Electric Skateboards

Posted by Jodi Gallegos Oct 2, 2006

I'd love to hear what everyone has to say about this.

Exkate's Raptor 4.0 Extreme is a 450-watt electric skateboard. It isn't even the only electric skateboard on the market. Now, I can understand the fun in standing on something that will go 15 miles/hr. on its own. Beyond the first ride though, I just don't understand why anyone would spend $500 on a skateboard.

Yes, it may make it easier to go up an incline and it will go 15 miles on a single charge. But, what about the wireless, variable-speed remote? Can you really control your speed more easily with a handheld "trigger"? And the weight; the Raptor 4.0 Extreme weighs 50 pounds. How could you get any air at that weight?

Now, if you're a novice and still having trouble with the whole "getting-forward-momentum-while-staying-on-your-board" trick, an electric skateboard may provide a nice relief.

Keep in mind: I haven't tried an electric skateboard, I haven't seen anyone on one, I haven't even been near one. So if anyone out there has any experience with them, I'd love to hear from you. Feel free to e-mail me with your thoughts, opinions or experience.