Learning to Ride an Electric Skateboard
0OK, it goes without saying that you need to get on an electric skateboard to learn how to ride it best. You can’t really learn from an article like this one, but it can point you in the right direction. First, you will need to buy a board. Get the one right for you. There are boards designed for speed or budget, so you really need to check out a good review site such as PBX for example, that highlight the best electric skateboards on the market.
The electric skateboard shares many similarities with the regular board except for the motor. The artificially powered board can also go places where the ordinary skateboard could not go. It goes without saying that you don’t put much physical effort when using the electric board. Still, learning to ride an electric skateboard will take time and practice.
The amount of time and effort it takes to learn in riding an electric skateboard will depend on the user. Needless to say, experienced skateboarders have the advantage over those who have not even tried riding a board. But you probably won’t give the regular board a second glance once you have mastered riding the electric skateboard.
Learn to Use the Skateboard First
Before even attempting to use the electric skateboard, you must first know how to ride the regular longboard. The learning curve is much shorter if you simply want to learn how to ride the skateboard minus the flips and tricks. You can then begin to learn to ride the electric skateboard once you are comfortable riding the longboard. This is the first prerequisite for those who are new to skateboards.
Posture is Important
Before starting out with the electric skateboard, you need to have the correct posture. Your front foot should step on the board’s front. Point it a little bit outside the board which is along the narrow section. The back foot, on the other hand, is squarely positioned along your hips. Keep both at least a shoulder apart.
Don’t Forget to Relax
Yes, it’s important to stay alert when riding the electric skateboard especially if you are near people and there are obstacles around. But you could learn easily when your mind is relaxed instead of tensed. When you are at ease, you find it easier to ride and move the electric board to any direction you like.
Master the Art of Starting First
To ride a longboard, you simply use your back foot to push it forward. In the case of the electric skateboard, you use a hand control once it gets moving forward. No need for constant pedaling, just focus on maintaining balance while riding. This takes considerable time to practice even for experienced skateboarders.
Learning How to Stop
Unlike regular boards, you don’t need much effort in slowing down the electric board. The motor is capable of doing that. But take note that the motor will not come to a complete stop. You must put one foot firmly on the ground to make it halt.
Master Using the Remote
The handheld remote is the one that will start and stop your electric skateboard. It is essential that you know how to operate the remote. The hand control device is normally a wireless one and the trigger is activated by your fingers. As a safety precaution, practice in open areas with smooth surfaces. Better to start riding slowly to avoid any chances of accidents or falls.
Learn to Ride an Electric Skateboard Safely
Before attempting to learn to ride an electric skateboard take some safety precautions first. You will need a helmet and some protective gears and pads. Electric or not, it’s usual for skateboarders to fall during their rides. Head and body protectors can prevent or minimize injuries in case of accidents.
Water is Not Good for the Electric Skateboard
It is also best to avoid riding the electric board when it’s raining. Some models are splash resistant and can handle light rains. But once the motor is exposed to water you are in trouble. Better wait for the sun to shine before coming out to ride with your electric board.
Be Careful When Accelerating
The reason why people like the electric skateboard is due to the speed it offers. Riders of the motorized board can reach the speed of around 20 mph. You should avoid the temptation until you are ready both mentally and physically. Even those with a lot of experience in the manual long boards will need time to adjust when using the electric skateboards.
Conclusion
The only way to learn to ride an electric skateboard is through practice. You can quicken the learning phase if you already know to ride a regular skateboard. It is also sensible to wear a helmet and other protective gears before riding on the electric board. Such precautions can prevent possible injuries in case falls or accidents. But most importantly, have fun riding the electric skateboard.
