Electric skateboards are all the rage right now, and for a good reason – they’re a ton of fun! But before selecting any board, we need to research its parts like battery, motor, controller, and remotes.
Skateboard motors make your board go, so it’s important to choose the right one for you that is suitable for your skill level and style of riding. Making the decision between a hub motor or belt drive can be tough, but it’s important to choose the right system for your needs.
These are two major types of motors that currently exist on the market for electric skateboards. But before comparing them, we need to learn a little bit about each type. At the end of the article, you’ll be able to decide which is the best motor type for your new skateboard.
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Belt Motors
Belt drive motors use a belt to transfer power from the motor to the wheels. This type of motor is typically more powerful than other motors, and it is also more efficient.
Belt drive motors are often used in electric skateboards because they provide a smoother ride and require less maintenance than other motors. In addition, belt drive motors are also quieter than other motors, making them ideal for use in urban areas.
Belt Motor Working in Electric Skateboard
The belts are usually made of Kevlar or other high-strength materials, and they run on special pulleys that are mounted on the trucks. The motor is typically mounted in the center of the deck, between the two trucks.
Power is transferred from the motor to the wheels through the pulleys and belts. This type of electric skateboard is more efficient than a direct drive system, and it offers several performance advantages.
Belt-driven electric skateboards typically have more torque, which means they can accelerate faster and climb hills more easily.
They also tend to be more durable since there are no exposed gears that can become damaged or jammed. Finally, belt-driven electric skateboards tend to be quieter than their direct drive counterparts.
Hub Motors
Hub motor functions as a traditional gasoline engine, providing power to the wheels to move the vehicle forward. However, there are some key differences. One key difference is that hub motors are powered by electricity rather than gasoline. It means that they do not produce emissions and are much more environmentally friendly.
Additionally, hub motors tend to be much smaller and lighter than traditional gasoline engines, making them ideal for use in electric bicycles and other small vehicles. Overall, hub motors offer several advantages over traditional gasoline engines, making them an increasingly popular option for powering vehicles.
Hub Motor Working in Electric Skateboard
Most electric skateboards on the market today use a hub motor, a type of electric motor that is contained within the skateboard deck itself. Hub motors are popular because they are relatively simple and efficient, and they allow the rider to have direct control over the amount of torque applied to the wheels.
There are two main types of hub motors: brushed and brushless. Brushed motors are cheaper and easier to maintain, but they tend to be less efficient than brushless motors. Brushless motors are more expensive, but they offer better performance and longer-lasting power.
Electric skateboards that use hub motors typically have two or four motors, often located in the front and rear wheels. The motors are controlled by a wireless remote, which the rider uses to control the speed and direction of the board. Some models also feature regenerative braking, which helps extend the skateboard’s range by capturing energy from the wheels as they slow down.
Differences Between Hub And Belt Motors
The main difference between hub and belt motors is how they are mounted. Hub motors are attached directly to the wheel, while belt motors are attached to the frame. It has a few implications for performance. Hub motors are typically heavier, which can impact acceleration and handling. They are also more exposed to the elements, leading to rust and corrosion over time.
On the other hand, belt motors tend to be lighter and more protected from the elements. Depending on the gear ratio, these motors provide optimum speed and acceleration.
Ultimately, the best choice for a given application will depend on the rider’s specific needs. However, both types of motors have their advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to weigh all factors before deciding.
Similarities Between Hub And Belt Motors
There are many important similarities between the hub and belt motors, such as both have a central shaft that turns a wheel or rope. The motor is mounted on the vehicle’s frame, and the wheel or pulley is attached to the axle. Both types of motors are powered by electricity, and both use magnets to create torque.
Hubs VS Belts Comparison
Can you believe how different each motor is on an electric skateboard? It’s so interesting to see the difference in performance between each one!
Acceleration
Hub motors offer better acceleration because they are attached directly to the wheels. It allows them to apply more torque to the wheels, which results in better acceleration.
On the other hand, belt motors tend to be lighter and more protected from the elements. They can also be more easily modified for different gear ratios, impacting top speed and acceleration.
Motor Weight
Hub motors are typically heavier, which can impact acceleration and handling. They are also more exposed to the elements, leading to rust and corrosion over time.
On the other hand, belt motors tend to be lighter and more protected from the elements. They can also be more easily modified for different gear ratios, impacting top speed and acceleration.
Braking System
The hub motors directly connect to the wheels, so they can use regenerative braking to slow down the electric skateboard. It is a great feature because it helps extend the skateboard’s range by capturing energy from the wheels as they slow down.
Belt motors can also fit with a regenerative braking system, but it is not as common. Regenerative braking is a great way to extend the range of your electric skateboard, so if you are looking for this feature, be sure to check that the model you are considering has it.
Hill Climb
Many people believe that hub motors offer better hill-climbing performance because they can apply more torque to the wheels. This extra torque can help get the electric skateboard up hills more easily.
Belt motors can also offer good hill climbing performance, but it will depend on the specific model and setup. If you are looking for an electric skateboard that can handle hills well, do your research to find the best option for you.
Maintenance
Hub motors are more exposed to the elements, leading to rust and corrosion over time. They also require more frequent maintenance because the bearings are more likely to become damaged from grit and dirt.
On the other hand, belt motors tend to be more protected from the elements. They can also be more easily modified for different gear ratios, impacting top speed and acceleration.
Hub vs Belt Motor: Cost Comparison
The cost of hub motors and belt motors can vary depending on the specific model and brand. In general, hub motors tend to be more expensive because they are more durable and have better performance. Belt motors can be a good option if you are looking for a cheaper alternative.
Pros
- Hub motors offer better acceleration and hill-climbing and are more durable but require more maintenance.
- Belt motors are cheaper and easier to maintain but don’t perform as well as hub motors.
Cons
- Hub motors are more expensive, require more maintenance, and are not as easy to find replacement parts for.
- Belt motors can be less reliable and may not offer as much torque or power.
Conclusion
Both hub motors and belt motors have their advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to weigh all factors before deciding. Hub motors offer better acceleration and hill-climbing performance, but they are more expensive and require more maintenance. Belt motors are cheaper and easier to maintain, but they don’t perform as well as hub motors.