Mike Hardaker Test Riding the Maxfind FF AT E-Skateboard in the Tetons | Photo Rich Goodwin Mountain Weekly News
Skateboards can be a great way to have fun, relax, exercise, and yes, even commute. Especially for people who have a shorter commute, skateboards, longboards, and other recreational means of transportation are getting increasingly popular as a regular mode of transport.
That’s only getting more true as more of these modes of transport have adopted motors and gone electric.
That includes this Maxfind FF AT Skateboard, which is why we’re taking a closer look at this model. Like all electric transportation, it’s important to know what this skateboard can and can’t do, who it’s for, and how effective it really is at accomplishing its core goals – being a fun and effective mode of transportation.
So, let’s see what the FF AT Skateboard is all about, who it’s best for, and why you should or shouldn’t get it.
About Maxfind
Maxfind is all about what they call micro-mobility solutions. Basically, they are one of the electric travel solutions companies that is looking for answers to the problem of transportation in a car-centric world. Especially here in the US, cities and even rural areas are so built around the assumption that most people have cars that getting around without one is incredibly difficult.
Micro-mobility solutions help people get from place to place when they don’t really need a vehicle to travel the distance, usually with a focus on using eco-friendly and sustainable technologies to make transportation easier.
That’s exactly what Maxfind thinks about when they are designing new products. They want things that are genuinely practical, fun to use, sustainable, and offer an answer to today’s logistical transport challenges.
Why does all of this matter? Because Maxfind is well-positioned to offer innovative electric skateboards. It also makes them a good addition to more traditional transportation options.
Dual Motors
The Maxfind FF AT Skateboard comes with two 1500W motors, a range of range options (the base model will give you 17miles/27km), and a top speed just about as fast as you would ever want to go on a skateboard, 28 mph.
Longboard fans will recognize the basic layout of this skateboard, which is designed in much the same shape thanks to the efficiency and speed of the design. Wise-set front and rear wheels help give you a more stable base, without sacrificing maneuverability.
The skateboard is considered a budget e-skateboard, coming in at just over $1k at the time of writing, but it doesn’t really perform like a budget option. Between the speed, the climbing assist, and range, this skateboard feels more like a high-end e-skateboard than an entry-level tool.
More impressively, the skateboard is designed for all-terrain use, from beefy protection around the battery and motors to the chunky tires, heavy-duty board and grip top, and maneuvering performance.
But, you can say anything about a new skateboard you want to, so let’s take a closer look at the features of this skateboard so you can see what we mean.
Features & Benefits
Here are some of the core features, and the benefits of each feature when you’re riding this skateboard:
All Terrain Wheels
The first thing you’re likely to notice looking at this skateboard are the large grippy wheels. Not only does this design give you a wider base for better balance, the wheels perform well on a wide variety of terrains and in a wide range of situations. You won’t notice any excess grippiness on pavement, but you’ll get some added stability when you’re on dirt or gravel.
Hub Motors
One of the common failings of e-skateboards and longboards are motors with belts to run the wheels. Besides being bulky, the belts are often a vulnerability if you’re riding on any terrain other than pavement. Even on pavement, stray rocks or winter gravel can still pose a problem.
Instead of using that design, the FF AT Skateboard uses discrete hub motors that are fully enclosed and don’t have the same weaknesses.
The bottom of the deck, which contains the battery and motors, is also durable enough to protect these critical components from damage.
Multiple Range Options
There are three different range options you can get on this model. The base model gives you a 17-mile range. The other two options are a 34-mile range and a 51-mile range. That’s fantastic if you’re looking to go on adventures or are interested in using the skateboard for a commute or running errands.
Of course, the longer-range options do increase the price. But, if you’re looking for a more functional or long-lasting design, it’s worth the added cost.
Incredibly Maneuverable Design
Even before longboards were available in electric versions, riders noted that longboards had big advantages when it came to speed and stability but weren’t as maneuverable as shorter skateboards. This model helps address some of those problems.
It’s not going to beat any shorter skateboards in a maneuverability contest, but it does generally outperform other longboards, at least in the hands of a skilled rider.
Durable Deck Design
The deck on this skateboard is made with an x-composite flex deck that is both highly durable for multi-terrain riding, and also helps with maneuverability and gives you good shock absorption while riding.
That’s important both at speed and for longer-distance riding. One of the main complaints during the early days of longboards was that they could rattle your joints and leave you sore, especially if you got up to higher speeds or were riding over longer distances. Having a more shock-absorbent board helps cushion your joints, changing the stress of riding from a rattling stress to more of a bounce that’s a bit gentler.
Built-In Handle
This really is just a convenience rather than a huge feature or benefit of the design. Taking your board with you is a lot easier when you have a handle to hold it – which this one does, built-in to the end of the board.
However, even without a handle, carrying your longboard isn’t generally difficult. The size is usually a bigger problem than the weight, and this handle design, on the end rather than the side, doesn’t really help with that.
It does, however, help if you want to fasten your longboard to a bag or backpack. The built-in handle gives you a purpose-designed place to attach it.
Who Is The Maxfind FF AT Skateboard For?
The Maxfind FF AT Skateboard is a good multipurpose board that works for a couple of different groups of people. It’s a good option for folks who are looking for the advantages of fast and cheap transportation offered by longboards, but it’s also durable and maneuverable enough for people who are looking for a fun thrill ride rather than the more practical transportation uses.
Of course, that’s a good thing, since it means that both groups have a versatile board that can be used both ways.
It’s also a reasonable option for folks who are making a short commute or who want to run smaller errands on the board. You won’t want to use it if you’re going to be loaded down by a ton of groceries or other heavy bags – but it’s okay for a backpack’s worth of items.
If you’re looking for a trail skateboard but need a little electric assist on longer trails, this board is also for you.
Why Do You Need It?
The Maxfind FF AT skateboard is a good option for skateboarders who love riding and want a little more versatility, range, and a more comfortable ride. It’s also a good alternative to e-bikes or scooters for short-range commuting, trail riding, or just going to a friend’s house.
Like a lot of other e-transport solutions, the Maxfind FF AT skateboard is designed for enthusiasts. But, it’s also nice to see that this board is a reasonable entry point into the hobby as well. It’s easy to use, affordable for an e-skateboard, and flexible enough to continue working well as your skill grows and you do more with your skateboard.
Maxfind FF AT E-Skateboard Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Dual 1500W motors for speed and power
- All-terrain wheels for stability and versatility
- Multiple range options for varied use
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy loads.
- Handle may not aid in carrying.
- Price increases for longer range options.
Overall Impression
Overall, the Maxfind FF AT ($999.99) is a pretty impressive e-skateboard that seems to come from a combination of understanding modern transport needs, and an understanding and love of what makes skateboards and longboards fun to use.
The design looks simple and utilitarian, but that’s not a bad thing. Good motor design, a durable and protective board, and all-terrain tires help ensure that this skateboard is versatile for both different situations and different kinds of users.
It’s not perfect, but it’s more than good enough for most casual and even advanced skateboard riders.
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