How to choose an electric skateboard. Don’t be fooled by specs!

[@DanielKwan]

I thought this video would be an easy one that I could do during quarantine but the script kept getting longer and it ended up being one of my most difficult videos! Timecodes: Which size is right for you? (00:52), What size wheels do you need? (05:46), Hub motors, belt drive, something else? (06:46), Which board is faster? (11:50), Brakes are frequently overlooked (13:27), Why the speed controller matters (14:21), How to estimate range yourself (17:15), Skate components (19:19), Which specs to ignore (21:03), Summary (22:33) Wash your hands!

[@TheScottunes]

Daniel Kwan I am going for the Ownboard bamboo AT. purely for the fact that you sold me on the cloud wheels. Perfect for my area with altering terrains like sand swept areas, mud tracks and bad paving slabs on footpaths. Just hoping to get a bit of a discount or the exchange rate to get better very soon.

[@mochalucha]

Where’s the backfire mini review fucker

[@IcyMidnight]

You should put the time codes in the description! 😉

[@vallextvain460]

Hey, thanks for all the great content. I recently bought the ownboard bamboo with cloud wheels. People tall about their cores cracking. I’m looking to switch to the AT wheels. Do you know of where I can get the full AT set compatible with the board? You have to buy everything separate from ownboard

[@DogerBeaner]

Should I get a belt drive or hub drive? I like the hub motors because they don't need too much maintenance, they are stealthy, and more durable because of the lack of a belt. But I also like the belt drive's wider range of wheels that can be used. I also need a reliable board that will last a long time. I don't see people riding longboards around my city a lot, and the roads have a few pebbles, not a lot though. I'm considering an Exway X1 Pro because of the app, replacement parts can be bought on their store, and I just like the design of the remote and board.

[@LecimyzKoksem]

Can we take a second and appreciate the editing in this video? :D

[@Kclerie]

Agreed!

[@willwell2360]

No. Ain't nobody got time for that

[@electrolyteblend]

@@willwell2360 agreed

[@Keyboard_warri0or]

Your mom did

[@1fareast14]

9:38 the ad countdown is appreciated, daniel knows we're going to skip it

[@sartajgill2803]

Why'd he put it in in the first place though?

[@Igor-cy7fo]

Sartaj Singh he has to make a living doesn’t he? What a stupid question

[@jasonhushmonkey]

@@Igor-cy7fo r u dumb? U dont get paid idiot u r calling him stupid

[@bridge4]

Dude. Great content as always, but the production quality of this video ... was badass. Props

[@alekstube_]

So well made!

[@ajw8428]

For someone looking for their first Eboard, this video is invaluable,...it’s excellent! It’s thorough and comprehensive, but easy to understand,...yet entertaining and concise. Also, the video production and editing is top notch. You can really tell a lot of hard work went into making it!

[@seungwonlee4449]

23:11 'just my opinion, but it's true' - Daniel Kwan 2020

[@alekstube_]

I laughed at that

[@P.Subaeruginosa]

Personally love the sound of a belt drive, I think it adds to the sensation of going fast. Also a benefit of hearing your motors is you know how they should sound and when something's wrong.

[@ssoffshore5111]

I will add that it also lets people walking in front of you know you're coming up behind them.

[@P.Subaeruginosa]

@@ssoffshore5111 youd think so but the amount of retards that don't hear me until im literally directly behind them at which point they jump to avoid me (im going slower than them by this point so I slowly roll past them making full eye contact)

[@mon.longboard.electrique]

The most valuable video I've ever seen since I ride. GG dude ! A rider from France.

[@justenn9949]

No joke, I bought a Meepo board because of Daniel's use of Keiran's "that's Disgusting" clip lol Did the research and gotta say ppl have been sleeping on the V3 of the meepo board. I'm pretty happy with it, I think if you're want a beginner board or just the best board for the least amount of money the Meepo V3 is where its at. They fixed everything everyone complained about the V2.

