Disclaimer: Check UK Regulation on e-scooters before buying and using an e-scooter.
Electric scooters, once considered a niche mode of transportation, are now widespread in the form of services such as birds and limes, which has led some to consider buying their own. I did. This guide will help you decide if an electric scooter makes sense, what to look for at the time of purchase, what to consider, such as maintenance and legality.
First of all, what is an electric scooter? There are two main types of scooters.
The former is the most well-known seating style on the Vespa Elettrica and Ninebote Scooter E200P. Electric seat scooters are essentially low power motorcycles. Probably not available on highways or streets, these are good city commuters. Depending on your power specifications and your area, you may need to get insurance and a driver's license. This is the selection of the best electric seat scooters (also known as mopeds) you can get.
The types of scooters rented by companies like Lime are standing scooters, also known as foldable scooters or kick scooters, but only a few models require a kick to get started. Electric scooters are often more practical than scooters. An attachment is required for storage, but the rod can be folded so it fits in tight spaces such as public transport and car trunks. In some cases, you may drive on sidewalks or parking lots, and some stiff models may walk off the road.
The lines may be blurred. Some standing models have an optional seat, and some sit more like a moped or electric bike than a Vespa.
There are several factors to consider before choosing a scooter over other means of transportation. The first is the weather. Some scooters work in the snow, but you may need to adjust speed, clothing, and equipment, such as by changing calves and field tires. Still, it can be dangerous and some conditions only do not allow you to drive-you will not go anywhere with snow feet. The scooter is only suitable for sunny or light rain. Some models may require additional waterproofing to protect the battery and circuitry.
Conditions also include roads and traffic. Many scooters can handle cracks and potholes, but few can reach them at high speeds, and highways are still not the safest place. If you need to drive on the highway, you probably need to ride an electric car or motorcycle. Some people are not accustomed to driving in heavy traffic. Of course, lightweight scooters are designed specifically for sidewalks, parking lots and bike paths.
Legality is a big factor. Sit scooters are generally legal, but many governments are not yet aware of the potential of stand-up models, which often results in scattered or inaccurate laws. Some cities, states, and provinces look the other way around, but some, like London, are notorious for people wearing regular attractions. Elsewhere, you will not be able to drive on roads or sidewalks. Traveling abroad and bringing a scooter can force you to register and get insurance, even if you didn't have bureaucratic formalism before. Do your research before you buy anything.
Legality is a big factor. You also need to make sure that you have a rider or repair shop if your scooter breaks. Scooter shops are less common than bike shops, and some people refuse to repair stand-up models. Those who do so will probably need to order the aftermarket parts, so you may not be delivered for more than a week. It's possible to repair a stand-alone scooter, but not everyone has the time and money.
Consider the use case realistically. Scooter is great for commuting in urban environments, but it may (probably) a bad choice to do the same in the suburbs or rural areas. Electric bicycles and motorcycles tend to excel in features such as pedal support and large batteries.
Scooter has virtually no learning curve, so if you're just interested in having fun, things are wide open. Still, the high model is big and heavy, so you have to be prepared for the fact that it's hard to get home when it's broken or when it's not turned on. Electric scooters and unicycles are better than requiring maximum portability and can give you time to learn how to use them. Many stand-up scooters (such as Unagi One) are designed to be easy to carry, but they have the ability to handle distance, speed, and rugged terrain.
Electric Scooter: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How difficult is it to learn how to ride an electric scooter?
A: There are few learning curves to make driving easier. When the scooter moves, the scooter tends to stabilise unless you do something dramatic with your hands and feet planted. Steering is turning the steering wheel and leaning against a narrow corner.
Things get complicated, but not always difficult. These include high speeds, traffic, and collisions on wet or rugged terrain. Many people are not ready for better scooter acceleration and braking. It can get off the track if it is not ready. Driving in traffic also requires a lot of situational awareness, as other vehicles do not always see you and even the scooter's largest tires jump higher in potholes than cars.
Q: Which is more practical, an electric scooter or an electric bicycle?
A:If in doubt, ride an electric bike. Electric bicycles often not only provide better support, but also have better equipment for transporting cargo and passengers. You can pedal even if your bicycle breaks down or runs out of power.
The main advantages of scooters are performance and portability in the case of folding. Not many electric bicycles can exceed 48 km / h. If you don't have a safe place to park or load, you can suddenly reduce other problems.
Q: How can I prevent my scooter from being stolen?
A: If this is an option, never park in a dark or isolated place again. It doesn't take long to lift the scooter to the bed of the truck or climb after unlocking, so it can take 10 to 30 minutes. Theft is unlikely to happen so quickly, but there are risks.
Q: What kind of safety device do you need?
A: If an adult is familiar with scooters and is driving at speeds of 48 km / h or less, they can escape with a MIPS-equipped bicycle or skate helmet unless otherwise required by law. Visor helmets are preferred for blocking wind, rain and insects. A popular option is the TSG pass. Children and newcomers should add knee and elbow pads at least during their first trip.
Above 30 km / h, the chances of injury increase rapidly. At speeds above 64 km / h, we insist on wearing a helmet equivalent to a motorcycle bulletproof vest. As unlikely as an accident, an accident at this speed can take you to the hospital, and even slower accidents can cause bleeding, sprains, or fractures. One of the best defenses is visibility. Make sure your scooter is well lit at night or dusk, ideally complemented by bright clothing. Headlights should clearly illuminate what is in front of you without dazzling drivers or pedestrians.
Q: How can I maintain my scooter myself?
A: From the beginning, we recommend using a sealant to prevent holes. Choose the type that is suitable for your tubular or tubeless tire. You can add band lining, but this is not required. This is especially true for some scooters.
Many scooters are literally shipped at the loose end, so it is essential to make sure all bolts and screws are tight before operating for the first time. Loctite allows you to keep things in place when you don't need to move them. It is advisable to use silicone around some cracks and wires to help waterproof. You can use the zipper to loosen the cable. From the beginning, it is advisable to use a sealant to prevent holes. Choose the type that is suitable for your tubular or tubeless tire. To extend battery life, it's best to avoid 100% charging or fast charging.
Of course, you need to make an exception. In some cases, you have no choice but to maximize or speed up the scope. As long as you just give a break, it won't automatically ruin your battery. If you are not using the battery and scooter, you should store it in a warm, dry place. Whatever you do, do not wash the scooter with a hose unless the vehicle is waterproof. Still, all you have to do is spray it on your deck. As a general rule of thumb, stick to the cloth and water and dry with a towel.
Check bolts, screws, tires and brakes once a week during the race season. Lubricate metal parts as needed. Keep replacement parts handy, especially if they are model-specific. For pneumatic tires, you need a portable electric pump with a pressure gauge. Bring your pump and tire change kit on an excursion.
