Umair Gaines
Electric skateboards are generally faster than regular skateboards, and this can make them more challenging to ride. They are heavier than regular skateboards, and the weight distribution can be uneven, making tricks more difficult. However, electric skateboards are easier to ride than regular skateboards in some respects, as you don't need to worry about pushing off with one foot while balancing on the other. Electric skateboards also have softer wheels, which makes them easier to control and less tiring to ride. Learning to ride an electric skateboard can take a few weeks, and it's important to respect the power of the board and not get overly confident, especially when riding at high speeds.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Learning Curve | Some people learn to ride an electric skateboard quickly, while others struggle with balance. It may take a few weeks of daily practice to get the hang of it. |
| Prerequisites | Previous experience with a manual skateboard, bicycle, snowboard, or surfing can help with learning to ride an electric skateboard. |
| Safety | Electric skateboards can reach higher speeds than manual skateboards, so learning to balance at high speeds is crucial to avoid wipeouts and injuries. Wearing a helmet and other protective gear is essential. |
| Braking | Braking correctly is important. Lean back slightly and bend your knees to compensate for the forward shift in weight when braking. Use the remote to gradually decrease speed before applying the brakes. |
| Turning | Turning on an electric skateboard depends on whether you are "goofy" or "regular." For regulars, turning right is toe-side, and turning left is heel-side. For goofy riders, it's the opposite. Lean your body weight and apply pressure to the edge of the deck to turn. |
| Speed | Higher speeds can make it harder to react to obstacles and increase the risk of accidents. Always ride at a speed you are comfortable with and that suits your environment. |
| Weather | Wheels can lose grip in the rain, leading to accidents and potentially damaging the electric components. Reflective clothing or tape is recommended for better visibility. |
| Weight | Electric skateboards are heavier than manual skateboards due to the motors and battery, making them less suitable for tricks that involve flipping the board. |
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What You'll Learn
Electric skateboards are harder to turn
Electric skateboards can be harder to turn than traditional skateboards. Firstly, the weight distribution of electric skateboards is often uneven, with some boards being front-heavy or rear-heavy. This weight distribution can make it more challenging to shift your body weight and lean into turns. Additionally, the trucks (or axles) of electric skateboards tend to be tighter, which provides more stability at higher speeds but makes turning more difficult.
To execute a turn on an electric skateboard, the rider must initiate the movement from their front foot by leaning on the heel or toe side. For "regular" riders (those who ride with their left foot forward), turning toe-side (turning right) involves leaning the body weight over the toes and applying pressure to the edge of the deck. To turn heel-side (turning left), the rider leans over their heels and applies pressure to the outside edge of the deck. "Goofy" riders (those with their right foot forward) perform the opposite movements.
It is important to note that a wider stance, which can aid in balance and weight shifting on an electric skateboard, may also make turning more challenging. This is because a wider stance can restrict the range of motion required for carving and turning. Therefore, once a rider feels confident with their balance, they may consider narrowing their stance slightly to improve their turning ability.
Practicing turning techniques and improving balance are crucial aspects of mastering electric skateboarding. Riders should always prioritize safety and wear protective gear, especially when attempting turns at higher speeds.
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They are faster than regular skateboards
Electric skateboards can be faster than regular skateboards, and this can be a challenge for beginners. The faster you go, the less time you have to react to obstacles, so it's important to always ride at a speed you're comfortable with. Electric skateboards can reach much higher speeds than regular skateboards, and the longer deck provides more stability at higher speeds.
The Onewheel Pint, for example, has phenomenal acceleration and can get up to speed faster than almost every other board. The Backfire Zealot S2 delivers high-end performance at a mid-range price point, with a top speed of 30.8 mph. The WowGo 3E has a top speed of 28 mph and is extremely well-built, offering a comfortable ride.
The type of motor also affects the speed of an electric skateboard. Hub motors are low maintenance, but you may lose some performance. Belt-drives offer more performance with higher low-end power, resulting in faster acceleration.
Learning to ride an electric skateboard can take some time, and it's important to respect the power and not get overly confident. It can take a few weeks of daily practice to get comfortable, and even then, you may not be 100% confident in all situations. It's recommended to start in an empty parking lot or learn to balance on a normal skateboard first, as it will improve your electric skateboarding ability.
To turn at higher speeds on an electric skateboard, you'll need to lean further over to the desired side of the board. Applying pressure to your toes while leaning on your heels at high speeds can cause speed wobbles and a possible crash. It's important to always be scanning the road ahead for obstacles and be prepared to brake by leaning back and applying pressure to your front foot.
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They are heavier than regular skateboards
Electric skateboards are heavier than regular skateboards due to their motors and batteries. This extra weight can make them harder to control and manoeuvre, especially when performing tricks. The weight distribution on electric skateboards can also be uneven, with some boards being front-heavy or rear-heavy. This uneven weight distribution further adds to the challenge of performing tricks and maintaining balance.
