Electric Scooter Buying Guide

Electric scooters (also known as electric kickbikes or e-scooters) are becoming just as common as bicycles.

This comprehensive buying guide is created by us based on our personal and unique experience of electric scooters, as well as expert knowledge and verified data from stores, manufacturers, users (both private and organizational).

This electric scooter buying guide was created to fill a gap in the internet of a good and authentic guide of selecting the right electric scooter for your needs. It was also created due to the amount of emails from people asking which electric scooter to buy, wether it being a gift to somebody else or for personal use.

Since most websites out there are sponsored or make money by advertisement, they cannot be authentic and real in their opinions. This makes our guide unique by iteself. We are all long-time electric scooter riders and have first-hand knowledge of the different kickbikes we talk about. We dont sell or promote any specific brand, and to the contrary of other sites, our buying guide is unbiased and independent.

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This electric scooter buying guide will teach you all you need to know about purchasing an electric scooter. Check out the table of contents if you wish to read up on a specific section.

We cover a lot of topics in this e-scooter buying guide. Some of the most important ones are listed below.

This electric scooter buying guide will teach you all about

We also cover other more general aspects about the electric scooter such as

This all-covering guide is meant to answer all questions about electric scooter kickbikes as well as all side questions which may arise, which are relevant. The goal of this guide is for you to know which electric scooter to purchase.

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Table of contents

Electric scooter buying guide – Start here!

Buying an electric scooter usually starts with interest, curiosity, and an idea that you may benefit from owning one. Where do you start then?

Well, first things first. You ended up here because you are either looking to buy an electric scooter anytime soon, or you are looking to buy one for somebody else. Maybe a relative, or maybe your employees because you are an employer.

First thing is to understand what you want to do with the electric kickbike, as we always say to all who asks us. What you wish to do with your electric scooter is important, and we will go deep into this subject.

Another term for what you wish to accomplish with your electric scooter is a requirement. If you think of your needs (what you wish to do with the electric scooter) as requirements, it is easier to get a grasp of what you want to accomplish.

An example: some people just want to go shopping once a week, others commute everyday. As you can imagine, these two cases will require completely different electric scooters with different specifications. That is because the users have different requirements, one wishes to commute everyday, while the other once a week.

Electric scooter – Reason for purchasing one

If you are considering purchasing an electric scooter, you probably already have a use-case in mind. Some people need an electric scooter in order to conveniently get to work or school (commute). Others may need it in order to go shopping sometimes, or maybe just hang out with friends. And others may need it because they love to ride and go on adventures a lot.

Other reasons may be for offroad uses or sports and competitions.

If you have the reason as to why you intend to buy an electric scooter identified, it is a very good start. If you don’t, write a list of what you could use an electric scooter for and what benefits you would gain from it. Then you should have identified the reason to owning an electric scooter.

Where are you going to use the electric scooter?

We are in the process of identifying what you wish to do with your electric scooter in order to better narrow down the list of suitable electric scooters to buy.

Part of this work is where you intend to use the electric scooter.

You should think about the type of terrain you plan to ride on. The different types of electric kickbikes are adapted to different types of environments.

First, think about how and where you plan to use the scooter. Are you looking for something to get around town, or do you need something more powerful for off-road adventures? Knowing what type of terrain you’ll be riding on will help you narrow down your choices.

The terrain type will drive certain features you need such as weight limit, speed, distance (range), tire-type, suspension or not, etc.

You should know on what terrain you intend to ride your electric scooter. I have created a table below, where you can easily identify the proper electric scooter terrain based on your intended usage:

Terrain-need of electric scooter – Table

ASPHALT	OFFROAD	INDOORS
Urban city	Country-side	Sports arena
Pavement	Un-paved roads	Large company quarters
Bicycle-lanes	Forest tracks
	Dirt tracks

NOTE: If you will spend more than 25% on a certain category, select that terrain category from the table above.

The terrain is a factor in choosing the proper electric scooter in this buying guide. Therefore, make sure you have determined that.

Buying guide – Range of the electric scooter

Next up in this buying guide is the range.

The range can be thought of as the distance you can go on one charge. You are probably already familiar with the concept of battery power, and that a certain charge will give you a certain range for the electric kickbike.

Different brands advertise their ranges quite generously, and most of the time the range they have specified on the product does not live up to real-life usage of the product. For instance, if an electric scooter brand such as Xiaomi advertises 15 miles in range on a charge, real life usage of a 180 lbs person is more close to 10 miles in urban areas due to factors such as stopping, constant acceleration, hills, terrain types, etc.

The 15 miles advertised is under ideal conditions, with a very low-weight person, perfect straight surface with low rolling resistance and maybe even wind in favour from behind.

For this buying guide of electric scooters, you need to identify the distance you plan to cover on one charge with your electric scooter. Do this by using Google Maps, and find out the range in miles (or km) from point A to B.

If you have charging capabilities in point B, this range is enough, and you can only add a margin of around 2 miles to count for unforeseen things on the route such as stopping for coffee, talking with a friend, making a call, detours etc.

However, if you do not have charging capabilities in point B, you should multiply the distance between A and B by 2. That is:

A x B = Range need

Again, add a couple miles extra for unforeseen events.

Most people who contact me have a short range to commute and usually only want to get to work and back in an urban environment. They usually end up with a need of about 20 miles to work. Many employers offer charging capabilities at work, so you can charge your electric scooter there. Sometimes for free! Worth checking up!

However, others who contact me have a long range of about 40 miles they wish to cover. That’s where it gets tough. There are solutions for this, but as you probably guessed, all comes with a price tag.

Now you also have a range determined, great! Write that down and lets go to the next step in this buying guide for electric scooters.

Buying Guide – Speed of the electric scooter

The speed of an electric scooter is well covered in this buying guide, since it is an important factor for many.

The speed is a factor you need to consider before buying an electric scooter. Start by determining how quickly you need to go from point A to B. This should be the time you need to travel in normal conditions. You should consider traffic, stops, coffee, calls, to get a realistic time.

The average electric scooter speed is about 15mph (or 25km/h). We will use this as a template for now, in order to illustrate how we calculate the speed need.

The formula for determining the time is “time = distance/speed”. Did you forget this from school days? 🙂

If we use a distance of 10 miles and divide it by the speed of the kickbike (15mph), we get the following results:

For imperial units:

10/15 = 40 minutes.

Or for metric units:

16/24 = 40 minutes.

Then, we add 15 minutes of unforeseen events as we said, we get 55 minutes. This is the time it takes to commute to work in this example.

(A good calculator to use is found here: https://www.calculatorsoup.com/calculators/math/speed-distance-time-calculator.php)

Is this time suitable for you? Or would you need to wake up much more early in order to get to work with an electric scooter? These are the types of questions you should as yourself.

You can turn the formula around, and put a different speed in the formula and see what results you get.

However you go about in using the formula, you will now have identified the speed need (speed limit, or maximum speed) of the electric scooter you intend to buy. This helps narrow down the choices in choosing the best electric scooter for you.

Electric Scooter Weight Tolerance (max weight)

We will now go into the weight tolerance in this buying guide for e-scooters.

The weight tolerance is also called weight limit. This is actually the weight the electric scooter can handle in optimal conditions.

If you plan on riding yourself, this is the same as your own weight. The more weight you put on the electric scooter, the more battery power is needed to transport you from A to B.

If you are under 220lbs (100kg) in weight you usually don’t even need to consider your weight since all electric scooters can manage this.

Weight affects range

You may need to adjust your calculated range from the steps above if you weigh more than 220lbs (100kg). You should add 10% to the range need you have identified above. For instance, if your range to work is 10 miles, you should add 10% which makes it 11 miles. Simple right?

However, if you are above 270 lbs (about 120kg) you should add 25% to the range identified to be safe.

Buying guide – Laws limiting usage of electric scooters

Now we must consider the laws we need to abide by in order to be legal. This may impact speed of the electric scooter.

You have probably heard of a speed limit on electric scooters sold in the US, but also in UK or Europe. The limit in place by manufacturers is not there because they like it to, it is there because regulations and laws prohibiting a higher speed in certain areas. This is due to safety reasons.

It would be dangerous to ride this equipment faster than 30mph on a bicycle lane for instance. It would lead to a lot more accidents. This is found in numerous statistics and investigations performed by government bodies and other organizations around the world. One example is the NIH (National Center for Biotechnology Information), where it states a 50% reduction in accidents after a speed limit was introduced amongst else.

