Introduction
Welcome to the exciting world of electric skateboarding! Riding an electric skateboard is already an amazing experience, but what if you could make it even faster? Imagine the thrill of zooming through the streets, feeling the wind on your face as you hit higher speeds and conquer new challenges. Luckily, there are several ways to make your electric skateboard faster and unlock its full potential.
In this guide, we will explore various methods and upgrades that can help you increase the speed of your electric skateboard. From upgrading the battery and motor to adjusting the gear ratio and fine-tuning the electronic speed controller (ESC), we will cover all the essentials to help you optimize your electric skateboard’s performance.
However, before we dive into the nitty-gritty of making your electric skateboard faster, it’s essential to consider the importance of safety. While speed can be exhilarating, it can also increase the risk of accidents if proper precautions are not taken. Safety should always remain the top priority, so be sure to wear appropriate protective gear and ride responsibly.
Now, let’s unleash the true speed potential of your electric skateboard! Strap in and get ready to explore the various methods and upgrades that will make your rides faster, more thrilling, and unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting your electric skateboarding journey, this guide will provide you with valuable insights to turn your electric skateboard into a high-performance speed machine.
Understanding the Basics of Electric Skateboards
Before we delve deeper into making your electric skateboard faster, it’s important to have a solid understanding of how these innovative machines work. Electric skateboards are essentially regular skateboards equipped with motors, batteries, and electronic components to provide powered propulsion.
The main components of an electric skateboard include:
- Deck: This is the board itself, usually made of wood or composite materials, which provides the rider with a platform to stand on.
- Motor: The motor is responsible for providing the power to propel the electric skateboard forward.
- Battery: The battery is the energy source that powers the motor and allows the skateboard to operate.
- Controller: The controller is the device that the rider uses to control the speed and direction of the electric skateboard.
- Electronic Speed Controller (ESC): The ESC is a crucial component that controls and regulates the power supply to the motor, translating the rider’s commands from the controller into motor output.
Understanding the basics of how these components work together is essential for effectively making your electric skateboard faster. Upgrades and modifications to these components can significantly impact speed and overall performance.
Electric skateboards come in various configurations, including hub motor and belt-driven systems. Hub motors are built into the wheels, providing a sleek and compact design, while belt-driven systems use a belt and pulley mechanism to transfer power from the motor to the wheels.
When it comes to increasing speed, it’s important to consider the limitations of your specific electric skateboard model. Some models may have higher speed capabilities out of the box, while others may require more extensive modifications. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications and guidelines before making any modifications to your electric skateboard.
By gaining a solid understanding of the components and configurations of electric skateboards, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions as you explore the different methods to boost your skateboard’s speed. So, let’s move on to why you might want to make your electric skateboard faster and the benefits it can bring.
Why Do You Want to Make Your Electric Skateboard Faster?
Speed is a thrilling aspect of electric skateboarding that can take your riding experience to a whole new level. While electric skateboards already offer an exciting way to travel, making your board faster can provide several benefits and enhance your overall riding enjoyment. Here are a few reasons why you might want to increase the speed of your electric skateboard:
- Adrenaline Rush: The sheer speed and acceleration of a faster electric skateboard can deliver an exhilarating adrenaline rush, giving you a sense of freedom and excitement as you zoom through the streets or glide along your favorite skating spots.
- Efficient Commuting: Increasing the speed of your electric skateboard can significantly reduce travel time, allowing you to commute to work or run errands more efficiently. With higher speeds, you can cover longer distances in less time, providing a practical and eco-friendly alternative to traditional transportation methods.
- Overcoming Terrain Challenges: A faster electric skateboard can handle various terrains more effectively. Whether it’s climbing hills, traversing rough roads, or tackling obstacles, increased speed and power can help you conquer challenging terrain with ease.
- Safety Overtake: Being able to ride at higher speeds can increase your safety when riding with traffic. The ability to match or exceed the speed of surrounding vehicles can reduce the risk of accidents and ensure you can keep up with the flow of traffic.