The increased weight of electric skateboards can make them more challenging to ride, especially for beginners. It is crucial to respect the power of the board and not get overly confident, especially when riding at higher speeds. While electric skateboards can reach much higher speeds than regular skateboards, it is important to ride at a speed that allows you to maintain control and react to obstacles.
The weight of electric skateboards also affects their handling and turning ability. A wider stance may be required to control balance and shift weight when braking or accelerating. While this wider stance improves stability, it can make carving and turning more difficult. To compensate for this, riders may need to adjust their stance or the tightness of the trucks to improve turning ability.
The extra weight of electric skateboards also impacts their performance when doing tricks. Flipping the board into the air is more challenging due to the increased weight and uneven weight distribution. Most tricks performed on electric skateboards involve keeping the board on the ground and focusing on footwork and body shifting. Practising footwork with the board standing still is a good way to improve balance and weight distribution before attempting tricks while riding.
Overall, the heavier weight of electric skateboards compared to regular skateboards can make them more challenging to ride and perform tricks. It is important to take the time to familiarise yourself with the board, build confidence, and gradually increase speed and difficulty.
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They are easier to ride than regular skateboards
Electric skateboards are easier to ride than regular skateboards. They are generally much faster than regular skateboards, but they are easier to control. Electric skateboards are heavier than regular skateboards, and they have motors and batteries. This means that you don't need to worry about learning how to 'kick' or 'push' with one foot while balancing on the other foot, which is one of the trickiest parts of learning to ride a regular skateboard. You can just stand on an electric skateboard and relax while the board does all the work.
Electric skateboards are longer than regular skateboards, so you need to take a slightly wider stance to control your balance and make it easier to shift your body weight when braking and accelerating. You can also use a remote control to operate the board and adjust your speed. However, you still need to be aware of your surroundings and constantly scan the road or path in front of you for obstacles.
It is important to wear protective gear, especially a helmet, when riding an electric skateboard, as you can reach much higher speeds. It is also a good idea to practice footwork with the board standing still, starting on grass so that the board doesn't move, and then moving to concrete.
Learning to turn on an electric skateboard is also a bit different from turning on a regular skateboard. To turn toe-side, you lean your body weight over your toes and apply pressure to the edge of the deck. To turn heel-side, you lean over your heels and apply pressure to the outside edge of the deck. For harder and faster turns, you lean further over to the desired side of the board.
Overall, while there are some differences between riding electric and regular skateboards, electric skateboards are generally easier to ride and can be a fun way to get around.
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You should wear a helmet
Electric skateboards can be challenging to ride, and safety should always be a priority. One of the most important safety measures is wearing a helmet. Here are several reasons why you should always wear a helmet when riding an electric skateboard:
Protection from Injuries: The most crucial reason to wear a helmet is to protect your head in the event of a fall or accident. Skateboarding involves a lot of movement and balance, and falls are inevitable. A helmet provides essential cushioning for your head, reducing the risk of concussions and other serious head injuries.
Confidence and Risk-Taking: Wearing a helmet gives you the mental freedom to explore new moves and take risks. Knowing that your head is protected allows you to be bolder and more adventurous, helping you improve your skateboarding skills without fear.
Compliance with Laws: In certain areas, such as the Bay Area, there are laws and regulations in place that require riders of electric skateboards to wear helmets. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in legal consequences.
Setting a Positive Example: If you're skateboarding in a public space or around younger skaters, wearing a helmet sets a positive example for others. It demonstrates that safety is a priority and encourages a culture of smart, confident skaters who value their health and well-being.
Comfort and Ventilation: When choosing a helmet, look for one that fits snugly but isn't too tight. Ensure it has good ventilation to keep your head cool and dry, especially during long rides or in hot weather. A comfortable helmet that meets your personal preferences in style and weight will ensure that you actually wear it on every ride.
Remember, the right gear can make a significant difference in your electric skateboarding experience, keeping you safe and confident. So, don't skimp on the helmet and always prioritize your protection.
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Frequently asked questions
Electric skateboards are generally easier to learn than regular skateboards because you don't need to learn how to 'kick' or 'push' with one foot. However, some people are able to learn very quickly while others have trouble getting the balance down. It might take a few weeks of daily practice to get the hang of it.
Always wear a helmet when riding an electric skateboard, as head injuries are no joke. It's also important to wear reflective clothing or tape, especially when riding at night, so that cars and people can see you.
To turn on an electric skateboard, hold the power button on the remote and then press or hold the power button on the board.
To turn off an electric skateboard, hold the power button on the remote and then press or hold the power button on the board again.
To turn on an electric skateboard, lean your body weight over your toes and apply pressure to the edge of the deck to turn toe-side. To turn heel-side, lean over your heels and apply pressure to the outside edge of the deck.