You should check firstly if there is a law limiting you to a certain speed limit. This may make the trip from point A to B take longer time, which you must calculate in your need.

Night-time usage of electric scooter forbidden in many places

Another thing you must consider if you intend to use your electric scooter at night is wether there is a law prohibiting this use. Some places around the globe, especially in urban city areas, have prohibited usage of electric scooters during weekend night-hours due to an increased risk of accidents. Mainly because a lot of people drink and drive these electric kickbikes and they end up in accidents of course.

Take a look at your local laws and find out if there are such limitations in place. This may affect you. Especially if you commute to a night shift and you intend to use your electric scooter at these nightly hours.

If you haven’t found any restrictions after checking the law and regulations, proceed reading my guide.

Electric scooter buying guide – The Budget

This buying guide also covers the financial part of choosing the best electric scooter for your needs.

Economy and finances is of course one of the most important aspects to check before buying an electric scooter. Most people who plan on purchasing an electric scooter already have a budget in mind.

Electric scooters, just like anything else, have a lot of different price-ranges and all come with various functionalities. Some expensive models are better, but some are not.

For instance, chinese Xiaomi may have cheaper models which are better compared to American-made electric scooters, just due to the manufacturing costs.

But I can tell you from experience that the cheapest models are not the way to go, as I can also tell you the most expensive models are overrated. The answer lies in between!

A good budget is usually between 500$ – 1000$, in this range you will get the most value for money if you are an average user. However, if you are a kid, we recommend a budget of around 300$ – 500$. This is because kids don’t use the electric scooters the same way adults do. The usage of kids are usually in the neighbourhood and around with friends, school, etc. The range will almost never be an issue, neither will the time need be an issue for the kids. They have all the time in the world, while their ranges are quite close since parents wont allow their kids too far from their homes.

We have provided some electric scooter models (just examples) in each budget category below, but I will go into the models later on in this guide and which one I recommend. Just read on and you will learn all you need to know.

In this buying guide, we have chosen to split the electric scooters into the following budget categories:

Low budget: 300$ – 500$ electric scooter

This is the lowest of the budgets for electric scooters. If this is your budget, dont worry, there are options for you as well. But you must make sure your needs are covered. If for example the low-budget model you find does have a lower range than you need, then you should reconsider not buying an electric scooter, or increasing your budget a bit more to afford an average budget model.

Low budget models are usually from Asian manufacturers such as Xiaomi or Segway (same company today). However, these same companies have average priced models as well, which are good!

Low budget models are such as the Hiboy S2 or Xiaomi Mi or Gotrax GXL V2 electric scooters. Maybe you heard of these? They are quite popular amongst kids.

Average budget: 500$ – 1000$ electric scooters

This is the average budget I am talking about above. This is a good budget to put on electric scooters. You get a lot of value for your money and you will most likely cover your need already identified.

If you have this budget, you don’t need to worry and you are well on your way. This is the most common type of budget, and most people have this in mind.

If you cannot afford this budget, then you basically have two options: Go for a low-budget one, or skip electric scooters alltogether.

Electric scooter models in this range are for example ANYHILL UM-2, NIU KQi3 Max, OKAI Neon Pro, Apollo Air 2023, Segway Ninebot Max etc. As I said, I will cover the ones I recommend further down this guide.

High budget: 1000$ – 2000$ electric scooters

This is where you get really good electric scooters. But of course, not all can afford this budget on these kickbikes. This is also where you get more special features such as suspensions, better brakes, better modifications, better tires and more.

These electric scooters are quite expensive, but quite good. Some may be manufactured in the west, but still most of them are manufactured in Asia. Mainly China.

The models in this price-range are for instance NIU KQi Air Carbon, Segway Max G2, Apollo Go 2024 Premium, Inokim OXO, etc. Again, as I said, I will cover the ones I recommend further down this guide.

Professional use: 2000$+ and up electric scooters

These types of electric scooters are really pricey, but they are especially made for professional usage. What I mean by that is that they are intended to be used in offroad conditions, long range, great ride-comfort and long durability.

They are already upfitted with most accessories and you dont need to think much about anything else.

They are also the models used in pits such as skateboard pits and more by many users.

Looking for an electric scooter in this price-range is not so common, but if you have a larger wallet then you should go ahead, why not right?

Some employers seek these types of electric scooters since they are more keen to have quality for the employees rather than quantity. Another factor which is attractive in this price range is that you dont need to pay as much for maintenance and service, since the parts on these electric scooters usually last longer and are more reliable, meaning more up-time.

Models in this price range are for example M YUME Scooter, Apollo City Pro, INOKIM Oxo Super, OKAI Panther, Segway P100s, etc.

Subscription-based budget – Monthly fee for electric scooter usage

Another form which users ask me about is a subscription based payment method for using electric scooters. This method is becoming more popular, but due to the market price of electric scooters gone down in last couple of years, this method is becoming replaced by personal owned electric kickbikes/scooters.

There are some advantages of subscription based electric scooters, as well as some disadvantages.

One main benefit of this method is that you can just end your ride and park your electric scooter anywhere allowed, and not worry about charging, theft, etc. This is what I would say the most beneficial thing about this budget-method or payment method.

The biggest disadvantage is the availability. This method does not guarantee you have an electric scooter at hands at all time, especially in places where they are not abundant such as outside city centres. You end up looking for them on a map in your app, and usually you have to walk quite a distance to get one. Due to this reason alone many chose to buy their own electric scooter.

In fact, most people who end up in this guide have already tried Voi, Tier, and others using a subscription payment method and found the disadvantages I am talking about, and are now looking to buy one to always have an electric scooter in hands.

The price ranges of these models are usually about 5$ – 50$ based on your riding need (time spent, range driven).

Cost of owning an electric scooter

The cost of actually owning an electric scooter is as mentioned based on how often you use it, how much maintenance you need and more.

We have created a great calculator to find out your charging cost, which can give you insights into how much it would cost you to go from point A to B since this is usually done in one charge.

Take the total cost per charge and simply multiply it by the amount of times you need to charge your electric scooter at home in a month and you will have a montly cost without maintenance of owning an electric scooter.

Typical costs of charging an electric scooter is very low, around 2-5 cents (0,02-0,05 USD for the great majority of countries). This is much cheaper than bus fares, metro, taxis and more.

Maintenance cost is usually calculated as 10-20 USD / month.

After adding the two together you have your monthly cost of owning an electric scooter.

Example electric scooter cost breakdown

Here is a typical example of how much an electric scooter costs per month, for a typical commuter in U.S.A.

With a price of electricity at 0,18 USD, and with a typical electric scooter (36V and 13Ah battery).

This gives a cost per charge of 0,08 USD.

We assume the rider will commute every working-day on one charge, making a total of 23 days per month.

23 x 0,08 = 1,84 USD.

Maintenance cost of 15 USD (exaggerated) is added:

1,84 + 15 = 16,84 USD / month.

*The cost of purchasing the electric scooter is not included of course, neither is accessories you may want.

Finding the best electric scooter without a budget in mind

Don’t worry if you don’t have a budget in mind yet. You don’t have to even though it would be good.

Just try to identify the other needs I have described above such as range, speed, terrain type and more. This is enough to get you started.

If you find it hard to identify a budget category, chances are that money is less of a problem for you than others. I dont’ say this is always the case, but most likely it may be.

In that case, I would actually recommend going with the average budget category above, especially if you are a first time buyer of an electric scooter.

This category is suitable for most people anyways.

Moving on in this guide, you should now have a budget identified of how much you intend to spend on this electric scooter. You are almost finished, hang in there!

The next step is to think about security and safety of electric scooters. This is where we start to touch on the features of different electric scooters.

Safety and security of electric scooters

This buying guide also covers safety and security. Without this, it would not be a complete guide.

Electric scooters, just like other vehicles, has a bunch of safety precautions and accessories, as well as safety instructions one must follow in order to be safe and secure.

Safety is what keeps you out of harm and injuries. Security is what keeps your integrity and belongings intact.

In other words, safety = avoiding injury, while security = avoiding theft.

So what should you know about safety and security of electric scooter kickbikes? Well, I will cover all you need to know, dont worry. Some information is essential to you, while some is good to have.

