What’s the best electric skateboard for your budget? In this review and accompanying YouTube video we compare four models from Meepo, by far the largest seller of electric skateboards, and answer the question: does more money necessarily mean better?
In all, Meepo offers ten electric skateboard models, which you can compare here on Meepo’s website. On the Freshly Charged channel we have previously reviewed the Meepo Voyager and the Meepo V5, and for this review we were able to get our hands on the Meepo Hurricane Bamboo Pro and the Meepo Vader Hurricane Carbon Limited as well. Keep reading for our breakdown of the pros and cons of each board.
Current pricing of the Meepo V5 here.
Current pricing of the Meepo Voyager here.
Current pricing of the Meepo Hurricane Bamboo Pro here.
Current pricing of the Meepo Hurricane Vador Carbon here.
Meepo V5
The Meepo V5 is an entry-level, beginner e-skate. It’s priced at just $399, or you can get the the extended-battery version for $529. The best thing about this board (besides the ultra-low price) is its portability – the lower spec version weighs just 17 lbs and has a built-in handle, making it super easy to carry up stairs, load it into a car, or carry and store it inside of a building. The extended battery version adds just 2 lbs, for a total weight of 19 lbs.
The Meepo has an incredible speed to price ratio, as it tops out at 28mph. Reaching 28mph on a PEV for less than $400 is remarkable, and the Meepo V5 is the only PEV that achieves this, or anywhere even close.
Meepo Voyager
If you’re already familiar with electric skateboards, the Meepo Voyager is the next step up from the V5. Currently on sale for $899, this board boasts an impressive 31 miles of range, which we have confirmed with testing. Meepo claims the Voyager can hit 40mph, and we got it up to at least 35mph without quite fully maxing out the throttle.
The Meepo Voyager also comes with 110mm Cyclone wheels, which offer a smoother, more comfortable ride compared to the V5.
The main drawback to the Voyager is that maintenance can be tricky, especially for wheels and belt changes. Meepo’s provided instruction manual isn’t anywhere near sufficient for even minor repairs, but there are a decent amount of Youtube videos that can help you out. The Meepo Voyager also doesn’t feature a carrying handle like the V5, but it is still only 23 lbs and pretty easy to carry around.
Meepo Hurricane Bamboo Pro
The Meepo Hurricane Bamboo Pro features all-terrain, inflatable tires, which is an absolute game changer compared to regular silicone wheels. The current price is $1399, and for that you get a 32mph extended wheelbase electric skateboard that can soak up bumps on the road much better than the V5 or Voyager. One of the best features about this board is the shape of the deck; the wood is sculpted around where your feet are positioned, with your toes and heel sitting on a slight lip on the edges of the board. This makes the board feel much more stable off road, and easier to maneuver.
The biggest drawback is the weight – 34 lbs isn’t nearly as easy to carry up flights of stairs as 17 lbs or 23 lbs. This board is also much longer than the V5 or Voyager, and has a harder time fitting lengthwise into the trunk of a sedan.
Meepo Vader Hurricane Carbon Limited Edition
The Meepo Vader is the top-of-the-line Meepo, and is desigend primarily for the streets. It features super wide street tires, and has a stiff deck with minimal sag, compared to the wooden pliable decks of most Meepo boards. With a 32mph top speed, 31 miles of range and 32lb weight, the Vader offers a totally different ride feel than the Bamboo Pro. It is far and away the most comfortable board for street riding, and even at high speeds over rough roads, the Vader feels sturdy and firmly planted beneath your feet.
The main downside to the Vader is the lack of traction on off-road trails due to the street-specific tires. If you’re looking for an off-road board, the Bamboo Pro is a better choice.
The Freshly Charged Take
These 4 boards all have their use cases and their niches – the Meepo V5 is a GREAT option for those on a very tight budget, or those new to the sport. The Meepo Voyager is the natural upgrade; a faster, larger, longer range board with improved wheels and handling. The Bamboo Pro is the off-road king for those interested in trail riding, and the Vader is the Cadillac of E-skate, with top-of-the line components and ride quality. Which board you choose is up to you, and if you’re struggling to decide, we’d recommend starting off with the Meepo V5 and working your way up.
