Electric Scooter

Buying Guide

An e-scooter is a versatile, sustainable, and fun mode of transportation. The design of an e-scooter goes beyond the aesthetics and includes quality of construction and its convenience features. These factors will determine the smoothness of your ride, as well as the cost and frequency of maintenance and repair. Below you can find the information you need to make an informed purchase.

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E-scooter speed.

Most e-scooters have a maximum speed of 15–20 mph, although some performance-oriented models can go as fast as 40 mph. An e-scooter’s maximum speed also depends on factors such as temperature, road conditions, wind, rider weight and battery level.

Many e-scooters have riding modes that can limit the device’s top speed. This can be a helpful feature when navigating crowded areas or when you’re first starting to ride. No matter how fast you’ll be driving your e-scooter, it’s important to wear a helmet and protective gear during every ride.

E-scooter range.

The range of an e-scooter is the maximum distance it can cover before running out of battery power. Another way to determine an e-scooter’s range is by comparing the total watt hours (Wh) of the batteries. Watt hours are calculated by multiplying the voltage (V) and amp hours (Ah) of the battery.

It’s important to understand that the maximum range quoted by the manufacturer reflects ideal road and weather conditions and at or under the weight limit. 

If you plan to ride an e-scooter at top speed for a lengthy period, the actual range of the vehicle could be roughly half of its stated maximum range. This is important to know if you plan to take your e-scooter for longer rides.

Single motor vs. dual motor.

Most entry level and mid-range e-scooters will have a single motor on either the front or back wheel hub. Single motor e-scooters tend to require less maintenance and are quieter than dual motor models.

Many premium e-scooters will offer motors on both wheels. This is known as a dual motor system and the benefits of this setup are increased acceleration and traction. Dual motor scooters will also climb hills more easily. On the downside, these vehicles tend to be heavier and more expensive.

Motor power.

A more powerful motor will give an e-scooter more speed, greater acceleration, larger weight capacity, and more ability to go up hills. A motor’s power is measured in watts. For an adult e-scooter, 250 watts is the minimum motor power you’d want. An e-scooter with this wattage can travel comfortably over flat ground and small hills.

Those planning to ride their e-scooters on steep inclines should consider motors with 400–500 watts. The fastest e-scooters available are performance models that have dual motors with a combined power of 1000 watts or more.

E-scooter weight and rider capacity.

Weight and rider capacity are critical factors when choosing an e-scooter.

Weight determines maneuverability and portability. Heavier scooters are harder to turn when riding but offer increased stability. Heavier models also have more carrying capacity than lighter models. If you have limited space, a foldable lightweight model may meet your needs.

The rider weight capacity is the maximum load the vehicle can carry while maintaining expected performance. Most e-scooters have weight capacities between 180 and 275 pounds. If you exceed the weight capacity, you may still be able to operate the vehicle, but it might not be able to reach top speed or top range.

E-scooter wheels and tires.

The e-scooter wheel connects to the axle, whereas the tire is a piece of rubber attached to the wheel. Smaller wheels have 5–8" diameters, while larger wheels can be 10" or more. If you plan to go on longer rides, larger wheels will offer a smoother ride by absorbing smaller bumps in the road.

An e-scooter may use pneumatic (air-filled) or solid (airless) tires. Pneumatic tires offer smoother rides over uneven surfaces but require more maintenance, such as checking tire pressure and tread wear. Some manufacturers offer self-sealing air tires, which minimizes the potential of having a flat.

Solid airless tires, with pressure that remains consistent, deliver a longer distance range. These tires don’t require as much maintenance, as they don’t lose air and won’t flatten.

E-scooter suspension.

An e-scooter’s suspension system will absorb the bumps caused by uneven surfaces and cracks in the pavement. Entry-level e-scooters may not have a suspension system, but mid-level devices will have a front suspension at minimum.

Many premium e-scooters will offer front and rear suspension, or full suspension. This is crucial for absorbing impacts at higher speeds. If you plan to take your e-scooter off-road, you’ll definitely want full suspension.

E-scooter brakes.

As with any vehicle, the ability to stop quickly is a priority. Foot brakes, found on most nonelectric or entry-level kids’ e-scooters, are the most basic. With a foot brake, you press a pad into the rear tire with your foot to slow down.

The e-scooters used by adults will feature some combination of drum, disc (mechanical or hydraulic), or electric brakes. Drum brakes require less maintenance and last much longer than disc brakes. Disc brakes offer increased braking power. If you’ll be riding your e-scooter on crowded city streets, you may want disc brakes so you can react quickly to your surroundings.

Some e-scooters will combine drum brakes with electric brakes to increase stopping power. Many e-scooters will also use different brakes on different wheels. For instance, you may have electric brakes on the front wheel and a disc brake on the rear.

Safety gear and accessories.

Although not legally required in most states, wearing a helmet during your rides is the way to go. Given the speeds at which e-scooters travel, you’ll want to protect your head in the event of an accident. Elbow and knee pads will provide additional protection. Depending on where and how often you plan to ride your e-scooter, you may also want a bag, lock or other accessories.\

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Find your electric scooter.

