In today’s edition of the Acedeck blog, we will talk about range optimization and give you tips and tricks to maximize your range in different situations and with different boards so that you can get the most out of your battery. And of course, this applies to any kind of boards, not just the Acedeck ones.

Key Factors Affecting Range

Range is mainly affected by three things: your battery size (which goes without saying), rider weight, and riding style, along with the equipment you use. Rider weight is, of course, something that isn’t as easy to change unless you’re planning on losing a lot of it. But when it comes to riding style and equipment, there are several things you can adjust to get more range.

 

1. Riding Style

 AT Wheels: 

The type of wheel you use can significantly impact your range. For air-filled AT wheels, higher PSI reduces rolling resistance by decreasing the contact patch and grip. While this improves range, it also makes the ride harsher. Additionally, thinner tires with a less rounded profile roll more efficiently, offering better range. For instance, our Nomad tires change profile with PSI: lower pressures offer more grip, while higher pressures improve range.

 

Urethane Street Wheels: 

The same principle applies to urethane street wheels, commonly used on longboards. Harder and narrower wheels provide better range by reducing rolling resistance. Harder durometers have less grip, allowing for smoother rolling, and narrower wheels decrease the contact patch for improved efficiency.

 

3. Weather Conditions

Weather has a significant impact on your range, particularly temperature and wind conditions. In colder temperatures, your battery’s efficiency decreases because low temperatures slow down the chemical reactions inside the battery, leading to reduced capacity. As a result, range can drop by 15 to 30 percent. To mitigate this, keep your board in a room with normal temperatures before riding and start riding immediately to keep the battery and electronics warm. The colder it gets, the worse the impact on range.

In warmer weather, the range can improve because the battery’s chemical reactions are more efficient at higher temperatures. However, excessively high temperatures can also negatively affect battery life, so moderation is key.

Wind is another often underestimated factor. Riding against the wind can significantly decrease your range, as your body acts as a large sail that slows down your board, similar to a car with poor aerodynamics. To minimize wind resistance, try to make your body as aerodynamic as possible by leaning forward or adopting a side profile position.

 

Conclusion

To maximize your electric skateboard’s range, focus on efficient riding style, the right wheels for your conditions, and adapting to weather impacts. Upgrading to gear drives, like Acedeck’s, can also boost your range by up to 15% due to their superior efficiency over belts. While adjusting these factors helps, remember that losing weight is still the most significant range improvement but requires more effort. Small changes can make a big difference, so use these tips to enjoy longer, more efficient rides.