When it comes to buying an electric scooter, there’s no “one-size-fits-all”. Just like with cars, or bikes, there are a variety of different choices based on your intents and purposes, not to mention just personal preferences. So how do you know what to look for, and choose the right one for you?
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Well get your pencils and notebooks out, because we’re going to answer: The Top 5 Most Asked Questions Before Buying An Electric Scooter!
It’s an age-old question: which scooter is right for me? Well, as old as electric scooters are anyway. First, figure out what your needs are.
Are you looking for a fun toy to escape on during weekends? A power-commuter to get you to the office and back while keeping up with traffic? Or maybe an ultra-light portable scooter to throw in the back of your car, or take with you on the metro to finish that last leg of your trip.
This is a question that only you can answer, but it’s important to narrow this down in the beginning so you know what category of scooter you’re looking for.
Typically the categories are as follows:
There’s your budget electric scooters, which are mostly the smallest and lightest scooters, and can cost up to $500USD on average. These scooters are compact, and light, with minimal features and specs. These scooters are great for fun joy-rides around the block, or just as a back-up option for short rides. But they typically won’t take you very far, or carry you very fast, and are best used on smooth flat ground.
Then there’s your mid-tier category, which ranges from higher-end entry-level scooters, to power-commuters, and can even start to hit the threshold of beginner performance scooters.
These scooters are slightly bigger, with more range and speed, while still being relatively portable. They can cost anywhere from $500USD to $ and you can expect more features like suspension, better brakes, and bigger batteries and motors.
Lastly, there’s the high-end performance “hyper” scooters. Scooters in this category will cost around $USD on the low end, and can get as high as $ or more! If you’re considering this category of scooter, you’re probably already a scooter tech-head or experienced with personal motor vehicles and want the best.
Drums or discs? What about hydraulics? How do you know which braking system is best? Well there’s no clear cut answer.
Drum brakes are the basics, typically found on budget scooters, or slower commuter scooters. They may even offer dual-drum brakes. Drum brakes are great as they require little to no maintenance, and will almost never lose braking strength.
Then we move on to disc brakes, which can be broken down into two categories: mechanical or hydraulic.
Mechanical disc brakes are cheaper than hydraulics and are perfectly suitable for most scooters in the mid-tier.
Functionally, there’s not much difference between the two, however hydraulic brakes do provide a smoother braking experience and are more efficient. And while they do usually require less maintenance over time, you may need to occasionally bleed and refill the hydraulic fluid, which can be a pain if you don’t know how.
There are also more and more scooters coming out these days with a dedicated regen brake, which helps regenerate your battery while riding. Regen brakes are great in that you much more control over customizing the braking strength and don’t have to get your hands dirty.
When we say IP54, what does that actually mean? No, we’re not talking about your Internet Protocol. When it comes to IP rating, we mean the Ingress Protection. Or, how sealed your scooter is from the elements.
When talking about the IP rating, there’s usually two numbers listed. The first number is related to solids, and can prevent ingress of objects as big as a hand, to as small as dust particles.
The second number is related to liquids, and varies in protection from: vertically falling drops of water, to completely waterproof and can be completely submerged and withstand pressure for periods of time.
Most scooters in the industry are usually around IP54, on average. You might get higher ratings on higher end scooters that are more weather sealed, but for the most part, IP ratings tend to be in that middle level.
So what does that mean in the real world? Since these scooters are not wholly waterproof, it’s not recommended to ride in the rain or through puddles, although they can withstand some damp conditions.
It’s also important to note that most scooter companies do not cover water damage in their warranty, so if you do ride in the rain, be sure to do so with caution!
How many different scooter tires are there, and is there one that’s better than the others?
There are basically 2 main categories of tires: solid and pneumatic. And within each category are different variations.
Each type of tire has different pros and cons, and we’ll do our best to explain the differences for you.
