Arduino Electric Longboard

Understand the risks and safety requirements.

1. Electric longboards can reach 20+ mph—always wear a helmet.
2. Use appropriate batteries (LiPo batteries require safe handling).
3. Never ride in traffic without experience.
4. Ensure all electrical connections are secure and insulated.
5. Test in a safe, empty area first.

Mount the motor and pulley to the longboard.

1. Attach the motor mount bracket to the longboard truck.
2. Secure the brushless motor to the mount.
3. Install the motor pulley on the motor shaft.
4. Install the wheel pulley on one of the rear wheels.
5. Connect the motor to the wheel pulley using a drive belt.
6. Ensure proper tension on the belt (not too tight, not too loose).

Wire the motor controller to the motor and power.

1. Connect the ESC's 3 wires to the brushless motor's 3 wires.
2. Connect the ESC power wires to the battery pack (observe polarity!).
3. Mount the ESC and battery securely to the underside of the longboard.
4. Use cable ties or mounting tape to keep wires organized.
5. Install a power switch between the battery and ESC for safety.

Set up Arduino to receive throttle commands.

1. Connect the wireless receiver to Arduino.
2. Wire the receiver signal pin to Arduino analog input A0.
3. Power the receiver from Arduino 5V and GND.
4. The receiver outputs a PWM signal based on remote throttle position.

Program Arduino to control motor speed.

1. Open Arduino IDE and create a new sketch.
2. Read the PWM signal from the receiver.
3. Map the signal to ESC throttle range (typically 1000-2000 microseconds).
4. Send the throttle signal to the ESC.
5. Add safety features: throttle limits, smooth acceleration/deceleration.

#include <Servo.h>

Servo esc;

const int receiverPin = A0;
const int escPin = 9;

int throttleMin = 1000;
int throttleMax = 2000;
int throttleNeutral = 1500;

void setup() {
  esc.attach(escPin);
  esc.writeMicroseconds(throttleNeutral);
  
  Serial.begin(9600);
  delay(2000);
}

void loop() {
  int receiverValue = pulseIn(receiverPin, HIGH, 25000);
  
  if (receiverValue > 500) {
    int throttle = map(receiverValue, 1000, 2000, throttleMin, throttleMax);
    throttle = constrain(throttle, throttleMin, throttleMax);
    
    esc.writeMicroseconds(throttle);
    
    Serial.print("Receiver: ");
    Serial.print(receiverValue);
    Serial.print(" -> Throttle: ");
    Serial.println(throttle);
  } else {
    esc.writeMicroseconds(throttleNeutral);
  }
  
  delay(20);
}

Verify motor control before riding.

1. Elevate the longboard so wheels are off the ground.
2. Turn on the battery and Arduino.
3. Pair the remote transmitter with the receiver.
4. Slowly increase throttle and watch the wheel spin.
5. Test braking (if your ESC supports reverse/braking).
6. Listen for unusual sounds or vibrations.
7. Check that all connections are secure.

Safely test the electric longboard.

1. Wear helmet and protective gear.
2. Find a flat, empty parking lot or path.
3. Start with one foot on the board, push off gently.
4. Gradually apply throttle once moving.
5. Practice accelerating, cruising, and braking.
6. Get comfortable with the board's response before riding in traffic.