Electric skateboards are becoming increasingly popular, providing a fun and eco-friendly way to travel around the city. However, choosing the right motor for your electric skateboard can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to the world of electric skateboarding. In this article, we will guide you through the process of selecting the right motor for your electric skateboard, including considerations such as power, size, and compatibility.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Types of Motors for Electric Skateboards
- Power Requirements for Your Electric Skateboard
- Voltage
- Current
- Wattage
- Size and Compatibility of Electric Skateboard Motors
- Brushed vs Brushless Motors for Electric Skateboards
- Gear Ratio and Torque
- Top Speed and Range of Electric Skateboards
- Brand and Quality of Electric Skateboard Motors
- Budget Considerations for Electric Skateboard Motors
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Types of Electric Skateboard Motors
There are two main types of motors used for electric skateboards: brushed and brushless motors. Brushed motors have been around for a long time and are the more traditional option. They are cheaper, but they tend to wear out faster and require more maintenance. Brushless motors are more expensive, but they last longer and require less maintenance. They are also more efficient and provide a smoother ride.
Power Requirements for Your Electric Skateboard
When choosing a motor for your electric skateboard, you need to consider the power requirements. The power of an electric skateboard motor is determined by three factors: voltage, current, and wattage.
Voltage
The voltage determines the speed and power of your electric skateboard. Higher voltage means more power and faster speed. However, higher voltage also means a higher risk of overheating and damaging the motor. You need to choose a motor that can handle the voltage of your battery.
Current
The current determines the amount of power that the motor can handle. Higher current means more power, but it also means more heat. You need to choose a motor that can handle the current of your battery.
Wattage
The wattage determines the overall power of your electric skateboard. It is calculated by multiplying the voltage and current. Higher wattage means more power and faster speed.
Size and Compatibility of Electric Skateboard Motors
The size and compatibility of your motor are also important factors to consider. You need to choose a motor that fits your skateboard and is compatible with your battery and speed controller. You also need to consider the weight and size of the motor, as it will affect the overall weight and size of your electric skateboard.
When it comes to choosing the right motor for your electric skateboard, it’s important to consider the size and compatibility of the motor. Motor size is typically measured in millimeters (mm), with the most common sizes being 50mm, 63mm, 70mm, and 80mm.
The size of the motor will affect the overall performance of your electric skateboard, particularly in terms of torque and speed. A larger motor will generally provide more torque and a higher top speed, but will also require a larger battery and may be less efficient. On the other hand, a smaller motor will provide less torque and a lower top speed, but will be more efficient and may be a better option for those looking to maximize range.
It’s also important to ensure that the motor is compatible with your skateboard’s existing components, such as the wheels, trucks, and battery. Some motors may require specific mounting hardware or wheel pulleys, and may not be compatible with certain types of wheels or trucks.
Brushed vs Brushless Motors for Electric Skateboards
As previously mentioned, brushed and brushless motors are the two main types of motors used for electric skateboards. Brushless motors are the more modern and efficient option, but they are also more expensive. Brushed motors are cheaper, but they require more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan. It is up to you to decide which type of motor is best for your electric skateboard.
Brushed Motors
Brushed motors have been around for a long time and are commonly used in low-cost electric skateboards. They consist of a rotor, a stator, and a commutator that transfers electrical power to the rotor. The commutator is made of metal brushes that make contact with the rotor to produce motion.
One of the main advantages of brushed motors is their affordability. They are generally cheaper than brushless motors, making them a popular choice for entry-level electric skateboards. Brushed motors are also easy to maintain and repair, as they have fewer components than brushless motors.
However, there are also some drawbacks to using brushed motors for electric skateboards. They tend to have a shorter lifespan than brushless motors due to the wear and tear on the brushes. Brushed motors also tend to be less efficient and generate more heat, which can lead to decreased performance.
Brushless Motors
Brushless motors are a newer technology and are becoming increasingly popular in high-end electric skateboards. They consist of a rotor and a stator, but do not have a commutator or brushes. Instead, they use electronic controllers to transfer electrical power to the rotor.
