DIY Electric Skateboard: Because Walking is Overrated

Are you tired of spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars on electric skateboards? Well, we have good news for you! With a little bit of effort and some basic tools, you can build your own DIY electric skateboard at a fraction of the cost.

Not only is building your own electric skateboard a great way to save money, but it also allows you to customize your board to fit your exact needs and preferences. From choosing the deck and wheels to selecting the motor and battery, every aspect of the build is completely up to you.

Embarking on the journey of building your own DIY electric skateboard is not just an educational endeavor—it's a great project that combines creativity with technical skill.

This comprehensive guide is designed to walk you through each step, ensuring that from the selection of the right components to the final test ride, you're equipped to craft a personalized ride that's as unique as it is thrilling.

So, if you're ready to hit the streets on your very own custom electric skateboard, let's get started!

How to Build Your Own Board

When it comes to building your own electric skateboard, understanding your current setup is crucial.

We'll cover the basics of building your own board, including choosing the right deck, assembling the drive system, selecting and installing the electronics, and adding final touches and safety measures.

Choosing the Right Deck

When selecting an old deck for your electric skateboard, consider opting for an electric longboard style. The longboard deck is generally preferred because it ensures greater stability and offers a substantial base to accommodate your electrical components.

If your priority is a lightweight build, then choosing a carbon fiber deck designed specifically for electric longboards might be ideal.

Once you've selected your deck, you'll need to make sure it's sturdy enough to support your motor and battery. If you're unsure, you can reinforce the deck with additional layers of carbon fiber or other materials.

Assembling the Drive System

The drive system is one of the most important components of your electric skateboard. You'll need a motor, belt, motor mount, pulleys, and a drive train kit to get started. Make sure to choose a motor bracket that's compatible with your motor, and select a belt that's the right size for your pulleys.

When assembling your drive system, it's important to pay attention to torque and speed. You'll want to choose components that provide the right balance of power and speed for your needs.

Selecting and Installing the Electronics

The electronics are what bring your electric skateboard to life. You'll need a battery, speed controller, remote, receiver, motor mounts and other parts to get started. Make sure to choose components that are compatible with each other, and pay attention to the voltage and amperage requirements of each component.

When installing your electronics, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. You'll need to connect the battery, speed controller, and other components in the right order to ensure that everything works properly.

Final Touches and Safety Measures

Once you've assembled your electric skateboard, it's time to add some final touches and safety measures. This might include adding grip tape to your deck, securing your components with zip ties or other fasteners, and making sure that your enclosure is properly sealed.

It's also important to wear safety gear when riding your electric skateboard. This might include a helmet, knee and elbow pads, and other protective gear. Make sure to follow local laws and regulations regarding the use of your electric longboards and skateboards, and always ride responsibly.

Building your own electric skateboard can be a fun and rewarding project. With the right components and a little bit of know-how, you can create a custom board that's perfect for your needs.

For a comprehensive guide on how to easily build your own electric longboard, don't miss the detailed tutorial video from Build Kit Boards.

Cost and Budget Considerations

Let's face it, building a DIY electric skateboard can be expensive. However, there are ways to make it budget-friendly. We've compiled a list of cost considerations to help you stay on track:

• Budget: Before you start purchasing parts, it's important to set a budget. Determine how much you're willing to spend and stick to it.

  It's easy to get carried away when building a DIY electric skateboard, so having a budget in place will help you make smarter decisions.

• DIY Electric Skateboards: Building your own electric skateboard can save you money in the long run. While pre-built electric skateboards can be convenient, they often come with a hefty price tag.

  By building your own, you have control over the parts you use and can save money by purchasing them separately.

  

• Parts: When it comes to purchasing parts, it's important to do your research. Look for parts that are high quality and within your budget. Keep in mind that cheaper parts may not last as long or perform as well as more expensive ones.

• Electric Skateboard Parts: When selecting components for your DIY electric skateboard, consider the terrain you'll be riding on. For rougher surfaces, pneumatic tires are a great choice as they provide better shock absorption and a smoother ride compared to standard solid tires.