[@jaredb9523]

I have the v2 but the wheels are out of tread I was thinking of getting the v3 but now I’m torn between getting it or a direct drive like the revel kit. I like how the v3 is faster n has replaceable sleeves but with the revel or a direct drive i can just use any wheels

[@robras2850]

I brought the mini atom 3s as my first board best decision ever.

[@Kclerie]

I've watched 6 of your videos now, and I am thoroughly impressed. I appreciate all of the data and effort in your work. Now to choose my first longboard. 😁 Side note, the quality of your videos is top-notch as well. @Daniel Kwan

[@antoinevanderstraeten1315]

This is the best way to put an ad in a video! You clearly label it as an ad, show how much time it last. Congrats and thank you for doing it wisely.

[@MadDonJuan]

I been esk8ting for 2 yrs and always count on KZbin to pick my boards and I can say that by far this is the best and more informative video I've have seen hands down. Thanks for all the time you have put into this. When I find someone confused on what to get I will refer them to this video always.thanks Bro!!

[@InconsistentTechDad]

I've been trying to make a decision on which board to start with for months now. This is hands down the most information I've gotten in one video. I still don't know which I'll get... But I learned alot haha. Thanks!

[@anthonyovering6038]

I greatly appreciate that evolve wasn't included in the premium bracket. Im still in shock over that whole thing.

[@danielho9544]

What's wrong with evolve?

[@flynnduggan1756]

daniel ho no shit that’s what i’m thinking

[@MrApolui]

What do you mean?

[@DeeKay1911]

??

[@mardvorak2]

Leaving tactical dot

[@MrPhillipsTheChangeAgent]

Wow DK great video. Very informative. Even experienced Esk8 riders can enjoy the video. That disgusting meme never gets old.

[@Jadden7]

I agree ^^. Who is this guy by the way ? I searched on the internets but didn't found the answer ^^'

[@MrPhillipsTheChangeAgent]

Jérôme Shaaban that’s the owner of Meepo 🤙🤙😝

[@Jadden7]

@@MrPhillipsTheChangeAgent Thanks ! :)

[@ethanp2499]

this video is criminally underrated, you are amazing my man!

[@creobotra3716]

Quality of this video is through the roof. The editing, transitions, music, and information are all fire. Really glad I discovered your channel a couple of weeks ago!!

[@askfred6482]

An AMAZINGLY in depth video! THANK you, I learned a lot and book marked it as well as subscribed!

[@maguettefalliloukhouma4732]

Thank you I have been looking foe a guide like this for a lot

[@R8ze_]

Got recommended this video after buying my board lol, but the quality of your video is out of this world, well done!

[@christytuxworth4205]

this was such a useful video! Im looking to buy an electric skateboard for next year as my primary mode of transport, and having exactly zero prior experience with them, its been difficult. There is SO much information out there, and it's so hard to know what to pay attention to. This was really helpful, thank you so much!

[@jakes8444]

As a person who owns a standard board with double king pin trucks and loves carving I can agree with you they are not made for speed and are extremely squirly! However the truning radius on them is amazing and so much fun

[@EboardMY]

Love the format and epic editing! 🔥 Can't imagine how long it takes 🤣

[@kalashin1529]

Thanks for ur video. I just bought an ownboard bamboo at/gt .... based on ur videos :) its my "first" real board. i got a very cheap piece of crap until now, no name brand crap ... and i fell in love with electric skateboards :) love ur videos

[@danielleesposito5487]

jesus this video is amazing. you’ve done your research, and you are able to explain it in a fantastic way. this video looks great. thanks

[@DanielKwan]

Thank you!

[@scotttran8682]

He's finally back!!!!

[@yanghong9067]

Thank you, this helps a lot for esk8 newbies like me in terms of choosing the first e-board from the overwhelming options in the market.

[@MrMikey1703]

Gday from Australia. Thanks for a really informative video. I want to graduate from a Cruiser to an eskate. I’ll definitely check your site out now for more details.

[@SauceyTycoon]

extremely helpful, i have watched sooo many reviews and had already kinda came to a lot of the same conclusions.