One of the main advantages of brushless motors is their efficiency. They are generally more efficient than brushed motors, which means they require less power to produce the same amount of torque. This translates into longer battery life and better overall performance. Brushless motors also tend to be more durable than brushed motors, as they have fewer moving parts that can wear out.
However, there are also some drawbacks to using brushless motors for electric skateboards. They are generally more expensive than brushed motors, which can make them less accessible for beginners. They also require more complex electronic controllers, which can be more difficult to repair or replace if they fail.
Gear Ratio and Torque
Gear ratio and torque are two important technical considerations when selecting a motor for your electric skateboard.
Gear ratio refers to the relationship between the number of teeth on the motor’s pinion gear (the small gear attached to the motor shaft) and the number of teeth on the skateboard’s wheel pulley (the larger gear that drives the wheels). The gear ratio determines the amount of torque the motor can produce, as well as the top speed of the skateboard. A higher gear ratio will provide more torque and slower acceleration, while a lower gear ratio will provide faster acceleration and a higher top speed.
Torque, on the other hand, refers to the twisting force produced by the motor. In the context of an electric skateboard, torque is important for accelerating from a stop, climbing hills, and maintaining speed on rough terrain. Higher torque motors will generally be able to provide more power and accelerate faster, but may also drain the battery more quickly and produce more heat.
When selecting a motor for your electric skateboard, it’s important to consider both the gear ratio and the torque requirements for your specific use case. A high gear ratio and high torque motor may be ideal for off-road or hill climbing applications, while a lower gear ratio and lower torque motor may be sufficient for commuting or cruising at high speeds on flat terrain.
It’s also important to consider the motor’s efficiency and heat dissipation, as well as its compatibility with your skateboard’s battery and ESC (electronic speed controller). Ultimately, the right motor for your electric skateboard will depend on a variety of factors, including your intended use case, riding style, and personal preferences.
Top Speed and Range of Electric Skateboards
The top speed and range of your electric skateboard are also important considerations. The top speed is determined by the voltage and wattage of your motor, while the range is determined by the battery capacity. You need to choose a motor and battery combination that provides the speed and range.
When choosing a motor for your electric skateboard, you need to consider both the top speed and range to ensure that the motor can meet your needs. If you plan to use your electric skateboard for commuting or long rides, you may want to consider a motor with a higher range. If you plan to use your skateboard for speed or performance, you may want to consider a motor with a higher top speed.
Brand and Quality of Electric Skateboard Motors
The brand and quality of your electric skateboard motor are also important factors to consider. You want to choose a motor from a reputable brand that has a good track record of producing high-quality products. A good quality motor will not only last longer but also provide a smoother and more reliable ride.
Budget Considerations for Electric Skateboard Motors
The price of electric skateboard motors can vary greatly depending on the brand, quality, and features. It is important to consider your budget when choosing a motor for your electric skateboard. However, it is also important to remember that investing in a good quality motor will save you money in the long run as you won’t have to replace it as often.
Conclusion
Choosing the right motor for your electric skateboard is an important decision that will affect the overall performance and experience of your skateboard. Considerations such as power, size, compatibility, brand, and quality are all important factors to consider when selecting a motor. Remember to also consider your budget, but don’t compromise on quality for the sake of saving money.
FAQs
- What is the best type of motor for an electric skateboard?
- The best type of motor for an electric skateboard depends on your personal preferences and needs. Brushless motors are more efficient and provide a smoother ride, but they are also more expensive.
- What is the recommended voltage for an electric skateboard motor?
- The recommended voltage for an electric skateboard motor depends on the battery you are using. You need to choose a motor that can handle the voltage of your battery.
- Can I upgrade the motor on my electric skateboard?
- Yes, you can upgrade the motor on your electric skateboard. However, you need to make sure that the new motor is compatible with your skateboard and battery.
- How long do electric skateboard motors last?
- The lifespan of electric skateboard motors varies depending on the quality and usage. However, a good quality motor can last several years with proper maintenance.
- Do I need to consider the weight and size of the motor when choosing a motor for my electric skateboard?
- Yes, you need to consider the weight and size of the motor when choosing a motor for your electric skateboard. The weight and size of the motor will affect the overall weight and size of your skateboard.
Check out our article on the affordable electric skateboards of 2023.
