Electric scooters are like normal scooters, just powered by an electric motor. They will quickly and effortlessly transport you anywhere in the urban environment and (some models) will even be able to go over rougher terrain. You control the speed like on a motorcycle, and when you run out of battery, you can simply continue travelling (on some models) using your feet to push you along.
The vast majority of electric scooters are suitable for transport around the city. But if you know that you will be taking your scooter on public transport, it is better to choose one that can fold. Think about your physical fitness as well. You will certainly appreciate lighter scooters if you need to carry them, so choose models up to 10 kg.
There is no official age restriction. However, manufacturers usually state a recommended age for their products, which in the case of scooters starts at 13 years. Of course, with a higher engine power, the recommended age also increases.
Yes. Every rider under the age of 18 must wear a helmet. Each electric scooter should also have a white front light and a red rear light. Some scooters have lights from production, others need to be purchased separately.
Yes, you can push them like you would on a regular scooter. But because they are usually heavier and offer more resistance than ordinary scooters it will be more difficult. In addition, scooters equipped with only an electromagnetic brake will not brake without a current. However, some manufacturers have already considered this, so they combine electromagnetic and mechanical brakes.
Electric scooters with higher engine power will go faster. For this reason, get ones with lower powered motors for your children, and also for yourself if you do not have enough experience of riding scooters. The speed should never be higher than what the rider can handle.
Tip: Powerful electric scooters can handle uphill rides better. So if you often ride in more mountainous terrain, choose more powerful models.
The range (distance an electric scooter can travel off one charge) is usually between 10 to 40 km. Some manufacturers state their range in minutes. Choose a scooter according to the range, especially if it will serve you primarily as a means of transport and not just for fun. Although some models can be pushed along using your foot (like a normal scooter), you certainly don't want to run out of battery when riding to work in the morning. Conversely if you plan on using your scooter purely for leisure then running out of battery in front of your house or while riding for fun in a parking lot won’t be much of a problem.
The range depends mainly on the battery capacity. You can extend its endurance per charge as follows:
With larger wheels you will be able to ride faster, but the scooter will be harder to control. So you need to be aware of where you will ride the scooter and keep in mind that you are not alone on the sidewalk or bike path. Even an experienced rider can have a problem with larger wheels, which creates a risk of endangering pedestrians. For the less experienced, we recommend wheels with a size of 5 - 6.5 inches. Scooters with larger wheels are more suitable for skilled and experienced riders.
The material of the wheels affects speed and comfort while riding not only for ordinary but also for electric scooters.
Tip: Some manufacturers choose to use both and the front wheel will be made of rubber and the rear one made of hard plastic.
The scooter’s construction needs to meet certain criteria. The frame of the electric scooter should first and foremost be firm and secure. When it meets these conditions, the other features are purely for your convenience.
Electric scooters also offer many different technologies and functions for those who want something extra.
The anti-slip treatment is a safety feature (not only for scooters). An anti-slip material, usually rubber, or a special metal is added to the step to prevent slipping. You don't have to be afraid of slipping off and being injured if you have wet shoes.
Some electric scooter manufacturers offer the option to download an application to control the scooters from your phone. Thanks to this, you can, for example, follow your route, set the speed of the scooter or lock it.
During braking energy is generated that would normally be wasted. The process of recuperation from this kinetic energy generates electrical energy, which is transferred either directly to the motor or to the batteries.
This feature is well-known from cars and is now being used in electric scooters. The cruise control maintains a set speed, so you can rest your tired hands on long journeys.
Use of scooters
Electric scooters for use in the city usually have smaller wheels, which make the machine more agile and easier to control. You will be able to ride fast through narrow streets, along the sidewalk and be better able to avoid pedestrians. You can also choose solid polyurethane wheels for riding on a sidewalk without having to worry about hitting small bumps.
The performance of the electric scooter engine in the city may not be too high, because driving too fast in the city/ on a sidewalk isn’t a good idea. For many users, models up to 350 W are enough. Electric scooters for the city are lighter and many models can be folded, which is suitable, for example, when driving in public transport.
Wheels on electric scooters for longer trips are usually bigger, because you will probably often ride on a bike path or on the road where you can go faster. For greater safety and a comfortable ride, choose rubber wheels. Trips can end up being quite long and even a small bump on fixed wheels could really bother you after a while. Rubber inflatable wheels ensure a comfortable ride, even if you are not riding on completely smooth asphalt. In addition, they will pass over more demanding terrain, such as gravel or sand, much more easily.
Electric scooters with a motor power of at least 350 W are more suitable for longer trips. Outside the city, you are likely to go up bigger hills and weaker electric scooters would not be able to handle it.
Electric scooters don't just need a powerful motor to be fun. You can choose from models with a smaller battery, which makes them lighter. These types of scooters are best if you want to buy one for your child “for play”.