[@dhirajshetty483]

Hands down one of the best videos on this subject !!

[@glenabraham9273]

Just for contrast, I thought i'd cite the relationship used when matching the traction motor to the inverter in electrically driven trains, where, say, a single car might weigh between 60 to 120 thousand pounds (sorry, i'm traditional). Firstly, the adherence to performance -the maximum speed vs the acceleration rate for the weight of the car are the knowns. The electrical output of the inverter to be matched to the motor (or set of motors) is interpreted via the necessary 'gear' ratios. Sound like fun? Fortunately, the plethora the very high performance "servo motors" developed for aerial drones (esk8 also) make more latitude in the selection choices. Mr. Kwan gives good advice based on long experience. Go!

[@MadDonJuan]

I found you on Ronnie's channel, I love what you do here ..new sub Bro!

[@ian-wr1hk]

great video.. even when i watch some of your vids i come back to look them again.. you really helped me to find my first board.. and second lol..

[@QUINTTELLA]

very well explained !!! I had some questions about the direct drive that now I understand much better! Very good work Dan! Thank you !!!

[@fabiandörig]

Really good video! One thing which i think is important as well in terms of speed acceleration and breaks: Most boards use a 10s battery which has less speed, acceleration and breaks. If you’re looking for the best performance get a proper 12s battery!

[@DanielKwan]

Thanks! If comparing two boards that are otherwise the same, yeah 12S would perform better than 10S.

[@RossReviewsau]

Awesome video man.. never thought my car review footage would be used in a skateboard video but hey 😅 that was a great vid man..

[@DanielKwan]

Ross Reviews thanks again!

[@whatevernick9110]

I watched your video and decided on a backfire G3. I cannot wait for it to arrive !

[@jypco9289]

Hey Daniel, great video like always. If you’re open to video ideas, I’d love to hear about your advice for riding in a large city like New York. I see you driving in such close distances to crowds and cars and I’m like, “holy crap, I can’t do that!” The roads are pretty shit here and swirling through cars and pedestrians looks pretty suicidal since a lot of people don’t even watch where they’re going. I’m scared shitless to take my board to the inner city! Anyway, gr8 video as usual. Definitely the most in-depth (or one of the most) review videos on KZbin for eskating.

[@ericeisele2497]

The soundtrack and editing in this is exquisite! Share the credits for the music!

[@JackjackHD]

best informative esk8 video on youtube. Thank you for your effort

[@JackjackHD]

btw what song is playing at 21:03 if you dont mind answering

[@goldenagenut]

Great video, thank you for that! I'm a total newb to eboards, rode regular boards a few...decades ago, but i recently bought a used Riptide and that did it - I'm hooked. Your video answered some questions i had and made me aware of some factors I'd not thought of, especially on the mileage/range issues, and brakes as well. My Riptide has the brakes that are pressure sensitive, can lock up and I agree totally, thats what I want. Great informative video man, well done and thanks!

[@apokolai]

Thank you Daniel, that was very informative and helpful. I love that it was a long video as I needed to understand all the key points I needed to look for on each boards. Also, I like the funny skit that you include on your videos; "disgusting" lol. I just now have to narrow down my choices from the brands that you recommended. Wish I could message you directly.

[@eddiebrogna7678]

Thank you for taking the time to make such an informative video for us all 🙏✌🏼😊

[@Why-I-Oughta]

Another thing to consider: if you buy a board from a well known company, they are more likely to have multiple repair centres and partner companies who offer customer services for you - this will make it easier to get support when you have problems with your board. 🤝🏿 🏬

[@jebajaj3704]

Best video made about electric skateborads! It really transparent all the maketing nonsens into real useful information.

[@motherfluxer696969]

I did not need to watch this video with already purchasing my board off of similar decision processes, but I new it'd be a good video anyways. Very thorough and well thought our video. Informative to say the least.

[@alekstube_]

same!

