The Backfire Zealot S2 is a high-performance electric skateboard making waves in the e-skate community in 2023. Known for its impressive speed, extended range, and robust build, the Zealot S2 is a product of Backfire's commitment to quality and innovation. This skateboard is designed to deliver a smooth and exhilarating ride, whether you're commuting to work or cruising around for fun.
For the purpose of this review, I've had the pleasure of using the Backfire Zealot S2 for the past three months. I've put it through its paces in various conditions and environments during this time. From city streets to park trails, the Zealot S2 has been my trusted companion, providing a unique blend of power, performance, and convenience. This review aims to share my experience and provide an in-depth analysis of this remarkable electric skateboard.
While the Backfire Zealot S2 is advertised to reach a top speed of 48 kilometers per hour or 30 miles per hour, it's important to note that real-world conditions can affect this. Factors such as rider weight, terrain, and battery level can all influence the speed you'll experience when riding the Zealot S2.
In my personal experience, the Zealot S2 hit a respectable 26mph which is close to the advertised maximum under optimal conditions - flat terrain, a fully charged battery, and a rider weight within the recommended limit.
However, when riding uphill or with a lower battery level, there was a slight decrease in top speed, which is to be expected with any electric skateboard.
It's also worth noting that the Zealot S2's speed can be adjusted using the remote control, which offers different speed modes. This allows you to choose a lower speed for a more relaxed ride or a higher speed for a more thrilling experience.
The stability of the Backfire Zealot S2 is one of its most commendable features. From the moment I stepped onto the board, I could feel the solid construction and thoughtful design that went into ensuring a stable ride.
The 8-inch gravity casting trucks play a significant role in this stability. They provide a firm and responsive connection between the deck and the wheels, allowing precise control when turning or carving. The trucks are adjustable, so you can tighten or loosen them to match your riding style and preference, further enhancing the board's stability.
The large 96mm wheels also contribute to the Zealot S2's stability. They offer excellent grip on various surfaces, ensuring a secure ride on smooth pavement or tackling rougher terrain. The wheels also help to absorb shocks and vibrations, adding to the overall stability and comfort of the ride.
The deck of the Zealot S2 is another factor in its stability. It's spacious and slightly concave, which helps keep your feet firmly in place while riding. This design provides security and control, especially when riding at high speeds or performing maneuvers.
Riding the Zealot S2 feels incredibly stable and secure. Whether I was cruising at a leisurely pace or pushing the board to its top speed, I felt confident and in control. The board's stability made navigating turns and handling slight inclines easy, providing a smooth and enjoyable riding experience.
The Backfire Zealot S2 is equipped with a 14S2P Samsung 40T battery, boasting a capacity of 403Wh. This advanced battery technology is one of the key elements contributing to the board's impressive performance. Advertised to offer a range of up to 48 kilometers or 30 miles, the Zealot S2 promises long rides without the worry of running out of power.
However, as with any electric vehicle, the range can vary depending on several factors. These include the rider's weight, the terrain, the riding mode selected, and even the weather conditions.
In my personal experience, the Zealot S2's real-world range was slightly less than the advertised 48 kilometers. On a full charge, riding in a mix of flat and slightly hilly terrain, and with a rider weight within the recommended limit, I could achieve a range of around 40 kilometers. This is still impressive and sufficient for most commuting or leisure riding scenarios.
The range was understandably lower when riding in turbo mode, which unlocks the board's maximum power and speed. However, even in this high-performance mode, the Zealot S2 still managed to deliver a respectable range.
It's also worth noting that the Zealot S2 features regenerative braking, which can help to extend the battery life slightly during your ride. This system converts the energy generated during braking into electrical energy, which is then fed back into the battery.
The Backfire Zealot S2 comes with an R3 wireless remote that enhances the riding experience. This remote is ergonomically designed, fitting comfortably in the hand and allowing for easy control of the skateboard.
The remote features an OLED display that provides key information at a glance. This includes the current speed, battery level, and the selected riding mode. The clear and bright display makes it easy to read even in direct sunlight.
One of the standout features of the remote is its ability to switch between different riding modes. This includes E-Mode, suitable for beginners with a top speed of 20km/h and smooth acceleration and braking; S-Mode, ideal for daily commuting with a top speed of 38km/h and stronger acceleration and braking; and Turbo Mode, which unlocks 20%+ acceleration for a thrilling ride.
The remote also controls the skateboard's LED lights, which can be turned off in Turbo mode for a stealthier ride. This feature enhances safety when riding in low-light conditions.
In terms of feel, the remote is lightweight yet sturdy. The buttons are responsive and have a satisfying click, and the wheel used for acceleration and braking is smooth and precise. This makes controlling the Zealot S2 intuitive and enjoyable.
The Backfire Zealot S2 stands out in the electric skateboard market, but it's always helpful to compare it with similar products to understand its value comprehensively. Here, we'll compare the Zealot S2 with two other popular electric skateboards in the same price range: the Possway T2 and the Backfire G3.
Possway T2: The Possway T2 is another well-regarded electric skateboard. It offers a similar top speed to the Zealot S2, but its range is slightly lower, at around 21 miles, compared to the Zealot S2's 30 miles. The T2 uses hub motors, which are quieter and require less maintenance than the Zealot S2's belt drive motors, but they generally offer less torque and a less smooth ride over rough surfaces. The Possway T2 is also lighter than the Zealot S2, which could be a plus for portability.
Backfire G3: The Backfire G3 is a step up in Backfire's lineup from the Zealot S2. It offers a similar top speed and range but features a flexible composite deck for a more comfortable ride and hub motors for quieter operation and less maintenance. However, the G3 is more expensive than the Zealot S2, so it may not be the best choice for riders on a budget.
| Specs | Backfire Zealot S2 | WowGo Pioneer X4 | Possway T2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top Speed | 48 km/h (30 mph) | 46 km/h (28 mph) | 40 km/h (25 mph) |
| Range | Up to 48 km (30 miles) | Up to 35 km (22 miles) | Up to 32 km (20 miles) |
| Battery | 14S2P Samsung 40T, 403Wh | 12S2P Samsung 40T, 345Wh | 10S3P 7.5Ah, 270Wh |
| Motors | Dual 5255 875w Motors | Dual 700W Belt Motors | Dual 500W Hub Motors |
| Deck | 995mm x 249mm | 38.5" x 11.2" Composite Deck | 7-layer Maple |
| Wheels | 96mm 80A | 90mm 78A (with 105mm Cloudwheels option) | 90mm 78A |
| Trucks | 8-inch Gravity Casting Trucks | 45° Reverse KingPin Trucks | 7-inch Aluminum Alloy Trucks |
| Weight | 10.5 kg (23 lbs) | 8.4 kg (18.5 lbs) | 7.8 kg (17.2 lbs) |
| Price | Mid-range | Mid-range | Budget |
In conclusion, the Backfire Zealot S2 is a high-performance electric skateboard with impressive speed, range, and build quality. Its powerful motors, long-lasting battery, and comfortable ride make it a standout choice in its price range.
The Zealot S2's strengths certainly outweigh its few drawbacks. While it is a bit heavy and the real-world range can be slightly less than advertised, these are minor issues compared to this electric skateboard's overall performance and value.
Based on my personal experience and thorough evaluation, I highly recommend the Backfire Zealot S2 for both beginners and experienced riders. Its speed and range make it a great choice for commuting or leisurely rides, while it's stability and smooth ride ensure a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience.
Whether you're new to electric skateboarding or looking to upgrade from a beginner board, the Backfire Zealot S2 is a fantastic choice. Its combination of performance, quality, and price make it one of the best electric skateboards on the market today.
