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Some people focus only on price. Some people just want a light e-scooter so that they can pick it up. Some people are focused on the top speed and want to go as fast as possible. Maybe you’re one of them. Or maybe you just want to take it easy.
Whatever the case, we are here to talk about performance, comfort, dimensions and materials, the things that will help you make a decision easier.
At the end of the post, you will exactly know what is for you and what is not.
So, let’s start!
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6 Aspects to Consider When Choosing the Right Electric Scooter for You
Choose the Right E-scooter
This way of thinking is vital, as you will see why at the end of this post.
Either way, just know that we aren’t starting with a section about top speeds.
The correct order is as follows:
- Safety
- Dimensions
- Performance
- Comfort
- Cost
- Riding Conditions
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Every aspect will have a major influence the right decision for you. Furthermore, when you go through these sections, you will know exactly what kind of electric scooter is for you.
Are you ready to learn how to choose the right electric scooter for you?
Go through this e-scooter buying guide to learn how to pick an electric scooter that suit your needs.
1. Think Twice about Safety When Choosing E-scooter
I don’t want to waste your time and my time writing about the fact that e-scooter safety is the most important thing, but it is! I just want to make some statements.
Focusing on Safety Aspect
In this section, we will show you why this part is so crucial.
Make this the first point to focus on when choosing an electric scooter - Safety!
- Braking
- Weight Limit
- Lights
Choose an Electric Scooter with Proper Brakes
The reason speed comes after this section is this — brakes are the most important thing.
When we are buying electric scooter that can build up speed pretty quickly, we need to worry about stopping power as well.
A Great Example of the Importance of Brakes
I know that few people think this way, but when you heard that new Koenigsegg Agera RS can hit 248 mph in just little over 26 seconds, and after you pick yourself up off the floor, you can consider something even more extreme.
That speed is about 121 yards in a one second.
Koenigsegg Agera
That means in a Koenigsegg at that speed, you can go four miles in under one minute. But now it gets even crazier. Stopping power. From 248 mph to full stop position, it needs just 9.5 seconds.
During that time, the braking distance is 528 yards.
The manufacturer gives the same attention to braking power as speed. A driver who buys this extraordinary machine wants to stop in a second from 100mph or so because all that power needs to be controlled.
Maybe I was slightly off the topic with this example. However, this is very important to understand. Braking power is crucial.
Now, get back to electric scooters and brakes.
- Caliper brakes
- Disc brakes
- Drum brakes
- Rear foot brake
- V-brakes
- Band brakes
- Regenerative electric brakes
The best solution is to have hydraulic disc brakes. Mechanical disc brakes are second best. Drum, band, and V-brakes will also get the job done. However, I need to point out something here.
Buy any brake you want, and it will brake just well. After a while, that will rapidly change in favor of hydraulic discs. If they’re adequately maintained, they are the best.
Brakes Also Need Maintenance
The golden rule is that you should regularly change brake shoes and pads if you want proper braking. After a while, use an Allen wrench and adjust the braking shoes if it is needed.
The braking shoe and rim have to be properly fit.
You can get some more information on maintenance if you check electric scooter maintenance tips!
Some higher-quality electric scooters have a regenerative electronic brake. Those are great when you want to stop smoothly. Also, some energy which is normally unused (heat) is stored in batteries.
And a rear foot brake is practical, and a great thing about it is the fact that that it never fails. It’s always there for you at your disposal. Just step on the rear fender and you will stop.
- Am I an extreme rider?
- Do I live in the area that has a lot of hills?
- Am I a heavier rider?
If these answers are affirmative, discs and regenerative brakes are a good choice.
What about Weight Limit When Choosing E-scooter?
When the manufacturer notes that WEIGHT LIMIT IS 200 POUNDS, it means exactly that.
Weight Limit & E-scooters
A 250 pounds person can stay on the deck and even give it a go. That doesn’t mean that a 250-pound person will cause total destruction of an electric scooter immediately and transform an entire construction into ash.
No, it means that besides degraded performance, your braking system will be overburdened, too.
You will want to stop at one moment, and if you catch some speed on a slope, there will be a problem. A big problem.
