Inboard M1 Electric Skateboard Review 2023
Our verdict: The Inboard M1 is an awesome hybrid electric skateboard which is quick, powerful and easy to use.
- Compact
- IP54 rated
- Decent top speed
- Extremely lightweight
- Integrated lighting
- Rapid 1-2 hour charge time
- Great choice for short-range commuters
- Weak range
- Now only available from third-party vendors
- Brand no longer in business (no support, repairs, etc.)
- Unknown warranty length
Overview
Inboard Technologies M1 electric skateboard Overview
Inboard Technologies is a company based in California who have become one of the most famous electric skateboard producers in the world. This originated from their wildly successful Kickstarter campaign in 2014 and then took a wonderful deal with Kevin O’Leary on Shark Tank.
Their lucrative financial campaigns allowed to develop an alternative energy electric skateboard that looks just like a regular skateboard. However, the M1 comes packed with advanced patented technologies that made it one of the best electric skateboards on the market.
Inboard M1 electric skateboard stands out from other e-skateboards. From the in-wheel direct drive motor assembly, swappable battery, and wonderful design, you can expect a comfortable and smooth ride with the M1. Carry on to read our comprehensive Inboard M1 review and why we thought this was one of the best electric skateboards of its time.
Key Features of the Inboard M1
Take a look at the key specs below and continue reading for our in depth Inboard M1 review.
Please note that this page has been updated as of 04/03/2021: Inboard no longer stock or manufacture this model. As such, riders who purchase should expect radio silence from this brand, with no accessories, repairs or support. Feel free to read through the rest of our Inboard M1 review and make up your own mind.
| Dimensions | Speed | Range | Charging time | Weight | Smartphone app | Waterproof rating | Lights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 37 x 10.25 inches | 35 km/h (22 m/h) | 11 km (7 miles) | 1-2 hours 0-100 % | 6.57 kg (14.5 lbs) | Yes | IP54 | Front and rear LED lights |
Speed, Power & Distance
Speed, Power & Distance
Inboard Technologies have implemented in-wheel direct drive motors that pack 1000 Watt continuous power. The skateboard can reach 1600 Watts max power that gives the skateboard impressive torque, acceleration and hill climbing capability.
How fast does it go?
While we were doing our research before stepping onto the Inboard M1 we noticed two different max speeds mentioned by Inboard Technologies. Their website states that the M1 skateboard can go up to 35.5 km/h (22 m/h). However, the M1 manual has a bit lower figure of 32 km/h (20 m/h). We don’t know if it’s just a mistake, but after testing the e-board we did not manage to reach 35.5 km/h (22 m/h) and were closer to manual stated speeds.
If you feel like the max speed is going to be too powerful for you or you just can’t properly commute in busy streets and pathways, don’t worry. The Inboard M1 has 3 speed modes to choose from:
- Beginner – Max speed 8 km/h (5 m/h), moderate acceleration, standard braking.
- Intermediate – Max speed 22 km/h (14 m/h), standard acceleration, standard braking.
- Advanced – Max speed 35.5 km/h (22 m/h), maximum acceleration, maximum braking.
We also want to mention that the maximum speed you can reach will decrease gradually as you drain your battery. After draining more than half of your battery you won’t have much chance to reach max speed.
What age/weight is it suitable for?
The maximum rider weight on the Inboard M1 is 127 kg (280 lbs). This is really impressive for an electric skateboard and says a lot about the quality of the materials and engineering that has gone into the M1. However, do keep in mind the bigger the weight the poorer the performance of the skateboard.
Inboard Technologies suggest that children younger than 16 years should not ride this electric recreation vehicle.
What is the range/distance?
Riding in perfect conditions should get you 11-16 km (7-10 miles) with a full charge. However, we all know most people don’t ride at optimal speed and always on a perfectly flat surface. We like to go fast! As with almost all green energy vehicles, we got much less distance than stated and Inboard M1 electric skateboard is no exception.
We took the skateboard for a ride in the city a couple of times. Our route included many small hills in the park, stops due to pedestrians and of course max throttle whenever possible. In the end, we weren’t able to get more than 8 km (5 miles) on a single charge. However, the M1 e-skateboard does have swappable batteries – more on this below.
Battery Life & Charging
Battery Life & Charging
Inboard M1s swappable battery is probably one of its best features. Having a powerful motor makes the skateboard accelerate and go fast but drains the battery very quick. Luckily, you can buy multiple batteries and swap them incredibly fast and continue your ride.
And by fast we actually mean it. You can swap the battery while waiting for a green light at an intersection or while taking an elevator!
In addition, Powershift batteries are safe for air travel.
If you decide to buy the Inboard M1 electric skateboard we highly suggest getting an additional battery or even two to allow yourself going on uninterrupted commutes and journeys.
How long does it take to charge?
The Powershift Lithium-Ion 43.2V 97 Wh battery will charge in just 90 minutes.
The battery also has a comfortable magnetic type charger to connect to the battery instead of plugging the charger into the board.
Battery protection & safety
We spent quite some time looking for battery protection specifications but could not find much useful information. The only protection we found was that while riding M1 on a close to a full charge and using regenerative braking, the remote will start vibrating to let you know that it reached a full charge, meaning you should stop using regenerative braking so as not to overcharge the battery.
