How To Pick An Electric Scooter: 6 Features You Should Look For

Who said scooters are only for children, especially when they are this fun and practical? Not only that, but it’s an easy, environmentally-friendly way of commuting around places you constantly go to like work or errands. Now you can have all these perks by getting an electric scooter, totally suitable for adults. Before you get too excited and jump into a purchase, get to know the main features you should look for while picking your smooth new ride.

1. Safety

One of the main features you should look for while picking an electric scooter is safety. Each model will have its own features that ensure safety so you should look for the one providing the most protection while you’re on the move. The brakes system is the most important part of the scooter that will ensure your safety. There are two types of scooter brakes; mechanical and electronic, and they are equally important to have. You’ll find many models that have a combination of both systems to ensure maximum safety.

2. Tires

Since tires are the component connecting you and the road, it’s a feature you need to pay extra attention to. Electric scooters have two types of tires; solid tires and pneumatic tires. Solid tires are not as good as the pneumatic ones, with the latter having superior riding qualities and supple rubber which works better on any difficult road conditions. They also have the best handling as well as good shock absorption, their only downside is that they require constant maintenance to stay in shape and keep you safe on the road.

3. Speed

You may have heard all of an e-scooter’s benefits. However, there are still other factors to consider before you purchase one. Most people will likely be looking to buy the fastest electric scooter, but it’s important you understand all angles of scooter speed as well. If you’re planning to commute inside the city, it’s wiser to go for scooters with low speeds for an easier and safer commute.

The ideal top speed for electric scooters is 15mph to get you to feel the adrenalin while still being safe. There are, of course, models that go 18mph, 24mph, and even up to 40mph. Like range, speed also depends on factors like weight, motor power, and tires. Don’t get too hung up on speed, even the lowest one will feel like you’re flying compared to walking, car rides, and even cycling.

4. Weight and Size

The right weight limit is another essential feature to look for in an electric scooter. When we say weight, it means both the weight of the vehicle as well as its weight limit for the rider. You don’t want to get a scooter that’s too heavy that when it falls over you can’t lift it back up. Most scooters have a weight limit of 100 to 120 kgs so if that doesn’t suit you, make sure to look for specific models that can support your weight. As for the size, get a unit that is suitable for you so that it won’t be hard for you to store it. The unit you will get should be portable as well since you might have to carry it around.

5. Range

How far can it go? That’s what range refers to when we talk about scooters. Range is the distance it can travel before the battery runs out and needs to be recharged. Some of the several factors that affect the range of a scooter include the scooter and the rider’s weight, speed, motor power, weather, and more. To make sure you pick the right range, stay under the maximum weight capacity and have the precise power output. Remember that long ranges need a bigger battery that can withstand the distance.

6. Motor Power

Almost all electric scooters have at least one motor while more powerful models may have dual motors. The motor power best suitable to you depends on the roads you’re planning to use the scooter on. If you mostly have a smooth road but might encounter small hills, a 250-watt motor will be most appropriate. However, if you take more adverse roads or difficult conditions, go for a 500-watt motor. For pros who go off the road, a 1000 watts with a dual motor is the best fit.

There you have it, these are the main features you should be looking for in an electric scooter. While these are the most essential factors, you should also pay attention to things like the design since you don’t want to buy one that makes you look like a child playing on a scooter. You should also pay attention to things like the height, folding mechanism, and overall build. It’s important that you don’t forget to ensure they have good lighting for safety, as well as just looking cool on the road!