Electric Scooter Buying Guide – Brakes

As with any vehicle, stopping is essential. And not just stopping, but stopping controlled and in time. Electric scooters have various brake types and I will cover all of them here. I will also tell you which one I recommend.

If you don’t care about the technical stuff, just go down to the recommended electric scooter brakes and you are set to ride.

Brakes is the most important safety feature of the electric scooters. This is what avoids harm and injuries, and without it (or if you have bad ones) you can get seriously injured.

The stopping distance is what is defined as the reaction time + braking distance. People with a drivers license may be familiar with the formula:

Stopping distance = Reaction time + Braking distance

Simply put, the brakes are very important!

However, keep in mind that brakes stop the wheel, regardless of what type of brakes you have. There is not much force required to just stop the wheel from turning, therefore the tires also make up a huge portion of the stopping distance. I will go into the tires and their effect on stopping distance further below. This is where friction coefficient and the fun nitty gritty comes into hand.

Let us start looking at the types of braking systems we have on electric scooters today.

Disc-brakes for electric scooters

Disc brakes are very common today. They are used on cars, bicycles, motorcycles, and many more types of vehicles. The consist of several parts, but the main function is that a caliper is pressed against a disc in order to stop the wheel from turning. The disc is itself attached to the wheel, turning with it at all times. This means, stopping the disc = stopping the wheel.

Disc brakes are efficient because they don’t overheat as much, weigh less, are cost effective and reliable.

The actuation of the caliper itself (the mechanism which pushes the caliper towards the disc in order to stop the wheel turning) is usually mechanical. This means that a wire is pulled (just like bicycles) which pulls the calipers. However, there are several other technologies which can press calipers towards the discs. These are:

These methods are all good, but the most reliable and cost efficient one is still the mechanical method. This is the one used by 90% of all disc brakes on electric scooters.

The main advantages of disc brakes are:

The drawbacks of disc brakes for electric kickbikes are:

Drum brakes for electric scooters

Drum brakes is another system, and is probably the oldest method. This is used today by cars (older ones though) and some heavier machines in quarries and mines. Although it is used by bikes as well.

Drum brakes are existing inside the actual wheel. The wheel does not have discs. Inside the wheel, there are “pads” which are pushed outward from the center of the wheel (still from inside the wheel though). This push causes friction, which stops the wheel.

See the photo for illustration. The green parts are also called “shoes” which are the parts pressed outwards to brake the wheel.

The advantages of this braking system is mainly the protection from outside environment such as rain, dust, dirt etc. But the main drawback is that it overheats quickly and is hard to replace.

So, summarized the advantages are:

The disadvantages of drum brakes are:

Foot brakes for electric scooters

The foot brake is one of the oldest brakes for electric scooters. It consists of a simple lever on top of the rear wheel, which if pressed downwards by your foot will result in friction on the wheel, which in turn stops the wheel.

We have all tried this type of braking on either old kickbikes or roller blades. Regardless, they are quite poor in quality and function. They do not stop quickly, and they wear out quite quickly.

I do not recommend this braking system on electric scooters. In fact, you should avoid electric scooters which only have this system to be safe.

So, the advantages of the foot brake are:

The disadvantages of the foot brake are:

Regenerative braking system for electric scooter

The regenerative braking system may sound new to you. If you dont know, I will explain the details here. This system is not very new, in fact cars have used it for a long time now.

This system uses kinetic energy (turning force) and converts it into electrical energy. Sometimes it is not even converted to energy, it is just sipped out into the air. May sound complex, but it is not actually. In the case it is not converted, it is simply called “Electronic brakes”, which we cover below.

The same way a generator charges a battery, it uses kinetic energy to charge the battery instead.

Practically it works by reversing the poles of the electric motor on the scooter, thus making it “going in reverse” direction. But not just spin freely in reverse, it is a controlled process where it slows the turning ratio of the wheel and that way stops the electric scooter.

This is actually the fastes method to convert a physical action of a person into braking power (it is just an electrical signal, rather than pulling a wire or stepping on a foot brake).

But as with all other methods, it has drawbacks and advantages.

The advantages of the regenerative braking are:

The disadvantages however are:

Electronic brakes for electric kickbikes

These types of brakes are just the same as with the regenerative brakes, without the charging part. They do not charge anything, instead they do not use the kinetic energy gained.

They simply reverse the poles of the electric motor in order to stop the scooter in a controlled manner.

The advantages of electronic brakes are

The disadvantages are

So, which braking system do I recommend? Read on below.

The recommended brake type for electric scooters

Going straight to the point, we recommend disc brakes as the primary method of braking for electric scooters in this buying guide.

If you find an electric scooter which has other braking systems in combination with the disc brakes it is fine. But the disc brakes should always be present. Without it, I would say your safety is at risk.

Electric Scooter Buying Guide – Lights

Lights is a key safety feature in electric scooters. I assume most of you know why. As with bicycles and cars, the lights on the electric scooters have three important safety jobs to do.

All these three important safety functionalities of lights are essential.

Some people think lights are just a cheap lamp they hook on the electric scooter and that’s it. I can tell you from experience that lights have saved lives many times. In night and dark conditions especially.

The three safety concerns above are solved by lights in front, rear and turn indicators.

The front lights should be white (or amber) in color. They need to be strong enough (around 30 Lumens in US) to light up the way ahead for you. They should be mounted no closer to the ground than 12 Inches (30,4 cm) and at a minimum of 4 inches (10,1cm) below the handle-bar.

The rear lights (tail-lights) should be red in color with around 15 lumens.

Regarding turn indication lights, I recommend that you go to your local bicycle or electric scooter shop and ask for retrofitting a pair if you don’t already have it installed from factory.

There are different types available, with indicator buttons on the handlebar, and lights on the handle-bar or on the foot-rests.

However, some people only use hand-signals to indicate turns, this is fine but I still recommend you get the lights. Going with one hand is really, really difficult and dangerous with an electric scooter.

Law on lighting of electric scooters

The law is different from state to state in the US, and in Europe it is also different. Therefore I cannot set out what you need. You must find out yourself. But my recommendation is to ask an e-scooter shop for legal lights, and they will help you on choosing them.

FMVSS 108 applies in the US, but it is unclear if it applies to electric scooters.

California and some other states have decided their own laws and regulations. For instance, I think I read that in California you must use hand-signals to indicate turns, just like bicycles. Anyways, I recommend checking this out so that you are fully legal once going on the streets.

Check with your bike shops, online shops, and even police if you don’t know the law.

Light-tips for electric scooter (kickbikes)

I have written some tips here, which you may consider when buying and adjusting your electric scooter.

Electric Scooter Buying Guide – Tires

This is another very important aspect of the elctric kickbike. This ensures you can stop in time, and ensures you do not slip and injure yourself or others.

To understand the importance of tires I will first explain some technical stuff for you, so it makes sense what I am talking about.

Lets take stopping. You start by applying the brakes. The brakes lock the wheels. The wheel is connected to the ground by tires. If the tire is made of low-friction material like hard plastics, you will slip/skid a long way until you have stopped. But if it is made of a high-friction material such as rubber, it will be better on grounds such as asphalt or dirt.

However, the ground also plays a crucial role in stopping. If it is snowing and icy outside, friction is low almost regardless of which tyres you have (unless you have studded winter tires).

So as you can imagine, tires are important in stopping.

I found some tests performed which compares budget and performance car tires and their braking distance.

One test found out that budget tires have an approximately 47 feet longer stopping distance than performance tires at around 70mph. Read about this here if you wish.

Another source tells us the same thing here.

So please guys, buy some good tires for your rides.

Avoid Wheel + Tire integrated as one unit if possible

Some electric kickbikes come with the tires and wheel integrated as one unit. This makes it very difficult to replace just the tires. You should try to avoid these types of kickbikes if you are going for an average budget and above model.

I recommend electric scooters which have real tires like bicycles which can be changed at times, and even changed due to seasons (for instance winter tires).

This covers all you need to know about the safety of the electric scooter (kickbike) itself. The rest of the safety comes down to how you ride it. This is really based on the driver/rider rather than the kickbike model itself.

Suspension plays a very small role in safety, therefore I chose not to include it under safety chapters here. Instead I will include it in the features section further down this comprehensive, all-covering guide.

Security – Theft protection

The next thing to talk about is security. As I already explained further up, security is the ability to avoid theft and keep your integrity intact.

