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The Ultimate Guide to Evolve Electric Skateboards

Skateboards are a timeless classic. But that doesn’t mean you can’t improve on them. Now, electric skateboards can give you the same thrilling rides as before but with more power and double the fun. 

However, it’s not just about adding a motor to your skateboard. There are tons of different features that make an electric skateboard stand out. Discover the features that the Evolve skateboards have that can level up your rides by reading on.

The Main Series

Evolve is a world-renowned producer of electric skateboards, and right now they have two main series. Depending on the kind of riding experience you want, one skateboard will definitely fit you than the other.

Learn more about their differences. Here are the main skateboard series from Evolve:

GTR Skateboards
evolve gtr series electric skateboards

When it comes to premium e-skateboards, the GTR series reigns supreme. It is Evolve’s top-of-the-line skateboard series which boasts of phenomenal power, incredible performance, and the best kind of fun you can get on an electric skateboard.

The GTR series has two boards you can choose from, the GTR Bamboo and GTR Carbon. Both of these high-performing rides offer stylish looks that will fit different riders. 

Stoke Skateboards

evolve stoke electric skateboard

 

Just by hearing its name, you know where the inspiration for the Stoke boards came from. Inspired by waves and the surf, the Stoke features a swallow-tail design that makes it comfortable for you to go surfing on sidewalks all day long.

The Stoke board is the brand’s travel-friendly electric skateboard because of its compact size and last-mile capabilities (maximum range: 15 km).


More on the GTR Electric Skateboards

The Evolve GTR electric skateboards aren’t just fun, they’re among the top choices in personal mobility if you’re a true-blue skater. That’s because these skateboards are super versatile, not just in their aesthetic vibe but also in the kind of terrain they can ride on. 

Yes, these boards aren’t just for paved tracks and city sidewalks. Some of them can even go on rough paths and dirt trails. Excited to learn more? Here’s a breakdown of why and how the GTR series perform as well as they do.

GTR Bamboo vs. GTR Carbon

First things first, let’s differentiate the GTR Bamboo and the GTR Carbon. Both scooters are incredibly strong and reliable in performance. Their biggest differences are the way they look and their decks.

evolve gtr bamboo electric skateboard

The GTR Bamboo’s design was inspired by the 1970s muscle car, more specifically its classic look, quality performance, and comfortable riding. The deck itself is made from a mix of sustainable 3-ply bamboo and durable 2-play carbon fibre. This allows you to experience the right balance between flexibility and strength. 

evolve gtr carbon electric skateboard

The GTR Carbon, on the other hand, features a sleek, all-black design that’s perfect for tech-savvy riders and those who prefer a more understated board. Its deck is handmade from 100% carbon fibre, making it lightweight yet super sturdy; so much so that it can handle high speeds incredibly well. 


Besides their overall look and deck, both GTR boards are quite similar to each other. From specs to actual performance, there’s not much to make them different. Here are some features that are alike in both electric skateboards:

Speed and Range

Let’s start off with the specs that most riders will be most concerned with. Both the GTR Bamboo and GTR Carbon can go as fast as 42 kph. With that kind of speed, it can easily outstrip most commuter scooters on the street. That’s pretty awesome for a hands-free ride. Its acceleration is sensitive so make sure to start with the safety switch pressed on. Then squeeze the accelerator button gently for smooth acceleration or else you might jerk off the board. That’s how strong accelerating on a GTR skateboard can be!

Of course, as your battery level decreases, speed is also affected. So don’t worry if you feel like you’re going slower when you’re on a low battery, that’s normal.

What’s more, both GTR electric skateboards have a pretty awesome range. With a full battery and going on an average speed lower than the maximum, you can easily reach 50 km in a single charge. Distance isn’t the only thing that these boards can do. It can even go up steep hills and ramps with ease, with a 25-degree hill-climbing capability!

The best part is, the GTR Bamboo and GTR Carbon have the ability to ride through different terrain depending on what version you get, the All Terrain or Street (but more on that later). This just means, that you can enjoy more adventures since you can go on most kinds of surface. From smooth paved roads to bumpy dirt paths, nothing’s going to stop you now!

And like your traditional board, skaters can easily bring the GTR electric skateboards anywhere because of their light weight. The GTR Bamboo weighs just 11.3 to 10.3 kg and the GTR Carbon weighs 10.7 to 9.8 kg depending on which model you get. Nevertheless, it’s super compact and almost effortlessly portable. You can choose to carry it around or even put it in a backpack! You can’t do that for most electric rides. 

Power & Performance

All that power above doesn’t just come out from nowhere. The GTR skateboards perform phenomenally well as they do thanks to their ultra-strong motors and highly efficient batteries.

Both the Bamboo and Carbon boards are equipped with not one, but two 1500W brushless out-runner motors. Each board can produce a peak power of 3000 watts, which is as powerful as off-road electric scooters already! Out-runner motors are also known for their conveniently compact size (perfect for something as small as a skateboard) while still being highly efficient. 

