How to Ride a "Hoverboard" (Two‐Wheeled Self‐Balancing Scooter)

Last Updated: March 4, 2021

So you have a two-wheeled self-balancing scooter - now you want to learn how to ride it. Its super easy to learn and even easier than learning to ride a full size Segway! Get started with step 1 and you'll be smooth sailing in no time.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Stepping On

1
Read the instruction manual first if included. (Don't worry if it doesn't include one, many brands don't).
2
Turn on the scooter.
- The on button is normally a silver push kind, located on the back near the charge port.
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3
Check it has full battery on the battery gauge. If it doesn't, then charge it using the cable provided.
4
Position the scooter next to something you can hold on to.
5
Holding on to the object step one foot on.
- There is often a light 'next to the battery gauge, if it turns green then it is safe to put your second foot on, if it is red then turn off the board and try again. If the problem persists contact the supplier.
6
Carefully place your second foot on.
- If the scooter moves its fine, just re-position and start again.
- Keep going until you get it right.
7
Once you have achieved your balance, carefully point your toes forwards to go forwards.

Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Learning to Maneuver

1
Once you can go forwards without help, start practicing turning.
2
To turn clockwise, put your right toes down only. You will turn.
- It is very important to keep your other foot horizontal, if you don't do this then it will counteract the turn and may unbalance you.
3
To turn anti-clockwise, put your left toes down.
4
To go backwards, lean back.
5
Handle slopes with care. Most mini self-balancing scooters can handle slopes of up to 15 degrees, although it does vary with brands.
6
Watch your speed. When you achieve top speed you will normally hear a beep. This tells you that you have maxed out the speed and should slow down.
- Now you can start to do spins and go at decent speeds!

Community Q&A

Question

Should I add lights in the front or back?

Peter Betts

Community Answer

It doesn't matter which way. I ride with them at the front for personal protection, although putting them at the back could provide awareness for traffic. You could also add lights to both the front and the back.
Question

How do I increase my speed?

Community Answer

Lean forward! That will give you more speed as you ride.
Question

What do the different flashing lights mean?

Peter Betts

Community Answer

The lights normally go solid when pressure is applied to one side. If both sides of lights are solid, then pressure is on both sides. The lights flash when the battery is low, and very fast blinking could indicate that the board is not calibrated. The manufacturers may be able to provide detailed light sequence plans upon request.

Warnings

These are heavy. If you fall off then it may hurt you or other people. Be careful of what you do and don't try anything dangerous.

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Be careful of the people around you, you don't want to hurt them or get int their way.

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Supervise charging and lithium-ion batteries, as they can potentially explode or leak.

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Wear a helmet at the start for safety.

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