Read what the manufacturer states about the weight limit and respect that.
It is a good idea to apply the golden rule: if you are 170 pounds, take one that has a limit of 220lbs or more.
The battery will last longer, performances will be better, and the ride will be better.
Choosing Electric Scooter Lights
We want to be seen on the road, that’s ok. But what should you look for?
There are several solutions:
- Headlight just above the front fender
- Rear light integrated into the deck
- Headlight integrated into the vertical handlebar tube
- Headlight integrated into the standing deck
- Rear light on a rear fender
- Headlight on a handlebar
- Lights on the side
- Nothing
The rear light is low, that is a fact, and there is nothing we can do unless you wear a reflective vest. It can be integrated into a standing deck and on a rear fender. In some cases, it is connected to the braking system, and when you touch a break, it will emit a stronger light.
You want the headlight to be in a higher position. When it is low, other vehicles won’t see you as easily, compared to having a headlight on the vertical tube or handlebar.
There are different solutions as you can see and you can choose your preference.
Now, here is the solution for a “Nothing” scenario...
In the worst case scenario, you don’t have any light at all. Then you buy one and attach it to the handlebars. Please, do not ride e-scooter without lights.
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2. Don’t Ignore Dimensions When Choosing an Electric Scooter
If it has safe brakes for your weight and you have lights, hypothetically speaking, it would be smart to take the following steps.
Electric Scooter Dimensions
If you're focused on how to choose an electric scooter for you, you don't want to skip these steps.
STEP 1 Be aware of your height
STEP 2 Do I need a bigger standing deck? (foot size)
STEP 3 Needs regarding portability.
How Tall Are You?
- The handlebar height is PERFECT FOR YOU
- The handlebar is a bit TOO LOW/HIGH FOR YOU
In the first scenario, that’s just great.
Buy that scooter right away. Just kidding, be patient.
In the second case, you should see if that electric scooter has handlebar height adjustment. If it does, that is excellent.
You will adjust it to how you like.
The main thing is to avoid buying is one with low handlebars that are also FIXED in place (when it comes to height adjustment).
How Big Are Your Feet?
It’s time to talk about standing deck dimensions. We are all different.
Maybe I have smaller feet, but I like the fact that I have more room on my deck to shift around and accommodate me when I want to ride off-road.
Maybe I have bigger feet, but I don’t care how much room I have as long as I have room for my feet. It’s your call.
Pro tip: Look for materials that prevent slipping. Read about materials before you buy an e-scooter.
How Important Is Portability for You?
This is something you know right now. Easy to answer, easy to decide.
Do you need an extra-fast folding system and extra-light electric scooter for your everyday commuting to work?
If the answer is “Hell yeah,” you shouldn’t think about off-road beasts with big tires and 2,000 watts.
More or less, every electric scooter can fold. The right question is how fast you can do it and what package size you get after folding.
If you want to fold your scooter super fast before you get on the bus, I bet you don’t want the entire bus wait for you to fold it…
You have a desk IN THE OFFICE, you know how much space you have there…
Maybe you have A HATCHBACK CAR, you know how much room there is in the trunk…
Or you are AN OFF-ROAD ENTHUSIAST, and you don’t care how much time you need to fold or unfold, as long as you can get it out of your pickup truck and ride it through the off-road courses that provide you satisfaction.
What can I say about portability? For some people, this is important, for some Nah...
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3. Focus on Performance When Choosing an E-scooter
Now, we are talking business. You have to know how fast you want to go.
E-scooter Performance
Also, find out what is the approximate range you can achieve with that kind of battery.
Do You Need Power?
You need to know what kind of riding you will do. Also, if you’re a bigger person and there are lots of hills out there, well, you need more power. Search for more watts.
Are you commuting through a crowded city to work?
You don’t need too much power.
You wish to have an agile and easily manageable electric scooter, right?
If that scenario, 500 watts is case-closed. Of course, 250 watts will get the job done, too. I prefer more power, but 250 watts for everyday commuting is doable, as long as your route is not too hilly.
For off-road fun, you will need 1,000 watts or so. On the market, there are machines with 5,000-watt motors, the sky is the limit…
And yes, you will need a chain driver motor if you want higher torque.