And speaking of efficiency, the GTR series features a standard 14Ah Samsung battery with a patent-pending Power Flex battery technology that allows you to reach your maximum range with no problems. Plus, with 2 power USB ports and a fast charger, you’ll be going on adventures quicker than before. The skateboards only need a recharge time of 4 to 5 hours.

And as if a strong motor and battery duo isn’t enough, the fun doesn’t stop there. You can even bring your Evolve skateboard on vacations since you can outfit it with a swappable, airline-friendly 4.2Ah Sony battery. Since the travel battery is smaller, the top speed and maximum range of your scooter will significantly lower as well. But don’t worry, you’ll still go fast and far enough to find it enjoyable. And a plus side, the charging time for the travel battery is only 1.5 hours! If you swap it with a spare, you can still go pretty far on your skateboard.

Bluetooth Enabled Tech

What makes Evolve skateboards levels higher than traditional boards is its tech. The GTR boards come with an easy-to-use R2 controller that’s compact, handy, and ergonomic. You can comfortably hold it in your hands are reach the buttons that you need.

What’s more, both GTR boards feature 4 different riding modes which allow you to match product performance to your current skills for maximum safety and enjoyment. The riding modes you can choose from are:

  • ECO mode - perfect for beginners and those looking to get the most out of the board’s range
  • PRO mode - for advanced riders who want to rush past traffic during commutes
  • GTR mode - for expert thrill-seekers who want to experience the maximum power and insane acceleration of the GTR series.
  • CUST (custom) mode - create your own power curve by customizing it in the Explore by Evolve app. You can change it to be weaker or stronger than any of the other 3 modes.
  • And speaking of Explore, the GTR series can also be hooked up to the Explore by Evolve mobile app. Besides creating custom speed modes, this app also records your ride and updates you on your current top speed, average speed, ride time, and ride length.

    Build Quality

    The build quality of the GTR Bamboo and GTR Carbon is phenomenally durable. Its decks are made from super sturdy material (either a bamboo + carbon fibre mix or 100% carbon fibre) that’s also lightweight. The longboard design also provides a softer feel underfoot with flexible riding so it doesn’t matter if you prefer short and sharp or long and deep. You can do both. 

    Both the GTR electric skateboards also feature their unique Super Carve trucks which makes turning a blast. These ultra-wide trucks measure about 12 inches with a double-barrel design allowing for better stability while going on high speeds.  

    Both the GTR Bamboo and GTR Carbon electric boards also feature the Evolve ceramic precision bearings and stepless braking with regenerative recharging.


    All Terrain Boards vs. Street Boards

    Choosing between the GTR Bamboo and GTR Carbon might be more for the aesthetic vibe you prefer but that’s not the only choice you need to make. The GTR electric skateboards come with 2 different tyre sets, the All Terrain and the Street.

    All Terrain, as its name suggests, allows you to ride your GTR skateboard in different kinds of paths. Yes, that includes short grass, dirt tracks, and rough trails. These 7-inch pneumatic off-road wheels provide the best traction for bumpy, uneven surfaces so you can really enjoy going off the beaten path.

    The GTR Street skateboards, on the other hand, are the perfect choice for the consummate speedsters. They feature the 97mm Evolve GT wheels (made in the USA) that’s been tested to handle high speeds incredibly well. With F1 performance as its inspiration, smooth and lightning-fast acceleration will be no problem. 

    The GTR Street boards are also compatible with the Evolve GT range (85mm, 107mm, Abec 11 F1 wheels).

    Conversion Kits

    But if you’re unsure of what to get between All Terrain and Street, don’t fret. You can always get the one you most prefer now and follow it up with a Conversion Kit later. The Evolve Conversion Kits are perfect for riders who want to get the best of both worlds as they come in both All Terrain and Street, as well.

    So if you get the GTR All Terrain skateboard, make sure to get a Street Conversion Kit, and vice versa. That way you can easily swap out your current wheels with new ones so that you can perform your best on every type of surface.

    GTR Electric Skateboard Accessories

    Besides your actual electric skateboard, you can also get accessories to jazz up your ride or improve your experience. Some of our top choices for skaters are:

    Prism LED Lights

     

    evolve prism led lights under deck electric skateboard

     

    Do you prefer riding at night? Light up the streets with the Prism LED under-deck lights. They’ll make you look extra cool while increasing your visibility during your evening wanderings. With 205-lumen lights, you’ll definitely shine bright.

    Plus, they’re super easy to use. Just peel off the ultra-durable adhesive and stick it to the side of your deck. To light up, just plug the USB connector straight to your skateboard’s USB port. You can even change the colours from 20 options.

    Bash Guard Kit

     

    evolve skateboard gtr series bash guard kit

     

    The motor is a vital part of your electric skateboard that hugely differentiates it from being a regular board. If you’re worried about it getting scratched while you’re riding, get some peace of mind by installing a bash guard.

    The guard is made from ultra-durable CNC 7075 aluminum painted with a black finish so it looks great installed on the BTR Bamboo and GTR Carbon. It only takes about 10 minutes to set up and comes with its own screw set.