[@trapper4458]

What skateboard and Do you like it

[@thirihtan4604]

BROOOO ! You have put up so much effort into making this. Loved it.

[@joelhole]

I’ve got a vestarboard all terrain with regular trucks not double kingpin! Was under $1000 when I got it! And it’s awesome!!!!!

[@jameshull5121]

I'm considering an electric AT board, and your videos have been quite useful. Although I've done numerous other sports over the years, I'm a complete skate novice, and want to use this for easy cruising, learning to balance and carve to prepare for snowboarding/e-foiling. Having had more than my share of wrecks over the years I value not getting tossed off the board and potentially injured above everything else, and our roads/trails are a little rough which is why I'm leaning AT. I've had a brief ride on the Evolve GTR bamboo/carbon, and preferred the carbon deck feel as opposed to the bounce of the bamboo. At 70kg I'm sure any of the top boards will have more than enough performance for what I plan on doing with it, so I'm less worried about speed and more about being able to get the setup customized to my liking, and having a reliable board. If you were to rate the best AT board in terms of least likely to glitch and causing an unplanned ejection, is there one that has the most reliable firmware/remote connection? Does Exway have enough time in the market to trust the new Atlas even though it is a new model? Do you have any experience with their meeting their 'projected' delivery dates? Thanks!

[@DredSk8]

Quality is top on this one my man, hope your safe and sane 💪🔥🤙👍🤘

[@Esk8WI]

Thanks for the math at the end!!! I just purchased the backfire zealot, and it advertises 20 mile range, but with my small assness, the math shows I should be able to hit 25 miles! Good bang for the buck I'd say!

[@reggiebuffat]

It's good to see you back, stay safe. Insane video production quality!

[@gvrose1]

Great video for a new comer! Thanks for putting in the time for others!

[@sayonara_elegy]

As someone that started with a Boosted Mini S with not a lot of experience skating, I absolutely agree, it's a lot more difficult to get the hang of and it doesn't lend itself well to bumpy environments If you are up to the challenge, by all means go ahead but i'm probably going to end up buying an electric longboard later as a main driver, great video Daniel.

[@rodsimmons3]

As a Canadian, that has skateboarded my hole life, i'm looking to get an E-longboard to commute to work, about 12km on a smooth path. my problem iS Covidd 19 and as a Canadian, even the cheap boards are about 1000$. Its hard to decide on one but i seem to be leaning towards Exway and Wowgo as they seem to be the best all around. Curious if you have any advise, love ur vids, by far the best quality eboard vids ive found.

[@wdoering01]

wow, your video editing skill are becoming godlike!! good job!!

[@Bboy235]

Daniel I have a question as a rider in my 40's I'm concerned about falls I have skated all my life including downhill so I am very comfortable with going fast but I have heard about esc failures throwing people of their boards is this something you ever came across have I see you are always pretty padded up have you ever had any nasty falls.

[@adamanonimowy]

22:26 what board is that? it looks neet!

[@oooxxi]

Louboard, but I'd advise against buying from them.

[@adamanonimowy]

@@oooxxi Great, thank You for the reply. =)

[@supermarkie624]

I’m really grateful for the tips on estimating range. My DIY build will carry me about 40 miles. If I did the equation right.

[@SDailey510]

What song is playing at 22:35? I love it

[@wezter96]

So I preordered an Exway Flex, do you think it's worth to wait 2-3 months for it (maybe longer) or should I cancel my preorder and go for something else (max budget €1500), and if so what would you recommend? (Maybe Backfire G3/G3 Plus) Gonna use it mainly for commuting.

[@rhythmmania6407]

I already own hub motor e-board but I am about to get belt driven e-board at the end of April or before. I can't wait!

[@choiceblade]

Rich and highly digestible content!

[@jaoskiwooginawski7317]

very informative and helpfull for us beginners looking to esk8. btw super cool logo on your helmet.

[@CallOfChick3n]

Hey man, awesome video. I purchased the wowgo3 based on your videos and used your code. What about the stickers now haha. Thanks for these videos. They help a lot and your editing skills are becoming better. You can see it :) Keep going.

