If this is a good scooter, what are the features you need to know?

1. Range

The range of an electric scooter refers to the distance it can travel on a single charge.

The range of an electric scooter depends on a variety of factors, including motor power, battery capacity, rider weight, scooter weight, weather, riding mode, and average speed.

The industry test conditions for electric scooters are smooth road conditions, a temperature of 23°C (73.4°F), and a 65KG (143lbs) rider riding at a constant speed in low gear.

Geekbuying recommendations

Since the conditions of daily driving and industry testing are different, it is best to multiply the mileage provided by the supplier by 70% for insurance.

Calculate the mileage you need to travel for daily commuting (round trip) and look for a scooter with a few miles more than the calculated mileage as a buffer.

Learn More: Is the Size of the Electric Scooter’s Battery Related to Its Range?

2. Battery

The voltage of an e-scooter has a direct impact on range. E-scooters with higher voltages typically have larger battery capacities, enabling them to store more energy and travel longer distances before recharging.

But battery capacity (and scooter range) decreases over time.

Most batteries will last at least 300 to 500 charge cycles, and the best batteries can withstand up to 1,000 charge cycles before they start to degrade.

Geekbuying recommendations

You can

• Carry a charger with you
• Buy another charger to keep at your destination
• Some electric scooters have dual charging ports, you can buy another charger and use them at the same time to cut the charging time in half
• Some electric scooters have removable batteries, you can buy another removable battery to replace it

Learn More: Safe Riding — Battery Maintenance

3. Motor Power

The motor of an electric scooter can control speed and direction according to the user’s operation and is one of the core components of an electric scooter. The motor of an electric scooter is usually a brushed motor or a brushless motor, which is powered by a battery and drives the scooter forward.

The power of an electric scooter motor is measured in watts (W). The wattage indicated on the motor is the power the motor can consume. A motor with a higher power rating means that it consumes a lot of energy in a short period of time. This also means that the motor is powerful because the more energy the motor consumes, the more mechanical power it produces. With strong power, the motor will accelerate faster, support heavier riders and climb steep hills.

Geekbuying recommendations

• If the road conditions in your area are flat and there are no steep slopes, a motor with a power of <300W is sufficient for short-distance commuting and transportation.
• If the road conditions in your area are complex and there are steep slopes, a motor with a power of >500W is best for daily commuting and outdoor play.
• If the main purpose of buying an electric scooter is off-road and seeking excitement, the power should be >1000W.

Learn More: Powerful Electric Scooters for Climbing: Conquer Any Terrain with Ease!

4. Top Speed

Speed is what humans pursue. When we ride an electric scooter, we always want to pursue faster speeds. In fact, most countries and regions have restrictions on the maximum speed of electric scooters, and most cities also prohibit scooters from driving on sidewalks.

Check your city’s laws and regulations on electric scooters

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You should always wear a helmet when riding an electric scooter. It is also best to wear knee and elbow pads.

Learn More: Recommended Electric Scooters Above 1000W

5. Brakes

The brake system of an electric scooter is one of the important components that affects its function and safety.

The brake is achieved by turning off the motor, providing reaction force from the motor, and providing external resistance.

The ideal situation is to have brakes on each wheel. Scooters with single-wheel brakes stop slowly and are prone to slipping.

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Mechanical braking systems are systems that rely on physical mechanisms to slow the scooter down, including foot brakes, drum brakes, and disc brakes.

Electronic braking systems rely on the motor itself for braking, including electronic and regenerative brakes. Electronic and regenerative brakes should be considered supplementary braking systems, not primary braking systems.

Mechanical braking systems provide greater braking power than electronic braking systems. However, the advantage of electronic braking systems is that they do not require regular adjustments or maintenance. Many electric scooters are equipped with both electronic and mechanical braking systems.

For safety reasons, it is recommended that scooters be equipped with both braking systems in case one system fails.

Learn More: Electric Scooter Braking System Types

6. Suspension

Suspension is an important part of an electric scooter, which can reduce vibrations caused by uneven terrain and provide a comfortable riding experience.

There are different types of suspension systems for electric scooters, including rubber suspension, spring suspension, hydraulic suspension, and rocker arm suspension.

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The rubber suspension achieves shock absorption by compressing the rubber deformation. It has a simple structure and low manufacturing cost, but is greatly affected by temperature.

The spring suspension achieves shock absorption by compressing the spring to deform the spring. It is easy to maintain and has a low failure rate, but it has no damping and the shock absorption effect is average.

The hydraulic suspension adds oil as damping on the basis of the spring. The spring deforms to achieve shock absorption, and the hydraulic oil absorbs part of the shock absorption as a damping to enhance the overall shock absorption performance. It has strong support and good comfort. However, it is difficult to adjust and is relatively heavy.

The rocker arm suspension is often used in combination with the spring suspension and hydraulic suspension; the rocker arm connects the frame and the wheel, supports the frame and allows the wheel to move up and down to help the body maintain relative balance. It has good stability, comfort (double structure), and good shock absorption effect. However, the cost is relatively high.

If your commuting or riding is complicated and the road surface is uneven, then it is essential to have a scooter with suspension.

Learn More: How to Choose the Right Electric Scooter Suspension for You?

7. Tires

As a key component connecting the scooter to the ground, the quality of the tire directly affects the riding experience and safety.

Currently, pneumatic tires and solid tires are common on the market.

Pneumatic tires are usually suitable for consumer-grade electric scooters, with good shock absorption performance and improved riding comfort;

Solid tires are commonly found in shared electric scooters and small-wheeled low-priced models. They are durable and not easy to damage, and are suitable for meeting short-distance travel needs.