Security for electric scooters comes down to protection of theft, of the scooter itself but also its accessories.

So how do you do this? How do you leave your valuable and new electric scooter on the streets in a city where there unfortunately is a lot of criminal activity, thefts, and such?

According to ABC Los Angeles, there has been a 129% increase in electric scooter thefts.

Well, you need a way to ensure your electric scooter is not attractive to the thieves. To achieve this, you get a good lock system for your ride, as well as for your accessories (if you leave any on the kickbike).

Many electric scooters which are low budget do not even have security on their agenda. They leave that part to the users.

There are different types of locks available (see below), and I will explain which one I recommend and why.

The types of locks are explained in depth here if you wish to read up on the different types of locks available on the market. Here, since this is a buyers guide, I will recommend the best one directly.

The #1 lock for electric scooters (kickbikes)

The recommended lock is a heavy duty U-Lock or heavy duty cable lock. This is ideal and makes it hard and time-consuming for thieves to even bother trying.

You should lock your electric scooter properly. Follow these tips to lock it securely.

Electric Scooter Buying Guide – IP Class

The IP classification is a method for manufacturers and brands to demonstrate how well the product can withstand moisture and dust.

IP stands for “Ingress Protection”, and it is a standard classification system developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) to determine how well a device can withstand the intrusion of foreign objects, for example dust and moisture.

If you are going with an electric scooter during all seasons (rain, snow, etc) then you should pick IPx4 and above. This is ideal in most cases.

However, I must tell you that IP is not a bulletproof method of making sure your electric kickbike is protected against rain. Rather the IP tests are quite easy to pass for manufacturers, and they can get that approval quite easily. Common sense and understanding is the best when determining how well your electric scooter can withstand rain and water splashes, dust, etc.

So my recommendation is, if possible, find an IPx4 and above electric scooter. If not advertised what IP it has, do a self check and ask about it. It will be covered by warranty in most cases anyways, since a products intended use is on roads, and roads get rainy, wet, dusty, etc.

Maintenance and serviceability of electric scooters

Now I am going to explain to you what to consider when buying an electric scooter (kickbike) in terms of maintenance and service. Just like bicycles, electric kickbikes require service. This is not a product where you just buy it and use it for several years without issue.

You must service it, maintain it.

But don’t worry, the maintenance is affordable.

Maintenance and service are two terms I use interchangeably here. They mean the same thing in this guide.

You need to consider preventative maintenance as a step to ensure you do not need repairs or service. It is better to change the tires before getting a flat tire when going to work for example.

So what is subject to maintenance/service on electric scooters? Here is a list:

All the above is the most common service and maintenance needs you have for electric kickbikes. I will not detail out the mileage of each, since it is fully dependent on the scooter model and your ride style. So it would be misleading.

By knowing the above maintenance you may encounter, you are one step closer to understanding everything about electric kickbikes.

Electric Scooter Buying Guide – Deck

The deck of the electric scooter is another thing you must consider. This is where you place your feet, and stand on during rides. Therefore, it needs to be comfortable, ergonomic, and large enough.

Some electric scooters have really small decks, where two feet barely fit. However, most models luckily have good room for placing the feet and it is no problems. Manufacturers of course take this into consideration.

Even if you have size 10 feet and larger, you do not need to worry.

Therefore, my recommendation is that you do not need to even consider the deck unless you have specific reason to be needing more space than average. If this is you, please look at the specifications of the model you intend to use. They usually write the deck-size on those specifications, and draw some tapes on your living-room floor or something, to illustrate how large it would be.

Best thing is to go and try the model, to get a proper feel of it of course.

Electric Scooter Buying Guide – Suspension

The suspension of the electric scooter is not essential, but rather a comfort feature. If you want to have the ultimate ride comfort, then you need suspensions.

If you do not have suspension, the only absorbent of shocks you have are the tires. The tires are quite good shock absorbers, but they are not enough for long rides on dirt roads, or even long rides in urban areas with different types of asphalts, pavements, sidewalks etc.

Eventually, your hands will feel numb, and you will be annoyed at the ride comfort of your scooter.

Therefore, my recommendation is to actually try and find an electric scooter with suspension fitted. This will ensure small rocks and irregularities in the terrain are absorbed, and does not vibrate into your hand-palms and irritate you.

This is especially true if you travel more than 4 miles.

For shorter rides than 4 miles, you could live without shock absorbers though.

Remember, this is a comfort feature, not a safety feature. I recommend it purely for comfort and ergonomics.

Electric Scooter Buying Guide – Speed / Top speed

The speed of the elctric scooter is something I get a lot of questions and emails about. How fast can I go? Is it possible to hack the speed limit? etc.

Well, I usually answer them all in the same way: Can you go faster safely?

If you have answered yes on that question, then you can explore options to go faster. Safety is essential.

Speed limits are in place for your safety as well as others. Speed limits are there by manufacturers built-in to the electric scooters. Most often, the speed limit is from laws and regulations in your country or state.

A typical speed limit is 15mph (around 25km/h) on most electric scooters.

All speed limits on electric scooters are software based. This means they can be hacked/adjusted and changed or removed completely. This is not something I recommend, since it may make your ride illegal. You must check this yourself.

Weather or not you can easily modify the speed limit is a question you need to find out yourself. In most cases I can tell you it is quite easy if you are fairly familiar with computers since before.

Range / Battery life

The range you can ride on your electric scooter is dependent on the battery. As you already know, the battery holds power for the electric motor which is integrated into your wheel(s).

A larger battery, with more capacity, gives more energy to consume. This is not really rocket science, but we are all familiar with small batteries = small power, while large batteries = more power.

The principal is the same with electric scooters.

Batteries have however some quite complex technical workings I will not go into in this buyers guide, since you do not need to know them in order to buy the ultimate and perfect electric scooter.

So what are the ranges of electric scooters? 5 miles and up is the easy answer.

Typical ranges are advertised as 10 miles, 15 miles, etc. But you should use my formula and calculation method in the section further up to find out the real range. The advertised range is not comparable in real life, and you will be dissappointed if you rely on that.

A good tip I usually give out is to have an extra set of batteries in your backpack so that you can change the battery and get twice the range if you need to. Many commuters do this today, in larger cities like New York, L.A. etc.

Portability

This is quite important, and you need to identify the need you have here in terms of storing, carrying, the electric scooter.

Most electric scooters can be folded. The handlebar is then folded over the deck, making it suitable to carry with just one hand, or store on a shelf somewhere in your apartment or garage.

I recommend foldable electric scooters. But not all are foldable. Most are!

Will you be taking the scooter up stairs? Into the office? Or do you live in a small apartment? Then you may need a foldable one.

Same if you wish to travel on bus or train with the scooter in your hands. A foldable version takes much less space and is convenient for you to carry.

The weight of the scooter is also quite important, if you intend to carry it long distances. Over 30 lbs will be heavy in the long turn. A slightly lesser weight of 25lbs will make a lot of difference.

Seat for the electric scooter kickbike

Some of you may have seen people riding an electric kickbike with seats. This is not common, and may look weird, but is actually quite comfortable.

I used to own a Segway Ninebot F/D with a foldable seat once and it was really comfortable. However, it was not as safe as when standing on the deck.

The reason is that you can easily jump off the deck if you are in danger or a hazardous situation. On a seat, you can jump off as well, but not as easily.

However, I do not recommend against or for a seated electric scooter.

This is just a matter of taste according to me. Choose one you like, and ask the vendor or store if there are seats which can be retrofitted on the model you like.

Not all (in fact, most of them dont) support seats retrofitted.

Electric scooter for kids

Electric scooter for kids are getting more popular in recent years. Kids meet up with their friends and ride together, or they go to school on electric kickbikes.

By kids, I am talking about age group 8 – 15.

There are no specific electric kickbikes just for kids, they are the same models sold for everyone. However, I do have specific recommendations if you are looking for a kickbike for a kid.

Kids kickbike – Do not choose an expensive model

If you intend on purchasing a kickbike for a kid consider choosing one which is a bit more affordable. You do not need the range, or the suspension most likely. You also, most likely, do not need to have great wheels. Ask yourself, where will my kid use this electric scooter? Where will I allow them to use it?

They are fun, but can be dangerous.

The only recommendation I have on the electric scooters for kids is to have a lower speed limit on them if possible, however not mandatory of course. This is because kids do not have the same understanding of speed and limits, as well as same thinking of consequences which occur if there is an accident. Therefore, they are prone to taking more risks, which leads to more injuries.

