Gone are the days when buying an electric scooter was just a hobby. E-scooters have evolved amazingly over the past few years, with applications ranging from running errands to off-roading and everything in between. This means that the motors have become much more powerful, the brakes have been beefed up, and the tires have become larger and tougher. Now that electric scooters are becoming mainstream, you should know a few things before plunking down your hard-earned cash. Consider asking these eight questions to the sales representative before deciding on the electric scooter.
What is the Scooter's Range?
Before you ask this question to the representative, you need to ask yourself these questions:
- What will you use the scooter for?
- What's your budget?
- Who besides you will use the scooter?
So let's say your answers are:
- I'll use it for commuting to work every day.
- My budget is $900.
- Only I will use the scooter.
Based on this research, ask the representative what the range of the scooter is. They should be able to give you an answer in miles per charge. If they tell you that the range varies based on how you ride, how much weight is on the scooter, or the terrain, that's a good sign. They should also be able to give you an approximate range for your specific usage case.
What is the Top Speed?
The top speed of an electric scooter is important for a few reasons. The first is safety. If you're going to be riding on busy streets, you need to know how fast the scooter can go so you can stay out of the way of cars. The second reason is practicality. If you're using the scooter to commute, you must ensure it can keep up with traffic.
The top speed also varies based on the model of the scooter and how it's being used. For example, suppose you're using an off-road scooter with larger tires. In that case, it will probably have a lower top speed than a commuter scooter with smaller tires. Ask the representative what the scooter's top speed is and how it varies based on the model and usage.
What Are the Weight and Weight Capacity Limits?
If you carry more weight than the scooter can handle, it's more likely to tip over. Another factor is practicality. If you're carrying a lot of weight, you'll need a stronger motor to get up to speed and keep going.
The weight capacity of an e-scooter also varies based on the model. For example, some models are designed for commuting and can only carry one person. In contrast, other models are designed for off-roading and can carry two people. Check with the representative what the weight limit is for the model you're interested in and how it varies based on the model.
What Are the Dimensions of the Scooter?
If you will ride on busy streets, you need to know how wide the scooter is for better handling. Moreover, if you'll use the scooter to commute, you must ensure it can fit through doors and onto sidewalks. E-scooter models are designed with different dimensions based on their intended usage. So a commuter scooter will be narrower than an off-road scooter. Ask the representative for the dimensions of the scooter you're interested in and how it varies based on the model.
What is the Motor Power?
The motor power will determine how fast the scooter can go and how much weight it can hold. Higher motor power will also mean that the scooter is more expensive. However, it is worth paying extra for a powerful motor if you use the scooter to commute or carry heavy loads. A lower motor power may be sufficient for leisurely rides around the neighbourhood. Ultimately, the decision of what motor power to choose depends on your needs and budget. Make sure you understand the motor dynamics in detail before making a purchase. ScooterHut has a great collection of electric scooters with powerful motors if you're interested in taking a look.
What is the Battery Type?
The battery type will determine how long the scooter can last on a single charge. Lead and lithium-ion are the two most common types of batteries. The former are cheaper but don't last as long as lithium-ion batteries. For example, a lead-acid battery may only last for 25-30 kilometres before recharging, while a lithium-ion battery can last up to 50-60 kilometres.
If you're going to be using the scooter for commuting, you'll need a battery that can last long enough to get you to work and back. If you're only going to use the scooter for leisurely rides around the neighbourhood, a shorter range may be sufficient. Ask the representative about the battery type and how far the scooter can go on a single charge.
How Long Does it Take to Charge the Battery?
Your scooter's charging time will decide how long you'll have to wait before you can use it again. For example, if you only have a few minutes to charge your scooter, you won't be able to use it for an entire day. On the other hand, if you have a couple of hours, you'll be able to use it more frequently.
The charging time also depends on the battery type. Lead-acid batteries take longer to charge than lithium-ion batteries. For example, a lead-acid battery may take up to 8 hours to charge, while a lithium-ion battery can take as little as 2 hours. Inquire about the battery type and how long it takes to charge.
What is the Scooter's Range?
The range is the maximum distance the scooter can travel on a single charge. The range varies based on the battery type, motor power, and weight capacity. For example, a scooter with a lead-acid battery and a lower motor power may have a range of around 32 kilometres. In comparison, a scooter with a lithium-ion battery and a higher motor power may have a range of up to 60 kilometres. Check with the representative the range for the model you're interested in and how it varies based on the battery type, motor power, and weight capacity.
Final Word
Before you buy an e-scooter, be sure to ask the sales representative these important questions. By doing so, you'll be able to find the best scooter to suit your needs.
