WowGo Pioneer 4 vs Pioneer X4: A Practical Range and Ride Comparison

Introduction

The WowGo Pioneer 4 and Pioneer X4 are two upgraded electric skateboards that share a similar platform but differ in motor configuration. The Pioneer 4 uses hub motors, while the Pioneer X4 uses belt-driven motors. Both boards feature a flexy deck, higher capacity batteries, and more powerful motors compared to their predecessors.

During a real-world ride through city streets, both boards delivered a comfortable and stable experience. The range test covered roughly 30 kilometers before the ride was cut short by rain, with the Pioneer 4 still showing two bars of battery remaining.

Who These Boards Are For

These boards suit riders who want a standard street board with a comfortable flexy deck and dependable performance. They are upgraded versions of the WowGo 3 and 3X, offering higher battery capacity and slightly more powerful motors while keeping a similar ride feel.

Riders who prioritize comfort on rough roads will appreciate the flexy deck, which absorbs a good amount of bumps. The boards are also relatively lightweight, making them practical for everyday commuting.

Deck and Ride Comfort

The deck on both boards is a standard flexy design, similar in style to the boosted deck. It has a noticeable flex that adds comfort, especially on rough roads. The concave is not just a shallow curve; you can feel the edges, which provides a secure footing. The deck is somewhat narrow, which some riders may prefer for a more responsive feel.

The flexy deck absorbs a significant amount of vibration, making the ride comfortable even on less-than-perfect pavement. This is particularly noticeable on the hub motor version, where the deck helps smooth out the ride.

Motors and Performance

The Pioneer 4 uses hub motors, while the Pioneer X4 uses belt-driven motors. Both boards are powered by Hobbywing ESCs, which deliver smooth and adequately powerful acceleration. The power delivery feels smooth rather than jerky, which is a positive for riders who want predictable performance.

The motors on these boards are slightly more powerful than those on the WowGo 3 and 3X, though exact wattage figures were not confirmed. The turbo mode feels adequately strong, though it may seem less powerful compared to certain other boards on the market.

Battery and Range

Both boards come with a 345 watt-hour battery, which is a significant upgrade over the WowGo 3’s 180 watt-hour and the 3X’s 216 watt-hour batteries. In real-world testing, the Pioneer 4 covered roughly 30 kilometers with battery remaining, while the Pioneer X4 was down to one bar at the same distance.

For a rider weighing about 75 kilograms, an estimated range of 30 to 35 kilometers is reasonable at typical riding speeds. Lighter riders can expect more range, as demonstrated by a 60-kilogram rider who was able to go considerably farther on the same battery.

Remote and Electronics

Both boards use the same standard WowGo remote with a single button and a display showing speed, distance, and battery level. The remote is straightforward and functional, though it is worth noting that the remote battery can drain relatively quickly if not charged beforehand.

The Hobbywing ESC provides smooth and reliable performance, with no complaints about responsiveness or control feel.

Wheels and Trucks

The wheels on both boards are wide and grippy, providing good traction and a comfortable ride. The polyurethane wheels are soft and absorb vibration well, making them among the more comfortable options available.

The trucks on both boards are functional, though the bushings on the Pioneer X4 felt a bit hard, which contributed to a very stable ride. The front cup washer can be flipped to increase maneuverability if desired.

Buying Advice

Both boards are solid choices for riders looking for a comfortable and dependable street board. The Pioneer 4 with hub motors is quieter and slightly more efficient, while the Pioneer X4 with belt motors offers a more traditional feel with slightly louder operation.

If you prioritize range and a quieter ride, the Pioneer 4 is a strong option. If you prefer the feel and sound of belt-driven motors, the Pioneer X4 is worth considering. Both boards deliver a similar ride experience, so the choice largely comes down to motor preference and price.

Conclusion

The WowGo Pioneer 4 and Pioneer X4 are well-rounded electric skateboards that build on the strengths of their predecessors. They offer higher battery capacity, more powerful motors, and a comfortable flexy deck that handles rough roads with ease. While neither board is particularly groundbreaking, they are reliable and enjoyable to ride, making them a sensible choice for everyday commuting.

If the price is right, these boards are worth buying. They deliver a comfortable, stable, and adequately powerful ride that will satisfy most street riders.