- Enhanced Maneuverability: Faster electric skateboards often offer improved acceleration, making it easier to navigate through tight spots and execute quick turns. This increased maneuverability can enhance your overall control and make your rides even more enjoyable.
While the benefits of a faster electric skateboard may be enticing, it’s important to strike a balance between speed and safety. Always ride within your skill level and be mindful of your surroundings. It’s crucial to gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable and confident in your riding abilities.
Now that you have a clear understanding of why you might want to make your electric skateboard faster, let’s dive into the essential safety considerations before embarking on any speed-boosting modifications.
Safety Considerations Before Making Your Electric Skateboard Faster
Before you start implementing any modifications to increase the speed of your electric skateboard, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. While it may be tempting to push the limits and experience the thrill of higher speeds, taking appropriate precautions is essential to ensure a safe riding experience. Here are some key safety considerations to keep in mind:
- Protective Gear: Always wear appropriate protective gear when riding your electric skateboard, especially when aiming for higher speeds. This includes a helmet, knee and elbow pads, wrist guards, and sturdy shoes. Safety gear can minimize the risk of injuries in case of a fall or accident.
- Know Your Skill Level: Be honest with yourself about your riding abilities and skill level. Increasing the speed of your electric skateboard should be a gradual process that aligns with your experience and confidence. Pushing beyond your skill level can lead to accidents and injuries.
- Practicing in Controlled Environments: When experimenting with increased speeds, it’s best to practice in controlled environments, such as open parking lots or designated skate parks. Familiarize yourself with the new speed and adjust your riding style accordingly before venturing into busy streets or crowded areas.
- Be Mindful of Surroundings: Higher speeds require increased vigilance and awareness of your surroundings. Always scan the road ahead, anticipate obstacles, and be prepared to react accordingly. Avoid distractions and stay focused on your surroundings at all times.
- Check Local Regulations: Laws and regulations regarding electric skateboards can vary by locality. Familiarize yourself with any local restrictions or requirements before modifying your electric skateboard for increased speed. Adhering to these regulations will ensure your riding remains within the legal boundaries.
- Maintenance and Inspections: Regularly inspect and maintain your electric skateboard to ensure it is in optimal working condition. Check the brakes, wheels, bolts, and other components to detect any signs of wear or damage. Proper maintenance can prevent accidents caused by mechanical failures.
Prioritizing safety not only protects you but also ensures the safety of others around you. Speed modifications should only be undertaken after careful consideration, and it’s important to strike a balance between speed and maintaining control over your electric skateboard.
With safety as our top priority, let’s explore the various methods and upgrades that can help make your electric skateboard faster without compromising your well-being.
Upgrading the Battery for Extra Power and Speed
The battery is a crucial component of your electric skateboard that directly impacts its power and speed capabilities. Upgrading the battery can provide you with extra power and longer ride times, ultimately allowing for increased speed. Here are some options for upgrading your electric skateboard’s battery:
1. Higher Voltage Battery: One way to increase the speed of your electric skateboard is by upgrading to a higher voltage battery. Most electric skateboards come with standard 36V batteries, but you can consider upgrading to a 48V or even 60V battery. Higher voltage batteries deliver more power to the motor, resulting in increased speed and acceleration.
2. Increased Capacity Battery: Another option is to upgrade to a battery with a higher capacity. Capacity is measured in ampere-hours (Ah) and determines how long your electric skateboard can operate before requiring a recharge. By installing a battery with a higher capacity, you can extend your ride times and potentially achieve higher speeds due to the increased power output.
3. Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) Battery Upgrade: Consider upgrading to a lithium-ion battery if your electric skateboard currently uses a different battery chemistry. Li-ion batteries are known for their high energy density, allowing for a lighter and more efficient power source. They can provide a significant boost in power and speed compared to traditional lead-acid or nickel-based batteries.
4. Battery Enclosure Modifications: In addition to upgrading the battery itself, modifying the battery enclosure can also improve the performance of your electric skateboard. Using a larger battery enclosure can potentially allow for the installation of higher capacity or higher voltage batteries, providing an additional power boost.
