So the future is here, the days of gliding along just standing on your own two feet. Gliding on air is where my thoughts go when I see hoverboards, I see them as futuristic human transport devices. You might be wondering as I have, what exactly is a hoverboard? Is a hoverboard a scooter?
Yes, a hoverboard is considered a (self-balancing) scooter consisting of two wheels propelled electrically by just stepping on the footpads and maneuvering your body weight to move forward, backward, and turn from side to side.
When you think of a scooter, a hoverboard is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. But it has its place, and it does scoot people around so therefore it can be called a scooter, in this instance, a motorized self-balancing scooter.
Is A Hoverboard A Motorized Vehicle?
Yes, a hoverboard is a motorized vehicle. It has two electric motors that are in each wheel that propel the rider and since it is transporting the individual, it becomes a vehicle. The motors are usually brushless motors which offer more efficiency than brushed motors and they come in a variety of sizes starting around 160w per wheel, which gives an output of 360w, and can go up to 400w per wheel, with a max output of 800w. The hoverboard is generally a platform that is controlled by a person’s body movements to control speed and turning movements.
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Hoverboard For Adults
Are you wondering if adults can use hoverboards? Sure they can! Adults can use hoverboards, provided they use one that can support their weight. Not all hoverboards are created equal when it comes to weight recommendations.
Hoverboards vary in size and style and there are many to choose from. It could be a daunting task to know which one is right for you when shopping for one.
Finding a board that can hold your weight and does not run out of juice quickly because of the weight load, is a key factor. You will want to be able to enjoy your ride for more than a few minutes.
Also, you will want to look for a hoverboard that is safety-certified under the UL (Underwriters Laboratories Inc.) standards. This is very important because hoverboards can be very dangerous when charging if they have low-quality unapproved batteries.
When choosing a hoverboard for an adult, the weight limit is the most important thing to look for. If you put too much weight on a hoverboard that has a smaller weight limit, the chances of the board holding up and even giving you the most riding time are not as promising. It would put more strain on the board causing it to work harder and then most likely depleting the batteries quicker and making your experience less enjoyable. So it is important to use the appropriate size hoverboard for the size of the adult.
If you are curious and shopping around for a hoverboard, I have compiled a small researched list to help you along in your decision-making process. Check out the higher-weight maximum when shopping for an adult.
| HOVERBOARD | AGE GROUP | MAX WEIGHT | BEGINNER | MAX SPEED | BATTERY LIFE |
| Razor Hovertrax Prizma | 8 to Teens | 176 lbs. | Yes | 9 MPH | 40 MIN |
| Swagtron Swagboard Twist 3 Self-Balancing Hoverboard | 8 to Teens | 185 lbs | Yes | 6 MPH | 1-5 MILE |
| Halo Rover X | 7 and up | 260 lbs | Yes | 10 MPH | 10 Mile |
| Gyroor Warrior 8.5 inch All Terrain Off Road Hoverboard | Kids to Adults | 265 lbs | Yes | 9 MPH | 7.5-10 Mile |
| MUCHOVER Hoverboard | Kids to Adults | 300 lbs | Yes | 7 MPH | Can’t find this info |
Is A Hoverboard Safe?
Many hoverboards were very unsafe when they first hit the market as in hazardous malfunctions. They were known to catch fire and even explode at times. But that has changed with UL standards put in place. Many if not all hoverboards sold now are UL Certified and if they are not, do not buy them!
The UL Certification implies that the products have passed many safety standards and are approved to be relatively safe based on much testing.
Look for the UL Certified Sticker before purchasing a hoverboard to ensure that it meets all up-to-date safety standards.
Hoverboard Dangers
Older models, overheated while charging, and sometimes while riding could catch fire and explode. New models that pass UL standards are highly less likely to overheat, catch fire, and explode.
Besides equipment dangers, there are also dangers when riding hoverboards which include falling off, which could result in fractures, bruises, strains, sprains, and head injuries if proper safety equipment is not worn. Wrist and forearm injuries are very common when falling off because you will be trying to brace yourself in the fall. It is very important to always wear proper fitting safety gear to reduce serious injury.
Hoverboard Exploding
Here is a list of recalls on hoverboards due to faults resulting in fire and explosions. Take note that many of these recalls happened before 2018. Most hoverboards you find today for sale are UL-approved, again, if they are not, do not buy them! It is not worth the risk. Before you buy, do your research and make sure you are buying the safest hoverboard you can find.
Hoverboard Accidents
Hoverboards have caused tens of thousands of injuries while riding them. Most sustained when falling off and not wearing protective gear. Many injuries could have been avoided by wearing the proper gear while riding.
It is very important to put safety first whenever engaging in a vehicle sport, especially if you are a beginner.
Should you wear a helmet on a hoverboard?
YES!! You should wear a helmet and other protective gear, like wrist guards, elbow pads, and even knee pads. It is not worth a lifetime of pain and suffering because you choose to not wear a helmet for a few hours of fun. See the importance of wearing a helmet here. See protective gear here.
Are Segways And Hoverboards The Same Thing?
When you say the word Segway, what comes to mind is the two-wheeled, stemmed handlebar personal transporter. Would this be similar or the same thing as a hoverboard? No, it would not, but Segway does now have a product that has a similar concept as a hoverboard.
This product is called Segway Ninebot S Plus Smart Self Balancing Transporter and has a max weight of 220 lbs. It does not have an extended center pole with a handle as seen in the image here, but it does have a center pole that goes as high as the knees to help with stability. So this would have an advantage over a traditional hoverboard when it comes to balance.
Are Hoverboards Illegal?
Hoverboards can be illegal to ride on public streets, sidewalks, and paths in some cities and states. So it is important to check with your local and state jurisdiction to see what laws apply to hoverboards before you or your children set out on your hoverboard adventures. Also, there may be age restrictions on hoverboard riding. Here is a resource about the legalities of hoverboards.