Choose a model with a speed limit of around 10mph if you can.

Which electric scooter model should you buy?

I have made this comprehensive guide in order to identify which electric scooter to buy. As you know by now, the best one is actually dependent on your needs.

Rather than asking for the “best electric scooter”, you should ask: “Which electric scooter is the best one for me?”

Based on this comprehensive buyers guide, you now have the skillset to go out and choose one which is perfectly tailored to your needs. This is actually the best method, and I reommend it strongly.

However, many people want me to still recommend an electric kickbike to them. Therefore, I have chosen to do so, based on a more accurate method of identifying the best electric scooter.

I will assume a certain need for you, and based on this need I will present some models which are great for you. I will do this for two types of needs per budget category. One is the commuter who needs to ride quite a distance to get to work and back. The other is the typical occassional user which uses the electric scooter for meeting friends, going to the gym, school, and recreational purposes.

The assumed person or character I have in mind has the following attributes, traits, needs and characteristics:

Based on the above assumptions, which anyways fits the vast majority of people in the US as well as Europe, I will recommend several electric scooter models which are the best ones.

As I said above, I will split this into budget categories as a next step. This means I will first present the best ones under $500 for commuting and for recreational use. Then I will go on and present the best ones under $1000, and so on.

Now, one important thing I must point out beforehand is that there are several ways to interpret specifications in the sections about the best kickbikes below. Therefore, I have also created a guideline for reading the specifications. You can find this section further down in this guide.

NOTE: Remember to check that you fit the above assumed characteristics. If not, you should adjust accordingly. By now, you are an expert 🙂

Best electric scooters under $500

The best electric scooter under $500 are Hiboy S2 Pro Electric Scooter for recreational purposes such as going to the gym, meeting friends. The best for commuting is the G-FORCE S10. This budget category is by far the most difficult one to find good models for. As you all know, price and quality goes hand in hand in the low ends of the price range.

An electric scooter costing around $200 will not last long enough for you, I can assure you this. I am talking out of experience. Therefore, I chose these two models carefully based on my experience and expertise, but also based on a lot of research and data collection. Want to know exactly what data I collected and what research has been done? Read on further down this page 🙂 I have always been transparent with my blog, and rest assured, my sources are credible and reliable ones.

Anyways, read more about these two electric scooters below.

Hiboy S2 Pro Electric Scooter

This electric scooter is the one I recommend for recreational purposes such as meeting friends or going to the store quickly at times. The Hiboy S2 Pro is one of the best all-round kickbikes you can get under 500 USD. In fact, price is more around 399 USD which gives a lot of value for your money.

This is also the model I would recommend for kids.

This electric scooter (kickbike) has the basic equipment and functions to start you off, and get you around easily. It comes with dual brakes, suspension, 25 miles (40 Km) maximum range (advertised).

Even though it is not very impressive compared to models in the higher price ranges, this still meets the expectations you could have on a cheaper electric kickbike.

The specs are the following.

Specifications of Hiboy S2 Pro:

*Warranty may differ based on your location

G-FORCE S10

This is the electric kickbike which gives you most value for your money (for commuting) if your budget is 500 USD. The G-FORCE S10 has some quite good technologies and capabilities which will make you satisfied in this price range. I have various acquaintances and friends who owns this model. I used to own this as well (though I sold it to be honest, but not because it wasn’t good or anything, but because I wanted to upgrade simply).

The scooter has dual disc brakes which is great actually, and it also boasts front suspension (front wheel only). This is actually quite good for this kind of money.

It can travel enough distance to cover basic commuting needs. The range advertised is 30 miles (48 Km) which is not very far, but again in this price range, this is what you can get.

Of course there are models of electric scooters out there with better specifications on paper, such as range, speed, etc. I am fully aware of these models, and intentionally chose not to include them since I have experience from these models. I only recommend what I honestly think is the best one for you.

So even if the advertised range on this model is less, you still get more value for your money because you get a good electric scooter which is reliable.

The specs are the following.

Specifications of G-FORCE S10:

*Warranty may differ based on your location

Best electric scooters under $1000

This is the budget category where you can get the best electric scooters for the least money spent. In other words, best value!

Since this category has so many good options, I am going to present two models for commuting and one model for recreational and spontaneous use.

The two models which are best for commuting are GOTRAX GX1 and JOYOR S10S. Read more about these below.

The best model for recreational use such as meeting friends, going to school or shopping mall is the INOKIM Ox Super Scooter.

GOTRAX GX1

This is a great model which many of my friends own. This is the best scooter I can recommend under 1000 USD. The reason so many own this model is simply because it is best value for your money. The specifications are great, with things like dual suspension and dual motors which don’t come in these price ranges so often.

Friends and family members who own the GX1 (and some own the GX2 actually) are all satisfied. The only, and I mean only, complaint I have heard from them is that the range is too low on a single charge, so some of my friends have an extra battery with them at times.

It comes with one disc brake and one electromagnetic brake. As you have read in my guide, I always recommend at least one disc brake on electric scooters.

The specs are the following:

Specifications of GOTRAX GX1:

*Warranty may differ based on your location

JOYOR S10S

This is maybe one of the best looking electric kickbikes I have tried. It looks really, really good!

It comes with a lot of power as well, with its dual motor setup. Furthermore, it comes with a double sided suspension system, kind of like a blade suspension type. So it is not an ordinary shock and spring setup.

The brakes on this electric scooter are one of the best aspects of it. It has hydraulic disc brakes on both wheels.

Until now, these kind of specs have been in the upper price ranges, but remember this is the best electric scooter for you under $1000! The price has been reduced quite a lot lately.

They advertise the range as around 50 miles (80 Km), and a top speed of 15mph (25km/h) which is restricted, so it can actually go faster but you need to modify its firmware then.

I will just show you the specs. They are amazing for this price range.

Specifications of JOYOR S10S:

*Warranty may differ based on your location

INOKIM – Ox Super Scooter

Inokim is another electric scooter I can recommend to you with confidence that you will be satisfied. This is a great quality scooter with many good specifications which usually the higher budget models have.

It can ride for quite a long range on its 60V, 21A/h energy source, and it has both disc brakes and drum brakes. Even though I don’t recommend drum brakes, you can see in this guide further above that I do recommend atleast one wheel with disc-brakes. This model satisfies that requirement.

It has a suspension type which is actually not springs nor shock-absorbers, it is a blade type suspension system which is not as good as the other ones I mentioned. But it is better than nothing!

When riding this, I felt that the handlebar was really good to hold on to. It must have been the most ergonomical handle-bar I held. I don’t know how they did it, but it feels very comfortable. Just wanted to point this out to you.

The specs are the following.

Specifications of INOKIM – Ox Super:

*Warranty may differ based on your location

Best electric scooters under $2000

Now we are up in the higher budget range. These electric kickbikes are considered high-end. But is the cost justified? I would say that for twice the money as the $1000 budget, you definetely don’t get twice the value. What you get is more like a 10-20% better electric scooter.

But for some people where budget isn’t a matter, it may be worth it.

I have presented the best electric scooters in this price-range for you to pick. Again, based on the assumed persons characteristics further above in this guide.

The best electric scooter under $2000 for commuting is the Kaabo Wolf Warrior X Plus. The best one for recreational use is the NIU KQi Air. Read more about these two models below.

Kaabo Wolf Warrior X Plus

Here is another great electric scooter for you guys to enjoy. I used to own one of these babies, and they are really convenient and reliable. I think I spent the least amount of time on maintenance or service on this kickbike than any other I have owned (and I have owned a lot of em).

This model comes with dual motors giving a good range and top speed. I used it for recreational uses but in fact it would be better suited for commuting everyday because it was so reliable.

It has front and rear hydraulic disc brakes which are really good in combination with Kaabos E-ABS (antilock braking system) which prevents the wheels from locking when braking. This reduces stopping distance significantly for you guys who don’t know.

Suspension system is another good thing which I loved about this. The ride comfort was great. I remember going over unpaved portions of the road sometimes and I barely felt it. On other models you may feel numbness in your hands/palms or even your feet, but not this one.

Overall this is a great electric kickbike, and I truly recommend it.

Lets dive into the specs.

