What Is A Hoverboard?
Hoverboards are two-wheeled, electric, portable devices that are also commonly known as self-balancing scooters. Originally, the term hoverboard referred to a levitating device made popular by 1980’s film culture. Not quite the stuff of Back to the Future, hoverboards, as they have come to be known, are the latest craze in self-propelled mobility. Typically, these devices function like powered skateboards and consist of a platform for the rider, situated between two wheels and powered by large lithium-ion batteries.
How Does The Hoverboard Work?
A hoverboard consists of the following:
- Gyroscope: Adjust the inclination of the hoverboard to maintain balance.
- Microprocessors: These microprocessors regulate the power output of the wheels.
- Battery: Store electricity for your scooter. This is usually a high-watt lithium battery.
- Motor: Provides power to the wheels to keep the rider balanced and upright.
- IR sensor: When standing upright on the board, the IR (infrared) sensor placed directly under the foot is activated and sends a signal to the logic board to stay still and not start the motor.
- Accelerometer: The accelerometer uses variable capacitance to measure position in 3 linear dimensions. Each of the three dimensions uses a capacitor, one of which remains unchanged, while the others can freely change their position accordingly.
- Magnetometer: The magnetometer in the self-balancing scooter works according to the Hall effect principle and accurately measures the magnetic field compared to the earth's magnetic field.
- Tilt and Speed Sensor: The speed of your hoverboard is controlled by tilt and speed sensors, which measure the revolutions per minute (RPM) speed of the wheels and send the data to the logic board and gyroscope.
What Should I Look For A Hoverboard
1. UL certification
First, we must discuss security issues. Because zooming in at 10 miles per hour on electronic devices charged by lithium-ion batteries can be a bit risky. Therefore, the hoverboard is not suitable for children.
You may have heard horror stories about these devices exploding because of batteries. It is possible, but extremely unlikely.
Facts have proved that lithium-ion batteries also have problems in other devices, such as e-cigarettes and smart luggage. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission stated that it cannot guarantee that these devices are 100% safe. However, parents and users can take several steps to prevent a fire or malfunction:
- Only purchase hoverboards that have passed UL certification. Buyers can find the certification on the product packaging.
- Do not charge the hoverboard when left unattended.
- Keep the hoverboard away from flammable materials.
- Only use the charger sold with the hoverboard.
If you purchased a hoverboard before January 29, 2016, it does not meet the new regulations.
2. Hoverboard Types
The 3 main types of hoverboards are
Classic- It has classic 6.5" wheels and body style, no smart balance mode. It uses a gyroscope to move and keep the rider upright
Off-Road- These hoverboards have larger 8"+ wheels and 350 watt motors. They can handle almost anything you place and are more suitable for heavier riders.
Self-balancing- It has a self-balancing mode, regardless of whether there is a rider, you can make the board completely level with the ground. It uses an internal gyroscope to compensate for any tilt.
3. Charging Time
The charging time of the hoverboard is generally 2-3 hours. You can choose the hoverboard with fast or slow charging according to your needs.
4. Battery Quality
Although all the most advanced hoverboards have relatively long battery life, you can also get about one hour of power from any mid-range hoverboard. One hour of battery life is enough to provide you with uninterrupted performance, whether you are cruising in the park or driving around with a hoverboard.
Every UL-certified hoverboard battery has been carefully tested to ensure the safety and efficiency of lithium-ion batteries. All well-known brands of air-cushion boards are only equipped with UL-certified batteries, and a fast air-cushion board charger is bundled with the board, which greatly shortens the charging time.
Warning: You must also be aware that continuous stopping and starting may shorten the life of the hoverboard battery.
5. Speed
Do you prefer slow driving, or do you want to be a speeder?
The speed varies from model to model, and the speed of the hoverboard is usually 6-10mph. Compared to a motor vehicle, this may sound slow, but when you actually drive, it won't feel so sluggish.
Before buying, please consider its purpose and the speed they can handle.
6. Range
How far do you want to go? Consider whether you will use a hoverboard for commuting or entertainment. This is essential to determine which hoverboard is right for you.
Many hoverboards can travel 3 to 7 miles when fully charged, but be sure to check this important feature to make sure the gadget can take you from A to B without delay.
7. Rider's Height And Weight
In addition to the function of the hoverboard, the size of the rider must also be considered. Those who are heavier, wider or taller may find some models are more effective than others. In addition, weight affects battery life and range. For the hoverboard, the rider's weight requirement is 44lbs-220 lbs.
8. The Weight Of The Hoverboard
If you plan to drag your hoverboard around, you may want to consider weight as a buying factor. Many boards weigh between 20 and 30 lbs.
We will discuss a safety feature soon, but you probably don’t want this fashionable mode of transportation to be just sitting outside.
9. Geography
The wheel size should also be considered. Most models have 2 basic wheel types:6.5”, 8.5”.
Each wheel type has its own optimal environment. Logically, as the wheels get bigger, the terrain becomes more rugged. The smaller wheels are very suitable for flat ground or indoor use. The 8.5-inch oversized wheels are specially designed for off-road terrain.
10. Local Laws
Many cities have banned the use of hoverboards in certain areas. In 2016, New York City banned the installation of vehicles on subways, trains and buses. Other cities have followed suit.
Before buying a hoverboard, be sure to check the regulations in your city.
11. Additional Functions
If you don't mind spending more money, some models offer Bluetooth functionality, built-in speakers and LED lights. The speakers allow you to listen to songs while riding, and the LED lights emit cool light at night, which not only makes you look cool, but also allows other drivers to discover you and avoid danger.
12. High Quality
Before buying any self-balancing scooter, you must check the material used to make the hoverboard. All the best hoverboard brands provide their customers with premium manufacturing quality, which is why they are more expensive.
The chassis of first-class electric hoverboards are usually made of high-quality plastic, which is amazing from every angle. The pedals have textured rubber pads to provide better grip and tread surface.
The best hoverboard brands also emphasize the manufacture of high-quality solid rubber wheels that can provide greater traction when riding on any terrain.
13. Price
Cheaper hoverboards cost US$150 or less, but some may cost US$200 to US$400. Generally speaking, higher prices are due to additional features or stronger materials.
14. Warranty
Gyroor provides a 30-day return policy for all products, the hoverboard warranty period is 1 year, and the battery is half a year. Our products have passed UL2272 certification.
What Is A Good Hoverboard To Buy
The Gyroor Y1 Pro was made for off-road use with its large 8.5-inch wheels and extra-durable construction. If you’re looking for an all terrain hoverboard that can take a punch without hesitation and still look cool with LED headlights and bluetooth speakers, this is the hoverboard for you. This is the best value and best all-terrain hoverboard.
No matter which hoverboard you choose to buy, remember that safety comes first.