Are Electric Skateboards Worth It? : A Detailed Discussion To Help Your Purchasing Decision

Many people say electric skateboards are fun to ride. They love it for how simple, portable, and enjoyable they are to ride on. On the other hand, some people think that e-skateboards are not worth their excessive prices. They believe that e-skates are primarily for recreational use and cannot be used as a replacement for daily commute.

Henceforth, these two schools of opposite thoughts bring an important question: “Are electric skateboards worth it”? Also, “How do electric skateboards work?” These are two common questions you should know the answer to when you plan to get one.

are electric skateboards worth it

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide you with a simple answer regarding the worthiness of e-boards. It combines your need, purpose, benefits, and drawbacks. Also, the price and your expectations off it influence the worthiness of e-skateboards.

So, let us dig deeper into the answers to these questions. It will assist you in deciding whether or not to purchase one. We will also discuss over common mistakes to avoid while buying one.

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What Is An Electric Skateboard?

As the name suggests, an electric skateboard is a traditional skateboard with an electric motor and battery. The battery provides the necessary power for the vehicle’s motor to operate. E-boards also come with a remote control. Yes, the handheld wireless remote lets you adjust the speed and brakes.

On top of it, the tilting and weight shifting method remain the same as a conventional skateboard.

How Does Electric Skateboard Work?

As previously stated, the electric skateboard has a motor. By pressing the buttons on the handheld remote controller you can move it forward, back, control the brake and speed. The wireless remote allows the user to control the speed and brake with greater precision. It reduces the risk of tumbling and colliding.

The motor is located beneath the deck or within the wheels. The battery is almost always hidden beneath the deck. An electric skateboard has three distinct characteristics. They are as follows:

  1. Electric skateboards are lightweight. They weigh 20 pounds to 25 pounds, mostly.
  2. The speed of the e-board varies from 10MPH to 30MPH. It depends on the battery capacity and motor power.
  3. The battery range will be between 10 and 31 miles, depending on the capacity.

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Are Electric Skateboards Worth It?

We have discussed the definition and working procedure of the electric skateboard. So, it’s time to answer the real question. Should you buy one?

In this section, we will discuss the benefits and drawbacks associated with using an electric skateboard. It will help you figure out the answer to this important question, whether to buy one or not?

In addition, we will show you the mistakes to avoid when purchasing an e-skateboard as well as the most important facts to consider.

HERE ARE SOME BUYING GUIDES

Benefits of an electric skateboard

An electric skateboard with a remote provides numerous benefits. While commuting, you will love the ease of use. The increased speed and mileage with the least amount of sweating make the vehicle a popular choice for daily commuters.

benefits of an electric skateboard

Eco-friendly riding experience

Electric skateboards are an eco-friendly commuter. It doesn’t emit any carbon or harmful gas. Yes, the same thing is true for regular skateboards. But that doesn’t wear off the eco-friendliness of the e-skateboard.

However, people debate that the use of maple or oak tree to manufacture the deck is harmful to the environment. Similarly, plastic or TPU skateboards are even more dangerous. If you are concerned about it, you may choose the bamboo electric skateboard. Its deck is made with the fastest-growing bamboos. So, it is 100% eco-friendly.

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Fun and smooth-riding

There’s no doubt that electric skateboards are super-fun and smooth to ride. Yes, you can choose the board for your daily commuting. It will surely help you go to offices or schools on time without getting trapped in traffic.

Nonetheless, when you are free and want to enjoy some time outdoors , riding the e-skateboard is always preferable. You can take it to your neighborhood or nearby parks and ride lazily. Also, you can easily take it to beach paths or slight off-roading.

The fun and joy of passing the joggers and walkers as they stare at you are incomparable. Therefore, a fun ride on the electric skateboard is preferable for good mental health. It will help you relax without the worries of your offices, schools, work, and life.

In addition to that, riding hills will be easier if you have an electric skateboard that has incline capability. The motor and battery will help you greatly in riding the small hills as you need less physical stress for it.

