Buying a new electric skateboard can be difficult for anyone. For everyone from newbies to seasoned veterans of the e-skating scene, the wide variety of boards, brands, and models can make it very hard to know where to spend their money. And the price tags of some of the most popular e-skateboard brands are nothing to scoff at. Some models can run an upwards of $1,200.
No need to worry! The community that’s sprung up around electric longboards is extremely friendly to newcomers. A number of online resources exist to help riders determine which devices are right for them. If you want to find out about how to buy the best electric skateboards for commuting, please check out the article.
These online sources of information are especially helpful for riders who feel lost in the increasingly specialized and variable nature of the e-skateboard industry. The best board for you is the one that excels at the performance aspects you care most about without driving the cost up too much.
But how can you figure out what kind of board is right for you? What type of electric longboards exists, anyway? This guide will help run you through many of the most important tips and factors to keep in mind while you look for the perfect board.
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What Type Of Board?
Before picking a specific brand and model of electric skateboard, you’ll want to narrow your search by figuring out which general category of board you’re interested in buying. These categories are not set in stone. They’re constantly shifting, both as companies specialize and shift their offerings and riders shift their preferences.
But for a basic guide, it’s clear that boards can be classified into several categories. While some riders are interested in hitting exhilarating speeds or carving their way down massive hills, others are more likely to go for a leisurely ride along the countryside. Some riders want a little of both.The good news is that, whatever your interests or reasons to ride, there’s surely a board type out there for you.
All-Around Boards
As the name suggests, an all-around board is a solid model of performance for most uses. All-around skateboards are likely good for hitting moderately impressive top speeds. They often have good handling and control, as well as a respectable range. An all-around board usually won’t excel too much in a given category. It’ll be hard to find a well-balanced board that offers a top speed of 30+ mph, for example. All-around boards aren’t really made for one niche purpose, but can instead be used for a multitude of things.
All-around boards are great for beginners, too. Because new riders might not know exactly what they want out of their device, it’s hard to go wrong with a model that provides solid performance in most areas and metrics. An all-around board is characterized as a jack of all trades, but an ace of none.
All-Terrain Skateboards
If you’re looking for an all-terrain board, chances are that you have a specific purpose in mind for your device. Whether you plan on using your skateboard to hunt, to speed over the uneven terrain of the city, or even just to e-skate while you travel in unfamiliar areas, an all-terrain skateboard could be a tremendous asset.
The most noticeable feature of all-terrain boards will be the wheels and the size of the deck. A good all-terrain board will come with big rubber wheels capable of handling the bumps and roughness of uncommon surfaces or terrains. In order to minimize the shakiness resulting from terrain changes, it’s usually recommended that all-terrain boards have a solid, large deck. Otherwise, it’s easy for riding to become stressful on the legs, feet, and calves.
Compact Boards
Many e-skaters might be rightfully concerned about the size and weight of some models. If you have to carry your device for an extended amount of time or store it in a backpack while at work or school, a heavy device can be a dealbreaker. Some boards can even weigh an excess of 30 pounds, and that’s certainly not something you want to lug around in a backpack all day long! Luckily, many brands now make compact boards, which are perfect for many urban commuter or traveling skaters.
A compact board will usually offer impressive speed on account of its low weight, but be sure to check the motors to make sure they provide the kind of power and top speed you require. Some small boards can be pretty shaky on the legs, especially if you plan on riding on uneven terrain, like paved city streets or over small obstacles. Be sure to keep this in mind, and look for models with larger wheels if it concerns you.
Expensive Boards
The top boards in the e-skating industry will always be relatively expensive. Especially if you’re after the most popular and reputable models from top companies, expect to pay a pretty penny. Still, these boards are considered high-end for a reason. If you have the money to spend and you enjoy riding, you might consider splurging on a high-end board. These devices will often offer superb performance in multiple categories and metrics.
You should note that many top-end boards are made for riders with experience and developed knowledge of riding. Reputable brands sometimes do make a beginner’s board on the top shelf, but you’ll need to be careful to avoid purchasing a board that’ll have you in over your head.
Budget Skateboards
At the end of the day, there’s no shame in trying to cut down on costs. As the skateboarding industry continues to grow, the good news is that new companies are always looking to make a name for themselves by offering quality boards at a discounted rate. The big thing to remember with budget boards is that you often get what you pay for. Be wary of any deal that sounds just too good to be true.
Shop And Check Around
At the end of the day, your odds of getting a good board and a solid deal increase whenever you take advantage of the litany of online resources available in the e-skating community. Blogs, YouTube channels, Reddit, and all sorts of additional social media platforms have made it easier than ever for e-skaters to share tips, have their questions answered, and make friends along the way while enjoying their hobby.
Don’t Forget to be Safe!
Once you’ve found the right board, make sure to remember to buy safety equipment as well. Many e-skateboard companies offer packages of safety items, including helmets, knee pads, and more, along with your purchase. Once you’re on the road, be sure to follow all relevant traffic laws and be careful around other vehicles and cars.
If you are interested in even more technology-related articles and information from us here at Bit Rebels, then we have a lot to choose from.
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