Is Meepo V5 the Best Affordable Electric Skateboard? (Meepo V5 Review)

Back in 2017, Meepo Board kickstarted the era of affordable electric skateboards, earning its place as the OG in the industry. With each upgraded version, Meepo consistently delivered exceptional electric skateboards priced at $400, from the Meepo V1 to V4s. Now, in February 2023, they have unveiled their latest offering: the Meepo V5.

The question on everyone's mind is whether the Meepo V5 can live up to the popularity of its predecessor, the Meepo V4s. In this article, we will delve into the specifications of the Meepo V5 and find out if it continues the legacy of its predecessors. We'll explore its trucks, range options, and ride experience to see if the Meepo V5 delivers on its promise of affordable performance and thrilling adventures.

Join us as we dive into the world of the Meepo V5 and discover if it's the electric skateboard that combines affordability, performance, and excitement in one impressive package.

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Build and Specifications of Meepo V5

The Meepo V5 features an 8-ply Canadian maple deck with a mild flex and deep concave. The subtle concave provides a comfortable and secure footing, enhancing the overall riding experience.

One notable comeback is the handle cut-out on the Meepo V5 board, which, albeit less cool in appearance, proves tremendously helpful when carrying this 18.5 lbs or 8.4 kg board.

Design-wise, the V5 boasts a polished and premium look, opting for a sleek and minimalistic look with a blue and black color scheme. The board also showcases some of its bare maple deck, which sets it apart from earlier Meepo models, as it exudes a more mature and non-toyish aesthetic.

To protect the deck from collisions, Meepo has included a bash guard, adding to the board's durability.

Deck:

• Crafted from 8-ply Canadian maple, the Meepo V5 offers a mild flex and deep concave design, ensuring a comfortable and secure riding experience.

  Electronic Speed Controller:

• The V5 utilizes the LingYi ESC, equipped with four-speed modes and a convenient push-to-start feature. It does not include screen showing speed on the controller.

  Battery:

• Choose between the standard 4AH 144Wh battery or the extended range version with a larger 288Wh capacity (er battery), offering marketed ranges of 11 miles (18km) and 19.8 miles (32km) respectively.

  Motors:

• Powered by dual 500W hub motors, the Meepo V5 delivers reliable and efficient performance on the road. It is still a powerful electric skateboard even though it is weaker than the earlier model.

  Marketed Top Speed:

• The V5 boasts an impressive marketed top speed of 27mph (44km/h), providing an exhilarating ride.

  Trucks:

• Meepo Signature high quality shredder trucks, measuring 7 inches and angled at 45 degrees, ensure optimal maneuverability and carving capability to perform tight turns.

  Wheels:

• Equipped with 90mm urethane wheels, the Meepo V5 offers a smooth and responsive ride, enhancing overall control and performance.

Meepo Designed Controller

In terms of the electronic speed controller, the Meepo V5 employs the LingYi ESC, featuring push-to-start functionality and four-speed modes. It also offers four braking modes that can be adjusted independently.

One significant update is the newly designed controller. Instead of using the standard LingYi ESC remote with a mislabeled reverse button, Meepo has developed a new LingYi remote. This remote closely resembles the generic Hobbywing ESC remote.

However, it's important to note that the Meepo V5 remote does not include a screen displaying speed and range. If you prefer having a screen on the remote, you can purchase the Meepo 5s remote separately ($69). Alternatively, you can pair your V5 with another LingYi ESC-compatible remote.

Still the Fastest Board Among Budget Boards

The Meepo V5 is equipped with dual 500W hub motors, which might come as a surprise considering that the previous generation Meepo V4S boasted larger dual 540W hub motors.

Meepo seems to have designed the V5 with a focus on battery efficiency rather than excessive power, likely to cater to newcomers. While the V4 and V4S models were known for their incredible power, which enthusiasts appreciated, they were less suitable for beginner riders who needed time to feel comfortable. The V5 takes a step back in terms of motor power to cater to a wider range of riders.

It's worth mentioning that Meepo has made improvements to the design of the V5's hub motors, enhancing cooling and facilitating easier replacement of the PU sleeves.

Meepo claims that the motors can achieve a maximum speed of 28 mph (45 km/h). During tests, a top speed of 27 mph (44 km/h) was reached. Therefore, the Meepo V5 remains the fastest board among budget optionsn with a high average speed, despite the reduced motor power.

Meepo V5 Trucks, Range, and Ride Experience

Overall, the Meepo V5 provides a great riding experience. It retains its signature punchy acceleration and strong brakes, ensuring a thrilling ride. While the V5's speed control is less aggressive compared to the V4 and V4s, this makes it more beginner-friendly, allowing riders to feel comfortable while learning to skate.

Trucks:

The Meepo V5 is equipped with updated Meepo Signature Shredder Trucks. These 7-inch trucks are angled at 45 degrees, providing an enjoyable carving experience out of the box. While they tend to be relatively loose, tightening them up slightly strikes a balance between maneuverability and stability, making them suitable for high-speed rides.

Range:

The Meepo V5 offers two battery options for different ranges. The standard version features a 4AH 144Wh battery with a marketed range of 11 miles (18 km). For those seeking extended range and battery life, there is an option with a 288Wh battery, providing a marketed range of 19.8 miles (32 km). Real-world tests with the extended-range version achieved a maximum distance of 18.6 miles (30 km) when ridden by a lightweight rider weighing 143 lbs (65 kg). It's important to note that the range can vary depending on riding speed and rider weight.

