  • 25-50 miles (40km-80km) Range
  • 28mph (45km/h) Top Speed
  • 35% Hill Climbing Ability
  • New Hobbywing-9028 FOC ESC Brakes
  • 3 h Recharge Time
  • 220 Pound (100kg) Weight Capacity
  • 24 Pound (11kg) Board Weight
  • 9 Months Warranty
  • Reasonably Priced

Cons

  • Bolts and trucks need checking before the first ride

Verreal RS Pro

Verreal RS Pro

The Verreal RS Pro Electric Skateboard is strongly considered to be a budget skateboard. That is the reason why it is on my list. Verreal Boards started from humble beginnings in the fall of 2017. Their mindset and strategy from the start were to create world-class electric skateboards at an affordable price, and what they have produced is quite impressive.

The RS Pro is smooth and comfortable with high levels of maneuverability and is a great skateboard for its price. It features a 36.5” (92.7cm) 7-ply maple deck, elegantly combined with a 2-ply of carbon fiber.

The deck is super strong yet still offers some flex and is complemented by 90mm, 97mm, or 120mm Cloud Wheels. It is powered forward by Dual 1500W 6368 Belt Motors and features a Regenerative Brake and Safe Brake System.  

Pros

  • Outstanding Budget Electric Skateboard from Verreal Boards
  • 36.5” (92.7cm) 7-ply maple and 2-ply carbon fiber deck
  • Powerful dual 1500W Belt-Drive Electric Motors
  • 20Ah (720 Watt-Hours) Mega Battery Pack
  • RS Pro Bearings
  • Double Kingpin Trucks
  • 13.5” Trucks with Double Kingpin
  • Custom 12S High Voltage High-Efficiency Hobbywing ESC
  • Hobbywing Remote with OLED Display Screen, 2.4G transmission, and 4 Speeds
  • 31 miles (50km) Range
  • 25-27mph (40km/h-44km/h) Top Speed
  • 25%-30% Hill Climbing Ability
  • 330 Pound (150kg) Weight Capacity
  • 26.5 Pound (12kg) Board Weight 
  • Well-Priced

Cons

  • 6-7h Recharge Time
  • 3 Month Warranty

BackFire Zealot S

BackFire Zealot S

Backfire Boards have been making quality electric skateboards since 2009. The Zealot S is a phenomenal electric skateboard, and at a price of around $800, it is considered a budget electric skateboard. But that is not why it made my list. The Zealot S made my list because it is one of the most efficient boards available.

Efficiency equals a healthier planet, and that always excites me. The Zealot S features a robust yet flexible 39” (99cm) maple, abs and carbon fiber composite deck, high rebound and wear-resistant polyurethane replaceable 96mm wheels,  Dual 875W Hobbywing High Torque Motors, and FOC Regenerative Brakes. 

Pros

  • Quality and efficient electric skateboard from BackFire Boards
  • 39” (99cm) maple, abs, and carbon fiber composite deck
  • Efficient Dual Belt-Drive 875W Hobbywing High Torque Motors
  • 50.4V 346 Watt-Hours High-Efficiency Battery
  • ABEC-9 Bearings
  • 8” Forged Trucks
  • Super Bright LED Ambient Lights
  • 19-24 miles (31km-39km) Range
  • 30mph (48km/h) Top Speed
  • 30% Hill Climbing Ability
  • Dual Charging Points
  • 3-4h Recharge Time
  • 220 Pound (100kg) Weight Capacity
  • 17.4 Pound (7.9kg) Board Weight
  • 6 Month Warranty
  • Reasonably Priced

Cons

  • Low Range in Turbo Mode

Maintaining your Electric Skateboard

An electric skateboard can be a significant investment. They are complex and packed with the latest innovation and technology. Properly maintaining your electric skateboard will extend its lifespan and eliminate unnecessary repairs and costs. 

Get into the habit of cleaning your skateboard after each use. You can do this by taking a damp soapy cloth, and removing all dirt from the deck, wheels, hubs/belts, and battery pack. When cleaned thoroughly, wipe your board down with a clean and dry cloth. Never leave your electric skateboard in the rain or an environment with extreme moisture levels.

After 6-8 charging cycles, always top your battery up after use. Charging after each ride will allow the Battery Management System (BMS) to effectively re-balance the battery pack.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Question: Is it Worth Getting an Electric Skateboard?

Answer: It most certainly is. An electric skateboard is a fun way to get around and a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. Electric skateboards are fitted with fantastic lithium-ion batteries, enabling impressive range and crazy speeds. They have become a popular choice of transportation that does not require gas with zero emissions.

Question: Can you Use an Electric Skateboard as a Traditional Skateboard?

Answer: I strongly suggest that you do not kick-push Electric Skateboards that are belt-driven. These electric skateboards offer loads of resistance, making it hard to kick-push. Electric skateboards that are hub (motor) driven offer some resistance when kick-pushed, but you can skate it like a conventional skateboard. 

Question: What is the Fastest Electric Skateboard in the World?

Answer: The fastest electric skateboard is the Nextboard by NGV. Mischo Erban set the world record for the highest speed for an electric skateboard (confirmed by Guinness) by taking the Nextboard to 60mph (96km/h), smashing the previous record by eight mph (14km/h).

Question: Is it Hard to Ride an Electric Skateboard?

Answer: Not at all. The only difference is that you are being pushed forward by the electric motors instead of being pulled by gravity. If you have experience with a traditional skateboard, you will make the transition easier. If you happen to be a newbie, it may take a short while to get your balance, but you should be skating around town in no time.

Question: How Long do Electric Skateboards Last?

Answer: If cared for and properly maintained, your electric skateboard could last a decade or longer. Unfortunately, your battery will not last that long.
All lithium-ion batteries have a lifespan, and each time you charge your electric skateboard battery, you are using up a charging cycle. Generally, you will get around 1000 charges from your battery which equates to around 2-3 years before you are bound to replace it.

Conclusion: How to Find the Best Electric Skateboard

There are numerous quality skateboards on the market, but unfortunately, there are also a few cheap and nasties. Do not fall for an attractive price and regret it at a later stage.

The electric skateboards mentioned in this list are fantastic products. If looked after and maintained regularly, they will give you many years of fun and reliable commuting.

The Best Electric Skateboard is hands down the Evolve Hadean GTR Street. This skateboard board offers impressive speeds and exceptional range. All components are of the highest quality, and the board looks incredible.

I enjoy the 3-ply all-natural bamboo deck and think it is paired perfectly with the Evolve Super Carve Trucks. It has loads of flex and immense power, backed by an innovative battery pack and braking system.

It seems as if every component on this electric skateboard is on steroids, and the ride is simply sublime. I love this skateboard, but I must warn you that they do not come cheap. The Evolve Hadean GTR Street is the perfect choice for experienced longboarders.

The best budget electric skateboard is the Verreal RS Pro. It is a great skateboard for its price, and to be honest, its performance is not far off the best. It is packed with the latest innovation and technology and made from premium materials and components. The Verreal RS Pro is an ideal choice for beginner and intermediate longboarders.

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