I attended a robotic user group called RoboMo in St. Louis and I showed off the skateboard.  I got a better idea for the deadman switch force sensor.  Instead of 2 strips, I’ll be using 4 sensors.  2 will be paired on either side to create a separated “super” sensor.  With the strips, I could technically be on with only 1 foot and still have it register.  I just ordered some 1.5” force sensors along with some rubber pads for grip.

I had two people ride it too!