A self-balancing scooter or self-balancing two-wheeled board or commonly referred as “ hoverboard ” is a portable, rechargeable battery powered scooter. It typically consist of two wheels arranged side-by-side, with two small platforms between the wheels, on which the rider stands. These are the hottest toys of the year, around the world. But, nowadays we can see hoverboard with a single wheel, which is little difficult to balance.
The hoverboard is challenging but fun to ride. Once you master riding one, it moves seamlessly with you. Riding one almost feels like an extension of yourself, and it doesn’t require any manual motion.
However, people in Nepal, do not use hover board that much, still the craze is increasing. Despite coolness, the gadget has a dangerous side. Sometimes, they explode. The battery used to power the hoverboard could explode. In many countries, the hover board is banned in certain areas. Many schools, malls etc. banned the hover board.
There have been reports since 2015 of hover boards combusting or exploding, and the culprit seems to be faulty batteries. These gadgets are powered backed by large lithium ion batteries, which rarely explode in certain circumstances. But, these faulty batteries are an issue particularly with cheap, generic boards for under 30K NPR. Another issue to be aware of is counterfeit boards are available all over Nepal. As we are so close to China, there are more chances that the cheap and unreliable boards could come easily. So, before buying any hover board, please make sure that they have the proper warranty and guarantee provided by the company.
Whether riding skateboards, bicycle or a car have risks involved in it. That does not mean that you should stop using hover board. Hoverboards can reach a maximum speed of around 10mph, so you could sustain a more substantial injury than you would fall off a slower-moving skateboard. But, proper safety gears is a must while riding. Helmets, elbow pads, knee pads, shoes, and gloves are most important. This thing will lower the chances of injury. Most boards also won’t operate going up or down steep hills, usually over 30 to 45 degrees. There are no height limits associated with the boards, though keep in mind that most lift you about four inches above the ground. So, if you are aware of these things, you are now safe with the hoverboards.
There are many companies producing such hover boards. However, not all of their products are safe to ride. You can trust companies like IO Hawk, Phunkeeduck, Powerboard by hoverboard and Monorover. Though their hover boards will cost you a little bit but it’s better to be safe while enjoying. The price ranges between USD 500 to USD 1500 on an average. But, the cost depends on the features and mileage offered by the gadget.
But, where to buy these hoverboards in Nepal. You can get second-hand boards online through hamrobazar.com or there is a shop in New Baneshwor called The Next International and dealgara.com, ktm2day.com, etc. You can order online from Gear Best too if you have USD. We highly recommend that you buy these gadgets from a trusted company, otherwise you know what might happen.
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