It’s important to note that battery upgrades can vary depending on the specific model and design of your electric skateboard. Some electric skateboards may have limitations when it comes to battery compatibility and modifications. Therefore, it’s always recommended to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines before making any changes to the battery system.
When upgrading the battery, it is essential to consider safety and balance. Make sure the new battery is compatible with the voltage requirements of your ESC and motor. Additionally, be mindful of the weight increase that may result from a larger battery, as it can affect the skateboard’s overall performance and maneuverability.
Upgrading the battery is a significant step towards increasing your electric skateboard’s speed and power. However, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. In the following sections, we will explore other modifications, such as changing the motor and adjusting the gear ratio, to further enhance the speed and performance of your electric skateboard.
Changing the Motor for Increased Speed
The motor is the heart of your electric skateboard, responsible for providing the propulsion and determining the speed capabilities. If you’re looking to achieve higher speeds, upgrading the motor can be a game-changer. Here are some options for changing the motor for increased speed:
1. Higher Kv Motor: The Kv rating of a motor refers to its speed constant, which indicates how many revolutions per minute (RPM) the motor will turn for each volt applied to it. By upgrading to a higher Kv motor, you can achieve higher top speeds as it spins faster for the same voltage input. However, it’s important to note that higher Kv motors may sacrifice torque and acceleration, so consider your riding style and terrain before making this upgrade.
2. Dual Motor Setup: If your electric skateboard currently has a single motor setup, upgrading to a dual motor configuration can significantly boost speed and acceleration. Dual motors distribute the power output between two motors, providing more torque and improving overall performance. This setup is particularly beneficial for riders seeking high speeds and enhanced stability.
3. Direct Drive Motor: Direct drive motors, also known as hub motors, can be another option to consider for increased speed. These motors are built into the wheels, eliminating the need for a traditional belt or gear drive system. Direct drive motors offer improved efficiency, reduction in maintenance, and can provide a smoother and more responsive riding experience.
4. Brushless Motor Upgrade: If your electric skateboard currently uses a brushed motor, upgrading to a brushless motor can significantly enhance speed and efficiency. Brushless motors are more advanced and offer several advantages, including increased power output, better heat dissipation, improved reliability, and higher overall speeds.
When changing the motor, it’s crucial to ensure compatibility with your electric skateboard’s electronic speed controller (ESC) and battery. Different motors may require specific ESC settings or voltage requirements. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines to ensure a smooth and successful motor upgrade.
Keep in mind that changing the motor may also result in other modifications, such as upgrading the ESC or modifying the motor mounting system. These changes can impact the overall performance and handling of your electric skateboard, so it’s essential to consider all aspects before proceeding with a motor upgrade.
Changing the motor is a significant modification that can provide a substantial boost in speed. However, it’s important to balance speed with other factors like torque, acceleration, and battery life to ensure a well-rounded riding experience. In the next section, we will explore the gear ratio and how it can affect your electric skateboard’s speed and acceleration.
Adjusting the Gear Ratio for Faster Acceleration
The gear ratio refers to the relationship between the number of teeth on the motor gear and the wheel gear of your electric skateboard. Changing the gear ratio can have a significant impact on the acceleration and overall performance of your electric skateboard. Here’s how adjusting the gear ratio can help achieve faster acceleration:
1. Decreasing the Gear Ratio: If you want to improve acceleration and low-end torque, consider decreasing the gear ratio by using a larger wheel gear or a smaller motor gear. Decreasing the gear ratio allows the motor to rotate the wheels more times for each revolution, resulting in faster acceleration. This modification is ideal for riders who frequently encounter hilly terrains or require quick acceleration from a standstill.
2. Increasing the Gear Ratio: On the other hand, if you prioritize top speed over quick acceleration, increasing the gear ratio by using a smaller wheel gear or a larger motor gear can be beneficial. Increasing the gear ratio allows the motor to turn the wheels fewer times for each revolution, enabling the skateboard to achieve higher top speeds. However, it’s worth noting that this may result in slightly slower acceleration.
3. Belt Drive Systems: If your electric skateboard uses a belt-driven system, adjusting the gear ratio can be easily done by swapping out the pulleys. Most belt-driven systems provide options for different gear ratios, allowing you to fine-tune the performance to your preferences.
