Evolve Bamboo & Carbon GTX Electric Skateboard Review 2023
Pros
Cons
With the growing popularity of electric skateboards for leisure or commuting, the growing line of Evolve Electric Skateboard GTX series is not one to back down from their competitors. Introducing the new and improved version of the high-rated Evolve Carbon GT and the Bamboo GT.
After a quick glance at the product specifications, it is safe to say that the Evolve Bamboo GTX is a high-performance electric skateboard that exceeds all expectations in terms of speed and battery life. With the creation of this fantastic product, Evolve is slowly making a name in the electric skateboard industry.
Can this electric skateboard live up to the hype? Let us find out as we will spare you no details on this Evolve Carbon and Bamboo GTX review.
Speed and Power Output
With the combination of the GTX’s massive lithium battery and fine-tuning, the Bamboo and Carbon GTX has one of the fastest and most powerful motors you can find in an electric skateboard of its caliber.
The 3000-watt motor produces power that can make the Evolve longboard go up to 26 miles per hour. The Evolve GTX motor is also coated with a gold-plated finish, making it look blinged-out so you can feel a little fancy when riding.
One of the better features of the GTX is the variable riding modes. This particular feature allows the rider to safely enjoy the product by adjusting the maximum speed in different riding conditions. You can use the “Slow” mode for easy control, especially for beginners and first-time riders. If you are a little more confident in your riding skills, you can switch it up to “fast” mode and blast through the streets with style.
If you want a more adrenaline-pumping ride, you can switch to the “GT” mode. This speed mode unleashes the insane capability of the Evolve Bamboo GTX in terms of power and speed. It can also comfortably climb hills at a 25% to 30% gradient.
Because of the Bamboo GTX’s top speed, you will probably be breaking some city speed limits, so make sure you are wearing the right gear. No worries about instability, as you will not feel it. You can consistently cruise over different road conditions and elevations without encountering any issues.
Range and Battery Performance
Now, let us talk about the Evolve GTX range and battery performance of this Evolve Electric Skateboard. Compared to other electric skateboards, this particular model can outlast any other battery. With a single charge, you can reach distances up to 31 miles going at the maximum speed. You can also maximize its battery life by practicing efficient riding and braking habits.
You can also try the all-new “ECO” mode. This riding mode allows you a more relaxed ride with an unparalleled range. The massive 18650 lithium-ion battery provides the motor with the power it needs to go fast for long periods of time.
One of the most notable battery features is the regenerative braking feature. Every time you slow down, your battery charges a little, making it last over longer distances. Pretty awesome feature right?
Design & Construction Quality
Evolve took some of the best performance features from the Carbon GT, and morphed them into the aesthetic of the all-new Bamboo GTX. The laser-cut grip tape looks absolutely astonishing. They etched out the logos on top and added a little bit of bling on the badges on top of the skateboard trucks. Overall, the design of this electric skateboard looks very sleek and stylish.
The Evolve Carbon GTX is designed for riders who do not prefer any flex. It is also much more stable when riding at faster speeds and going downhill. The Carbon GTX also boasts a more futuristic design that pays attention to detail. While the Bamboo may be a lighter choice, the Carbon GTX is more suitable for heavier riders.
The combination of the bamboo deck, the carver trucks, and the urethane wheels make the Evolve Bamboo GTX true to the longboarding feel. You can do surfy carves on variable urban terrain. If you know how to bust out slides and drifts, it is also possible because of the flexy construction and urethane wheels.
Deck
The modified bamboo construction of the deck gives you some sort of flex for a more comfortable ride. It feels great underfoot, making longer rides much more enjoyable and ergonomic. The flex will also help you gain total control over the board when gliding and carving at high speeds.
People who don’t prefer flex, can opt for the Carbon variant of the GTX series which is probably the only difference between the two in terms of ride quality.
The ride comfort and acceleration work well together. Even if you are going at fast speeds, you do not really get the sense of falling off or instability.
Wheels
The Evolve Bamboo GTX comes with a set of good-looking 97mm wheels which has some sort of an old-school whitewall look. The combination of the soft 78a urethane and stone-ground finish gives you a smooth ride which contributes to the top speed and maximum range.
The stone-ground wheels give you a buttery ride right out the box. You can also switch up the wheels to the Evolve GTX offroad variant. However, the heavier weight of the wheels will decrease the maximum range per charge down to 18.5 miles.
