In EP1 of this build series, I’m kicking off a properly silly project: a high voltage electric mountainboard build… because we can. The whole point here is to step up from the usual setups and start planning a board that’s built to take abuse, handle proper off-road riding, and deliver that punchy power you only really get once you start talking higher cell counts. This episode is all about setting the direction of the build and getting the key parts on the table—starting with the ESC choice. I’m using a Spintend 16S ESC for this one, because if you’re going high voltage you need an ESC that’s actually designed for it, not something you’re going to cook the first time you lean on it. As the series goes on, I’ll be getting into the install, the wiring, and the real-world ride testing (plus the usual tinkering, breaking things, and learning as we go). If you’re into DIY esk8/ATB builds and want to see what a high voltage mountainboard looks like from the first decisions to the finished rip, you’re in the right place.