[@DanielKwan]

Thanks! Have you filled out the form at dkwan.com for the stickers? Fill it out and I’ll send you some 😁

[@-bravoechodelta255-6]

i love my teamgee h20 mini, but the hub motors get so hot, it degrades the inside of the motor sleeves, making the PU crumble, and it causes the sleeves to ride up on the dovetail mounting interfaces, and that results in bumpy spots on the wheels, unless you replace the sleeves often. im investing in a zealot s, and im hoping the belt drive will allow me to swap wheels less often

[@seewise6383]

Great Show! Happy New YEAR! IYO; "Best 2021 electric skateboard for hills and trolly-tracks of San Francisco streets ?"

[@dagnabit2020]

Thanks! That was well done and very helpful.

[@parsec4757]

I just bought a Modster SC L7 for 400€ ... so far im amazed .. not only i have not paid around 1000€ but it also seems really sturdy ... well see how it holds up in the long run

[@parsec4757]

The only downside for now is the non exchangeable battery.

[@moetrymwm7807]

Hey! Can anyone identify the longboard at 13:10? Wide and with a slight kicktail?

[@Bassplayingypsy]

That was very informative to say the least. I enjoyed this video. You for sure covered just about all aspects of purchasing an electric board. I too many times before purchasing the board I have now.... looked at power and top speed. Now that I've ridden this board for a couple of hundred miles. I noticed that top speed was not the factor since I seldom ride beyond 18mph. G3 plus is pretty fast and sort of flexible in bounce worth. I feel now, that a wowgo or ownboard at a fraction of the cost would have been just as good a purchase. Thank you for this video Dan. You the man. Stay safe Sir.

[@alottafrancium]

Great video with informative bullet points

[@sChatterG]

This video is exactly what I was looking for! So on point.

[@BorisFett]

Cool overview, thanks. I've been wanted to get an Exway Flex and it seems like a great beginner board.

[@Mopar_126]

Hey man awesome video! Very informative! But I have 1 question since this video is 2 years old now, where are we at with direct drive did it improve or go away completely?

[@dantsp8000]

Hi I’m need some help’ in choosing a electric board … I‘ve preference for big wheels ! Thanks for your help And I’m a beginner and not willing to buy another in 4 month Thanks for your advice Daniel

[@andyandylawson]

Just purchased a zealot s with your discount code. Will update with first impressions

[@MoomieVRC]

Okay, important question for an interesting situation. I drive 18 wheelers nationwide and I'd like something that I can whip out of the truck to run and grab groceries. Seeing as road conditions can vary greatly, should I get a long board that allows for larger tires or an all terrain board? I'm leaning towards a long board with hub motors.

[@artofdisguy3401]

Ok awesome info,, Any suggestions on a belt drive board that will get 30 km range at 30km/h

[@Felixdink]

Hey, i was just wondering if you can by cloudfoam wheels for hub motor boards?

[@au18ert]

Another great video Daniel thank you! I've been skating since I was 13 and now I'm now 47 and I still find this stuff interesting. I live in the UK and my first board is the Backfire Ranger X3.. Being a novice to e-skating I thought I'd play it safe. Our roads are shit, it rains all the time and it's cold but boy is e-skating fun! I think what let's the X3 down and you didn't touch on it was the remote, it's shit! What's going on with the remotes it's like they were designed by children. Put any type of glove on and it's impossible to use the buttons. The scroll wheels are pants and are that even water resistant? I doubt mine is as the USB port is exposed. So I'd have like to have seen a segment on the remote. Also modes or app configuration is really useful especially as you develop as a skater. I think I'm at the point where I'm limited by the remote. Example I like the Economy mode when the streets are busy. It's a nice acceleration but once the road clears or you hit a hill you want to put it in sport. Well you can't unless you power down, it's so annoying. Also the tread pattern on the tyre doesn't last long if you carve a lot. The X3 is perfect if you just want to commute on roads that a street board can't handle, which is most in the UK. Range falls off a cliff in cold weather, you can cut any range in half at least when the temperature falls below 5 degrees so that's something to consider. I'm really considering the Exway Atlas 4wd but I'm not sure it's a big enough step forward yet. Is it an upgrade for an upgrades sake. I wish there where more tests on the mudguards. The X3 are noisy and back ones don't cover enough. I think if you want world domination in ESk8 things like that need to be included. If your not paying for your boards then test the IPA rating is wet weather skaters would appreciate it. Skating in the rain can also be fun and adds another dimension.. 👍👍