4. Direct Drive Systems: For direct drive systems or hub motors, changing the gear ratio may not be as straightforward. In these cases, you may need to consider motor upgrades or modifications to achieve the desired gear ratio that suits your speed and acceleration requirements.
When adjusting the gear ratio, it’s important to strike a balance between acceleration and top speed, taking into consideration the specific terrain and riding preferences. A lower gear ratio provides quicker acceleration, which is beneficial for urban environments or technical maneuvers. Conversely, a higher gear ratio is suitable for riders who prioritize high-speed cruising or long-distance rides.
It’s worth mentioning that modifying the gear ratio can also affect the strain on the motor and battery, potentially reducing their overall lifespan. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider the limitations of your electric skateboard and consult the manufacturer’s recommendations before making any gear ratio adjustments.
By fine-tuning the gear ratio, you can customize your electric skateboard’s performance to suit your riding style and preferences. Next, we will explore how upgrading the electronic speed controller (ESC) can further enhance your electric skateboard’s speed and responsiveness.
Upgrading the Controller for Improved Performance
The controller is an integral part of your electric skateboard, serving as the interface between you and the skateboard’s electronic speed controller (ESC). Upgrading the controller can enhance your riding experience by improving responsiveness and control, ultimately leading to improved speed and performance. Here’s how upgrading the controller can contribute to improved performance:
1. Enhanced Responsiveness: Upgrading to a higher-quality controller can result in improved responsiveness and smoother acceleration. High-end controllers often have better signal processing capabilities and reduced latency, allowing for more precise control over the speed and power output of your electric skateboard.
2. Advanced Features: Upgraded controllers may offer additional features that can enhance your riding experience. These features can include regenerative braking, customizable speed modes, fine-tuned acceleration curves, and even smartphone app integration. Such features offer more flexibility and control over your electric skateboard’s speed and performance.
3. Wireless Connectivity: Some advanced controllers feature wireless connectivity options, allowing you to adjust settings and monitor performance on the go. This wireless connectivity can enhance convenience and provide real-time information about battery level, speed, and distance traveled, enhancing your overall riding experience.
4. Compatibility: When upgrading the controller, ensuring compatibility with your electric skateboard’s ESC and motor is crucial. Different ESCs may require specific controller types or compatibility protocols. It’s essential to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and guidelines to ensure a seamless integration of the upgraded controller.
5. Ergonomics and Comfort: Upgraded controllers often offer improved ergonomics and comfort, providing a better grip and more intuitive control layout. A comfortable and ergonomic controller can enhance your riding experience, allowing for precise control and reducing hand fatigue during extended rides.
By upgrading the controller, you can optimize the communication between you and your electric skateboard, leading to improved performance, responsiveness, and overall enjoyment. However, it’s important to note that upgrading the controller alone may not directly increase the top speed of your electric skateboard. Other modifications, such as upgrading the battery, motor, or adjusting the gear ratio, are usually required to achieve higher speeds.
Before making any controller upgrades, ensure that the new controller is compatible with your electric skateboard’s existing components, and be mindful of any additional functionality or settings that may require adjustments or configurations in the ESC.
Now that we have explored upgrading the controller, let’s discuss fine-tuning the ESC settings to further enhance the speed and performance of your electric skateboard.
Fine-Tuning the ESC Settings for Speed Boost
The electronic speed controller (ESC) is the device that regulates and controls the power supply to the motor of your electric skateboard. Fine-tuning the ESC settings can have a significant impact on the speed and performance of your skateboard. By adjusting these settings, you can optimize the power output and acceleration for a speed boost. Here’s how to fine-tune the ESC settings:
1. Acceleration/Brake Profiles: Most ESCs offer different acceleration and brake profiles that allow you to customize the responsiveness of your electric skateboard. Experimenting with different profiles can help you find the optimal settings for faster acceleration and smoother braking. Note that more aggressive acceleration profiles can drain the battery faster.