Geekbuying recommends

We prefer pneumatic tires. Pneumatic tires can be divided into tube-type pneumatic tires and tubeless pneumatic tires.

Tube-type tires contain an inner tube, which is placed inside the tire and inflated to maintain the tire’s shape and provide a cushioning effect. The airtightness of the inner tube itself maintains the tire’s inflation pressure. If a leak occurs, just remove the tire, repair the inner tube and reinstall it. In the case of minor damage to the outer tire, only the inner tube needs to be replaced, which greatly reduces maintenance costs.

Tubeless tires are installed directly on the rim and do not require an inner tube. They maintain airtightness by tightly fitting, and once a puncture occurs, it can be repaired with tire sealant, sometimes without even removing the tire. Tubeless tires are more complex in design and have higher material costs, so they are more expensive.

Learn More: How to Choose the Right Electric Scooter Tires for You

8. Weight & Portability

The weight of an electric scooter depends on its build quality, battery size, motor power, and additional features.

Typically, an electric scooter weighs between 9 – 27 kg (20 – 60 lbs).

Generally, a scooter weighing 15kg (33lbs) can be lifted easily.

Portability is very important for an electric scooter. Folding means you can always carry the electric scooter with you, stuff it in the trunk of your car, take it to the subway, classroom, office, etc.

Geekbuying recommends

If you buy an electric scooter for commuting, it is recommended that the weight of the scooter should not exceed 30% of your body weight so that you can carry it easily.

If the main purpose of your purchase is off-road and portability is not important, then the weight is not so important.

Learn More: Best Lightweight Electric Scooter

9. Rider Weight

The weight limit is the weight limit that the electric scooter can bear. Most scooters have a weight limit between 220lbs – 550lbs (100kg-250kg).

If the weight of the electric scooter exceeds the maximum weight specified by the manufacturer, it will not only affect its performance, but may also cause traffic accidents, and it will also invalidate your warranty.

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The maximum weight that an electric scooter can bear is affected by many factors, such as material quality, center of gravity height, weight distribution, connection point strength, etc.

City commuter electric scooters are usually lighter, and off-road vehicles need to bear heavier loads.

Battery voltage is proportional to the weight that the electric scooter can bear, and factors such as motor power and tire size and suspension system also affect the weight and performance.

The frame material and design of the electric scooter are crucial to the weight limit and durability.

Most electric scooters can bear a weight of 220 pounds, but riders who weigh more than that should focus on finding a vehicle with more than 500W.

Learn More: What Is the Maximum Load Capacity of an Electric Scooter?

10. Deck

The deck of an electric scooter plays an important role in the riding experience.

A deck that is too wide and short may feel uncomfortable, while a deck that is too long and skinny may be difficult to maneuver.

Deck proportions are less important, but these ranges should provide a pleasant riding experience.

When choosing a deck, it is important to consider the length and width, material, and construction of the deck.

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Choosing the right deck length depends on your height and riding style.

A shorter deck allows you to spin faster, a longer deck length allows you to jump higher and stand more comfortably, and also allows you to balance better.

Your height also usually determines the length of the deck – the taller you are, the longer you need.

Learn More: Recommended Electric Scooters with Large Deck Space

11. Lighting

When riding at night, you should make sure your electric scooter has a suitable lighting system.

Types of lights include:

Front lights, which play a role in lighting and avoiding obstacles. This is the most important light to ensure the visibility of the rider;

Rear brake lights, which play a role in prompting. Make sure other road users know your activities.

Turn lights, which play a role in prompting. Whether you are meeting a car in front or following a car behind, you can clearly see the turn lights of the scooter.

Side lights/underdeck lights, which play a role in prompting and coolness. They can prompt other road users in low light conditions at night, and they are also a manifestation of personalization.

Tail lights, which can improve visibility at night. Help other vehicles and pedestrians better judge your position and direction of travel, and improve road safety.

Geekbuying recommends

Before riding an e-scooter at night, check the regulations in your area. Some areas completely ban nighttime riding, while others require specific lights and may have speed limits. Knowing the laws is essential for a safe and legal ride. For example, your area may mandate bright headlights and red rear reflectors. It may also limit your nighttime speed to below the daytime limit.

Learn More: Is it Safe to Ride an Electric Scooter at Night?

12. IP Rating

IP waterproof rating refers to the waterproof rating of an electrical appliance or device, which is used to indicate the waterproof performance of the device.

IP waterproof rating usually consists of two numbers, the first number indicates the dustproof level, and the second number indicates the waterproof level.

The waterproof rating generally ranges from 0 to 9, and the higher the number, the better the waterproof performance of the device.

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Common waterproof levels for electric scooters are:

IPX4: Wet ground, fog/dense fog; light rain
IPX5: Light rain, continuous light rain, water accumulation
IPX6: Heavy rain, slight immersion
IP54: Light rain, occasional rain; light off-roading
IP55: Puddles, light rain, continuous rain; light off-roading
IP65: Puddles, light rain, continuous rain; all-terrain
IP66: Heavy rain, slight immersion; all-terrain
IP67: Continuous heavy rain, partial immersion; all-terrain

Learn More: Waterproof Electric Scooters Recommended

13. Warranty & Customer Support

The warranty will be your lifesaver if anything goes wrong in the future. Many companies offer some type of limited warranty on their e-scooters, so be sure to read the fine print to see what’s covered before buying.

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Geekbuying provides a one-year warranty for all electric scooters and accessories. If you have any questions, please contact service_aftersale@geekbuying.com