Specifications of Kaabo Wolf Warrior X Plus:

*Warranty may differ based on your location

NIU KQi Air

NIU is a chinese company which started in the year 2014. It was actually started by the CTO of Baidu which some of you may be familiar with. To give you a hint of how large the company is, by 2018 it had 60% market share of electric scooters in Europe. It is listed at NASDAQ stock exchange as well.

The KQi Air is developed from generations of know-how in the electric kickbike field, and it is an exceptional machine.

It claims it has one of the lightest electric scooters around, weighing at 26.2 lbs (11.9 Kg). It has a full carbon frame which helps to achieve this.

It comes with dual disc brakes on the front wheels which is my recommended brake system as you know by now, and it also has regenerative braking on the rear wheel which charges the battery when slowing down by using kinetic energy.

Specifications of NIU KQi Air:

*Warranty may differ based on your location

Best electric scooters $2000+

Electric scooters in this price range, basically 2000 USD and upwards, are beasts. They are monsters and sometimes even dangerous as monsters are!

These beasts are not affordable by most people, but the ones who have the wallet to purchase these will be set for great rides and great performance.

I have picked two models I am quite fond of. The best one for commuting is Segway Ninebot GT1/GT2 SuperScooter.

The best one for other uses such as recreational, going to the store, meeting friends or just taking some rides occassionally is Wolf Warrior 11 Pro +.

Read more about these two monster electric scooters below.

Wolf Warrior 11 Pro +

This beast is another electric scooter in the high end class which I recommend. I took this beast for a ride in the forest and it was one of the best rides I ever tried. The range was not as advertised (no surprise though) but the speed was really quite close. I did manage to ride it at 45mph on a flat surface. At this speed it starts to get scary even though you have helmets and protective equipment on you.

This monster comes with dual motors, double braking systems (one on each wheel) and double suspension systems. It also have antilock braking which is a must in this price range, or I wouldn’t recommend it to you.

The 45% slope is something I did not test myself, but you should take this with a pinch of salt if you know what I mean. 45% is a lot! You will never ride these kinds of slopes unless you are an offroad rider.

Anyways, this is one of the best scooters out there and I recommend it to you guys, if you have the wallet for it that is.

Again, I want to point out the reading guidelines section further down this guide in order to understand how to interpret the values in the specifications below.

Specifications of Wolf Warrior 11 Pro +:

*Warranty may differ based on your location

Segway Ninebot GT2 Super Scooter

You have probably heard about Segway. This is one of the oldest companies in the field, and they have a lot of experience.

The Segway Ninebot GT2 Super Scooter is a beast. This monster ride come with amazing specifications and great performance. It has an amazing ride comfort and great finish, making it a beauty. If you ride down the street on this one, for sure people will notice you!

This is an amazing kickbike as I have stated. You should know that there are two models of the GT, called GT1 and GT2. The one I am recommending is the GT2 here.

The differences are that the GT1 has a single motor for propulsion and a smaller battery (1008 Wh instead of 1512 Wh). The range is thus affected, making it less in the GT1 than the GT2 of course. The speed, charge time, and all other variables which rely on the motor and battery-power are also affected. But the GT1 has dual brakes and dual suspension systems just like GT2 though.

Ninebot advertises the range in two different ways. They call it “Typical Range” and “Theoretical Range”. Funny enough, the longer range is just that, theoretical. But this is the case for all electric scooters. Atleast Ninebot are transparent about it. Read more about how to interpret the specifications below in the section about “reading guidelines” in this guide found further down.

I recommend this electric scooter to all who can afford it! Simple as that.

The brakes are hydraulic disc brakes on both wheels, with dual motors making it an all-wheel-drive or 2WD machine. The suspension systems have both springs and dampers on each wheel.

Specifications of Ninebot GT2 Super Scooter:

*Warranty may differ based on your location

Best subscription for electric scooters

This is a question I get sometimes. The answer is that it depends on where you live. It is as simple as that.

To find the best subscription company for electric scooters to sign up for, you need to check some things. I have created a list you can use as a checklist, and by using this list you can identify the best subscription for your needs.

That is it! Now you should have identified which companies offer good subscription models in your location. Next thing is to actually try them. Many of these companies offer deals and have campaigns to sign up, so make sure you check this first to get a good deal.

Also make sure you can cancel anytime.

Some companies that offer subscription-based electric scooter kickbikes in New York City:

Some companies that offer subscription-based electric scooter kickbikes in Los Angeles are:

Finally, Finding the Best Deals on Electric Scooters

So which electric scooter should you buy? I have tried answering your needs above, and what you need to think about.

Now I will list a couple of models you can buy depending on the budget class you have in mind.

Finding the best deals on electric scooters can be a daunting task. With so many different models and brands available, it can be difficult to know where to start. However, with a few simple tips, you can find the perfect electric scooter for your needs at an affordable price.

First, do your research. Take some time to read reviews of different electric scooters and compare features and prices. This will help you narrow down your choices and make sure you’re getting the best deal possible.

Second, look around. Don’t just settle for the first electric scooter you find. Look at different stores and websites to compare prices and find the best deal. You may even be able to find discounts or special offers that can save you money.

Third, consider buying used. Buying a used electric scooter can be a great way to save money while still getting a quality product. Just make sure to inspect the scooter thoroughly before making a purchase to ensure it is in good condition.

Finally, don’t forget about online auctions. Sites like eBay often have great deals on electric scooters, so it’s worth checking out. Just make sure to read the seller’s feedback before bidding to make sure you’re getting a good deal.

Here is a list of 15 large retail stores in the United States known for selling electric scooters (kickbikes) to consumers:

History of the electric scooter

Electric kickbikes, also known as electric scooters or e-scooters, have become a common sight in cities around the world. These lightweight and convenient vehicles have transformed urban transportation, providing an efficient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional transportation methods. But how did these devices rise to popularity and become a global phenomenon?

The concept of an electric kickbike can be traced back to the early 1990s when several innovative inventors began experimenting with combining a small electric motor with a traditional kick scooter. The idea was to create a vehicle that could be propelled by foot power, while also having the option of utilizing an electric motor for added speed and convenience.

The first commercial electric kickbike, known as the Go-Ped, was developed in 1996 by Patmont Motor Werks. This pioneering company released the Go-Ped ESR model, which featured a 24-volt electric battery and a top speed of 12 mph. While the Go-Ped ESR was initially met with skepticism, it quickly gained popularity among enthusiasts and leisure riders who saw its potential as a fun and practical means of transportation.

During the late 1990s and early 2000s, the electric kickbike market began to expand, with new companies entering the scene and offering their own models. Big names like Razor and Xootr started producing electric scooters aimed at a younger demographic, further boosting the popularity of these vehicles.

However, it wasn’t until the 2010s that electric kickbikes truly gained global recognition and became a mainstream mode of transportation. This surge in popularity can be attributed to several factors, including advancements in battery technology, increased urbanization, and the emergence of the sharing economy.

Advancements in battery technology played a crucial role in the widespread adoption of electric kickbikes. Lithium-ion batteries became smaller and more powerful, allowing for longer travel distances and faster speeds. This made electric kickbikes a viable transportation option for commuting and running errands, rather than just a recreational vehicle.

Additionally, the rapid growth of urban areas and the desire for greener transportation solutions created a fertile market for electric kickbikes. These vehicles offered a convenient alternative to cars, especially for short commutes and congested city streets. Electric kickbikes could navigate through traffic, park easily, and eliminate the hassle of finding parking spaces.

Furthermore, the rise of the sharing economy played a significant role in the global popularity of electric kickbikes. Dockless electric kickbike-sharing services, such as Bird and Lime, introduced these vehicles to the masses. Users could easily rent an electric kickbike through a smartphone app and unlock it with a QR code, making it accessible and affordable for anyone to use.

While the concept of electric kickbikes originated in the United States, they quickly spread to other parts of the world. European cities, known for their bicycle-friendly infrastructure, embraced this new mode of transportation. Companies like Voi, Circ, and Tier expanded their operations across Europe, providing users with a sustainable and efficient way to navigate urban environments.

In Asia, electric kickbikes gained popularity in densely populated cities like Beijing, Tokyo, and Bangkok. Emerging brands such as Xiaomi, Segway-Ninebot, and Gojek offered affordable and reliable electric scooters, which were widely adopted by commuters due to their ability to maneuver through congested traffic.

