Are you looking to build a DIY electric skateboard? In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the necessary components and explain how they work together to create a functioning electric skateboard. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced DIYer, we have you covered!
So, let’s get started!
What You’ll Need to Build your Electric Skateboard
There are a few key components you will need to build an electric skateboard. These include:
Choosing a Deck
The deck is the most important part of the electric skateboard. It needs to be strong and durable so that it can support the weight of the rider and withstand the stress of riding. When choosing a deck, you will need to consider the following factors:
Size: The deck should be proportional to the rider’s body size. A deck that is too small or too large will be difficult to ride and may be unsafe.
Shape: The deck can have a variety of shapes, but the most common is the pintail shape.
Construction: The deck can be made from a variety of materials, such as wood, bamboo, or fiberglass.
Choosing Trucks
The trucks are what attach the wheels to the deck and allow the skateboard to move. When choosing trucks, you will need to consider the following factors:
Hanger width: The hanger width is the distance between the two trucks. It should be matched to the deck width.
Angle: The angle of the truck can be changed to adjust the turning radius of the skateboard.
Baseplate type: The baseplate type determines how the trucks are attached to the deck. There are three types: standard, reverse, and Paris.
Choosing Wheels
The wheels are what provide the movement and grip for the skateboard. When choosing wheels, you will need to consider the following factors:
Diameter: The diameter of the wheel should be matched to the hanger width of the truck.
Durometer: The durometer of the wheel affects its hardness. A higher durometer wheel will be harder and have more grip.
Width: The width of the wheel affects how much surface area is in contact with the ground. A wider wheel will have more grip but will also be slower.
Choosing Bearings
The bearings allow the wheels to rotate smoothly. When choosing bearings, you will need to consider the following factors:
Size: The size of the bearing should be matched to the diameter of the wheel.
Type: The type of bearing affects how fast and smooth the wheel rotation is. There are three types: Abec 3, Abec 5, and Abec 7.
Brand: Not all bearings are created equal. Some brands are better than others.
Choosing a Motor
The motor provides power to the diy skateboard. When choosing a motor, you will need to consider the following factors:
Power: The power of the motor determines how fast the skateboard can go.
Type: The type of motor affects how much weight the skateboard can carry. There are two types: standard and high torque.
Voltage: The voltage of the motor determines how many batteries are needed to power it.
Choosing a Controller
The controller manages the power supplied to the motor. When choosing a controller, you will need to consider the following factors:
Type: The type of controller affects the speed and power of the skateboard. There are two types: standard and high performance.
Brand: Not all controllers are created equal. Some brands are better than others.
Features: Controllers may have a variety of features, such as a built-in Bluetooth speaker or headlights.
Choosing a Battery
The battery powers the skateboard. When choosing a battery, you will need to consider the following factors:
Type: The type of battery affects how long it will last and how powerful it is. There are three types: lead-acid, nickel-metal hydride, and lithium-ion.
Capacity: The capacity of the battery determines how long it will last.
Voltage: The voltage of the battery determines how many batteries are needed to power it.
Weight: The weight of the battery affects how much the skateboard weighs.
Types of Electric Skateboard Kits
There are three types of electric skateboard kits: standard, reverse, and Paris.
Standard electric skateboard kits include a motor, controller, and battery. They are the simplest type of kit and are good for beginners.
Reverse electric skateboard kits include a motor and controller, but not a battery. This type of kit is good for people who already have a battery they can use.
Paris electric skateboard kits include a motor, controller, and battery, as well as a deck and trucks. They are the most complex type of kit and are good for advanced users.
Types of Electric Skateboard Motors
There are two types of diy electric skateboard motors: standard and high torque.
Standard electric skateboard motors are good for beginners because they are affordable and easy to use. They are also relatively small and light, making them easy to carry.
High torque electric skateboard motors are good for advanced users because they have more power and can carry more weight. They are also heavier and larger than standard motors, making them more difficult to carry.
How to Choose the right kit for you
Now that you know about the different types of diy electric skateboard kits, how do you choose the right one for you? Here are some tips:
- If you are a beginner, choose a standard kit. It is affordable and easy to use.
- If you already have a battery, choose a reverse kit.
- For advanced users, choose a Paris kit. It has more power and can carry more weight.
- Consider your budget when choosing a kit. Standard kits are more affordable than Paris kits.
- Consider the weight of the kit. Paris kits are heavier than standard kits.
- Consider the size of the kit. Paris kits are larger than standard kits.
- Choose a kit that fits your needs and preferences. There is a kit for everyone!
How to Choose the Right Electric Skateboard Battery
There are three types of electric skateboard batteries: lead-acid, nickel-metal hydride, and lithium-ion.
Lead-acid batteries are the most affordable type of battery and are good for beginners. However, they have a shorter lifespan and are less powerful than other types of batteries.
Nickel-metal hydride batteries are more powerful than lead-acid batteries and have a longer lifespan. However, they are also more expensive.
Lithium-ion batteries are the most powerful type of battery and have the longest lifespan. They are also the most expensive.
When choosing a battery, consider your needs and budget. If you are a beginner, choose a lead-acid battery. If you are an advanced user, choose a lithium-ion battery.
A Step-by-step Guide to Building your DIY Electric Skateboard
Now that you know about the different components of an electric skateboard, it’s time to build your own! Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Choose the kit that is right for you.
- Assemble the kit according to the instructions.
- Connect the battery to the motor and controller.
- Attach the deck and trucks to the motor and controller.
- Test the skateboard by riding it.
- Make any necessary adjustments.
- Enjoy your new electric skateboard!
Testing and Tweaking your DIY Electric Skateboard
Now that your electric skateboard is built, it’s time to test it out! Here are some tips for testing and tweaking your board:
- Ride the skateboard at different speeds to test the power of the motor.
- Ride the skateboard uphill and downhill to test the handling.
- Make sure all the connections are tight and secure.
- Tweak the settings of the motor and controller to get the perfect ride.
- Enjoy your new electric skateboard!
Tips for Riding your DIY Electric Skateboard
Now that you have an electric skateboard, it’s important to know how to ride it safely and smoothly. Here are some tips:
- Always wear a helmet and pads when riding your electric skateboard.
- Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
- Ride in a safe area, away from traffic and pedestrians.
- Slow down when approaching curves and intersections.
- Use common sense when riding your electric skateboard.
Enjoy your new electric skateboard
Thanks for reading! I hope this guide has helped you build your own electric skateboard. Be sure to share your photos and experiences with us on social media!
Conclusion
We have now come to the end of this guide. I hope you have found it helpful. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask in the comments section below.