Molly Ayala
Building an electric mountain board is a challenging but rewarding project. It requires a range of skills and knowledge in fields such as soldering, electrical safety, and longboarding. The total material cost can vary, but it is estimated to be around $1600 USD. The process involves selecting the right parts, such as motors, electronic speed controllers (ESCs), wiring, remotes, and battery enclosures, and assembling them together. The deck and base of the board are crucial, and one must consider factors like riding style and desired electronics enclosure. Building your own electric mountain board allows for customization, such as larger tires, longer decks, and different truck materials. Online resources, such as step-by-step videos and instructions, can guide individuals through the process of building their own electric mountain board.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Off-road riding, also known as all-terrain |
| Parts | Motors, electronic speed controllers (ESCs), wiring, remotes, and a battery enclosure |
| Cost | ~$1600 USD for materials (prices vary) |
| Skills Required | Soldering, battery care, electrical safety, longboarding skills/knowledge |
| Speed | Target speed of around 25 mph |
| Range | Target range of 20 miles on paved roads (10 miles off-road) |
| Deck | MBS Mountainboard |
| Trucks | Trampa infinity trucks |
| Battery | High-voltage, high-discharge rate battery |
| Safety | Protective gear is essential when riding and building the board |
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What You'll Learn
Electric speed controllers (ESCs)
There are two main types of ESCs: Single ESCs and Dual ESCs. Single ESCs, such as the TORQUE6 Single ESC, are a popular choice as they are lightweight, cost-effective, and easier to set up due to having less wiring. They are highly versatile and can be used for a wide range of electric vehicles, including skateboards, longboards, scooters, and even surfboards. Single ESCs also offer better balance for single-motor vehicles. If you require more power, you can always combine two single ESCs or upgrade to a dual ESC.
When choosing an ESC, it's important to consider the voltage and current specifications to ensure compatibility with your setup. For example, the Maker X DV6 Pro ESC operates at 8-60V with a current of 180A. Additionally, some ESCs come with additional features such as a built-in heatsink for improved performance and durability, or a remote control for convenient speed adjustments.
The enclosure for your ESC is another important consideration. You'll want to ensure the enclosure securely fits your deck and protects the ESC from damage. Some builders choose to use a separate, smaller enclosure for their ESC, while others prefer to use a single large enclosure for all their electronics. It's important to note that the enclosure can influence the deck and vice versa, so careful planning is required to ensure a secure fit.
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Motors, wiring, and remotes
Motors:
The motor is the heart of your electric mountain board, providing the power and torque needed to propel you forward across various terrains. When choosing a motor, consider its compatibility with your board's deck and trucks, ensuring it fits securely and can handle the desired riding speed and terrain.
Wiring:
Wiring connects the different electrical components of your board, including the motor, electronic speed controllers (ESCs), and battery. It is important to use high-quality wiring that can handle the high-voltage and high-discharge rate of your battery. Prior knowledge of soldering and electrical safety is crucial to properly install and maintain the wiring.
Remotes:
The remote control is your interface to control the speed and performance of your electric mountain board. It allows you to accelerate, decelerate, and, in some cases, adjust other settings. When choosing a remote, consider its compatibility with your ESC and ensure it provides a reliable connection during use. Some remotes offer additional features like speed indicators or ride metrics.
When working with motors, wiring, and remotes, it's important to prioritize safety. Ensure that all electrical connections are secure and properly insulated to prevent short circuits or electrical failures. Always follow best practices for electrical safety and wear protective gear when testing your electric mountain board.
By carefully selecting and installing these components, you'll be able to customize your electric mountain board to match your riding style and performance goals.
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$168.54 $199.99
Deck styles and flex levels
When building an electric mountain board, the deck you choose is an important consideration. The deck you opt for will depend on your riding style and what you want from your board. For instance, if you want to go off-road, an MBS Mountainboard may be a good option as a base. If you want to stick to streets, a street carver might be more suitable.
The flexibility of your deck is also a key factor. If you want a more flexible deck, you can opt for a longer one. The deck you choose will influence the electronics enclosure, and vice versa. The enclosure needs to fit securely onto the deck and protect the electronics. You can either use one large enclosure or separate your electronics into different enclosures.
Trampa Boards offer a wide selection of deck styles and flex levels, allowing you to build a custom mountain board to your liking. They offer higher quality setups than most mountain board options available. You can choose from different colours and flex levels to suit your preferences and riding style.
