Exway Flex ER Review 2023: Unleashing the Ultimate Riding Experience with Enhanced Range

Remember the time when Boosted ruled the market, showcasing the power of flexible decks in delivering smooth rides? While Boosted may no longer be with us, the quest to carry on its legacy continues as numerous brands strive to recreate that exceptional experience.

Exway, renowned for its exceptional post-sale service reminiscent of Boosted, came tantalizingly close to reviving the Boosted magic with the Exway Flex. This board boasted a flexible deck, seamless control, and refined craftsmanship, offering riders a taste of the Boosted experience at a fraction of the price—an accomplishment that left us thoroughly impressed.

However, despite its many strengths, the Exway Flex still had one notable weakness: its limited range, an issue also faced by Boosted, often resulting in range anxiety for riders.

Thankfully, after a few years of careful consideration, Exway decided to tackle this concern head-on by introducing the Exway Flex ER. Packed with a robust 345 Wh battery and a host of other notable improvements, this new $800 board aims to address the range issue while elevating the riding experience to new heights. Join us as we delve into the specifications of the Exway Flex ER and determine if these enhancements are truly worth flexing.

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Exway Flex ER Build and Specifications

• Deck: Wide flexible fiberglass flexy composite bamboo, comprising maple and fiberglass; less concave and flare.

• Electronic Speed Controller: 12s Hobbywing ESC; 4-speed modes, smart turn-on, in-app customization feature.

• Battery: 21700 4000 mAh 3.6 V high-discharge li-ion cells; 12S2P; 345 Wh.

• Marketed Range: Hub – 28 miles or 45 km; Belt – 27 miles or 43 km.

• Motors: Hub – 5230; Belt – 4230.

• Marketed Top Speed: Hub and Belt – 28 mph or 45 km/h.

• Trucks: Proprietary Trist Truck 8” Reverse Kingpin.

• Wheels: 85*56mm 76A.

Let's begin with the board's highlight—the deck itself. The deck remains the same composite deck made of maple, fiberglass, and bamboo. This composition grants the board a highly flexible feel, with slight adjustments made to the concave for improved riding comfort.

Exway has reduced the deck's concavity, resulting in a flatter, wider, and less flared deck. The original deck had an aggressive design, but we believe this modified version will have broader appeal. Nevertheless, we adore this new deck for its smoothness and stability, appreciating its curves and flexibility.

We also noticed a slight change in the grip tape design, which now exposes the bolts underneath. This thoughtful design choice by Exway makes it easier for users to add or remove additional accessories without damaging the grip tape.

The inclusion of orange wheels and deck design evokes nostalgia for the traditional Boosted aesthetic while still incorporating Exway's brand personality. Overall, the Exway Flex ER feels more refined and polished than its predecessor.

Hobbywing ESC and In-App Customization Feature

In terms of the ESC, Exway has equipped the Flex ER with a customized 12s Hobbywing ESC featuring 4-speed modes, smart power-on, and an in-app customization feature. Within the app, users can adjust their preferences and fine-tune the board's acceleration and braking strength. You can also activate cruise control for a stable ride at the speed you desire, it works like a ride mode lock that keeps you in the speed you left it on.

Moving on to the motors, both hub and belt versions are available. Exway has designed the board to facilitate easy switching between the two systems. While there may be little reason to invest in both systems, the option to change the drivetrain offers welcome flexibility.

Achieving the Marketed Top Speed

In this review, we tested the hub version of the Flex ER, which utilizes dual 1000W hub motors marketed to reach a top speed of 45 km/h or 28 mph. We are pleased to confirm that we managed to achieve the claimed top speed during our tests!

The board comes with standard 85mm urethane wheels, which, while not particularly exceptional, are of high quality and provide good rebound.

The trucks remain Exway's proprietary Trist Trucks, which we are quite familiar with as Exway has utilized them in most of their boards. These reverse kingpin trucks measure 8 inches in length and offer excellent responsiveness and stability.

A 60% Increase in Battery Capacity

Now, let's explore the board's most significant upgrade—the battery. The Flex ER boasts a substantial 60% increase in battery size compared to the previous model, now equipped with a 345 Wh battery as opposed to the previous 216 Wh. it's like it has a extended range battery pack.

