So, I've been considering micromobility options recently to help me get out a little bit more and range better. My dog told me he'd appreciate it if I got out a little more on my off-days. I don't know why he's gotta be so judgy like that...
Anyways,
-Bike formats are out, it needs to be easier to transport and not take up that much space.
-Balance boards are cool, but I'm not sure that's quite what I'm looking for either...
Electric skateboards, scooters, mountainboards, etc., what's good? I'm drawn to the idea of electric boards with (potentially?) off-road capabilities. I'm a mountainbiker and often have access to excellent trails, so I like the thought of being able to ride on those too sometimes but my main uses would probably just be getting around town or going out on paved greenways.
Entry level would be good, I'm hoping for somewhere in the 500-1000 dollar range if it exists but if I have to pay more for something better then so be it.
Also, DIY solutions aren't completely out of the question for me. I could see myself messing around with a build project if it strikes my fancy.
Thanks for any help, I'm looking forward to seeing what you all come up with!
I own four electric skateboards. I like them a lot, they go from small and carryable to large and semi-pullable. I've been riding one or a couple of them almost daily for years.
For that price-range you're not gonna get anything off-road capable that's actually good, but a mini-board or longboard would absolutely be doable.
One of my boards is a first gen Exway Flex, I use it to get around at medium range on paved paths. It just about deals with cobblestone paths at low speed, though aftermarket wheels can improve this.
Brands actually worth considering imo are Exway and Backfire, but there is also BKB for diy kits.
I also have boards from Ownboard and an Eovan, but I would not buy from either again. A future purchase for me would likely be a Lacroix, Apex or Fluxmotion board.
+1 for e-skating. I have been rocking around on a BKB longboard that I put together for about $750 (custom batteries). I feel like a little kid zooming around on my local streets / bike paths and think it is an awesome option for micro mobility.
As for portability, it's decent though the thing is heavy and the longboard size means I'm pulling it behind me instead of picking it up most of the time. If you want something easy to pick up and take on a bus or whatever I'd look for something smaller.
WEAR WRIST GUARDS if nothing else. Wrist injuries are the most common injuries in board sports.
+1 for protective gear. I invested in some padded jeans and jackets as they look nicer and make gearing up a breeze. A helmet is what will keep you alive, while protective gloves and wrist-guard are item one on staying out of the hospital.
On portability, larger boards can be made much easier to handle, with a handle. Makes picking up and dragging a board, holding one upright, etc. much easier. I added one to my heaviest board and I don't really mind lugging it on public transport or pulling it along indoors anymore.
Most boards aren't actually that heavy, so their awkward portability is more of an ergonomic issue as they aren't designed with handholds like scooters and bikes. But you can always add one.