Whether you’re replacing a worn unit or building a from-scratch electric skateboard, choosing the right motor is essential for performance, reliability, and ride feel. This guide highlights five popular options that fit a range of setups—from hub motors to belt-driven configurations and even brushed alternatives. Each section provides key specs, compatibility notes, and practical considerations to help you compare at a glance.
Summary of chosen products:
- Puaida Dual Motor Set for Electric Skateboard – Dual hub motors with up to 30 mph top speed
- Mingchuan 6374 170KV High Efficiency Brushless Motor – Versatile 24V/36V capable
- Flipsky Brushless Sensored Motor with Pulley – 6354, high torque and sensor-equipped
- Gaeirt 72mm Hub Motor Skateboard – 350W per wheel, easy DIY replacement
- Vevitts Small Brushed Permanent Magnet Electric Motor – 24V, compact brushed option
Dual Motor Set for Electric Skateboard 90mm Powered 10S 36V
Brand: PUAIDA. This upgraded dual hub motor kit is designed for DIY builds and ready to pair with a compatible dual-hub ESC. It is explicitly noted as not compatible with belt-drive ESCs, which keeps the wiring and tuning straightforward for hub setups. The kit targets a top speed around 30 mph with Puaida’s ESC and is capable of climbing steep grades up to 25%. Notes suggest speed varies with rider weight and ESC choice. The wheel material uses elastic PU for durability and longer life.
Key considerations:
– Compatibility: Works with dual hub motor ESCs; not intended for belt-driven ESCs.
– Performance: 77 KV and 300W per motor; top speed around 30 mph on the right ESC and setup.
– Durability: Elastic PU wheels for improved longevity and ride comfort.
– Tuning: ESC choice influences top speed and performance; beginners should follow manufacturer guidance.
Mingchuan 6374 170KV High Efficiency Brushless Motor
Brand: MINGCHUAN. This 6374-size brushless motor is rated at 170 KV and suits 24V/36V systems. It offers high efficiency with a peak power around 2800W when used at 24V or 36V, depending on configuration. The product notes indicate higher voltage requires KV adjustments for best performance. It’s a solid choice for a strong, adaptable Esk8 drive and can be paired with various ESCs designed for brushless motors.
Key considerations:
– Voltage range: 24V/36V compatible; higher voltage may require KV tuning.
– Power: Up to about 2800W, suitable for robust skateboard builds.
– Versatility: Works in multiple setups, including DIY boards that use standard 63xx-series motors.
Flipsky Brushless Sensored Motor with Pulley
Brand: FLIPSKY. This 6354-sized motor is designed for efficient Esk8 use with Hall sensors, contributing to stable operation and smooth control. It delivers strong torque (up to around 7 Nm) and has demonstrated reliable performance over extensive testing. The motor’s torque and sensor feedback make it a popular choice for DIY builds seeking precise acceleration and braking. It’s compatible with standard ESCs that support BLDC sensored motors and can be used in various wheel-drive configurations.
Key considerations:
– Hall sensor feedback improves stability and control, especially at low speeds.
– Torque: High torque output supports strong acceleration and climbing ability.
– Compatibility: Works with ESCs that support sensored BLDC motors and suitable pulley/wheel setups.
Gaeirt 72mm Hub Motor Skateboard
Brand: Gaeirt. This 72mm hub motor kit uses an external rotor design with PU+aluminum+iron construction. It offers a 350W motor power and a top speed around 25 km/h. The kit emphasizes convenient DIY assembly, requiring only a wiring connection to the battery. The rubbery PU wheel material supports shock absorption and lower noise during use, making it a practical choice for replacement or budget builds.
Key considerations:
– Hub motor design simplifies installation and maintenance.
– Power and speed are suitable for entry-to-mid-level builds.
– Durability: PU wheels provide good elasticity and longevity, with quieter operation.
Vevitts Small Brushed Permanent Magnet Motor
Brand: Vevitts. This brushed permanent magnet motor is a compact 24V 350W unit with a peak around 3000 RPM. It’s designed for easy integration into small or lightweight drive systems, including e-scooters and skateboards. The aluminum body and full copper coil are geared toward durability and cooling. Brushed designs are generally simpler and cost-effective, but may require more maintenance over time compared to brushless options.
Key considerations:
– Brushed design: simpler control but requires maintenance (brush and commutator wear).
– Voltage and speed: 24V, around 3000 RPM, suitable for compact builds or conversions.
– Durability: Aluminum body and copper windings provide good heat handling for moderate use.
Buying Guide: Motor Selection For Skateboard Projects
Core factors influencing your choice include drive type, compatibility, and ride goals. Consider the following perspectives to balance performance, cost, and complexity:
- Drive configuration: Hub motors offer clean looks and simple integration, but belt-driven systems typically deliver higher torque and easier gear ratios for custom setups. Consider whether your frame and wheels support hub or belt drives.
- Voltage and KV compatibility: Higher KV motors spin faster but require appropriate ESC tuning and battery setup. Ensure your ESC, battery, and motorKV align for safe voltage ranges and torque needs.
- Sensor vs. non-sensor: Sensored motors provide smoother startup and control, especially at low speeds, while sensorless units are often simpler and cheaper. For beginner builds, sensored motors can improve reliability.
- Durability and heat: Look for materials like aluminum housings and high-quality windings. If you plan long hills or heavy use, prioritize motors with robust cooling and efficient windings to prevent thermal throttling.
- Maintenance: Brushed motors are generally easier to repair and cheaper upfront but wear out faster. Brushless motors offer longer life but may require more careful maintenance and tuning, particularly if you push higher speeds or torque.
- Compatibility with your ESC: Confirm the motor’s controller compatibility (sensored vs. sensorless, phase wiring, and supported current ranges) to avoid wiring or performance issues.
- Wheel and pulley matching: For belt-driven setups, ensure pulley ratios align with motor KV and battery voltage to achieve the desired top speed and torque. Hub motors require matching wheel size and hub diameter to avoid interference with trucks and deck geometry.
- Weight and portability: If you plan a lighter build, consider motor weight and the effect on center of gravity. Heavier motors can impact handling and efficiency.
These considerations help you select a motor that aligns with your riding style, whether you prioritize top speed, hill climbing ability, or a compact, low-profile build. Always verify compatibility with your chosen ESC and battery, and consult installation guides or manufacturer recommendations during setup.