Ride Experience:

The Meepo V5 delivers a great riding experience. It retains its signature punchy acceleration and strong brakes, ensuring a thrilling ride. The V5's speed control is less aggressive compared to the V4 and V4s, making it more beginner-friendly and allowing riders to feel comfortable while learning to skate. The deck of the V5 is a standout feature, providing a comfortable standing surface. The wide concave deck facilitates easy foot positioning and enhances stability at higher speeds. The inclusion of the new Shredder trucks strikes a balance between carving and stability, offering a pleasant ride experience. Riders may experience road vibration, as is common with hub motor boards and thin urethane wheels, especially on rough surfaces. However, upgrading to larger wheels, such as the 105mm Donut wheels from Meepo or Cloudwheels, can provide a smoother ride on rough roads. It has a good hill climbing ability and wont struggle unless you have low battery.

Meepo V5 Verdict - Perfect for Beginners

In conclusion, if you're seeking a solid-performing electric skateboard without breaking the bank, the Meepo V5 is an excellent choice. It remains a fantastic entry-level electric skateboard, prioritizing range over power. Despite the reduction in motor wattage, the Meepo V5 remains one of the fastest boards in the budget segment.

Additionally, the 2023 Meepo V5 introduces various improvements, such as enhanced waterproofing, hub motor design, and truck quality.

If you're a beginner looking to purchase your first electric skateboard and aren't sure where to start, the Meepo V5 is a solid option. However, it's worth noting that it no longer possesses the speed-monster characteristics of its predecessor, the Meepo V4.

Pros and Cons

It's important to note that the pros and cons mentioned are based on the specific features and characteristics of the Meepo V5 and may vary depending on individual preferences and riding styles.

Pros of the Meepo V5:

1. Affordable: Meepo V5 continues the brand's tradition of offering affordable electric skateboards, providing solid performance at a reasonable price point.

2. Beginner-friendly: The V5's less aggressive speed control and comfortable deck make it an excellent choice for beginners who are learning to ride.

3. Fastest among budget boards: Despite a reduction in motor power, the Meepo V5 remains one of the fastest electric skateboards in its price range.

4. Improved design: Meepo has made several improvements with the V5, including better waterproofing, hub motor design, and truck quality.

5. Comfortable deck: The V5 features an 8-ply Canadian maple deck with a mild flex and deep concave, providing a comfortable and secure footing for riders.

6. Updated trucks: The Meepo Signature Shredder Trucks offer a good balance between maneuverability and stability, making them suitable for high-speed rides.

7. Options for extended range: The V5 offers an extended range version with a larger battery, allowing riders to cover longer distances without worrying about running out of power.

8. IP55 waterproof rating: The V5's waterproof rating ensures that riders can navigate through puddles without damaging the board.

Cons of the Meepo V5:

1. Reduced motor power: Compared to its predecessor, the V4, the V5 features smaller dual 500W hub motors, which may disappoint riders who enjoyed the V4's higher power.

2. Lack of remote screen: The V5's remote does not include a screen displaying speed and range, requiring riders to purchase a separate remote or use another compatible remote if they desire a screen.

3. Road vibration: Like most hub motor boards with thin urethane wheels, the V5 can transmit vibrations from rough road surfaces, potentially resulting in a less comfortable ride.

4. Handle cut-out design: While practical for carrying, the handle cut-out on the V5 may be considered less aesthetically appealing by some riders.

5. Loose trucks out of the box: The Shredder Trucks on the V5 may come relatively loose, providing an enjoyable carving experience but requiring adjustment for riders seeking more stability at high speeds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Meepo V5 electric skateboard proves to be a solid choice for riders seeking an affordable yet high-performing option. With its updated Meepo Signature Shredder Trucks, riders can enjoy an engaging carving experience right out of the box. By striking a balance between maneuverability and stability, these trucks cater to both carving enthusiasts and riders seeking control at high speeds.

When it comes to range, the Meepo V5 offers flexibility with two battery options. The standard 4AH 144Wh battery provides a respectable marketed range of 11 miles (18 km), while the extended-range version, equipped with a 288Wh battery, extends the riding distance to an impressive 19.8 miles (32 km). Real-world tests confirm that the V5 can achieve a maximum distance of 18.6 miles (30 km) under optimal conditions. However, it's important to keep in mind that factors such as riding speed and rider weight can influence the actual range.

The riding experience on the Meepo V5 is enjoyable and accommodating for beginners. With its punchy acceleration and strong brakes, riders can feel the thrill while maintaining control. The V5's speed control is less aggressive compared to its predecessors, making it more beginner-friendly and allowing riders to develop their skills with confidence. The deck's comfortable and secure feel, thanks to its mild flex and deep concave design, enhances stability, particularly when riding at higher speeds.

While the Meepo V5 delivers a great overall experience, it's worth noting that hub motor boards with thin urethane wheels can transmit road vibrations, which may affect ride comfort on rough surfaces. However, riders have the option to upgrade to larger wheels, such as the 105mm Donut wheels from Meepo or Cloudwheels, for a smoother ride on challenging terrains.

In summary, the Meepo V5 combines affordability, performance, and beginner-friendly features. Its updated trucks, range options, and enjoyable ride experience make it an appealing choice for riders seeking a budget-friendly electric skateboard without compromising on quality. With the Meepo V5, riders can embark on thrilling adventures while honing their skills on a reliable and versatile electric skateboard.