This upgrade represents a significant leap forward from its predecessor. Exway markets the Flex ER with a range of 45 km or 28 miles, compared to the previous model's 27 km or 17 miles.

These are substantial claims made by Exway, so we felt compelled to test the limits ourselves. We pushed the board to its maximum capabilities, racing it through hilly terrain. Our rider, weighing 150 lbs or 70 kg, managed an impressive 22 miles or 36 km on the Flex ER.

If the board is primarily used on flat roads, we are confident that it can achieve at least 25 miles or 40 km of range without issue. You can forget about no more range anxiety with this upgrade.

Fast Charger Included

One noteworthy aspect we highly appreciate about the Exway Flex ER is the inclusion of a fast charger in the package. Not every brand offers this as a standard inclusion. The smart battery system recharge the board faster than usual.

Additionally, the Flex ER comes pre-installed with a bash guard, ensuring the deck's edge remains protected and secure right out of the box. The board is rated as IP55 water-resistant and weighs 8.3 kg or 18 lbs.

That concludes our examination of the specifications and build quality. Now, let's evaluate how these attributes translate into the riding experience.

Exway Flex ER Riding Experience

Like all Exway boards, the acceleration of the Flex ER is incredibly smooth. The customized Hobbywing ESC delivers seamless power. It is important to note that we tested the hub version of the Flex ER. While hub systems typically lack torque and power, Exway addressed this by equipping the board with a pair of robust 1000W motors.

For context, most hub boards with strong performance employ 500W motors. While wattage alone does not provide the full picture, it does indicate that Exway has placed emphasis on power. The torque and power will be even more pronounced in the belt version. The Exway Flex ER provides a smooth and pleasant ride, but some people think that the concave is to aggressive and would prefer a completely flat board.

Retaining the Flexible Deck

Next, let's discuss the ride experience. Despite toning down the deck's concavity, it still retains its significant curvature, effectively securing our feet.

The eskate community often mentions that the original Flex's pronounced concavity, known as "flare," can cause discomfort for individuals with larger feet. However, as we wear US-size 10 shoes, we did not encounter this issue. This modification will be greatly appreciated by larger riders.

While toning down the deck's concave may divide opinions, the deck's flexibility is universally loved. The Flex ER remains as flexible as its predecessor, offering the same smoothness and enjoyable carving experience.

The Trist trucks play a pivotal role in delivering a fun carving experience as well. Turning and maneuvering the board felt effortless, and the trucks had a satisfying return to the center position.

Out of the box, the trucks may feel slightly loose. If you desire greater stability at high speeds, we recommend tightening the trucks slightly. Adjusting the trucks by a few turns should enhance the board's performance at high speeds. However, it is worth noting that the Flex ER is not specifically designed for stability at high speeds. If high-speed riding is your primary focus, a board with a stiffer deck and more stable trucks would be a better choice.

While testing the hub version, we did experience significant vibrations on rough roads and terrains. Nonetheless, the flexy deck helped to mitigate some of the road vibrations. For individuals residing in areas with poor road conditions, we recommend upgrading to 105mm Cloudwheel Donuts. On smooth roads, however, the riding experience is exceptionally enjoyable.

No More Voltage Sag Issues

The Exway Flex ER Hub may not possess beastly power, but it maintains good torque even when the battery is low. Compared to the original Flex, voltage sag is no longer a concern. With only 15% battery remaining, we managed to climb a steep hill that our old Flex couldn't handle.

Exway Flex ER Final Verdict

In summary, the Exway Flex ER delivers a refined riding experience accompanied by a sleek appearance. Its flexible deck, responsive trucks, and seamless control make it an exceptional board that is a joy to ride. However, it is important to note that its design does not prioritize stability at high speeds due to its bouncy deck and responsive trucks.

While Exway boards have traditionally faced scrutiny regarding their specifications and battery size, the Flex ER breaks that pattern. Offering an enjoyable range of 28 miles for $800 is a remarkable feat. It is worth mentioning that opting for the belt version will result in a slight reduction in range. Nevertheless, 345 Wh still provides an ample distance for riding.