The electric kickbike has come a long way since its humble beginnings in the 1990s. With advancements in technology, increased urbanization, and the rise of the sharing economy, these vehicles have transformed the way people commute and navigate cities globally. From the first commercial electric kickbike to the widespread adoption of sharing services, electric kickbikes have secured their place as a convenient, eco-friendly, and fun mode of transportation.

Future of the electric scooter kickbikes

The electric kickbike has already revolutionized urban transportation, but its journey is far from over. As technology continues to advance and demand for sustainable mobility grows, the future of the electric kickbike holds exciting possibilities.

One key aspect of the future of electric kickbikes is the expansion of their user base. While these vehicles have gained popularity among commuters, we can expect to see even broader adoption in the coming years. Electric kickbikes will cater to a wide range of users, from city dwellers looking for a convenient way to travel short distances to tourists exploring new cities and even delivery riders needing efficient transportation for their daily tasks.

Technological advancements in battery technology and motor efficiency will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of electric kickbikes. As battery technology continues to improve, we can expect longer-lasting batteries with faster charging times and increased energy density. This means that electric kickbikes will have extended ranges, allowing users to travel even further before needing to recharge.

Moreover, advancements in electric motor technology will lead to more powerful and efficient engines. This will translate to faster acceleration and higher top speeds, providing users with quicker and more enjoyable rides. Additionally, improved motor efficiency will result in enhanced energy efficiency and longer battery life, making electric kickbikes even more sustainable and cost-effective.

Connectivity and smart features are also likely to be prominent in future electric kickbikes. Integrated smartphone apps that provide real-time GPS navigation, ride statistics, and remote locking/unlocking capabilities will become more widespread. These features will enhance the overall user experience, allowing riders to have more control and access to useful information.

Safety will be another crucial aspect of future electric kickbikes. We can expect to see advancements in built-in safety features, such as improved braking systems, better suspension, and enhanced lighting for increased visibility. Additionally, the integration of advanced sensors and artificial intelligence may enable the development of collision avoidance systems, further enhancing user safety.

In terms of design and construction, the future of electric kickbikes may see the use of more lightweight materials, such as carbon fiber or advanced alloys. This will not only make kickbikes lighter and easier to handle but also enhance their durability and ride quality. Folding mechanisms will also likely become more compact and efficient, allowing for easier storage and portability.

Another exciting aspect of the future of electric kickbikes is the potential for renewable energy integration. Solar panels or regenerative braking systems could be incorporated into the design, enabling the kickbike to recharge itself while on the go, further driving sustainability and reducing the dependence on traditional charging infrastructure.

The future of electric kickbikes is promising and will have a transformative impact on urban transportation. With advancements in battery technology, motor efficiency, connectivity, and safety features, electric kickbikes will become even more versatile, user-friendly, and environmentally friendly. With a diverse user base and enhanced features, electric kickbikes will become indispensable for short-distance commuting, leisure rides, and last-mile delivery, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.

How electric scooters work

I could explain an electric scooters workings with thousands of words, but I will try to summarize all you need to know in terms of this buying guide. I have also embedded a good video of how electric scooters work just below this section. It is about 11 minutes long at the time of writing this, so if you are really interested in the details I suggest you view it.

The acceleration of an electric kickbike involves the conversion of electrical energy from the battery into mechanical energy to propel the vehicle forward. The process employs various technologies, with the three most common ones being hub motors, belt drive systems, and chain drive systems.

Hub motors offer several advantages such as simplicity, efficient power delivery, and low maintenance requirements. They also provide good torque at lower speeds, allowing for quick acceleration. Additionally, regenerative braking can be implemented in hub motors, where the kinetic energy during braking is converted back into electrical energy and stored in the battery, increasing overall energy efficiency.

Belt drive systems offer several advantages such as reduced noise, smoother acceleration, and lower weight compared to chain drive systems. They also require minimal maintenance as belts do not need lubrication or adjustment like chains. However, they may be less efficient in power transfer compared to direct motor-wheel integration, leading to slight power losses.

Chain drive systems are widely used due to their simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency. Moreover, the availability of various gear ratios allows for customization of speed and torque according to user preferences. However, chain drive systems require regular maintenance, including lubrication and tension adjustments.

In all of these technologies, an electronic controller manages the flow of power from the battery to the motor, regulating speed and acceleration. Riders control the acceleration by manipulating the throttle, which sends signals to the motor controller to increase or decrease power output.

It is important to note that each electric kickbike model may have various specifications, motor power, battery voltage, and mechanical design, which can affect the overall acceleration performance. Additionally, factors like rider weight, terrain, and battery charge levels can influence the speed and acceleration abilities of an electric kickbike.

The acceleration of an electric kickbike relies on various technologies, including hub motors, belt drive systems, and chain drive systems. Each technology has its advantages and considerations in terms of power efficiency, maintenance requirements, and overall performance. The choice of acceleration technology often depends on factors such as cost, design preferences, and specific use cases.

Accessories for electric scooters

There are a lot of accessories for electric scooters out there. Some are essential, some good to have.

The most important one is by far the helmet. You need to buy a good helmet and wear it at all times when riding, in order to be safe.

Make sure you pick a brand which has good reputation when buying the helmet. Cheap helmets crack easily and do not do their jobs of protecting your head well.

My recommendation is to find a helmet which is average priced and ask the stores about a good quality helmet.

There are several accessories available for electric scooters (kickbikes) that enhance the rider’s experience, safety, and convenience. I have listed the ten most common accessories below:

These accessories improve the overall riding experience, convenience, and safety of electric scooter users. Depending on personal preferences and specific needs, riders can choose the accessories that best align with their requirements. It is essential to ensure that any accessory installed on the scooter does not interfere with the proper functioning of the scooter or compromise safety while riding.

By the way, I also receive a lot of questions about gift-ideas for electric scooters. A tip is to check out my articles about gift-ideas of accessories and generally about accessories for electric scooters.

The Pros and Cons of Owning an Electric Scooter

Owning an electric scooter can be a great way to get around town, but it’s important to consider the pros and cons before making a purchase.

The Pros

1. Cost-Effective: Electric scooters are much more affordable than cars or motorcycles, making them a great option for those on a budget. Additionally, they require less maintenance than other vehicles, so you won’t have to worry about costly repairs.

2. Eco-Friendly: Electric scooters are powered by electricity, meaning they don’t produce any emissions. This makes them a great choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

3. Convenient: Electric scooters are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them ideal for short trips around town. They can also be folded up and stored in small spaces, so you don’t have to worry about parking or storage.

The Cons

1. Limited Range: Electric scooters typically have a limited range of around 20 miles, so they may not be suitable for longer trips.

2. Weather Dependent: Electric scooters are not designed for wet or icy conditions, so you may need to find alternative transportation during inclement weather.

3. Safety Concerns: Electric scooters can reach speeds of up to 15 mph, which can be dangerous if you’re not careful. It’s important to wear a helmet and follow all safety guidelines when riding an electric scooter.

Overall, owning an electric scooter can be a great way to get around town without breaking the bank or harming the environment. However, it’s important to consider the pros and cons before making a purchase to ensure that it’s the right choice for you.

Don’t forget: Safety comes first!

1. Wear a helmet: Wearing a helmet is the most important safety tip for riding an electric scooter. It can help protect your head in the event of an accident.

2. Check your scooter before each ride: Make sure that all parts of your scooter are in good working order before you start riding. Check the brakes, tires, and battery to make sure everything is functioning properly.

3. Follow traffic laws: Electric scooters are considered vehicles and should be treated as such. Obey all traffic laws and signals when riding your scooter.

4. Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to what’s going on around you while riding your scooter. Be aware of pedestrians, other vehicles, and any obstacles in your path.

5. Use lights and reflectors: Make sure that your scooter is equipped with lights and reflectors so that you can be seen at night or in low-light conditions.

6. Avoid wet surfaces: Wet surfaces can be slippery and dangerous for electric scooters, so avoid them if possible.

7. Don’t ride on sidewalks: Riding on sidewalks can be dangerous for both you and pedestrians, so it’s best to stick to designated bike lanes or roads when riding your scooter.

8. Don’t ride under the influence: Never ride your electric scooter while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Doing so can put yourself and others at risk.

After purchase: Maintaining an Electric Scooter

Electric scooters are a great way to get around town, but they require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly. Here are some tips for maintaining your electric scooter:

1. Check the battery regularly. Make sure the battery is fully charged and that all connections are secure. If you notice any corrosion or damage, replace the battery immediately.

