The future has finally arrived. Older generations certainly remember wanting a hoverboard after watching Marty McFly ride one. Hoverboards were first introduced in 2014 and have grown in popularity.
You see people riding these from young to old and even using them for transportation to and from work.
If you are new to hoverboards, you may have a lot of questions, such as how much weight one of these vehicles holds.
The weight limits on hoverboards vary according to the manufacturer and size of the board.
Why Do Hoverboards Have Weight Limits?
Obviously, if you are buying a hoverboard for a child, there is no real need to worry about the weight limits. However, if you are riding one as an adult, the weight limit of the hoverboard may be a concern.
There are a number of reasons hoverboard manufacturers impose weight limits. The following are some of the most essential reasons.
1. Increased Breakdowns
Even if you only exceed the weight limit by about twenty pounds, you will find your hoverboard is likely to experience more breakdowns. Increased breakdowns lead to expensive repairs and the degradation of a hoverboard’s lifespan.
2. Wear and Tear
Most hoverboards are made of many materials, including polycarbonate and ABS plastic. The casing, wheels, and brackets can all be placed under a tremendous burden with heavier rider weights. The wear and tear suffered by hoverboards greatly increase with each pound you go over the weight limit.
3. Safety Concerns
One of the most significant reasons there are hoverboard weight limits is safety. Hoverboards must keep a specific balance to function normally. When you exceed the recommended weight limits, you place the hoverboard under strain.
Hoverboards that are under strain will operate abnormally. Exceeding the weight limits could cause the hoverboard to stop working suddenly, which could lead to you falling off and becoming seriously injured.
What Are the Weight Limits For Hoverboards?
Hoverboards have general weight limits according to the size of the board. The following offers information on the average weight limits of hoverboard sizes.
- 4.5 inch-120 pounds
- 6.5 inch-220 pounds
- 8 inch-265 pounds
- 10 inch-330 pounds
These numbers can vary according to the manufacturer and materials of the hoverboard, so you will need to do some research and read the owner’s manual before jumping onboard and going for a ride.
What Should You Consider When Purchasing a Hoverboard to Handle Your Weight?
If you are a larger adult, there are some things you will need to consider when purchasing a hoverboard so you can rest assured it will operate safely and effectively.
Check the Specs
Before purchasing any hoverboard, you have to conduct research. Read everything you can about the hoverboard, including what it is made of and its weight limit. If the weight limit is too small, choose another model or brand.
Check the Wheel Size
You may be surprised to learn that wheel size is a direct factor in determining the weight limit of the hoverboard. Larger wheels are to be able to support a higher weight amount. Smaller tires are generally found on children’s hoverboards.
Check the Intended User
Who is the hoverboard being marketed to in advertising? Is the hoverboard being marketed to kids and teens or to adults? Adults will find a child’s or even a teen’s hoverboard is not going to have a high enough weight limit.
While it may be tempting to hop on your kid’s hoverboard and go for a ride, don’t do it! Not only could you break your child’s toy, but you could also break yourself in an accident.
Check the Size
Generally speaking, the larger the hoverboard, the more weight it can support. If you are above-average weight, choose the largest hoverboard you can find. Larger hoverboards will distribute your weight more evenly and reduce the risks of the problems above.
What If You Are Only Slightly Over the Weight Limit?
If you are only a couple of pounds over the weight limit, you do not have much to worry about. The hoverboard should still function normally without any safety concerns. If you are ten or twenty pounds over the limit, you should avoid riding the hoverboard.
Is There a Weight Minimum for Hoverboards?
Believe it or not, there are weight minimums for hoverboards as well. Children under 44 pounds should not ride on a hoverboard. This weight minimum excludes children under the age of five.
Smaller children will not have enough weight to balance the hoverboard properly. Small children also lack the muscle coordination that is necessary for operating a hoverboard safely.
Pay Attention to Weight Limits and Minimums
Hoverboard manufacturers put weight limits and minimums in place to protect riders against serious injuries. Before you attempt to ride a hoverboard, make sure to check the weight limits to ensure you do not exceed them.
Exceeding the weight limits of a hoverboard is only going to lead to increased risks of accidents. Hoverboards cannot operate correctly when they are overburdened with too much weight. Choose the right hoverboard for your size and practice proper riding techniques to stay safe.