Are Motorized Skateboards Waterproof and Safe to Ride in the Rain?

Electric skateboards have been around for a while now, even before the year 2012. However, motorized skateboards were not very good back then. This is because they were heavy owing to their bulky designs, had poor performance and were fitted with massive batteries. These are just but a few reasons as to why the motorized board industry never received significant attention from technology enthusiasts on a global scale.

However, the situation has since changed for the better as the market is now filled with electric products with impressive features and excellent performance. Regardless of all the amazing features incorporated in modern day products, consumers still have a strong focus and interest in skateboards with a water-resistant build.

Can you Ride your Board in the Rain?

As mentioned above, most enthusiasts all over the world are usually very interested in but a single aspect of electric skateboards – their waterproof property. Rain is unpredictable, and this is why technologically-oriented consumers are interested in buying products that are waterproof. The last thing anyone would want is to be caught out in rainy weather or even to go through an unexpected puddle with an electric skateboard that is not waterproof.

The motorized skateboard industry fully recognizes the fact that water and electronics simply do not mix from time immemorial. Since they design them, they also know that there are components that do not respond well to being in contact with water. The following are some parts should not get wet:

• Bearings.
• Belt and pulley drive train system.

A majority of products utilize belt and pulley drive trains which have teeth that get clogged up with grit and dirt when the user is riding on surfaces that are wet. The ultimate result is that the amount of torque transferred to the wheels is significantly reduced. The effect of clogged teeth is mostly realized during braking because the brake force is instantaneously applied with a much greater force compared to the forces during acceleration.

Furthermore, teeth may skip when clogged up. This directly translates to a shorter life expectancy for the belts and the user may have to invest in new ones. Regular maintenance is also necessary for individuals who ride their boards (that have a belt drive) on wet surfaces. This ensures that any debris which is lodged in the teeth gets completely cleaned out.

It is for the above reasons that most companies in the industry, design products that are waterproof. Hub motor electric skateboards are such products. They have completely sealed motors which make them totally water resistant and therefore maintenance free.

Conclusion

Are electric skateboards waterproof? Yes, some are but not all. Consumers should do extensive research so as to find products that are durable regardless of the elements of weather they are subjected to. A good product that is water resistant should possess a high ingress protection rating clearly indicated on it. An IP65 rating or greater is recommended and is what should always be aimed at when purchasing electric skateboards that are waterproof.

If you’re looking for a waterproof electric skateboard, you should check out our reviews on the homepage. We have covered all the latest models and best brands helping you make a better choice.

from Electric Skateboard Reviews http://ift.tt/2qDrXAl
via IFTTT