  While they may add to the initial expense, they can save money in the long run by reducing wear on other parts.

Safety and Maintenance

Ensuring a Safe Ride

At the heart of any DIY electric skateboard project is the desire to create a fun and functional mode of transportation. However, it is important to keep safety in mind throughout the entire process. Here are some tips to help ensure a safe ride:

• Always wear a helmet and other protective gear such as gloves and knee pads.

• Check your skateboard's stability before each ride. Tighten any loose bolts and make sure the wheels are properly aligned.

• Use grip tape to improve traction and reduce the risk of slipping.

• Consider adding carbon fiber or other improvements to increase durability and stability.

• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid riding on busy streets or sidewalks.

• If you are new to skateboarding, consider starting with a self-balancing electric skateboard to improve your balance and control.

Maintaining Your Skateboard

Proper maintenance is essential to keeping your DIY electric skateboard in top condition. Here are some tips to help you keep your first electric skateboard ever running smoothly:

• Regularly check the battery level and charge as needed.

• Keep a toolbox handy with the necessary tools to tighten bolts and make other adjustments.

• Inspect the wheels and bearings regularly for wear and tear.

• Clean your skateboard regularly to remove dirt and debris that can cause damage over time.

• Consider adding a fender to protect your skateboard from water and other environmental hazards.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a safe and fun ride on your DIY electric skateboard for years to come.

Improving Your DIY Electric Skateboard

If you're looking to take your DIY electric skateboard to the next level, there are a few things you can do to improve its top speed, power, and overall design.

Increasing Speed and Power

One of the easiest ways to increase the speed and power of your DIY electric skateboard is to upgrade the motor. A brushless DC motor will provide more torque and speed than a traditional belt-driven motor. You can also upgrade your speed controller to a more powerful model to get more out of your motor.

Another way to increase speed is to upgrade your battery. A 6S BMS and a 25.2V laptop adapter will provide more power and longer ride times than a standard battery. You can also add a battery level indicator to keep track of your power levels.

Enhancing the Design

If you're looking to enhance the design of your DIY electric skateboard, consider adding carbon fiber components. Carbon fiber is lightweight and durable, making it a great choice for skateboard decks and other parts.

You can also add Bluetooth connectivity to your electric skateboard, allowing you to control it with your phone and stream music while you ride. A big latching button and a little momentary button can also be added to your skateboard to make it easier to turn on and off.

Creating a DIY electric skateboard not only allows for a custom and potentially faster ride but is also a cost-effective alternative to purchasing pre-built models.

Documenting your build process on an instructable or YouTube channel can help others looking for budget-friendly options, and it offers the added benefit of sharing your knowledge and experience within the DIY community.

That's it! With these upgrades, you'll have a faster, more powerful, and stylish DIY electric skateboard that will turn heads and provide hours of fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why walk when you can DIY an electric skateboard?

We totally agree! Electric skateboards are a fun and efficient way to get around town. Plus, building your own board can be a rewarding experience.

Is it possible to convert a longboard into an electric skateboard?

Yes, it is! In fact, many DIY electric skateboard builders start with a longboard as their base. Just make sure to choose a board that is sturdy enough to support the weight of the motor and battery.

What are the essential parts needed to build an electric skateboard?

You'll need a deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, a motor, a full battery pack, an ESC (Electronic Speed Controller), and a remote. Depending on your design, you may also need a mounting kit, pulleys, and belt drives, which are essential for transferring power from the motor to the wheels effectively.

How much power do you need for your DIY electric skateboard?

It depends on your weight, riding style, and terrain. Generally, a motor with a power output of 500-1000 watts is sufficient for most riders.

Can you slow down on an electric skateboard?

Yes, you can! Most electric skateboards come with a regenerative braking system that allows you to slow down and even come to a complete stop by harnessing the energy from the wheels.

Where can I find affordable DIY electric skateboard kits?

There are many online retailers that sell Do it yourself electric skateboard kits, such as DIYElectricSkateboard.com, EnertionBoards.com, and MBoards.co. You can also find parts on Amazon and eBay. Just make sure to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase.