We’ve all heard about the gadgets that took the world by storm a few years back: hoverboards… They were on every kid’s wish list and looked like they were some futuristic segway scooter that you only see in movies. Today, we’ll walk you through everything hoverboard-related so by the end you’ll know everything from cost to how to ride!
Many people have been curious about hoverboards and how they work ever since they were released. No one had ever seen this kind of unique riding toy in stores before, and the way people could hop on and propel was fascinating. For those who want their hoverboard questions answered, stick around because we’ll dive into everything people are most interested in hearing about!
What is a hoverboard?
First, let’s start with what a hoverboard is by definition. A hoverboard is a battery-powered, self-balancing scooter that uses two wheels and a platform to ride people around. This portable electronic device came on the market back in 2015 and has grown to be a multimillion-dollar industry in just a few short years. Most people compare it to a skateboard because of its size and shape, however, hoverboards took skateboards to a whole new level.
Hoverboards are powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries and contain multiple sensors and pressure pads. Riders are able to lean right, left, forward, or backward and the hoverboard’s wheels will follow their lead. Though it’s relatively easy to get the hang of riding one of these, it requires some balance from the rider. Though it has ‘hover’ in the name, the boards do not actually levitate above the ground. Instead, they use two wheels to get riders from point A to point B.
A hoverboard’s functionality depends on multiple mechanisms and sensors: battery, microprocessor, motor, gyroscope, tilt and speed sensors, infrared sensors, pressure pads, logic board, wheels, charging port, and power switch.
A hoverboard’s battery is what holds its charge and electrical power. As mentioned above, hoverboards use lithium-ion batteries specifically to keep the board running.
The microprocessors are little processors that control the power output going to the two wheels.
As for the motor, the logic board sends the motor information to power up the wheels when a person tilts the platform.
The gyroscope component of the hoverboard is known to be the most important part of the device. This part allows riders to balance easier because it adjusts the tilt of the platform.
The tilt and speed sensors are also extremely crucial to a hoverboard’s functionality because they regulate the speed. The sensors are capable of measuring the speed of the wheels turning and then are able to send messages to the logic board and gyroscope.
Infrared sensors, also known as IR sensors, use infrared rays to measure object presence and distance.
The pressure pads act as the platform for people to stand on. The pressure pads also send messages to the logic board so the logic board understands that there is a person riding and where the person wants to go.
The logic board serves as a liaison between the sensors and motors. It’s able to process data from the sensors and pass that data along to the motors so they know what movements to perform and directions to go. This board is also responsible for helping riders balance.
The two wheels under the logic board are pretty self-explanatory. However, if you’re looking to ride off-road with your hoverboard, look to purchase one with 8-inch wheels.
There’s a charging port for you to charge your hoverboard and power switch to turn it on and off as you please.
Ok, now you know exactly what a hoverboard is and all of the components that make it so fun! Let’s take a look at how much these hoverboards cost.
How much does a hoverboard cost?
The cost of a hoverboard can range pretty drastically depending on the one that you want. Some can be considered more extravagant than others. You can find hoverboards as low as $100 but can find others as high as $700.
Just like anything, you can find a happy medium. Most people are able to find the hoverboard of their dreams within the $300 to $600 mark.
Hoverboards range in price so much because some have longer-lasting batteries, a more powerful motor, longer range, LED lights, waterproof material, Bluetooth speakers, and more. It all comes down to the kind of technologies you really want to come with your board. If you’re looking to save money, then you might need to ditch the idea of a fully-loaded hoverboard because chances are, you really don’t need all of that fluff anyway. Check out our favorite hoverboards and our reviews here!
Let’s take a look at what to expect from hoverboards in a few different price ranges.
- Lower speed
- Shorter range
- Shorter battery life
- Dependability
- Basic necessities
- Perfect for beginner riders
$200-$500 Hoverboards (not every hoverboard will have these features):
- Added Bluetooth speaker
- The capability of going off-road
- Smartphone apps
- Stronger material for durability
- Longer battery life
- Higher speed
- Longer range
- LED light shows
- More safety features
- Made for experienced riders
- Highest speed
- Longest range
- Longest battery life
- Safest safety features
- Highest powered motors
- Maneuverability on different surfaces
- Larger design
- Bluetooth speakers
- LED lights
How to ride a hoverboard?
Hoverboards are known for being relatively easy to learn and ride. Just like most things, they take a bit of practice for people to feel comfortable controlling their speed and direction. Always start with very slight movements and slow speeds so you don’t lose balance and fall off.
Know that getting on and off the hoverboard is the hardest part. Use one foot at a time when getting on the hoverboard for the most control. Once you’re on, you’ll be able to get a feel for moving forward, backward, and side to side.
If you want to move forward, start by leaning your feet forward. Try to resist leaning your whole body because that can cause you to lose balance and control. Focus most of your movement in your ankles. The slightest movement can go a long way, so try not to jolt around.
If you want to try turning in circles, this will require a slightly different movement than leaning both feet forward. When you want to turn right, push your left toes toward the ground. When you want to turn left, push your right toes down.
The location of where you ride your hoverboard matters when you’re learning too. Try to find open, flat ground. Flat surfaces ensure that you’ll have a smooth ride and if you’re in an open space, you’re free to explore your hoverboard’s movements as much as you’d like. Once you get the hang of it, you can try out narrower paths and small hills, but until you feel like you have control over the hoverboard, stick to the basics.
How long does it take to charge a hoverboard?
A hoverboard’s charging time depends on the make and model that you own. As we discussed before, some hoverboards can be as cheap as $100 and some can get over the $500 mark. If you have a hoverboard at the higher end of the spectrum, then you’ll have the luxury of a faster charging time! However, if you have one of the more basic hoverboard models, you’ll need to be patient and possibly plan ahead for when you want to ride.
The lower-priced hoverboards can take anywhere from four to six hours to charge. A hoverboard that’s within that happy medium price range typically takes approximately two to three hours to charge. Finally, the most decked-out hoverboards can charge as fast as an hour or two.
Final Thoughts
Overall, hoverboards can be a blast! Hoverboards are a good excuse to get outside and spend some time with family and friends. It’s important to understand what a hoverboard is and its capabilities so you have a better understanding of how to control it when riding.
Do some research before purchasing. There are so many different hoverboards on the market today and they fall within three different pricing tiers. Weigh the pros and cons of each hoverboard feature to help you evaluate which one is the best fit for you! People who are getting their first hoverboard and are beginner riders should stick with one of the cheaper, basic hoverboards to start their practice. If you’re an avid hoverboard rider, you may want to venture into those middle to higher-tiered hoverboard options.
Either way, stay safe and have fun!
Sources:
https://www.cei.washington.edu/education/science-of-solar/battery-technology/