Pneumatic tires with inner tubes are the most common type of tires on electric scooters and are exactly like what you might find on your bicycle. They are great at cushioning the scooter against bumps in the road and help make your ride more enjoyable. They also have better grip on the road due to the softer rubber.
Solid tires are great in that regard in that you will never have to worry about tire pressure or getting a puncture.
There are also self-healing pneumatic tires, which are air-filled tires but have a layer of thick viscous gel that works to quickly seal any punctures in the tire, effectively “healing” it and allowing you to continue riding! These tires are great, but are usually a little more pricey, and do not work on split rim designs, which most scooters have.
A scooter is only as good as the warranty it comes with, especially if it’s one you buy online.
While most manufacturers will offer a basic 6 month warranty, look for companies and retailers who offer a year or more, plus any other kind of post-purchase protection.
These are complex vehicles with many moving parts and you can expect lots of wear and tear. While wear and tear is not usually included in the warranty, some companies will offer replacement parts at discounted prices.
Understanding what is or isn’t covered under your warranty will help prevent headaches later on, and can help prepare you for the worst.
It’s also good to learn how to do basic maintenance on your scooter, which can prevent potential warranty claims or expensive wear-and-tear repairs, and minimize the time your scooter is not on the road.
We’ve said this time and time again, but keeping your scooter clean and well maintained is vital when it comes to scooter ownership, just like owning any other vehicle.
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Hopefully one day we’ll be able to take our scooters down to the local repair shop for any fixes you might need, but until then, you should know, at a minimum, how to do some simple brake adjustments, and how to change a flat tire.
Deciding on your first electric scooter is by no means an easy feat. The reason for that is the sheer amount of various options. Most of them are quite costly at that. So, before you give in to an impulse buy, read our article to choose the best electric scooter for your needs.
Before you make this seminal decision, you need to ask yourself a key question.
"What do I need my first electric scooter for?" - when you find the answer to this question, it will make the entire process much easier later on. Because it will determine the most important technical details of your new ride. So, be true to yourself. Want to have some fun around the block? That's fine, but choose a suitable model for that, not a monster track. More about it further down.
For now, let's break down the types of electric scooters you can choose from. There are two most common ways of categorizing electric scooters. The first one refers to their usage or purpose, the other one to the price range.
Casual - Designed for laid-back rides, these electric scooters focus on comfort, portability, and a smooth ride. Perfect for quick errands, social outings, or a relaxing spin around the neighborhood. With lightweight frames, easy-to-use controls, and moderate power, they're ideal for beginners and casual riders alike.
Commuting - These scooters are built for reliable, long-distance travel. They feature a more powerful motor to tackle inclines, extended range batteries, and comfortable suspension, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride.
Off-road - These rugged scooters are built for tackling rough terrain, dirt trails, and uneven surfaces. With powerful motors, all-terrain tires, and advanced suspension systems, they offer superior traction, stability, and control. Durable frames and water-resistant components ensure they can withstand the elements and keep you riding wherever your adventures take you.
Performance - These electric scooters push the limits of what's possible on two wheels. They're designed for experienced riders seeking adrenaline-fueled rides. Due to the inherent risks involved, these scooters are for skilled riders who understand the importance of safety and have the expertise to handle their exceptional power.
Budget (up to $)
Perfect for quick errands or short commutes, budget electric scooters offer a convenient and affordable way to get around. Yet, their lower motor power (<300W), limited range (8-10 miles), and lower top speeds (around 15mph) make them less suitable for frequent or more challenging rides.
Key Takeaways:
Mid-Range Scooters (around $1,500-$2,000)
This is where the fun begins! With larger batteries, powerful motors (up to W, even dual), and often suspension, these scooters offer a significant boost in performance, range (20+ miles), and speed (25+ mph) compared to their budget counterparts. However, this extra power comes at the cost of portability, as they tend to be heavier (40+ lbs).
