Backfire G2 Review

Performance Comparison

Speed

The first section of our review is dedicated to speed. We measured both acceleration and maximum speed. The Backfire G2 smokes the majority of the competition — if you're a speed demon, this model will not disappoint.

For this part of our assessment, we took the boards to a wide-open parking lot to let them rip. We clocked how long it took each model to shred a distance of 200 feet three times, and then took an average of the results. To ensure accuracy, we used the same rider for all of the tests. The Backfire G2 performed well during our trials, with a top speed of 21.26 mph.

For the second part of this metric, we conducted a similar test. With the boards at rest, we accelerated at full throttle for a distance of 50 feet and, again, took an average of three trials. While most boards took 5-7 seconds to travel this distance, the Backfire G2 got it done in 4.69.

Range

To assess the range of the boards, we spent hours and hours making loops in a flat asphalt parking lot while maintaining a speed of 12 mph until each model lost its juice. We then broke out the old trusty stopwatch and timed how long it took each battery to get back to 100%. This is not the Backfire G2's strongest metric, but it held its own against the others. This board showed a tested range of 12.9 miles. But, we should mention that it was extremely sluggish for the last half mile.

When it came time to recharge, the Backfire G2 did ok, but we were not overly impressed. It took 2 ½ hours to get fully juiced. This result puts it right about in the middle of the road for our assessment. Some of the quickest charge times we've seen are right about an hour, with the longest being four hours or more.

Ride

The ride metric, easily our tester's favorite, was based on purely subjective data. For this portion of our review, we just shredded around town on paved bike paths and sidewalks having fun. We paid close attention to turning radius, the comfort, the griptape, and the flex & camber.

We found that the Backfire G2 is an absolute blast to skate. With the long wheelbase, wide trucks, and 100 mm wheels, this thing is very stable at high speeds. That said, it is not the most maneuverable — it wants to go fast. If you plan on making a lot of quick turns and kickturns, this is not the one. The large wheels allow it to sail over cracks and bumps with ease. While this isn't the toughest griptape that we've seen on an electric skateboard, many skaters prefer tape that allows them to constantly reposition their feet for corners and upcoming obstacles with ease.

Hills

For this section, we found the steepest hill in town and ascended the beast as far as each board would take our test rider. As the angle gradient gradually increased, we awarded points based on the maximum angle each model could attain.

The Backfire G2 did fairly well for this metric. We've seen electric skateboards smash straight up our test hill without losing too much momentum. This model slows down a little bit compared to the strongest models that we've seen. That said, it does get the job done and cruises uphill without too much difficulty.

Build

To assess the build of each electric skateboard, we weighed them, then judged the ergonomics of both the board itself as well as the remote control, if applicable. We also paid close attention to the responsiveness of the remotes and noted any connectivity issues. The Backfire G2 showed solid results for this metric.

At 16.3 lbs, the Backfire G2 isn't the lightest board we've ever seen, but we didn't find it to be too heavy. It falls right about in the middle of the pack for the electric skateboards that we've tested.

We were impressed with the ergonomics and quality of the remote included with the Backfire G2. The wrist lanyard, forefinger hole, palm grip, and thumb throttle are all features that we've come to love. We have yet to find any issues with the connectivity between the remote and the board.

Braking

The final section of our review is dedicated to braking. To gauge the stopping power of each model, we got each skateboard up to 12 mph, then measured the distance that it took each one to come to a complete stop. We conducted three trials, then took an average of our measurements. The G2 didn't do so well during this assessment. It took 41 feet to stop, while the best we've seen can stop around 15 feet.

We also wanted to gauge the braking while bombing hills. We found that the Backfire G2 did fairly well slowing down going downhill — but still, not nearly as good as the best of the best.

Value

The Backfire G2 is clearly a great bargain. While many electric skateboards can really put a dent in your funds, this model offers solid performance at an affordable price.

Conclusion