2. Maximum Speed Limit: Some ESCs have a maximum speed limit setting that allows you to cap the top speed of your electric skateboard. Adjusting this setting can help you achieve your desired maximum speed or comply with local speed regulations if necessary. It’s important to note that exceeding the manufacturer’s recommended maximum speed capabilities may strain the components and compromise safety.
3. Motor Timing: The motor timing setting controls the timing of the motor’s electrical signal, affecting its response and efficiency. Adjusting the motor timing can impact the speed and smoothness of acceleration. Finding the optimal timing setting will depend on the specific motor and ESC combination, so consult the manufacturer’s recommendations or seek guidance from experienced riders or forums.
4. Throttle Response: ESCs often provide options to adjust the throttle response, which determines how quickly the motor responds to changes in throttle input. Increasing the throttle response can result in faster acceleration, while reducing the response may offer finer control at lower speeds. Experiment with different settings to find the balance that suits your riding style.
5. Regenerative Braking: Regenerative braking is a feature that enables the conversion of kinetic energy to electrical energy when braking, recharging the battery as you slow down. Adjusting the regenerative braking setting can impact the efficiency and performance of your electric skateboard. Fine-tuning this feature can help you find the ideal balance between regenerative braking and mechanical braking for optimal speed and battery life.
It’s important to approach fine-tuning the ESC settings with caution and make small adjustments at a time to avoid any sudden and drastic changes to the performance of your electric skateboard. Keep in mind that every ESC is different, so consult the manufacturer’s documentation or seek guidance from experienced riders for specific recommendations and best practices.
By fine-tuning the ESC settings, you can optimize the power delivery, responsiveness, and overall performance of your electric skateboard for the desired speed boost. However, keep in mind that fine-tuning the ESC settings alone may not result in significant speed improvements. It’s often a combination of various modifications, including upgrading the battery, motor, gear ratio, and controller, that collectively contribute to achieving higher speeds.
Now that we have covered fine-tuning the ESC settings, let’s move on to reducing the weight of your electric skateboard for enhanced speed and maneuverability.
Decreasing Weight for Enhanced Speed and Maneuverability
Reducing the weight of your electric skateboard can have a significant impact on its speed, acceleration, and maneuverability. A lighter skateboard requires less power to propel, allowing for increased speed and improved overall performance. Here are some tips for decreasing the weight of your electric skateboard:
1. Lighter Deck Materials: Consider upgrading to a deck made from lighter materials such as carbon fiber or fiberglass composite. These materials provide excellent strength-to-weight ratios, reducing the overall weight of the skateboard without compromising durability.
2. Slimmer and Lighter Trucks: Upgrading to slimmer and lighter trucks can help reduce the weight of your electric skateboard. Look for trucks made from lightweight materials like aluminum or titanium, which provide strength while minimizing weight.
3. Lighter Wheels: Choose wheels that are lighter in weight. However, be mindful that the wheels should still have the appropriate hardness and grip for your intended riding style and terrain.
4. Lightweight Battery and Motor: Consider upgrading to a lighter battery and motor setup, such as a lithium-ion battery and a compact, lightweight motor. These components not only reduce weight but also provide improved performance and energy efficiency.
5. Remove Unnecessary Accessories: Evaluate your electric skateboard for any unnecessary accessories or additional components that may be adding unnecessary weight. Removing items like unnecessary brackets, excess padding, or unused mounts can help shed off some weight.
6. Streamline and Compact Design: Opt for a streamlined and compact design for your electric skateboard. This can involve removing excess bulk and designing the components in a way that optimizes space and weight distribution.
Reducing the weight of your electric skateboard not only improves speed and acceleration but also enhances maneuverability. A lighter board is easier to control, allowing for quicker turns and greater agility.
However, it’s important to note that weight reduction should not compromise the structural integrity or safety of the electric skateboard. Ensure that any modifications or changes are done within the manufacturer’s guidelines and that the overall integrity of the skateboard is maintained.
By implementing these weight reduction techniques, you can achieve enhanced speed, acceleration, and maneuverability on your electric skateboard. Remember to always test and evaluate the effect of each modification to find the right balance that suits your riding style and preferences.