There is a battery safety guide on the Inboard Technology support forum which has information and guidance on safe battery usage.
How long will the battery last for?
As with most Lithium-Ion batteries, PowerShift will last you 500-1000 life cycles. It’s not very impressive but considering that you can easily purchase a replacement or spare batteries for easy swapping, its better than having to replace the entire skateboard.
Build Quality & Ease of Use
Design and Ergonomics
Inboard M1 has a really cool design mostly due to its technology. Since the powerful hub motors are inside the wheels and the battery is neatly packed into the board the Inboard M1 is just a touch thicker than a regular longboard measuring 95.25 x 26 cm (37.5 x 10.25 inches) and of course, a bit heavier weighing 6.4 kg (14lbs).
Having cool front and rear LED lights along with black and red color combination Inboard M1 looks like a futuristic transportation device that will make heads turn with envy.
All electric skateboard have remote controllers and M1s is of the highest quality. It’s built with ergonomics in mind to provide a comfortable grip and use. The buttons and throttle/braking are placed very well that sometimes you can even forget you are holding the remote.
The only drawback we found about the M1 is that the responsiveness of the braking is a bit slow, you need to press the braking switch all the way down to start braking.
What material is it made from?
Inboard M1 is made from a composite material of 3D poplar wood, fiberglass, and other substances of the highest quality to make the board quite stiff and very sturdy. Regular longboards are usually soft and flex, while on the M1 you can stand firmly and balance easily.
Can it be used as a regular skateboard?
Yes! This is another point that sets Inboard M1 apart from its competition. Having in-wheel motors instead of belt driven motors you can easily use the M1 as a regular longboard. When you kick the board wheels turn smooth with no resistance.
Going on straight paths or downhill you coast and carve, which is originally the best thing about longboards and you can enjoy this experience with Inboard M1.
In short, this electric skateboard is a hybrid smart board that has all the convenience of fast and comfortable alternative commute along with an option to enjoy it as a regular longboard.
Does it connect to your smartphone via app or Bluetooth?
Being a high-tech Personal Electric Vehicles vehicle Inboard M1 has Bluetooth connectivity. You can download and connect their Inboard Vision app to your iOS or Android device and control head and rear lights of the board, choose riding mode, check battery status and more.
Additionally, you can even use your smartphone as a remote controller replacement if you leave it to charge!
Build quality and ease of use
As we mentioned earlier in our Inboard M1 review, the skateboard is made from high-quality composite materials. This allows this board to be very enduring but still stiff to enjoy the experience of longboard ride.
While riding the board there are no unnecessary sounds. Expect the futuristic sound from the hub motors, which honestly is very cool.
Not only that it is easy to use the board with the controller it is also easy to set it up from the package. Just take it out of the travel bag (wonderful touch from Inboard). Put the battery in and you are all set to go. Whether its a commute in the city or a coast downhill, you’ll enjoy the electric longboard experience.
Safety & Usability on the road
Safety and usability on the road
Inboard M1 is probably about as safe as an electric skateboard can be. Powerful braking allows you to stop quite fast. Make sure you practice beforehand if it is your first time riding an e-skateboard. It takes time to get used to leaning back when braking so the board won’t throw you off.
The Inboard M1 has proper front and rear LED lights for evening and night riding. This important safety feature doesn’t come with many other electric scooters on the market.
Despite having good safety features it is important to always wear a helmet and other protective gear. Inboard M1 reccomends for kneepads, elbow pads and wrist pads for all riders.
Being an electronic longboard the M1 is not super maneuverable and might be difficult to use in busy cities with lots of people traffic. However, it is still comfortable to use, carry, and most importantly easy to use as a regular longboard if needed.
Is the Inboard M1 waterproof?
Inboard M1 has IP54 waterproof rating, meaning it is protected just from splashing water. Inboard say they have designed the electric skateboard to be ridden in normal skateboarding conditions, but we would advise keeping the skateboard away from water streams, puddles, and rain.
Restrictions and availability
The board is currently being shipped all over the world. Shipping prices differ depending on the country you want to ship to.
E-skateboards are classed as lightweight electric vehicles in most countries. Usually they are ok to ride on public roads and pavements. However, it is crucial to always check your local laws before riding you e-vehicle. You are responsible to know the law.
Black Friday / Coupons
Inboard M1 Black Friday & Cyber Monday deals 2023
PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS BOARD IS NOW DISCONTINUED.
Many savings conscious skaters will likely be pining for some Inboard M1 Black Friday deals this 2023. Furthermore, will there be Cyber Monday deals on the Inboard M1? After a year on the market, we believe this to be more than likely.
We’ve also found some websites offering Inboard M1 Black Friday preorder discounts. However, be sure to fact check, some websites raise prices just before Black Friday, sometimes these “discounted” deals are even more expensive! So if you’re looking to buy we think it will be worth waiting until Thanksgiving and deals week to get the best price.
Any price information, news, and Inboard M1 Black Friday 2023 deals we come across will be listed on this page, so keep your eye on this board! In the mean time, discover our in-depth Inboard M1 Black Friday analysis!