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Go further and faster

One of the most significant advantages of riding an electric skateboard is that it can ride faster and further. Yes, the battery-operated skateboard will always help you go faster. Many electric skateboards can be as fast as a regular bicycle or e-bicycle. So, you will enjoy the faster riding experience for sure.

What’s more, the improved battery performance of the electric skateboard helps you go further. We have told you that the battery range of these commuters varies from 10 miles to 31 miles, mostly. Many new e-boards will allow you to go as far as 40 miles with a fully charged battery.

Therefore, you will surely appreciate the improved speed and range of the battery. Also, the constant improvement of the lithium-ion battery technology means the battery performance will boost further in the next few years.

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Fast-charging capacity is useful

Since we are talking about the battery range, mileage, and performance of electric skateboards, we must mention an important fact. Recent years have seen the insane development of lithium-ion rechargeable battery technology. You now see fast charging capacity on many of these batteries. So, it has affected the electric skateboard battery too.

You can charge the electric skateboard battery pretty fast now. On average, electric skateboard charging time is 2 to 5 hours. With the faster-charging facility, you can charge it less than 3 hours. So, you won’t have to wait too long to charge the vehicle. Plus, many cities are preparing charging stations for electric vehicles. 

Surely, you will be able to charge your electric skateboard from these outdoor charging stations within the next few years.

Avoid traffics and reach your destination on time

In many cities, the amount of traffic congestion is so bad that walking may actually be the quickest option to reach your destination. The electric skateboard can be the best option for you if you live in a city where you frequently spend hours stuck in traffic.

You won’t have to sit in traffic with the e-board. The electric skateboard’s compact design and shorter moving space allow it to easily navigate even the most crowded spaces. It will be beneficial to arrive at the destination on time. With the electric skateboard, you will never be late for work or school.

Pocket-friendly riding option

One of the best advantages of an electric skateboard that most people overlook is its pocket-friendliness. Yes, it is an expensive investment initially. However, once you get the e-board, you won’t have to pay for gas or petrol to ride your traditional vehicles.

On an average, the charging cost of an electric skateboard is around 2 cents to 18 cents in the US. It is way cheaper than the gasoline or petrol pricing in America. Of course, the actual charging cost to charge the battery fully will depend on its battery size and motor capacity.

As the information suggests, a 200Wh electric battery will help you ride approximately 11-12 miles. Since it will take around 4 cents to fully charge the 200Wh electric skateboard battery, you can get 300 miles of battery range with $1 for charging the battery.

Given that you ride for 10-12 miles per day, the average monthly cost to ride your electric skateboard should be more than $1 to $2. It’s less than the average price of chicken breast in KFC. Thus, riding an electric skateboard is way cheaper than riding vehicles that run with petrol or gasoline.

Less sweat and more comfort

Last but not least, you will certainly appreciate the electric skateboard’s riding comfort. You will not have to exert physical effort as the motor propels the vehicle forward. As a result, it can be a great outdoor activity during the summer.

It is also very useful for school and college students, workers, and office goers. You can enjoy the fun ride and still be as good-looking while leaving home.

Easy To Ride

While riding an electric skateboard, you won’t have to rely solely on your feet. You have better control over the speed and braking thanks to the portable remote.

As a result, you will have more enjoyable rides free of accidents. E-boards have recently seen improvements made to their braking systems, which has led to an increase in their level of competitiveness.

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The disadvantages of electric skateboard

As you have read about the benefits of electric skateboarding, you may think that it is all about fun rides, pocket-friendliness, faster reaching to destination, etc. Thus, you may overlook the setbacks of the electric skateboard.

But, here we will also show you the disadvantages of electric skateboards. So, let’s dive deep into the drawbacks.

disadvantages of electric skateboard

Expensive investment

There’s no denying that electric skateboards are expensive. A high-quality electric skateboard can be purchased for somewhere between $400 and $500. So, when you intend to buy one, you can’t get one with cheaper pricing.

