Electric skateboards are gradually appearing in people's daily life, which can really bring convenience for daily commute and is a eco-friendly and interesting way to travel around. Electric skateboards on the market are mainly divided into two different driven systems: belt-driven and wheel-driven. They both have their own advantages and disadvantages, making them more suitable for different riding styles and preferences. In this blog, we'll detail the differences between these two systems and provide tips to help you choose the one that best suits your riding style.

What Are the Belt-Driven Electric Skateboards?

Motors of belt-drive electric skateboards are connected to the wheels via a set of belts and pulleys. This external motor setup provides high torque and allows for fine-tuning of the board's performance. The motor is usually mounted on the underside of the deck.

What Are the Hub-Driven Electric Skateboards?

Hub-driven electric skateboards have their motors integrated directly into the wheels. This design is sleek and compact, with no visible motor or pulley system. Hub motors are typically housed within the wheel's hub, making the board look more like a traditional skateboard.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Belt Driven and Hub Driven Electric Skateboards?

• Belt Drive Electric Skateboard: 

Pros:
1. Power and Torque: Belt drive systems are known for their robust power delivery and high torque. This means faster acceleration and better performance on steep hills.
2. Customizability: With a belt drive, you can fine-tune your electric skateboard's performance by adjusting the gear ratio. This customization allows you to achieve the exact riding experience you desire.
3. Quick Heat Dissipation: The motor on a belt-driven skateboard is separate from the wheels, which helps with heat dissipation, leading to more consistent performance.

Cons:
1. Maintenance: Belt-driven systems require periodic maintenance, including belt replacement due to wear and tear, and cleaning the pulley system.
2. Noise: The mechanical components involved in belt drive systems can produce more noise compared to hub drives.
3. Hard to Control: Beginners might find it slightly challenging to smoothly control acceleration and braking on a belt-driven skateboard due to its higher power.

• Hub Drive Electric Skateboards

Pros:
1. Simplicity: Hub motors are integrated into the skateboard's wheels, giving the board a cleaner, sleeker appearance.
2. Low Maintenance: Hub motors have fewer moving parts, which generally translates to less maintenance and fewer components to worry about.
3. Quiet Operation: Hub-driven electric skateboards are quieter compared to their belt-driven counterparts.
4. Coasting: Hub motors allow for smoother coasting when not accelerating or braking, similar to traditional skateboards.

Cons:
1. Limited Power: Hub motors typically offer less power and torque, affecting acceleration and hill-climbing performance.
2. Heat Dissipation: Extended rides on hub-driven boards can generate heat within the wheels, which may affect performance.
3. Limited Customization: Changing wheels on hub-driven boards can be more challenging due to their integrated design.

How to Choose the Right System Electric Skateboard for Your Riding Style?

• Consider Your Skill Level: 

If you're a beginner or looking for a more user-friendly experience, a hub-driven skateboard might be a better choice due to its simplicity and lower learning curve.

• Think About Terrain: 

If your routes involve steep hills or rough terrain, a belt drive skateboard's power and torque will be advantageous. Hub drives are better suited for smoother, flatter surfaces.

• Customization vs. Convenience: 

If you enjoy tinkering and want to customize your board's performance, a belt drive offers more options. If you prefer a hassle-free experience, hub drives are simpler and require less maintenance.

• Noise Tolerance: 

If you're sensitive to noise or plan to ride in quiet areas, a hub-driven board's quiet operation may be more appealing.

• Budget: 

Consider your budget, as belt-driven electric skateboards often come with a higher price tag due to their performance capabilities and customization options.

• Try Before You Buy: 

If possible, test ride both belt-driven and hub-driven skateboards to get a feel for their differences and see which one aligns better with your riding style.

Conclusion

Both belt-drive and hub-drive electric skateboards offer unique advantages, and the choice comes down to your riding goals, skill level, and personal preferences. Whether you prioritize customization and power or simplicity and low maintenance, there's an electric skateboard propulsion system out there to suit your needs. Take your time to research, test different boards, and make an informed decision to ensure you enjoy the best riding experience possible.