How Fast Do You Want to Go?
There are electric scooters that provide speeds from 8 mph to 50 mph.
The smart move is to make a selection right away:
- For kids (beginners) 8 mph
- For more experienced kids and teenagers 10-15 mph
- For adults 15-20mph
- For adults who want to travel greater distances 20-50 mph
For me, the optimum speed is between 15-20 mph. As long as we don’t want to travel longer distances or race with our friends off-road or on a trail.
After making a selection, you decide that you don’t need a 50 mph monster and case is closed. You are one step closer to your choice, right?
For those who need speed, The fastest electric scooters is the place for them.
How Far Is Your Destination?
Time to talk about range.
Some manufacturers claim that their electric scooter can provide a ride time of 40/50 minutes, some claim that you can go 50 miles.
That is very disputable. I am not saying that those numbers are something you can bet on.
Either way, promised range always sounds better than it is.
This is what I mean...
THE RIDER AFFECTS THE RANGE.
We have to take responsibility for those numbers as well. My car goes 30 miles per gallon when my mom drives it.
On the other hand, when I am behind the wheel, that number is 20 miles tops. Same car, same fuel, next day…
Do you get the picture? Riding style is crucial.
A clever move can be to take a scooter that promises slightly higher range, then you will be satisfied.
And if that happens, don’t forget that you can influence it. Be smarter, ride smoother, help your scooter on slopes and you’ll get a greater range.
Go Through the Battery Data When Picking an Electric Scooter
Nowadays, you have lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries. I like when things become simple. Just to rest a bit. And it doesn’t get simpler than that.
You have one step to take.
One of these two:
CHOICE 1 - You have to charge lead-acid batteries for a very long time, and as a reward, you get a short range. It sounds funny, but that is the case.
CHOICE 2 - You charge lithium-ion batteries for significantly less time, and they will provide you greater range.
Now, you can wonder, why the hell do people buy the first one?
Well, for the same reason I drive hot hatch and not a Lambo. The cost!
But, let’s be objective and avoid jumping to conclusions. You deserve to know the every aspect of it, not just cost.
Ok, lead-acid batteries won that price race, but I want to show you other battlegrounds where lead-acid batteries are outclassed:
- L-I batteries have five times more specific energy (Wh/kg)
- L-I batteries have between 4-5 times more charging cycles
- L-I batteries can resist temperatures above 45C, while L-A just above 25C
- L-I has faster charging time (4X)
- L-I are 3X lighter than L-A batteries, better for the environment
- L-I there is no maintenance, power is delivered smoothly
The choice is clear as day. If you want to use your electric scooter daily, you need a serious lithium-ion battery.
However, for kids and if you ride it once in a while, lead-acid batteries will do the job.
Important to Recognize - Either way, remember that every single day those lithium-ion batteries spend on the market, the better for us. It will be cheaper…
Whatever your choice was, the rider’s weight is one huge variable in that range equation. Even weight that doesn’t exceed the limit will drain the battery, that’s just a fact, you’ll have to live with that.
Old but gold: Find out if there is a kick option when a battery dies. Is it easy to roll scooter when you run out of battery? If it is easy to roll, that could be a pretty handy feature if you are in the middle of nowhere.
Maybe someone tells you that you’re asking for too much, but believe me, no matter how brilliant that battery is, the day will come… And it's better to be prepared for it.
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4. Choosing an E-scooter with a “not so Bad” Comfort Level
Comfort is something that you can forget about if want to ride bike, scooter or skateboard. That’s just the life we’ve all chosen, right?
Comfort Levels on Electric Scooters
However, there are some minor things you can focus on to reduce the damage, and have a “not so bad” comfort level.
We are going to talk here about three decisions you may make to achieve higher comfort:
Do You Need a Seat?
Well, obviously a seat will provide you comfort. Some scooters have a seat, others have an option to install one, and the third scenario is there is no seat at all.
For short commutes, there is no need for a seat. I don’t know what you think about standing, but for me, an electric scooter is special because of the riding style. And when I ride a kick scooter with a seat, I feel silly. And I bet I look silly as well.