That’s why you must regularly use the electric skateboard after buying one. You can’t just choose it for fun rides. Yes, buying an electric skateboard for $400 to above only for fun rides is never recommendable.

Consider purchasing an e-skateboard for daily commuting. Otherwise, it may be a waste of money.

An electric skateboard from reputed brands such as Evolve or Boosted will cost you around $750. On top of it, the expensive models from these top brands will cost you $2000 or more. You may even get a used car or go on a weekend trip to the Bahamas with that money. So, consider it.

Not street legal everywhere

Another key concern about electric skateboards is their street legality. Thus, many people ask, “Are electric skateboards legal?“

Unfortunately, in many states, electric skateboards aren’t street-legal. Therefore, you can’t ride them to go to offices or schools. Thankfully, many American states have already legalized the e-skateboards on the road, including California, Texas, Florida, etc.

So, you can use them as daily commuters in many regions. Also, many European countries have permitted the riders to ride their electric skateboard on roads, including Iceland, Finland, etc.

Not the safest riding option

Although the safety features of electric skateboards have gone a long way, it still isn’t the safest option to ride. Therefore, when riding an electric skateboard, you must always be alert.

Injury Facts reported that in 2017 alone, there were 130000+ cases of e-skateboard accidents. The report also suggested that more than 50% of these injuries had to visit the emergencies. Therefore, the number of accidents involving e-skateboards is extremely concerning.

Thankfully, you can easily avoid accidents by following some basic electric skateboard tips for safety. You should wear a helmet and protective gear.

Some models are heavy and awkward

Although electric skateboards are meant to increase portability and mobility, some of them are extremely weighty. Thus, you will find these skateboards tough to move. Also, heavier electric skateboards will be tougher to control.

Thus, many teenagers may not find electric skateboards useful for them. Be aware if you plan on giving it to your children. If they aren’t still grown up, they may not handle the electric skateboard properly. It increases the danger of electric skateboards even more.

Should You Buy An Electric Skateboard?

We have discussed the benefits and setbacks of electric skateboards as elaborately as possible. So, it should help you know the answer to the question, “Are electric skateboards worth it?” Yes, considering their advantages, it appears that electric skateboards are worth the investment.

But should you get one in real life? You need to take a few important considerations into account before you can decide whether or not to purchase an electric skateboard.

What’s your intent to get an electric skateboard?

Before buying the commuter, you need to ask yourself a few questions. 

  • Will you use the vehicle for daily commuting?
  • Do you want the e-board only for fun rides?
  • Will you choose it as your outdoor activity partner?
  • Where do you live, and is the skateboard worth it there?
  • Will you buy it for yourself or someone else? If you buy it for someone else, you must consider his age and interest.

 Usually, the e-board is a great option for daily commuting to schools, colleges, or offices. Also, it is a good deal for city dwellers.

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When is it worth getting the electric skateboard?

Undoubtedly, buying an electric skateboard is worthier than your investment. But, the worthiness is for a few specific reasons and locations.

  • If you want a commuter to go to colleges or offices without the traffic jams, an electric skateboard will be a great deal. Also, you can ride the board inside your college and university campus.
  • The electric skateboard is an even better option if you live in the cities or suburbs. The smoother pavement will help you ride the e-board with fun. Also, you can skip the traffic nightmare with the skateboard.
  • Finally, buying the e-skateboard is recommendable if you want a better daily commuter. It is eco-friendly and also less costly than riding your cars or motorbikes.

When is it not worth buying the electric skateboard?

There’re some situations when you should never buy an electric skateboard. The reasons include:

  • If you live in the countryside and rural areas, we don’t suggest you get an electric skateboard. Rural areas are too big to ride and cover with the normal battery range of the vehicles. Also, you may not ride through the country roads with the vehicle.
  • Many people choose the electric skateboard because they think that it looks cool. If you want to get the vehicle as part of your fashion statement, it may not meet your expectations.