Trucks
It comes with the patented Evolve Super Carve Trucks. You can tighten or loosen the trucks with a 9/16 or 14mm wrench. Depending on your style of riding, you should adjust the configuration of the trucks to your preferred stiffness. The Super Carve trucks have a set of 4 bushings for each truck, making the skateboard carve all the way so that you can do sharp turns with ease.
Remote Control
The Evolve Bamboo GTX Street uses the LCD GT remote which displays the mode you are in, your current speed, remaining battery life, and range. Evolve also made some minor adjustments to the font to keep things fresh for their newer models.
The remote control is very handy. It can securely fit in your pocket and the buttons are sturdy with a decreased chance of finding yourself accidentally pressing the acceleration button. The plastic construction might be a little off-putting, but the remote control has an excellent grip, which makes it comfortable to hold and operate.
Braking System
The Bamboo GTX electric skateboard has a regenerative braking (1) feature. It keeps the battery charged for a longer time. The brakes themselves are a little scary, especially when you are coming down from maximum speed. I noticed that you can lose balance when you abruptly press the brake lever when riding over 22 mph.
Understanding basic physics will save you from getting thrown off the board, but you would probably wish that the Evolve Bamboo GTX had a better braking system.
Safety
The newest firmware update includes a safety feature that will set off whenever there is a disturbance of signal between the remote and skateboard. Going to safe mode will slow down the electric skateboard decreasing the chances of harm.
All the new electric skateboard products from Evolve will have this safety feature. If you have an older version, you can contact Evolve’s customer service to get the new firmware update.
When your electric skateboard is in “Safe” mode, you cannot switch modes or go any faster. This new safety mode replaces the reverse feature found in the older versions of the Evolve electric skateboard line because, apparently, nobody ever bothers with the reverse feature.
Brand & Customer Service
Evolve Skateboards is one of the leading manufacturers of top-quality electric longboards with distribution ports all over the world. They are very passionate when it comes to developing their products. Evolve wants to retain the traditional longboard and concrete surfing experience and integrate it with the latest technology to make it much more enjoyable.
Most of their products offer a seven 7 day free trial (2), while accessories are covered for 30 days. Check out the store policies (3) for information on who pays for return shipping for certain conditions.
For more questions about warranty, defects, returns, orders, you can contact them at [email protected], and their US distribution office is located in Carlsbad, California.
Downsides
- Evolve removed the reverse feature for this particular model.
- Abrupt braking may cause the rider to lose balance.
- The remote control is made with light plastic materials that might break with normal wear and tear.
- It is quite pricey.
Who Should Buy the Evolve Bamboo GTX Electric Skateboard?
I recommend the Evolve Bamboo GTX Electric Skateboard for experienced riders who want a reliable and powerful electric skateboard for commuting, leisure, and anything else in between. If you are looking for an electric skateboard with a long maximum range that can go at fast speeds, the Bamboo GTX is the board for you.
Because this electric skateboard goes really fast, this product is best for riders with skateboard experience ages 14 and up.
Final Verdict
Overall, the Evolve Carbon and Bamboo GTX deserve a 4.2 rating. They offer a high-powered engine with a simple and elegant aesthetic. The design and the gold accents are definitely eye-catching. This electric skateboard also has an impressive bamboo construction, the flex feature gives you more enjoyment when diving into carves. The urethane wheels are also grippy and fun to slide and do drifts with.
Aside from all the other notable features, the GTX series excels in speed and range more than any other electric skateboard in the market.
Evolve Bamboo & Carbon GTX Electric Skateboard Video Review
| Evolve Bamboo & Carbon GTR Electric Skateboard Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Top Speed | 26 MPH |
| Deck Length | 38 Inches |
| Wheelbase | 29 Inches |
| Motor | 3000 watts |
| Range | 31 miles |
| Battery | 36 Volts |
| Charge Time | 1 Hour and 20 mins. |
| Max Load | 220 LBS |
| Weight | 19.4 LBS |
| Wheel Size | 97mm |
| Wheel Type | Urethane or pneumatic for all-terrain |
| Brake System | Regenerative Braking Systems |
| Warranty | 1 year with a 7-day free trial |
| Price | $$$ |
FAQs
References
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Regenerative_brake
- https://evolveskateboardsusa.com/pages/warranty-registration
- https://evolveskateboardsusa.com/pages/store-policies-and-terms-of-service
zippyelectrics.com may earn commissions when you purchase items through links to external source such as Amazon. Read our affiliate disclosure here.