If you like what you’ve seen so far, now’s the time to take the next step. Check out our entire assortment of e-scooters from a variety of top brands.

SHOP eScooters

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Source: Best Buy

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A Comprehensive Guide to Electric Scooter Maintenance and Repair

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Electric scooters, also known as e-scooters, are gaining popularity among people of all ages. They are not only a fun way to get around but have also become a preferred mode of commuting for many individuals. 

While most electric scooters are built to be durable, regular use will inevitably reduce their range and wear down components. To get the maximum value from your beloved e-scooter, regular maintenance and repair are essential. In this blog, we will explore this topic and provide tips on how to maintain your e-scooter properly.

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Why You Should Maintain Your E-Scooter Regularly

Regular maintenance of your e-scooter is crucial for some reasons:

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Prevent Future Accidents

Regular maintenance significantly reduces the risk of accidents. Addressing technical issues before they escalate ensures safety for you, pedestrians, and other drivers. For example, a technical problem at high speed can lead to severe injuries or even death. Therefore, maintaining your e-scooter is crucial not just for its efficiency but also for overall safety.

Prolong the Life of Your Scooter

Early identification of problems allows you to address them with minimal or no cost. Ignoring minor issues can lead to significant damage, which may be costly to repair or render your scooter unusable. Even something as small as a loose screw can cause major issues in the future.

Prevention is Better Than Repair

Frequent maintenance helps prevent severe problems that require extensive repairs, which can be time-consuming and expensive. While regular maintenance can be done by anyone, scooter repairs often need advanced technical skills, requiring a visit to an authorized dealer shop.

Experience Continual Top Performance

Faulty batteries, dry suspensions, or worn-out tires can affect your scooter's performance. Investing in a high-end scooter, such as the isinwheel GT2 Off Road Electric Scooter, means you expect optimal performance. Regular maintenance and repairs ensure that your scooter continues to perform at its best.

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Where to Get Your Electric Scooter Repaired

If your electric scooter needs repair, you have several options:

Do It Yourself

Before attempting any repairs on your electric scooter, it’s crucial to read the service manual specific to your model. While online tutorials can be helpful, each e-scooter is unique, and following the manual can prevent potential damage. DIY repairs are recommended only if you have experience working with vehicle parts and the appropriate space to perform the repairs. If you’re unsure about your repair skills, seeking professional help is a safer option.

Bicycle Repair Shops

Local bike shops might offer repair services for electric scooters. While they may not handle battery or electrical system issues, they can usually assist with basic repairs such as steering or brake problems. It’s worth speaking to someone at your local bike shop to see if they can help.

Moped/PEV Repair Shops

In larger cities, you can find moped and Personal Electric Vehicle (PEV) repair shops. These shops are equipped to handle a wide range of issues with your electric scooter. They often have parts sourced directly from manufacturers and employ professional mechanics who can provide high-quality repair work. While these services may be more expensive than independent mechanics, they offer the advantage of expert repairs and faster turnaround times.

Return to Distributor

Check your electric scooter’s warranty to see if you can send it back to the distributor for parts replacement. Warranties can vary by part, such as having different coverage lengths for the battery compared to other components. Some companies are working on establishing partnerships with international outlets where you can take your scooter for repairs. This option can be convenient and ensure that any replacements are done according to the manufacturer’s standards.

 

How to Check and Repair Your E-Scooter

Regular inspection of your e-scooter is essential to ensure it continues to perform well as the miles rack up. Here's how you can clean and repair your e-scooter yourself:

Clean the Scooter

Given that electricity and water don't mix, you can't clean your scooter as you would a car. Instead, use a damp rag to wipe off dirt and dust. For stubborn stains like insects or grime, use an all-purpose cleaner.

Lubricate the Moving Parts

Use a PTFE lubricant on the headset bearings and wheels, but avoid the brake components. You can also lubricate the shock absorber and the folding mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

Maintain the Tires

For e-scooters with pneumatic tires, regularly check the air pressure and maintain it at the recommended level. Whether you have solid or pneumatic tires, inspect them for wear and tear and replace them when the treads are worn down.

Check the Brakes, Cables, and Fasteners

Functional brakes are crucial for safety. If your scooter has disc brakes, inspect the pads for wear and ensure the frictional material is intact. Replace brake pads when necessary to protect yourself and others on the road. Also, check all fasteners to ensure nothing is loose, and use a wrench to tighten them as needed.

Care for the Battery

The battery is often the most expensive part of an e-scooter, so preventive care is crucial. Follow the owner's manual to avoid overheating and overcharging. For scooters with lithium batteries, always maintain at least some charge, as these batteries can be irreparably damaged if they completely lose charge.

Conclusion

Following useful tips and guides for maintaining and repairing your e-scooter can keep it in top condition and extend its lifespan. Comprehensive know-how is invaluable, making this guide a reliable companion for all your maintenance and repair needs.

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Source: IsInWheel