2. Clean the scooter regularly. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the frame and wheels of your scooter. This will help prevent rust and dirt buildup.

3. Inspect the brakes and tires. Make sure the brakes are working properly and that the tires have enough air pressure. Replace any worn-out parts as needed.

4. Lubricate the moving parts. Use a lubricant such as WD-40 to keep the chain, gears, and other moving parts in good condition.

5. Store your scooter properly. When not in use, store your scooter in a dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your electric scooter stays in top condition for years to come.

The Advantages of Owning an Electric Scooter Over a Gas-Powered Vehicle

Owning an electric scooter has many advantages over owning a gas-powered vehicle. Electric scooters are more affordable than gas-powered vehicles, as they require less maintenance and have fewer parts that need to be replaced. Additionally, electric scooters are much more environmentally friendly than gas-powered vehicles, as they produce no emissions and use renewable energy sources.

Electric scooters are also much quieter than gas-powered vehicles, making them ideal for those who live in densely populated areas or near noise-sensitive areas. Furthermore, electric scooters are much easier to maneuver than gas-powered vehicles, as they are lightweight and have smaller turning radiuses. This makes them perfect for navigating tight city streets or crowded parking lots.

Finally, electric scooters require less fuel than gas-powered vehicles, meaning that you can save money on fuel costs. Additionally, electric scooters can be charged at home or at public charging stations, making them convenient and easy to use.

Overall, owning an electric scooter has many advantages over owning a gas-powered vehicle. They are more affordable, environmentally friendly, quiet, easy to maneuver, and require less fuel. For these reasons, electric scooters are becoming increasingly popular among commuters and recreational riders alike.

Tips for Storing and Transporting Electric Scooters

1. Make sure your electric scooter is fully charged before storing or transporting it. This will help ensure that the battery does not become drained while in storage or during transport.

2. If you are storing your electric scooter for an extended period of time, make sure to cover it with a protective cover to keep dust and dirt away from the components.

3. When transporting your electric scooter, make sure to secure it properly in the vehicle. Use straps or bungee cords to keep it from shifting during transport.

4. If you are transporting your electric scooter on a bike rack, make sure to use a locking mechanism to prevent theft.

5. When transporting your electric scooter, make sure to avoid rough terrain and potholes as much as possible. This will help protect the components from damage.

6. Make sure to check the tires before transporting your electric scooter. Make sure they are properly inflated and that there are no visible signs of wear or damage.

7. When transporting your electric scooter, make sure to keep it away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight as much as possible. This will help preserve the battery life and other components.

Common Problems with Electric Scooters, and How to Fix Them

Electric scooters are a great way to get around, but they can sometimes have problems. Here are some of the most common issues and how to fix them.

1. Battery Issues: If your electric scooter isn’t holding a charge or is taking too long to charge, it could be due to a faulty battery. To fix this, you should check the connections between the battery and the scooter and make sure they are secure. You may also need to replace the battery if it is old or damaged.

2. Motor Problems: If your electric scooter isn’t running properly, it could be due to an issue with the motor. To fix this, you should check the wiring and connections between the motor and the scooter and make sure they are secure. You may also need to replace the motor if it is old or damaged.

3. Brake Issues: If your electric scooter isn’t stopping properly, it could be due to an issue with the brakes. To fix this, you should check the brake pads and make sure they are in good condition. You may also need to adjust the tension on the brakes if they are too loose or too tight.

4. Tire Issues: If your electric scooter isn’t rolling properly, it could be due to an issue with the tires. To fix this, you should check the tire pressure and make sure it is at the correct level. You may also need to replace the tires if they are worn out or damaged.

These are some of the most common issues with electric scooters and how to fix them. If you’re having any other issues with your electric scooter, it’s best to consult a professional for help.

Charging an Electric Scooter Properly

Charging an electric scooter is a simple process that can help you get the most out of your ride. To ensure your scooter is properly charged, follow these steps:

1. Make sure the scooter is turned off and unplugged from any power source before beginning.

2. Connect the charger to the scooter’s charging port.

3. Plug the charger into a wall outlet or other power source.

4. Allow the scooter to charge for the recommended amount of time, usually between 4-6 hours.

5. Once the scooter has finished charging, unplug the charger from the wall outlet and then from the scooter.

6. Turn on the scooter and check that it is working properly.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your electric scooter is properly charged and ready for use.

Keep your Electric Scooter in good shape

Electric scooters are a great way to get around town, but they can be expensive. To make sure you get the most out of your electric scooter, here are some tips for extending its life:

1. Keep it clean. Regularly cleaning your electric scooter will help keep it in good condition and prevent rust and corrosion. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the frame and handlebars, and use a brush to remove any dirt or debris from the wheels.

2. Check the battery. Make sure to check the battery regularly and charge it when necessary. This will help ensure that your electric scooter has enough power to get you where you need to go.

3. Store it properly. When not in use, store your electric scooter in a dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. This will help protect it from damage caused by weather conditions.

4. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Read the manual that came with your electric scooter and follow all of the instructions for maintenance and use. This will help ensure that your scooter is running at its best and will last longer.

By following these tips, you can extend the life of your electric scooter and get the most out of your investment.

There are many benefits with an Electric Scooter

Electric scooters are becoming increasingly popular for commuting, and for good reason. They offer a number of benefits that make them an attractive option for those looking to get around quickly and efficiently. Here are some of the advantages of using an electric scooter for commuting:

1. Cost-Effective: Electric scooters are much more affordable than cars or public transportation, making them a great option for those on a budget. The cost of charging an electric scooter is also much lower than the cost of fueling a car, so you can save money in the long run.

2. Eco-Friendly: Electric scooters are powered by electricity, which is a renewable energy source. This means that you can reduce your carbon footprint while still getting around quickly and conveniently.

3. Convenient: Electric scooters are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them ideal for navigating busy streets and crowded areas. They can also be folded up and stored away when not in use, so you don’t have to worry about taking up too much space.

4. Fun: Riding an electric scooter is a fun and exciting way to get around. You can enjoy the fresh air and the feeling of freedom as you zip through traffic or take a leisurely ride through the park.

Overall, electric scooters offer a number of benefits that make them an attractive option for commuters. They are cost-effective, eco-friendly, convenient, and fun to ride, making them a great choice for those looking to get around quickly and efficiently.

Reading guideline – Specifications

When reading the specifications above, such as range or speed, it is important to know what it actually means and how you should interpret it. Therefore, I have created this section to make it 100% clear to you guys how to interpret the data from my blog, but also how to interpret data from other sources to help you in choosing the best electric scooter for your needs.

Range

The range is a delicate topic when it comes to electric scooters. This is something all buyers look at before they purchase, and most people believe the advertised range is what they will get. Out of this group of people, 95% are surprised by the fact that the electric scooter does not live up to its range specifications.

The ranges advertised by sellers and manufacturers are in their favour as you can imagine. They tend to do hundreds of test-rides with various payloads (weights), at different speeds, and at different terrain types. Furthermore, they do it in different weather conditions, different slopes, etc. All to find the best results and advertise that.

Always check how they measured their range if it is available. If not, you should remove 33% from it is my recommendation generally. 33% is a third of the advertised range, so if it is advertised as 18 miles, you remove 6 from this which results in 12 miles of realistic range.

All specifications I publish in the specifications sections (the sections under best scooter etc) are the advertised ones.

Speed

This is another specification which can be misleading. The manufacturers test their electric scooters in hundreds of different ways to get the maximum speed they can advertise. You should take the advertised speed and remove 10-15% from it if you want a realistic maximum speed. Also, don’t expect to get it in bad weather, uphill slopes etc.

Even though speed is misleading when being advertised, it is not as bad as the range.

Missing information (dash symbol)

If a field in the specifications contains the dash symbol (-) it means it has intentionally been left blank, and information is missing or incomplete about this specification. I want all my information to you guys to be accurate, therefore, rather than just putting a number there which I find on the internet, I do check manuals and specifications and even talk with vendors and manufacturers to make sure it is correct. This happens when I find contradicting information on various places.

Therefore I chose to leave this without information to you guys rather than misinform you guys.

Electric Scooter Buying Guide – FAQ

The most common questions and answers are found in the faq below. We have also created a list of over 150 questions with answers on a separate page here.