D3M Onyx: The (Stupid Fast) Bad Boy of Electric Skateboards

Today we are featuring a product that is capable of going 25+ mph, with a range of over 21 miles and looks cool as hell. We are talking about, none other than, the Koowheel D3M Onyx Edition (sold by Hoverboardx).  This board is an upgrade from the original D3M.

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Picking the perfect electric skateboard can be tricky. You have to know your limits and find a product that can best suit you. The board below IS NOT for beginners.

That being said this is one FUN board. When first riding you can feel how sturdy and durable it feels in your hands. It picks up speed quickly and braking is effortless. The only downside I found with the Onyx was its maneuverability. Turning is very difficult, especially at low speeds.

The Company

KooWheel is a company in partnership with Shenzhen JOMO Technology, located in Bai Shigang Village, Dongguan City, China. The main group has over 5,000 projects based in electronics and engineering throughout the world. Shenzhen JOMO aims to bring fully certified and superiorly crafted components, such as wheel chips, light boards, drivers, and heat sinks. What does this mean for electronic transportation? That you are receiving a quality item worth the money.

Before KooWheel brought around the KooWheel 4-wheel electric skateboard, they had developed hoverboards and 2-wheel self-balancing scooters since 2009. The products are all environmentally friendly and aim to lessen dependence on oil.

If the company’s philosophy fits your own, maybe you will be inspired to give them a try? Otherwise, the enthralling features available with the KooWheel electronic skateboard will be the deciding factor in whether or not you choose it over the other options out there.

Product Overview

The specs say this thing weighs 16 pounds, which may sound light, but don’t be fooled the Onyx is a tad on the heavy side. With all of the weight in the back where the battery is it can be awkward to lug around.

The board is made entirely from Canadian maple. This allows for elasticity, hardness, stability, and will not easily deform. You can expect this board to last, no matter where you go for a ride. The wheels are sturdy polyurethane to up the shock absorption. Dual brushless hub motors add to the acceleration power, giving this board a slightly faster start than earlier models. In fact, with the provided remote control, you can bring the maximum speed up to 27 mph (by unlocking the secret advanded mode)!

And if you’re worried about having to keep track of the battery, never fear. There is a built-in indicator on the board so you simply have to glance down to check how much battery life remains.

Specifications

• Board Dimensions: 36.2 x 9.4 x 5.1 inches (920 x 240 x 130 mm)
• Net Weight: 16 pounds (7.3 kilograms)
• Material: 7-ply Canadian Maple Wood
• Battery Range: 22-25 miles (35-40 km)
• Battery: Lithium-ion 36V-5500mAh Battery from either Samsung or LG (both are UL 2272 certified)
• Charging Voltage: 110-240V, 50/60Hz
• Charging Time: 2 Hours
• Max Load: 286 pounds (130 kg)
• Motor Power: 350W x2 (total 700W)
• Max Speed: 25 mph (43 km/h)
• Hill Grade/Climb: 25%
• Includes a 2.4GHz Wireless Remote for controlling the unit

Safety

First, every electronic component of the Onyx has undergone ASTM and UL 2272 certification testing. This testing ensures that the electronic transportation device will not smoke, spark, or ignite under various scenarios. Such testing looks at potential overcharging or abnormal discharge, fire resistance, and so on.

The elasticity of the board is for more than just durability. The structure bends to even protect the battery and electronic components, adding a level of protection other brands have overlooked. There is also a smart chip installed to avoid sudden acceleration and sudden braking, preventing accidental falls or accidents from occurring. Lastly, you know how much the system is strained with real-time monitoring of the motor temperature. KooWheel has made sure to keep the rider’s safety their number one priority when designing the D3M Onyx Edition.

With all electronic devices and standard skateboards, be sure to adhere to safety protocol. Wear a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads before going on for a ride. Also be sure to perform routine maintenance on your KooWheel to prevent any malfunctions from occurring.

Pros

• Awesome design that will capture attention
• Durable construction of 7-ply Canadian maple as well as elastic components to protect battery pack
• Short charging time – 2 hours
• High-speed travel
• Impressive maximum load
• A breadth of safety features that ensure peace of mind, such as the battery and motor temperature monitors
• RoHS approved and UL 2272 certified electronic parts and battery
• Environmentally-friendly
• Brakes are super easy to get used to

Cons

• Remote control feels a little cheap
• Tad on the heavy side
• Maneuverability

Final Thoughts

For those who are looking for a unique alternative to the standard self-balancing scooter, an electric skateboard is a veritable option. There are many styles and brands out there, but KooWheel has been in the game for quite some time. The innovative design of the KooWheel Electronic Skateboard D3M Onyx Edition has the speed, style, and technology you are looking for to add an exciting element to your commute or recreational skateboarding. 

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Are you looking for a less gnarly board? Check out the Acton BLINK LITE!