Easy rider: Justin Lintott’s motorised skateboard is road-legal, has a top speed of 40kmh and costs only $1.30 to fill up.
Timaru drum teacher and musician Justin Lintott bought his motorised skateboard from an internet auction site for $250 six months ago after a friend bought one. He reckoned there were about 10 whizzing around Timaru already.
‘‘They're starting to catch on.''
Mr Lintott controlled its twostroke petrol engine with a hand-held throttle and brake and turned by leaning on its truck axles.
With a top speed of 40kmh, it was easy to ride after a bit of practice, especially for snowboarders or surfers.
‘‘The closest thing I can compare it to is a snowboard. You just have to get used to the fact that you're so close to the ground when you're going that fast.''
The clincher for him was that at current prices, it only cost $1.30 to fill up the tank, which lasted about 20km.
As far as road rules go, it is treated the same as an under-50cc scooter - all that is required is a learner licence, a helmet and lights if you are riding at night.