For those undecided between belt or hub motors, choosing the belt version generally leads to smoother rides and improved torque. Opt for hub motors if you prefer a stealthy ride with maximum range or if you simply dislike changing belts.

So, should you purchase the Exway Flex ER? Well, it undoubtedly sets a high standard for an $800 board. Considering the limited number of boards available at this price point, the question should perhaps be, why shouldn't you?

Exway Flex ER Pros and Cons

It's important to note that individual preferences may vary, and these pros and cons should be considered within the context of your specific riding needs and preferences.

Pros:

1. Flexible Deck: The composite deck made of maple, fiberglass, and bamboo provides a smooth and stable riding experience.

2. Silky Smooth Control: The customized Hobbywing ESC offers seamless acceleration and braking, with in-app customization for personalized preferences.

3. Enhanced Range: The 345 Wh battery provides a 60% increase in capacity, resulting in a marketed range of 28 miles or 45 km, reducing range anxiety.

4. Versatile Motor Options: The board offers both hub and belt motor versions, allowing users to switch between the two for different riding preferences.

5. Polished Build Quality: The board features a refined design, including thoughtful details like exposed bolts for easy accessory customization and an appealing aesthetic reminiscent of traditional Boosted boards.

6. Fast Charger Included: The Flex ER comes with a fast charger out of the box, ensuring quicker charging times.

7. IP55 Water Resistance: The board is rated as IP55, providing some protection against dust and water splashes.

8. Smooth Carving Experience: The Trist Trucks and flexible deck allow for effortless and enjoyable carving.

Cons:

1. Limited High-Speed Stability: The flexible deck and responsive trucks make the board less stable at high speeds, which may not be ideal for riders seeking maximum stability during high-speed rides or drag races. The board also has average e skate trucks compared to the price.

2. Vibrations on Rough Terrain: The hub version of the board can experience strong vibrations on rough roads and terrains, impacting the overall riding comfort.

3. Reduced Range in Belt Version: Opting for the belt motor version may result in a slight reduction in range compared to the hub version.

4. Belt Maintenance: The belt version requires periodic belt changes, which some riders may find inconvenient.

5. Mediocre Wheels: The standard 85mm urethane wheels are adequate but not particularly remarkable in terms of performance or shock absorption.

6. Flattened Concavity: While the toned-down concavity of the deck may improve comfort for riders with larger feet, it may divide opinions among those who appreciated the more pronounced concave of the original Flex.

7. Average Power Output: While the motors provide satisfactory power output, they may not match the performance of high-end hub motors with larger wattage ratings.

Conclusion

The Exway Flex ER sets a new standard for electric skateboards in its price range. Packed with impressive features and improvements, it delivers a polished riding experience that rivals its more expensive counterparts. With a flexible deck, smooth control, and refined build quality, the Flex ER offers a blend of comfort, maneuverability, and style that is truly enjoyable.

One of the standout upgrades of the Flex ER is its enhanced range. Thanks to a substantial 60% increase in battery size, riders can now confidently ride without range anxiety, with a marketed range of 28 miles or 45 km. This improvement, coupled with the fast charger included in the package, ensures extended ride times and shorter charging periods.

Exway's attention to detail shines through in the Flex ER's design. The composite deck made of maple, fiberglass, and bamboo provides a flexible and stable platform for riders, while the Trist Trucks offer responsive carving and maneuverability. The deck's flattened concavity, although a subjective change, aims to improve comfort for riders with larger feet.

While the Flex ER excels in many aspects, it's important to note that its design prioritizes a smooth and enjoyable riding experience rather than high-speed stability. Riders seeking top speeds and drag race-like performance may find better options elsewhere. Additionally, the hub version of the board can be susceptible to vibrations on rough terrain, although the flexible deck helps absorb some of the road shocks.

Overall, the Exway Flex ER is an exceptional electric skateboard that delivers excellent value for its $800 price tag. With its impressive range, smooth control, and refined design, it stands as a worthy contender in the market. Whether you're a commuter, casual rider, or carving enthusiast, the Flex ER offers a delightful and reliable ride that will leave you wanting to hit the streets time and time again.