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Top Facts to Consider And Common Mistakes To Avoid When Buying An Electric Skateboard

We will presume at this point that you have made up your mind to get your very first electric skateboard. But you cannot just pick the one that looks good. Instead, you need to consider its battery range, motor power, safety features, etc. Also, you must avoid a few things.

Top electric skateboard buying considerations

  • First, consider the motor types. Previously, belt-driven motors were preferable. Nowadays, hub motors have become popular for e-skateboard. These motors need the least maintenance and last longer.
  • Next, consider the motor wattage of the e-skateboard. Usually, an electric skateboard with less than 250W motor power will be not so worthy. Also, for hilly regions, the motor capacity should be above 1000W, with 1500W preferable.
  • Next, consider the battery capacity, range, and expected top speed. For this, determine your daily riding distance and buy the skateboard accordingly. Also, the actual mileage and battery range will be slightly lower than the numbers shown on the product label. So, don’t get misled by them.
  • You must also consider the deck design and material. Mostly, e-skateboards are made of either bamboo or fiberglass. The deck should be stylish and durable. Also, bamboo skateboards offer enhanced flexibility.
  • Finally, you must check the weight of the board. If it feels too weighty, you will find it hard to control—also, heavier e-skateboard results in less mobility. You mustn’t overlook the weight-bearing capacity of the board too.
  •  

Common mistakes to avoid while buying an electric skateboard

  • You should never choose an electric skateboard with low battery capacity and motor wattage power. If the motor is underpowered and the battery has low capacity, the vehicle will fail to meet your expectations.
  • Avoid electric skateboards made with cheap materials. It will reduce the lifespan of the commuter. Also, you will not get the performance you want from the electric skateboard, and it can be frustrating.
  • Finally, don’t buy electric skateboards with cheaper and inappropriate wheels and wheelbase. Or else, the wheels will need frequent maintenance and repair, which can be costly. Also, the wheels shouldn’t be too small.

You should also avoid electric skateboards with inconvenient controls, poor after-sales support, and less warranty.

ALSO READ: Electric Skateboard Maintenance Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, electric skateboards are definitely worth the money. They are eco-friendly, quieter, and need less fuel cost for charging the battery. Also, the remote control functions make it a super-convenient riding option.

Both electric skateboards and regular skateboards are easy to ride. You may master the basics of riding a traditional skateboard as well as an electric skateboard with just a few sessions of practice.

Whether or not you can ride an electric skateboard as a normal one will mainly depend on the motor design and type. You will experience less resistance while riding an e-board if it has a hub motor attached to it. On the contrary, for the belt-driven motors, it’s hard to ride these e-skateboards without any motor assistance.

Yes, electric skateboards are truly useful and practical. They are eco-friendly, easy to ride and help you go faster without the traffic. So, you will find them useful for daily commuting.

Electric skateboards reduce your cost of gasoline or fuel pricing. Also, you will find their easy maintenance and riding fun worth any investment for daily commuting convenience.

The deck, the motor, and the battery of an e-board all have a role in determining how long it will last. The deck should last for 2 to 3 years with proper maintenance. Also, the battery will last 750 to 1000 full charging cycles. But, you may need to replace the wheels once every couple of months.

Yes, electric skateboards are safe to ride. However, it is suggested that you wear a helmet and protective gear to ride it safely.

Learning to ride an electric skateboard is not difficult. You can learn the basic techniques within a few days and a few practice sessions. It is as easy as riding a bicycle.

Yes, a 14 years old teenager can ride an electric skateboard. Although he may not be permitted to ride the e-board on the streets, he can ride in the neighborhood. Also, many regions allow 14 years old people to ride electric skateboards with a helmet.

Parting Words

Are electric skateboards worth it? Yes, electric skateboards are worthy of your investment. Although the initial cost of an electric skateboard seems pretty high, its battery efficiency, lower cost to charge the battery, riding convenience, and eco-friendliness make it a good deal.

You can ride it to explore your college and university campus, and go to offices and workplaces, and may even go on a fun ride. It will help you reach your destination faster and help you get rid of the boredom of day to day life.