Static Discharge Issue – Fix and Safety Instructions

Updated: 27 June 2025
Applies to: All Radium Mach One Production Boards

 

SUMMARY

We have identified and confirmed a static electricity discharge issue affecting all production Mach One electric skateboards. Under specific environmental and surface conditions, a buildup of static electricity can discharge into the electronics, causing temporary loss of motor power or, in more severe cases, permanent damage to components such as the ESC or the RTS modules.

This issue is now fully understood, and hardware-based protection is available in the form of an ESD Protection Kit. This page outlines what causes the problem, how to prevent damage in the meantime, and the long-term fix.

WHAT CAUSES THE ISSUE

During normal riding, the belt and wheel system generate static electricity which is normally discharged directly through the rear wheels and drivetrain. This happens on many electric skateboards, not just the Mach One.

With RTS connecting the front of the board to the electronics via a sensor, on typically warm, dry days and when transitioning between surface materials with different electrical conductivity (e.g., concrete to tiles, rubber, or timber), static can discharge through the front wheels, travelling through the electronics to get there.

When this charge jumps into the board's electronics, it can:

• Momentarily disable one or both motors
• Disrupt RTS (Radium Torque Steering)
• Permanently damage the ESC if multiple discharges occur

RISK PROFILE

This is a real safety concern. The sudden loss of acceleration on a high-power board like the Mach One may cause loss of balance or control, especially at speed.

Reports from riders confirm that risk is present, however more repeatable in warm, dry conditions.

INTERIM SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Until the ESD Kit is installed on your board and to completely eliminate ESD risk, temporarily unplug the RTS module and disable RTS in the Radium App. This disables RTS functionality but prevents static from reaching sensitive components.

To disable RTS, remove the deck and unplug this cable.
RTS can be reconnected after the ESD Kit is installed.

Important: If RTS is not disabled and a static discharge damages your board, you may be liable for the cost of replacement parts.

THE FIX – ESD PROTECTION KIT

We’ve developed a hardware solution that eliminates the problem:

• A static discharge protection circuit that safely diverts charge away from the ESC
• A grounding wire that connects to the front swing arm
• Simple installation — no soldering or advanced tools required

These kits are being manufactured now and will be shipped to all production Mach One owners. While we’ll still cover failures under warranty, installing the protection is far easier and much faster than replacing a damaged ESC.

Shipping & Address Confirmation

• Kits begin shipping mid July 2025
• Delivery is expected to take 10–15 days depending on your location
• Please ensure your shipping address is up to date at
  account.radium-performance.com

OMEGA HP BELTS

Our conductive OMEGA HP belts reduce the likelihood of static buildup. These belts are now the standard for the Mach One. They are 150% stronger than the original Optibelt units and provide better long-term durability.

QUESTIONS?

If you're unsure whether this issue applies to you, or if you’ve experienced symptoms such as motor cutouts or RTS errors, please contact us immediately – contact@radium-performance.com

We’ll continue to provide updates and installation instructions through our Support Page as rollout begins.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we resolved this issue properly.

– The Radium Team