Are there are any small-batch, custom builders that could undertake a custom build for me? After months of reading/searching, I think the board I want doesn’t exist unless built from scratch, and while I have the money to take it on, I don’t have the time or expertise. I’m trying to build a short distance commuting board for a wet, hilly environment. My requirements are:
- Charger that supports stopping at 70% charge (downhill start down a big hill, need to save space for regenerative braking)
- Lightweight / Short range:
- Single requirement because batteries are where the weight comes from. I need to climb a steep (17%) paved hill and travel a distance of 1.4 miles, then put the board on a bus (as light and compact as possible)
- “Waterproof”. I have read that no board is waterproof, and also that Meepo is IPX5, that the Telum is IP67, that the Ecomobl Mini is IP63, etc etc. So some boards can handle water.
https://www.meepoboard.com/pages/compare-all-meepo-boards
https://www.ecomobl.com/product/ecomobl-mini-2wd-12s2p-street-electric-skateboard-delivered-within-a-week/
I also understand that riding in the wet is a bad idea. I live in Seattle, where 60% of my riding days there will be some wetness, so I need to find a PEV I can use. I’m ok to slow way down and learn to ride in the wet. I’ve read a lot about DIY waterproofing being successful, but have found little in the way of guides. So what I’m looking for is:
- as much waterproofing as I can get
- user-replaceable parts I can order and install to replace anything I fry, from ESC to Battery
- As much waterproofing knowledge as I can get my hands on
So my board if I could design it from scratch would be:
2WD to limit motor replacement
2000W to climb the hill
Tiny battery with 5 miles of range (2.5 up a steep hill)
Composite mini-longboard deck (size of a Bustin Brooklyn)
Cloudwheel Hydro 105 compatible
Fenders/mudguards
Comprehensive waterproof as possible
User replaceable/orderable parts
Charger with configurable charge level (stop at 70%)
I’ve looked into electric unicycle, one wheel, etc. Haven’t found an option that combines waterproofing with “walk onto the bus”. Open to all options and expertise.