Looking to switch to an electric scooter for more sustainable mobility? Good for you! Finding the right one can be overwhelming, with so many options available in the market. But don’t worry, this guide will help you make an informed decision by outlining the key criteria to consider when choosing the best electric scooter for your needs. It’s not just about going for the latest trend or copying your neighbor, but finding a scooter that can transform your daily commutes into an enjoyable experience, save you time, and help you save money in the long run. Our tried-and-true method will help you navigate the vast array of electric scooters available at different price points, so you can make the best choice for you.
Electric scooters come in a wide range of prices and styles, from budget options at your local supermarket to high-end models costing thousands of dollars. However, it’s crucial to choose both the right brand and seller, as not all scooters meet safety standards or are reliable. Reparability is a key factor to consider, as you want to invest in a scooter that will last longer than just a few months. Don’t be tempted by cheap, disposable models, as they may not be a good value in the long run. Consider all aspects, including the brand, seller, and technical specifications, when selecting the right electric scooter for you.
There’s no denying that the electric scooter market has become much more diverse in recent years, offering a range of options in terms of performance, size, and comfort. This variety can make it challenging to find the right scooter for you, but it also means you can find one that truly suits your needs. The best electric scooter for you might not be the one with the biggest social media marketing budget or the one your neighbor has. It’s the scooter that meets your specific requirements.
But before you start your search, it’s important to set realistic expectations. There’s no such thing as an ultra-light scooter with an overpowered engine, a large range, and top-notch comfort for an affordable price. You’ll have to make some compromises, but don’t worry, we’re here to help.
Take a few minutes to think about your future plans and how you’ll be using your scooter. Even though your usage may change over time, it’s important to choose a scooter that fits your main use case. This way, you’ll be one step closer to finding the best electric scooter for you.
Before selecting an electric scooter with a long range for adult use, consider the average distance you will travel each day and per trip. The longer the distance you travel in a single trip, the more important comfort will be. The farther you travel each day, the more crucial it is to choose the right range. As a reference, 77% of users travel more than 5km per day and 40% travel more than 10km per day. Keep these factors in mind when making your decision to ensure you find the best electric scooter for you.
Before choosing an electric scooter, assess the terrain of your typical route. Determine if there are hills and how steep they are, as not all scooters perform equally in this regard. If you frequently encounter hills, it’s essential to consider the power and voltage of the scooter more carefully to ensure it can handle the inclines.
If you need to take public transportation daily, it’s important to consider the weight and size of the electric scooter. Opt for a compact and lightweight model with a trolley feature so you can easily roll it like a suitcase without carrying it. However, keep in mind that you may change your habits once you start using an electric scooter. Many users become fans of this mode of transportation and may choose to stop using public transportation for journeys under 8 kilometers. Consider your current needs and future possibilities when making your decision.
When choosing an electric scooter, it’s tempting to prioritize a lightweight model. However, it’s important to also take into account how often you will need to carry it. Consider if you live in a building without an elevator and if there are any stairs on your route. This will help you determine if a lighter model is more convenient for you or if you need one that is sturdier and easier to carry.
The type of tire you choose for your electric scooter will depend on the type of terrain you will be traveling on. If you will mostly be on well-maintained cycle paths, a paved road, or a dirt road, it’s important to consider the condition of the path when selecting your tire size. A larger tire may be more suitable for rough terrain, while a smaller tire may be more appropriate for smoother paths.
When selecting an electric scooter, it’s important to base your decision on your regular use, rather than occasional situations. If you have a daily commute of 10 kilometers but only plan to use the scooter for transport occasionally, it’s better to choose a model that is more suitable for your daily needs, rather than an ultra-light model for the occasional trip. It’s easier to handle exceptional situations with a properly-sized scooter that you are comfortable with, rather than forcing yourself to use an inadequately-sized model for the majority of your trips. Focus on the type of use you will have 80% of the time, and choose your scooter accordingly.
Electric scooters are now limited to a maximum speed of 25 km/h when used on public roads, for safety reasons. However, for sports enthusiasts who want to use their scooters for competitions on private land, there are faster models available. Some popular brands, such as Hiboy and Gotrex, offer electric scooters that can reach speeds up to 90 km/h. Keep in mind that these high-speed models are meant for use on race tracks and cannot be used on public roads.
In addition to speed, these electric scooters also have other features that make them a great choice for sports competitions. However, it is important to remember that using a high-speed scooter on public roads is illegal and can result in a hefty fine.
When choosing an electric scooter, it is important to consider more than just the maximum speed. A powerful electric scooter will also have strong acceleration torque, making it easier to handle hills and challenging terrain. To determine the power of an electric scooter, several factors need to be considered, including the nominal power of the motor, the voltage, and the electronic management. Some manufacturers may only provide peak power, rather than the nominal power, so it is important to cross-reference this information with other factors, such as the voltage and the quality of damping, to get a more accurate picture of the scooter’s performance.
There are three main types of powerful electric scooters: single-engine urban models with a nominal power of 48V to 500W, rustic models with a chain drive that are often used in the countryside, and powerful dual-motor scooters with two engines, which are like a 4×4 on a scooter. Each wheel is driven, allowing for better performance and more efficient power distribution. These scooters are often popular because they have large inflatable wheels.