[@IcyMidnight]

Good summary. I'll probably link first time buyers to this video for reference. Thanks! 🤓

[@cobedavis4712]

I just brought a Backfire G2 Black for a park here in Michigan.

[@themostvevo]

Very nice edit! Super helpful. I'm a student and live in Holland where are dozens of bicycle roads literally everywhere. My Gf is against buying an electric longboard, but I've been using one for 3 years and consider my self ready to upgrade. I take in consideration 2 boards: Exway Flex and ONSRA BLACK CARVE by Fabi. Please help me choosing a board and convincing my Gf to allow me one 😅

[@DanielKwan]

Never tried the Onsra sorry. I prefer having firmware updates and belt drive tho...

[@davingoodman871]

If your a skateboarder mostly would you reccomend a short board over a long board? I never been much of a long boarder

[@Doggett97]

This is such a great video, thanks I just bought a Meepo NLS as a starter board!

[@ChrisNieves]

great production. very good and the content wasnt bad either.

[@adrianrivera8425]

I need some help I put lock tire on the screws for the motor mount and they leaked into the motor and now is squeaky and tough to move. Can I just apply acetone or will this cause more damage the tool won’t catch.

[@locatejohn]

Great video! You didn't go over the high end boards, Can you make video on kits as well like revel and such.

[@JimacGTti]

That is a REALLY good video, Mr.Kwan! Great job! Any time someone asks me "what board shoild I get" I will send them to this video. :) Hope you are well. ;)

[@alekstube_]

Really informative video! I feel as if your favorite brand is Exway? You mention them alot. I just purchased an Exway Wave and I´m really exited for it. Just hope that your not partial to the brand or have an affiliate deal other than links and discount codes:). Great channel!

[@Apollo-tc6sy]

Does anyone know what the boots he's wearing at 6:34 are?

[@scpdatabase69420]

Very good edits. Makes this feel super well produced. Definitely taking notes before making a board consideration. Too bad boosted is currently in purgatory. I guess Wowgo or something similar will have to do.

[@rcjd7834]

So for someone like me who has a lot of experience with large scale RC Car drive systems, would you recommend buying a longboard and using Torqueboard parts to convert it to electric, or just buying an electric board? I was considering getting a ZFlex drop through board specifically to convert to electric. I like the idea of interchangeable batteries, which is much easier to do with a self-built system.

[@scherzo7224]

I can’t wait for Exway’s AT board! I have a riot and it’s amazing

[@danielchiu741]

So I'm 240lbs 6'3 and care more about range than I do speed. I'll be on city streets mainly. I want a long board just because I've tried them out not to long ago and just love the comfort. What would be decent $600 options?

[@joshuasindy4012]

Ok could use guidance. I want a belt drive, long board where I can switch wheel size if needed with good brakes. Budget of 1600. Let me know!

[@jaspervalino8732]

it hurt to watch 22:25

[@Dummgelaufen]

I definitely choose the Exway x1 pro and maybe I will buy the riot kit after a while..

[@KrisLloyd]

Thanks for the great info, it helped a lot! Still waiting to get my first board, but this has cleared up a lot. I just want on someone (anyone, maybe even you!) to release a review of the HUB version of the Exway Flex. All reviews out right now are for the RIOT version! Keep up the good work, looking forward to the next video!

[@DanielKwan]

Kris Lloyd I’ve tried it with the hub motors. I definitely prefer it with belt drive. Less road vibration and better grip.