This article explores the wheel choices we have for the RC lawn mower.

Wheel choices

1. Inflated wheels
2. Solid wheels

Inflated Wheels

Pros

1. Shock absorbing
2. Gentler on the grass
3. Tube and Tubeless options

Cons

1. Hard to find exact size
2. Fitment on to hub

Solid Wheels

Pros

1. Hub and wheel comes as 1 unit
2. Easier to source from old hoverboard/electric wheelchair

Cons

1. Electric wheelchair motors and wheels may be expensive
2. Shipping hoverboard wheels cost prohibitive forcing us to use second hand hoverboard wheels
3. If the motor dies the wheel and motor needs to be discarded
4. Prone to wear out faster than inflated tires

Motor Choices

1. Regular DC motor
2. BLDC - Brushless DC motor

Regular DC Motors

Pros

1. Easier to source and generally cheap
2. Simpler electronic driver circuits

Cons

1. Not very efficient
2. Tend to get hot
3. Need to replace brushes at regular intervals

BLDC (Brushless DC Motor)

Pros

1. Very efficient
2. No Maintenance

Cons

1. Complex and expensive driver circuits

Conclusion

Given the various choices and options available to me I chose to go with Hoverboard motors. I sourced two $50 hoverboards from Walmart which had tiny 6.5 inch. wheels. These were on the sale and the regular price was $80 each which made it an easy decision for me.

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