Electric skateboards have exploded in popularity in recent years, offering an exhilarating and convenient mode of transportation. From commuters to Sunday park cruisers and thrill-seeking speedsters, many riders often wonder how to make their electric skateboard go faster. In this article, we will look at several methods and considerations that you can use to boost your skateboard's speed while considering safety and functionality.
What Components Affect the Speed of an Electric Skateboard?
Before kicking off with modifications and upgrades, let's look into the important parts that may affect an electric skateboard's speed.
Motor Type and Power (Wattage)
The motor is basically the heart of your electric skateboard. Power output is determined by its wattage-higher wattage enables faster acceleration and top speeds. Most boards run motors from 250 watts to over 3000 watts. Of course, the higher the speeds, the more powerful the motors you will require.
Battery Capacity and Voltage
It's not only applied to the running of the motor, but it also affects the overall speed and range of the skateboard. Higher voltage batteries can provide more power to the motor for higher speeds.
Gear Ratio and Wheel Size
The gear ratio will determine how well the power of the motor is realized into movement. In addition, the size of the wheel acts as another factor that determines this: larger wheels promise higher speeds due to the lesser rolling resistance but may need more torque to get them moving.
Limitations of Electric Skateboards
While it's tempting to push your skateboard to the edge, be aware of some inherent limitations:
- Many electric skateboards are preset with maximum speeds for rider safety. Changing such settings increases the speed of these devices but may also void the warranty and pose a safety hazard.
- Always consider your weight and riding experience. The cases of going over these limits may cause some problems, and create accidents for yourself or other people, especially for beginners.
How to Upgrade Components for Faster E-Skateboard Speed
From the above component factors that influence the e-skateboard speed, here are some key areas for you to follow in pursuit of increasing your electric skateboard's speed by upgrading its components.
Motor Upgrades
Upgrade your motors to higher wattage. Your change in motor would need to consider its compatibility with your present set-up, and whether you need other additional parts like a new ESC. Dual motor setups give you a bit more torque and better acceleration; for that matter, you can go really high speeds, even uphill. This would be quite a great enhancement in case your board presently has just one motor.
Battery Enhancements
When getting a new battery, consider whether it can adapt to your skateboard's specifications. For sure, upgrading your battery will give you more speed, but doing so also puts additional weight, which will affect maneuverability. So you need to pick a battery that best serves your needs with an ideal balance of power and weight.
Wheel Changes
Larger wheels cover more distance per rotation, which means faster travel speeds. Harder wheels, which come with higher durometer ratings, slip less and have less rolling resistance than softer wheels. This alone can be a contributor to better speed performance, particularly on smooth surfaces.
Tuning Your Electric Skateboard for Faster Speed
Besides the hardware upgrades, it is also possible to tune your skateboard to unlock better performance. Here's how:
Software Adjustments
- The ESC controls power delivery from the battery to the motor. Tweaking these settings can optimize the acceleration and maximum speed of your skateboard. Look for guides specific to your ESC model for detailed instructions.
- Most electric skateboards today allow riders to adjust performance settings via apps or through a firmware update. These utilities can let you change the speed limits, acceleration curve, and braking force based on your preference.
Weight Reduction
Every ounce counts when it comes to speed. Re-evaluate your skateboard and remove any accessories or parts that could add weight without contributing to performance. If you're considering replacing some parts, opt for lightweight materials such as aluminum or carbon fiber. These materials will give strength without the added weight.
Riding Techniques to Increase Electric Skateboard Speed
Your riding technique can also play a significant role in achieving higher speeds. Here are some tips:
Body Positioning
Lean forward and lowering your center of gravity can improve stability and aerodynamics, thus helping you go faster. A low stance promotes better control, particularly when at high speeds. The faster a bicycle goes, the more it is expected to remain stable even when making turns. Leaning into the turn can help distribute your weight evenly and prevent wobbling.
Smooth Acceleration and Deceleration
Sudden acceleration may cause loss of traction or instability. Apply the throttle gradually to maintain maximum control and achieve superior acceleration.
How to Maintain Your Electric Skateboards for Optimal Speed
Your riding technique can also do much to help achieve higher speeds. Tips of maintaining your electric skateboards for optimal speed are herein described:
Regular Maintenance Practices
Dirt and grime will impede the performance of your skateboard. Clean your wheels and bearings often and grease them for smooth operations. Well-maintained bearings can seriously boost your speed. If your electric skateboard uses air-filled tires, then maintaining tire pressure is critical. Under-inflated tires create more friction and slow you down.
Checking Electrical Connections
Loose or frayed wires can lead to performance issues. Check all electrical connections periodically for tightness and proper function. Monitor your battery health to avoid unexpected degradation in performance. Look out for swelling, corrosion, or other signs of wear on a regular basis.
Safety Precautions to Take While Riding Your Faster E-Skateboard
While seeking higher speeds, prioritize safety to ensure a safe ride.
- Get yourself a well-fitting helmet, along with knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards. This will help you reduce or avoid injury from falls.
- Know your local laws concerning electric skateboards. Some cities impose hard limits on speed, and if you cross those limits, you might face fines or even some legal consequences.
- It is every rider's responsibility to ride safely and respectfully. Being mindful of pedestrians and obeying traffic rules contributes to a safer environment for everyone.
- Ensure the skateboard battery is fully charged, and your tires are at the right pressure to avoid power loss and blowouts causing accidents.
- Higher speeds require quicker reaction times. You should be comfortable with the braking mechanism and can come to a controlled stop when necessary.
- Don't push your limits or ride faster than you can handle, especially if you're unfamiliar with the terrain or your board's capabilities.
- If you're riding at night or in low-light conditions, be sure to carry lights or reflectors on the e-skateboard in order to be more visible.
Boosting Electric Skateboard Speed Safely
You can speed up your electric skateboard in a bunch of ways, regardless of through hardware upgrades, tuning, or just improving your riding skills. Just keep in mind to put safety first and follow the local rules. Trying out different modifications can be a lot of fun, but it's really important to find the right balance between speed and safety.