When choosing a powerful electric scooter, it is important to consider your needs and preferences, and to test the scooter to determine your preference. The right scooter for you will depend on your individual requirements and the type of terrain you will be using it on.
The range or autonomy of an electric scooter is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing one. Typically, electric scooters can have a range of 10 to 40 km, but some models can go up to 70 km on a single charge. It is essential to choose a scooter with a range that exceeds your daily needs to account for unexpected trips and the gradual loss of battery life over time.
When it comes to batteries, there are two types: lead batteries and lithium batteries. Lead batteries are usually cheaper, but have a shorter lifespan, more weight, and limited range. Lithium batteries are more advanced, with a longer lifespan of around 800 cycles and no memory effect. The capacity of lithium batteries is expressed in Wh (watt-hour) or Ah (ampere-hour).
It’s also important to take a safety margin into consideration when choosing your electric scooter’s battery. You might end up using your scooter more than you initially thought, and the battery will also age over time and lose its capacity.
Keep in mind that the range of an electric scooter can vary greatly due to different factors such as the weight of the rider, the terrain, the speed, and the temperature. Some manufacturers advertise a range based on specific conditions, but reliable websites like Mobilityurban correct these advertised ranges to provide a more accurate representation.
When choosing an electric scooter, take into account your riding habits, weight, the terrain you will be riding on, and temperature conditions to determine the range that’s right for you.
The weight of an electric scooter is an important factor to consider when choosing one. They can weigh anywhere from 7 to 40kg, with most scooters weighing between 9 and 20kg. If you plan on carrying your scooter on public transportation or up flights of stairs, a lighter scooter will be easier to handle.
Ultra-light scooters, weighing between 9 and 13kg, are highly portable and can be taken on buses or trains with ease. Light scooters weighing between 13 and 19kg provide better autonomy and comfort, but may be more difficult to carry on a daily basis. Scooters over 20kg are better suited for transportation rather than portability.
It’s also important to take into account the bulk and weight distribution of the scooter, as this can affect how easy it is to carry. For example, while two scooters may have the same weight, one may be easier to carry due to its ergonomic design.
When choosing a scooter, you may initially think of it as a supplement to public transportation, leading you to choose a lightweight model. However, in practice, many people end up using their scooter as their main mode of transportation, so it’s important to consider what trips you’ll be making without access to other forms of transportation.
The comfort of an electric scooter is influenced by various factors such as the size and type of tires, the presence of mechanical shock absorbers, and the driving position. The type of tire can greatly impact the comfort level. For example, larger tires (10-12 inches) with an inflatable inner tube provide better shock absorption compared to smaller rubber tires (6 inches). Mechanical shock absorbers, such as spring shocks or oscillating arms, can also contribute to a more comfortable ride.
In terms of ergonomics, the handlebar shape, accelerator type, platform size, and engine placement can all play a role in how comfortable and safe you feel on the scooter. Consider your own body shape and driving style when making a choice.
Additionally, solid rubber tires are puncture-resistant but offer less comfort compared to inflatable tires. On the other hand, inflatable tires provide better stability and a more flexible driving experience, but are more prone to punctures.
It is important to test the scooter in person to fully assess the comfort level and make the best decision based on your intended use (i.e. short distance vs. long distance, smooth vs. rough terrain). Ultimately, the larger the wheels, the easier it will be to pass over small obstacles and the more comfortable the ride will be.
The height of the handlebars on an electric scooter is a matter of personal preference and body size. It’s best if the handlebars are between your hip and chest level for maximum comfort and precision while riding. Handlebars that are too high can cause less control and stability, while those that are too low can lead to back pain.
Some electric scooters have adjustable handlebars for greater versatility, while others have a fixed height for added stability. However, adjustable handlebars are typically suitable for most riders, with a few exceptions. Brands such as Gotrex, Ninebot, and Hiboy are known for offering electric scooters with adjustable or fixed handlebars.
The size of an electric scooter when folded is a crucial factor in choosing this mode of transportation over others. Its compactness makes it easy to store in various places like under a desk, in a car trunk, etc. The smallest models are less than a meter long, while the longest can reach 1.35 meters.
The deck size also plays a big role in determining the comfort and driving position of the scooter. Some people prefer to have their feet parallel on a wider deck, while others prefer to have their feet one behind the other on a narrower and longer deck.
It all depends on individual preferences and comfort levels. Some riders may need a wider deck because they can’t put their feet one behind the other, while others may feel more balanced and in control with their feet parallel on a wider deck. It’s important to consider your own needs and preferences before choosing an electric scooter.
The index finger trigger is a popular option for adjusting the acceleration on electric scooters, especially on high-powered models. However, using the index finger for a long time can cause fatigue.
On the other hand, the thumb trigger is more comfortable to use, although it may take a little extra time to get used to.
Some triggers also serve as displays, providing information such as the battery charge level, speed, and even the current temperature. Having a battery charge indicator is crucial, and additional features such as speed and mileage indicators can enhance the user experience.