Some people think that electric scooters are ridiculous. Well, wait until they see you sitting. If you like to sit, buy an electric moped and look cool.
Maybe you have some standing issues. Then choose an electric kick scooter with seat. What else can I say… it is a great feature. Use it if you want some extra comfort.
Chain or Belt?
Your ride will be even more silent if your motor can deliver power to a wheel through belt instead of a chain.
We can agree with the fact that a CHAIN TRANSMISSION will provide you some advantages:
- More torque
- Better power transmission
- Higher durability
However, we are here talking about comfort, and for those who don’t plan to go for an off-road full gas ride, a chain isn’t the best solution.
When you have BELT DRIVEN MOTOR solution, there are some advantages you get:
- You get a more silent ride
- You get higher max speed
- You have no maintenance
- Smoothly acceleration
What Tires You Need?
Tires are the only connection point between us and the road. We can’t ignore that fact. You choose inflatable tires, and that would be comfortable. However, you may change your mind…
We have an opportunity to choose different sizes and shapes. Also, different types.
The size varies between 5-12 inches.
For off-road electric scooters, there are wider tires with more tread blocks, and those are chunky.
Spoiler alert: Those are not so great for asphalt. The main reason is noise. Lots of noise.
Tires that are smoother can be split into 2 groups:
- Flat/straight edges
- Rounded
Based on my experience, round is better because of the ability to lean scooter into corners, and steering is more natural and feels better.
Flat tires with straight edges are more like those on cars.
Also, another great feature is a flat-free tire. This is a feature that could change your mind about the comfortable, inflatable tire.
Choose those, and you will never have problems with a puncture. That could impact your comfort, but, with a good suspension, there will be no problems.
EXPRESSIONS that show you that you will have no puncture problems in the future:
- Flat/straight edges
- Solid rubber tire
- Tubeless tires (much more resistant to flats)
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5. Cost Analysis When Picking the Right E-scooter
It had to come eventually. Cost is something debatable. Of course, the brand name is one of the reasons why some scooters cost more money.
Cost of E-scooters
And this is one of the most important aspects if you want to show someone how to choose an electric scooter. Simply ask them (or yourself) what budget they can handle.
But, I want to point out some other relevant issues:
- Design/Look
- Material
- Warranty
Take a close look at these when you are looking for a new electric scooter. Yes, these are at the end, but equally essential.
In case you wonder why I used word the invest, it’s because the lighter and more durable scooter will save you money in the long run, especially if you use it to commute to work.
Lithium-ion batteries are more efficient, and lightweight construction will save your day numerous times.
You don’t want to be late, or tired because of the weight of a steel electric scooter with a lead-acid battery you have to carry up to the office.
I want to show you some cost scenarios..
Cost if you want your kid to play - For kids e-scooter and “once in a while riding” for adults, you can spend between $200-$500. Charging time and weight should be taken into account.
Cost if you want to have serious fun - (if you go down to this road, buy all the protective gear) And for some extreme and high-end e-scooter, you can spend $3,000-$4,000, even $6,000. The sky is the limit.
Cost if you ride to work - You want a more reliable, easy-to-fold, faster, elegant, fast charging e-scooter… If you decide on high-quality materials and features, you have to invest between $500-$1,500.
Do You a Want Cool-looking E-scooter?
The design is something that you notice first. I put that at the end because I don’t want that factor to be crucial to the decision.
Yes, of course, it is significant, but when it comes to giving it a go down that hill or sudden braking, that rounded, shiny shape wouldn’t be so helpful. But brakes are, and that’s why they’re are mentioned in the first heading.
If it is important for you to be elegant, fashionable and neat for your office when you fold it next to your desk — pay attention to design.
If you determine that this is what you want, great. Otherwise, you just need performance and technical specs, so skip this and look for other characteristics.
What Is the E-scooter Made Of?
Just inspect everything you can. These are the main steps.
Standing Deck: You want to know if it slides when you have somewhat wet shoes.Is it resistant to corrosion? How it feels. Poorly or strong as a mountain?
Folding System: Is there reinforcement in the folding area? More screws, for example, will show you that. When it’s folded, is there any unnecessary movement?