It is also worth noting that if you are looking for a more portable setup, an electric skateboard may be a better option than a mountain board, as mountain boards are much larger due to their 8" pneumatic wheels.
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Battery care and safety
Battery Care:
- Battery Type: Understand the type of battery your board uses, as different batteries have different care requirements. For example, lithium-ion batteries are commonly used due to their high energy density, quick charging, and lightweight characteristics.
- Optimal Charging: Keep your battery charged between 20% and 80% to prolong its life. While it is recommended to charge to 100% before use, avoid leaving the battery on charge overnight.
- Cooling Before Charging: Avoid charging a hot battery. Let the board cool down for about 30 minutes after a ride before plugging it in.
- Regular Use: Aim to use your board regularly to keep the battery active and maintain its health.
- Manufacturer's Guidelines: Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific maintenance tips, including how to clean and care for the battery.
- Battery Inspection: Regularly inspect your board for any loose connections, damaged wires, or signs of wear and tear before each ride.
Battery Safety:
- Charger Compatibility: Always use the charger provided with your electric mountain board. Using a different charger may lead to overcharging or overheating, reducing battery life and posing a safety hazard.
- Charging Environment: Charge your board indoors in a dry area, away from extreme temperatures. Unplug the charger once the battery is fully charged.
- Battery Storage: Store your board and battery in a dry, ventilated area, avoiding excessive temperatures. The optimal temperature for lithium battery storage is around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but most room temperatures are generally acceptable.
- Fire Risk: Lithium batteries are energy-dense and pose a fire risk if mishandled. Ensure you follow safety guidelines and handle the battery with care.
- Protective Gear: When riding and assembling your electric mountain board, always wear protective gear to safeguard against potential injuries.
By following these battery care and safety guidelines, you can help ensure a longer battery lifespan and a more secure riding experience.
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Wheels and trucks
When building an electric mountain board, the wheels and trucks are crucial components. The wheels and trucks you choose will depend on your specific requirements and riding style preferences. Here's a detailed guide to help you select and set up these essential parts:
Wheels:
Mountain boards typically use larger wheels than traditional skateboards to navigate rough terrain. Standard mountain board wheels are 8" pneumatic wheels, which provide better traction and shock absorption for off-road riding. When selecting wheels, consider the type of terrain you'll be riding on. If you plan to ride on a variety of surfaces, including grass, dirt, and gravel, ensure your wheels are durable and provide a smooth ride.
Trucks:
Trucks are another essential component of your electric mountain board. They connect the wheels to the deck and play a vital role in the board's handling and stability. Longer trucks are commonly used on mountain boards to provide a wider stance and improve stability when riding off-road. When choosing trucks, consider the width of your deck and ensure they are compatible. Additionally, pay attention to the truck's material and construction for durability and performance.
Canting the Trucks:
Canting the trucks, or adjusting their angle, can be done by using a bent plate, typically made of aluminium. This technique lowers the board closer to the ground, which is beneficial for hard carving. By extending the nose and tail of the board with a bent plate, you can achieve the desired truck angle while maintaining ground clearance.
Mounting Kits and Compatibility:
When mounting the trucks to the deck, ensure you have the appropriate mounting kit. Some trucks may require specific mounting kits, so it's important to verify compatibility. You can seek advice from online forums or refer to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure you have the correct mounting hardware.
Customisation and Compatibility:
The beauty of building your own electric mountain board is the ability to customise it to your liking. You can choose different wheel sizes, truck colours, and deck styles to create a unique setup that suits your riding style. However, always prioritise compatibility when mixing and matching components. Ensure that the wheels, trucks, and deck are designed to work together seamlessly for optimal performance and safety.
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Frequently asked questions
The basic components of an electric mountain board include motors, electronic speed controllers (ESCs), wiring, remotes, and a battery enclosure.
Some popular electric mountain board kits include the Dual Motor Set and the Mountain Skateboard Conversion Kit, which can be purchased online or at a local pro shop.
It is important to have prior knowledge or experience in fields such as soldering, battery care, electrical safety, and longboarding skills. The deck and base of the board are also crucial, as they influence the electronics enclosure. Additionally, consider the desired riding style and whether the board will be used for off-roading or commuting.
