The Uditer Board Blog

I. Introduction: From Kick-Pushing to Electric Cruising

Remember the old days of longboarding? Your thigh muscles got a serious workout, and that steep hill was less a challenge and more a terrifying cardio session.

Well, those days are over.

The electric long board has fundamentally changed commuting and carving. It’s not just a transportation tool; it's a lifestyle upgrade that lets you glide effortlessly for miles. It’s speed, stability, and style rolled into one seamless ride.

This guide focuses specifically on the electric longboard—the large, stable decks built for cruising and comfortable distance riding—helping you skip the guesswork and find your perfect powered pavement surfer.

II. Decision Time: Should I Get an Electric Longboard or a Regular Board?

This is the very first question every potential buyer asks. Let’s break down the pros and cons to help you make the right call.

Should i get an electric long board or a regular board?

The Verdict: If your commute involves steep hills, covers more than two miles, or if you simply hate sweating, the electric long board is the clear winner. If you're budget-conscious and live in a flat area, a regular board might suffice.

III. Power Core: The Technology Driving Your Electric Long Board

The engine of your board is the most critical factor affecting performance, maintenance, and noise.

Drive System Showdown: Hub Motor vs. Belt Motor

1. Hub Motor (Wheel Motor):

   • The Vibe: Stealthy and quiet. The motor is hidden inside the wheel.

   • Pros: Low maintenance, quiet operation, sleek look.

   • Cons: Less torque for extremely steep hills, sometimes offers less cushioning (depending on wheel design).

2. Belt Motor (External Motor):

   • The Vibe: Loud and powerful. Uses a visible pulley and belt system.

   • Pros: Excellent torque, superior hill-climbing, customizable gear ratios.

   • Cons: Requires belt replacement, noisier operation.

Battery and Range: The Key to Long-Distance Cruising

The battery dictates how far you can go. You need to look at Watt-hours (Wh), which tells you the battery's total energy storage.

• Rule of Thumb: A higher Wh number means longer range. Don't rely solely on the manufacturer's range estimate, as it rarely accounts for hills and aggressive riding.

• Safety First: The Battery Management System (BMS) is non-negotiable. This circuit board ensures the battery doesn't overcharge, overheat, or over-discharge, protecting both you and your investment.

IV. The DIY Zone: Building Your Custom Cruiser

For the hands-on enthusiast, building your own electric long board can save money and result in a fully customized machine.

How to make a long board electric

Converting a traditional longboard involves adding three primary components: a motor mount/truck system, an ESC, and a battery enclosure.

• DIY Advantages: You control the quality of every component—from the flexibility of the deck to the battery cell brand.

• The Conversion Kit: For beginners, buying a complete "conversion kit" (which includes trucks, motors, and battery enclosures) is the safest entry point, as it ensures component compatibility.

How to build a hub motor electric long board?

The Hub Motor route is often simpler for DIY builders because it eliminates the need for complex belt alignments.

1. Choose Your Deck: Pick a stable, high-quality longboard deck (Bamboo decks offer great flex and shock absorption).

2. Select ESC: Choose a reliable Electronic Speed Controller that matches your motor and battery voltage (e.g., a high-quality, pre-programmed ESC).

3. Install Hub Motors: Replace the rear trucks with the Hub Motor trucks. This is the easiest mechanical step.

4. Mount the Battery & ESC: Securely mount the battery pack and ESC within durable, weather-sealed enclosures underneath the deck.

5. Wiring: Carefully wire the ESC to the battery (power) and the Hub Motors (signal).

Pro Tip: Hub motor installation simplifies the drive train, but make sure the replacement wheels and bearings are of comparable quality to your original longboard setup for the best cruising feel.

V. Buying and Safety: The Hard Rules of Travel and Law

Before you buy, you need to know the rules of the road—and the air.

Can i take an electric long board on an airplane?

This is the biggest hurdle for international e-board travel. The definitive answer is: only if the battery is small enough.

• The Core Rule: Most airlines and aviation authorities (like the TSA) strictly prohibit the transportation of large lithium-ion batteries. The limit is almost universally 100 Watt-hours (Wh) for carry-on luggage.

• The Problem: Most electric long board batteries are 200 Wh, 300 Wh, or even higher.

• The Solution: You must either find a board with a modular/swappable battery system where each individual battery is under the 100 Wh limit, or purchase a "travel battery" specifically designed to meet the 99 Wh limit for air travel. You cannot usually fly with the standard battery.

Essential Safety Checklist Before You Buy

• Braking Reliability: Always confirm the board uses reliable, smooth regenerative braking. Can it stop reliably from top speed?

• Deck Quality: Look for a durable, flexible deck (like bamboo or maple-fiberglass composite) that absorbs road vibration for a comfortable ride.

• Trucks and Bearings: High-quality trucks (often CNC-machined) and reliable bearings ensure stable, predictable carving.

VI. Conclusion: Your Perfect Electric Long Board Awaits

Ultimately, your electric long board should be tailored to your lifestyle. Your "best" choice depends on your commute distance, the terrain in your area (hilly or flat), and your passion for DIY projects.

• Final Tip: Never compromise on safety. Invest in a high-quality ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) and a certified battery pack with a robust BMS. These are the components that keep your ride reliable and safe.

Ready to leave the traffic behind and start cruising? Find the board that matches your needs and hit the road!