Key Features:
Premium (around $)
Think of these as the luxury cars of electric scooters. Powerful dual motors (W+), top speeds of 40 mph, and impressive range (30-40 miles) make them perfect for tackling hills and long distances with ease. They often come packed with useful features and innovations.
Key Features:
Below you will find a bunch of useful tips and tricks about the features you should pay extra attention to.
Speed is what sends a thrill down our spines. We all love the feeling of accelerating, but most of the time we don't need it to the extent some electric scooters offer. Mind you, most electric scooters are not as stable as cars, and speeds over 40 mph(64km/h) is an accident in the offing. Unless you know what you're doing, we advise against it. And remember about wearing a helmet.
Motor power determines the rider weight and the inclines your electric scooter can tackle. If you're a heavier rider, or planning on challenging steep inclines, then you should give motor power a careful consideration.
Range is paramount for commuters, as well as for more adventurous spirits. Depending on the distance to your destination, you should choose an electric scooter with ample range. Of course, it's always a trade-off. Higher range will come at the cost of speed or other features. But it's better to go a bit slower, when you're commuting, than not to get where you wanted at all.
Water-resistance and dust-resistance are crucial when riding in bad weather. Take into account the fact that no e-scooter is fully waterproof. High quality scooters have IP ratings of 67. What is it? IP stands for Ingress Protection, which grades the resistance of an enclosure against the intrusion of dust or liquids.
The warranty is a crucial aspect to consider when buying an electric scooter. It acts as a safety net, protecting your investment and providing peace of mind. A good warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions. It also speaks volumes about the manufacturer's confidence in their product's quality. Be sure to review the warranty terms, including coverage duration, exclusions, and the claims process, before making your purchase.
Safety isn't just a buzzword for Apollo, it's a core commitment. That's why rigorous certifications like the UL for electrical systems are essential. Apollo scooters not only meet but surpass these standards. This dedication to safety extends to other important certifications like IP66,CE marking and FCC Declaration of Conformity. Choosing Apollo means choosing an electric scooter that's safe, reliable, and fully compliant with legal requirements.
Additionally, Apollo has recently acquired the UL certification for some of its newer models, which focuses on the safety of the electrical system of the entire scooter, not just the drive train.
Big-Box Stores: Retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Target often carry a limited selection of entry-level electric scooters. These can be a good option for casual riders or those on a tight budget, but may not offer higher-end models.
Specialty E-mobility Shops: These stores specialize in electric transportation and offer a wider range of electric scooters, including higher-end models from various brands. Their knowledgeable staff can provide expert advice and guidance on choosing the right scooter for your needs.
Online Marketplaces: Online marketplaces like Amazon offer a vast selection of electric scooters from different brands and retailers. While this offers convenience and competitive prices, be sure to research the seller's reputation and the product's reviews before purchasing.
Riding electric scooters can be a thrilling way to get around, but it's crucial to prioritize safety and comfort. Investing in the right accessories can enhance your experience and protect you from potential hazards. Here's a list of essential gear you should consider:
After taking stock of the above, you now know what you need your electric scooter for. The only thing left to do is to choose a model based on your conclusions. Here's our recommendation for your first electric scooter.
Electric scooter laws vary widely across the United States, with regulations differing from state to state and even between cities. In general, most states allow electric scooters on roads with speed limits of 20 mph or less and on bike lanes or paths. However, some states have specific age restrictions, helmet requirements, and restrictions on riding on sidewalks. It's crucial to check the specific laws in your state and local area before riding an electric scooter to ensure you are in compliance.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vBg9RApGcQWhen choosing an e-scooter, prioritize safety, comfort, and quality. Don't hesitate to test ride a few models before making your final decision. And, if you're looking for a reliable brand with a proven track record of performance and customer satisfaction, Apollo Scooters is an excellent place to start your search.
We hope this guide has been helpful in your journey towards finding the e-scooter of your dreams. Happy scooting!
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