Frame: If you see that frame is made of aircraft alloy, that is great. If you see that e-scooter frame is made of carbon fiber, that's brilliant as well. The combination is splendid, too. If it's made of steel, it means that is great for kids, and it is nearly indestructible.
What about the Warranty When Choosing E-scooter?
Watch this closely. Some manufacturers give a considerable warranty period, some don’t. That is not a crucial factor.
However, if something goes wrong, it can be a great option just to get a spare part for free.
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6. Choosing a Proper E-scooter for Riding Conditions
After you take everything into account, it’s time for some brainstorming.
Choosing the Right E-scooter
Before you started reading this guide, you certainly made a list of at least 5-10 electric scooters you like or want. So far, after reading last five points, you eliminated at least half from that list.
Now, I think that in this final part about riding conditions, you will now make the final decision. It has just one aim, but I think that is a big one.
If we're talking about how to choose an electric scooter, we need to focus the conditions you're going to ride in most of the time.
Here's what I mean by that...
Landscape and Type of Terrain
This is the most critical component when it comes to the right choice. If one of your preferences has 600 watts peak power, that is fantastic.
That means the motor has 250 watts or 500 watts and when it comes to a hill, it can produce that extra power to push you harder.
Also, a great choice is if your course has some ups, 1,000 watts or more. You can’t go wrong there.
However, if you have flat area around you, a 250-watt or 500-watt e-scooter will be just fine.
That there is no misunderstanding.
I don’t want to declare that more power will save the world or something like that.
Just one fact!
If you have some hills or slopes, you need more power.
If you live in flat areas and you don’t have racing aspirations, don’t worry so much about power. However, if your need for an electric scooter involves climbing hills, focus on more powerful electric scooters.
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FAQs
What should I look for in an electric scooter?
You need to look for good enough performance that will match your daily needs and high-quality materials that will keep e-scooter in good shape (with regular maintenance) for at least two to three years. These are the most important aspects. Comfort and design are in the background when it comes to priorities when looking for e-scooter for you.
How do you choose a scooter for adults and children?
In short, focus on weight limits of the e-scooter and how tall you or your child is. You need to choose the one where you child can reach controls without any problems and operate it with ease in general. Also, buy the one that can carry your kid around without draining the battery too quickly. The same goes for adults.
Which electric scooter should I buy?
If your commute is flat and up to 15 miles long, choose Gotrax XR, Ninebot or Xiaomi m365. However, if you need to hit several nasty hills and you want to cover 20 or more miles easily, choose more powerful ones. Something like Dualtron, Nanrobot or a Mercane Widewheel Pro.
What do you need know when buying a scooter?
You need to know three things. Your budget, needs and your skill level. I mean you need to be honest about what e-scooter you can handle easily. Avoid scooters that are too powerful if you’re not skillful. When it comes to needs, consider how many miles your daily commute is and pick an appropriate e-scooter.
Should I get an electric scooter?
If you’re thinking about trying another way of getting around the city, you should certainly try an e-scooter. It will save you lots of money and you’re going to have fun. In short, if your daily commute is between 1 and 10 miles, the electric scooter was invented for you.
Where can I buy electric scooters?
The best strategy is to buy an e-scooter near you, for example, a local electric scooter shop. There are high chances that they also offer regular maintenance. And you can visit them quickly if there is something you need to ask (warranty for example) or buy accessories or something like that. If you can’t find a local shop, buy online on Amazon.
Final Thoughts
Perhaps before reading this, you had 10 scooters on your list, and now you have reduced it to five, or maybe three. Great, that’s good news. I believe that you know exactly what you want after reading this electric scooter buying guide.
If that’s not the case, and you don’t know what to think, your beliefs have changed and you’ve suddenly figured out that things you have been looking for in this post were not relevant in the first place, that simply means that you won’t make the wrong decision, and that is a success, too. You are on the path to right-minded thinking.
You have a clearer picture and your way of thinking has been improved. A win-win situation if you ask me.
I hope you learned how to choose an electric scooter.
Let me know what qualities you appreciate the most when it comes to choosing the next e-scooter for you.
I am sure you have plenty of examples.
Feel free to let us know in comments.
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