Now that we have explored weight reduction, let’s move on to another important aspect for achieving faster speeds and smoother rides – lubricating bearings and wheels for reduced friction.
Lubricating Bearings and Wheels for Reduced Friction
Reducing friction is crucial for achieving faster speeds and smoother rides on your electric skateboard. By properly lubricating the bearings and wheels, you can minimize friction and maximize the efficiency of your skateboard. Here’s what you need to know about lubricating bearings and wheels:
1. Clean and Inspect: Before lubricating your bearings, it’s important to clean them thoroughly. Remove the wheels from your electric skateboard and carefully take out the bearings. Wipe off any dirt, debris, or old lubricant using a clean cloth or paper towel. Take the opportunity to inspect the bearings for any signs of damage or wear.
2. Choose the Right Lubricant: Select a suitable lubricant specifically designed for skateboard bearings. Skateboard-specific lubricants are designed to withstand high speeds and wear. Avoid using grease or heavy oil, as they can attract dirt and impede the bearings’ performance. It’s recommended to use lightweight lubricants such as speed creams or bearing oils for optimal results.
3. Apply the Lubricant: Place a small amount of lubricant onto the inner and outer rings of each bearing. Slowly rotate the bearing between your fingers to ensure the lubricant spreads evenly and adequately coats the different parts of the bearing. Avoid over-lubricating, as excess lubricant can attract dirt and cause more friction.
4. Reassemble and Test: After applying the lubricant, carefully reassemble the bearings into the wheels and secure them back onto your electric skateboard. Spin the wheels several times to distribute the lubricant evenly. Check for smooth rotation and listen for any unusual noises. If the wheels still feel stiff or make grinding sounds, you may need to repeat the lubrication process or consider replacing the bearings if they are damaged.
5. Regular Maintenance: Regularly maintaining and lubricating your bearings is essential for optimal performance. Depending on the frequency and conditions of your rides, it’s recommended to clean and lubricate your bearings every few months or as needed. Inspect the bearings periodically to ensure they are in good condition and replace them if necessary.
Lubricating the bearings and wheels decreases friction, which translates into improved speed, smoother rides, and longer overall lifespan of your skateboard. Reduced friction also results in less strain on the motor and battery, potentially increasing their efficiency and longevity as well.
Remember, proper lubrication is just one aspect of bearing maintenance. It’s also important to protect the bearings from moisture and dirt by avoiding riding in wet conditions and cleaning the wheels regularly.
By regularly lubricating your skateboard’s bearings and wheels, you can ensure optimal performance and enjoy buttery-smooth rides, making the most of your electric skateboard’s speed potential.
Now that we’ve covered lubricating bearings and wheels, let’s conclude our guide and recap the key takeaways.
Conclusion
Congratulations on completing our guide on how to make your electric skateboard faster! We’ve explored various methods and upgrades that can help you unleash the maximum speed and performance potential of your electric skateboard. By implementing these techniques, you can elevate your riding experience and enjoy thrilling, high-speed adventures.
Throughout this guide, we emphasized the importance of safety. Before making any modifications or attempting to increase the speed of your electric skateboard, always prioritize safety by wearing appropriate protective gear and riding responsibly.
We began by understanding the basics of electric skateboards and why you might want to make your electric skateboard faster. We then discussed important safety considerations before diving into the various methods for boosting speed and performance.
We explored upgrades like changing the battery and motor, adjusting the gear ratio, upgrading the controller, fine-tuning the ESC settings, decreasing weight, and lubricating bearings and wheels. Each modification contributes to enhancing speed, acceleration, and overall performance, allowing you to customize your electric skateboard to match your riding style and preferences.
Remember to consider the compatibility of different components and consult manufacturer guidelines or seek expert advice when making any modifications. Striking the right balance between speed, control, and safety is crucial for an enjoyable and fulfilling riding experience.
Now it’s time for you to put your newfound knowledge into action. Take your electric skateboard to the next level by implementing the techniques discussed in this guide. Stay mindful of your abilities, gradually push your limits, and always prioritize safety.
Enjoy the thrill of riding your faster electric skateboard and have fun exploring new destinations with increased speed and agility. Happy riding!