    And besides keeping your motor protected, the bash guard adds an edgy vibe to your skateboard. Plus points for aesthetic!

    Other Accessories

    Of course, there are other accessories that will be useful when you’re going on a ride on your GTR electric skateboard. Among those handy tools are helmets to keep you safe. Here are some recommendations for you:

  • Thousand Helmet
    thousand helmet
  • Xiaomi Smart 4u LED Light Helmet
    xiaomi smart 4u led light helmet
  • Official Segway Helmet
    official segway helmet
  • Product Comparison

    GTR Bamboo Electric Skateboards

    ALL TERRAIN STREET
    TOP SPEED 36 kph 42 kph
    RANGE Standard Battery: 30 km
    Travel Battery: 10 km
    Standard Battery: 50 km
    Travel Battery: 15 km
    MOTOR 2 x 1500W Brushless Out-runner 2 x 1500W Brushless Out-runner
    BATTERY Standard: 14Ah, Samsung Lithium Ion
    Travel: 4.2Ah, Sony Lithium Ion
    Standard: 14Ah, Samsung Lithium Ion
    Travel: 4.2Ah, Sony Lithium Ion
    CHARGE TIME

    Standard Battery: 4-5 hrs
    Travel Battery: 1.5-2 hrs

    Standard Battery: 4-5 hrs 
    Travel Battery: 1.5-2 hrs
    WEIGHT

    Standard Battery: 11.3 kg
    Travel Battery: 9.5 kg

    Standard Battery: 10.3 kg
    Travel Battery: 8.5 kg
    MAX. RIDER WEIGHT 100 kg 100 kg
    BRAKES Ultra-smooth stepless braking control w/ regenerative recharging Ultra-smooth stepless braking control w/ regenerative recharging
    WHEELS 7-inch Pneumatic, All-Terrain Evolve GT 97mm 76A (Black)
    WHEEL BASE 94 cm - 91 cm 94 cm - 91 cm
    DECK MATERIAL 3-Ply Bamboo + 2-Ply Fiberglass 3-Ply Bamboo + 2-Ply Fiberglass
    DECK LENGTH 96 cm 96 cm
    HILLS Up to 25% Up to 30%
    SLIDES NO YES
    TERRAIN All: Short grass, Dirt Tracks: Paved Roads & Footpaths Smooth Bitumen Roads, Footpaths & Concrete
    TRUCKS Forged/ CNC Super carve 306 mm/ 12", inner wheel spacing 235 mm / 9.25" Forged/ CNC Super carve 306 mm/ 12", inner wheel spacing 235 mm / 9.25"
    BEARINGS Evolve Ceramic Precision Bearings Evolve Ceramic Precision Bearings
    REMOTE R-2 Remote, Bluetooth control, instant trigger response R-2 Remote, Bluetooth control, instant trigger response


    GTR Carbon Electric Skateboards

    1 ALL TERRAIN STREET
    TOP SPEED 36 kph 42 kph
    RANGE Standard Battery: 30 km
    Travel Battery: 10 km
    Standard Battery: 50 km
    Travel Battery: 15 km
    MOTOR 2 x 1500W Brushless Out-runner 2 x 1500W Brushless Out-runner
    BATTERY

    Standard: 14Ah Samsung Lithium Ion
    Travel: 4.2Ah Sony Lithium Ion

    Standard: 14Ah Samsung Lithium Ion
    Travel: 4.2Ah Sony Lithium Ion
    CHARGE TIME Standard Battery: 4-5 hrs
    Travel Battery: 1.5-2 hrs

    Standard Battery: 4-5 hrs
    Travel Battery: 1.5-2 hrs

    WEIGHT Standard Battery: 10.7 kg
    Travel Battery: 9.4 kg
    Standard Battery: 9.8 kg
    Travel Battery: 8.4 kg
    MAX. RIDER WEIGHT 100 kg 100 kg
    BRAKES Ultra-smooth stepless braking control w/ regenerative recharging Ultra-smooth stepless braking control w/ regenerative recharging
    WHEELS 7" Pneumatic, All-Terrain Evolve GT 97mm 76a (Black)
    WHEEL BASE 94 cm 94 cm
    DECK MATERIAL Highest-grade Carbon Fibre Highest-grade Carbon Fibre
    DECK LENGTH 101 cm 101 cm
    HILLS Up to 25% Up to 30%
    SLIDES NO YES
    TERRAIN All: Short Grass, Dirt Tracks, Paved Roads, and Footpaths Smooth Bitumen Roads, Footpaths, & Concrete
    TRUCKS Forged/ CNC Super carve 306mm/ 12", inner wheel 235mm/ 9.25" Forged/ CNC Super carve 306mm/ 12", inner wheel 235mm/ 9.25"
    BEARINGS Evolve Ceramic Precision Bearings Evolve Ceramic Precision Bearings
    REMOTE R-2 Remote, Bluetooth control, instant trigger response R-2 Remote, Bluetooth control, instant trigger response

     

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