Today we’d like to introduce you to Campbell Thomason
Hi Campbell, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
To start, my love for PEVs began in 2016/2017, sparked by my fascination with YouTubers using Boosted Boards at the time, like Casey Neistat. I convinced my parents I needed a Boosted Board for my 18th birthday (no more chauffeuring to practices, gas savings, a summer activity since I loved snowboarding), and put hundreds of miles on it from then until I graduated college (I still ride it occasionally). Sharing this new technology with classmates, people I met riding, etc., brought me joy, seeing their faces light up just as much as mine did riding it. PEVs weren’t as popular then; the Onewheel had just been released three years prior, and these “toys” were quite expensive. After moving to Utah to finish my sports management and business management program in Indianapolis, I realized the greater market potential for PEVs in a mountainous region. That’s when I fell in love with the Onewheel.
Snowboarding is a seasonal passion, with 50-80 days on the slopes in some seasons. It centers me, and there’s nothing I enjoy more than gliding down a mountain with stunning views alongside loved ones. However, upon arriving in Utah for the summer, I had no idea what hobby to pick up. While I’d always known about Onewheels, I never considered them due to the cost. Working long hours at the ski shop, I eventually heard more about them and decided to buy one after a friend constantly raved about it. I purchased an XR model from a local sporting goods store and have logged over 2,500 miles on it to this day.
Immersing myself in Utah’s vibrant onewheel and PEV community was exhilarating. I forged friendships with people from all walks of life, united by our love for this thrilling hobby. We embarked on group rides, shared dinners, and even trained together. The passion for this sport was infectious.
During this time, I discovered a website called FriendWithA, a gear-sharing platform originally focused on onewheels but expanding to include other equipment. Onewheels, however, presented a challenge for air travel due to their powerful batteries. Recognizing a niche market, I saw a high demand for rentals, especially in a city like Salt Lake. I listed my own onewheel for rent and gradually received bookings. This success motivated me to acquire more onewheels. I also learned basic maintenance, like changing tires and upgrading batteries, to make my rentals more appealing compared to others on the platform.
Fast forward, I stumbled upon electric dirt bikes called Surrons. Following the same model, I started renting out my personal one, then gradually expanded my fleet (or partnered with friends who had them) to offer weekend rentals, eventually transitioning to weekdays as well. Learning bike maintenance became crucial at this point, as some equipment returned with damage that needed fixing before being rented again.
My core motivation has always been to spread the joy of PEVs. Seeing the smiles on children’s faces as they experience their first ride, witnessing the connections formed between friends, and fostering a strong sense of community – these are the driving forces behind 435 Rentals. Not everyone can afford to own these amazing devices. Rentals offer an alternative, allowing families to enjoy PEVs for a weekend without the burden of high maintenance costs, ownership expenses, and other associated hassles. Most of our customers are first-time or second-time PEV users. Our goal, after a positive rental experience, is to nudge them towards considering ownership so they can continue enjoying these exhilarating rides. 435 Rentals may have begun with onewheels, and we’ve expanded our offerings to include scooters, e-boards, and e-bikes, but at our heart, we remain a community of passionate PEV enthusiasts.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
While the joy of sharing the PEV experience is undeniable, running a onewheel and Surron rental company definitely comes with its own set of hurdles. Here are some of the common struggles you might encounter:
Equipment Damage: Surrons, especially, are powerful machines and prone to wear and tear. Customers, particularly first-timers, might accidentally damage the bikes, leading to downtime and repair costs.
Battery Management: Onewheels have powerful batteries that require careful handling and maintenance. Ensuring they’re charged correctly and within safe limits can be a logistical challenge for a growing fleet.
Safety Concerns: Both onewheels and Surrons can be exhilarating but also risky if not used properly. Providing adequate safety training and ensuring customers understand the risks involved is crucial.
Regulations and Insurance: The rental industry for PEVs is still evolving. Navigating the legal landscape, permits, and securing proper insurance for your rentals can be a complex process.
Seasonal Fluctuations: Demand for PEV rentals might be higher during specific seasons, leading to periods of high activity followed by slower times. Managing inventory and keeping your business afloat during slower periods requires strategic planning.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The only thing I can think of that sets us apart is that I am a one man operation, I drop off and pick up rentals, I work physically on equipment insuring proper maintenance and care, I also design Instagram and facebook ads.
How do you define success?
Success is about more than just the bottom line. It’s about creating a community around the joy of PEVs and fostering a positive impact.
Here’s how that breaks down:
Spreading the Stoke: When you see the pure elation on someone’s face after their first ride on a onewheel or the thrill of conquering a trail on a Surron, that’s a taste of success. It’s about sharing the passion for PEVs and creating unforgettable experiences.
Building a Tribe: Success is seeing a community grow around your rentals. It’s about repeat customers who become friends, organizing group rides, and fostering a sense of camaraderie amongst PEV enthusiasts.
Promoting Safety and Sustainability: Success means knowing you’re promoting responsible PEV use. Providing proper training, emphasizing safety gear, and encouraging environmental exploration all contribute to a positive impact.
Witnessing Growth: Success isn’t just about the number of rentals, but also seeing your customers progress. Witnessing someone who started hesitantly on a onewheel now confidently carving down trails is a heartwarming measure of success.
Making PEVs Accessible: Success lies in knowing you’re breaking down barriers to entry. By offering rentals, you allow people to experience the joys of PEVs without the upfront investment, fostering a more inclusive community.
Ultimately, success isn’t just about profit. It’s about the positive ripple effect your business creates. It’s about the smiles, the friendships, the sense of adventure, and the love for PEVs that you help cultivate.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://friendwitha.com/users/w46lou6yj3/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/435rentals/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094702556545
