Electric scooters aren’t just for fun anymore. They’re real transportation options. Ever been stuck in traffic while people on scooters zoom past? It’s frustrating, right? If you’re thinking about getting one, choosing the right model can feel confusing.
Good news—I’ve done the research, tested different scooters, and talked to experts to help you out.
I’ll break down seven key things to consider: range, speed, safety, price, warranty, and real user reviews.
1. What Do You Need It For?
Before you buy, ask yourself: Why do I need this scooter?
A while ago, I bought a scooter for my daily ride to work. I thought any scooter would do. I was wrong. Small wheels and no suspension made the trip super bumpy. Lesson learned—pick a scooter that fits your needs.
Types of scooters:
- Foldable Scooters – Light and easy to carry. Great for public transport but shorter battery life.
- Off-Road Scooters – Strong tires and suspension for rough paths. Not the best for city streets.
- Commuter Scooters – A balance of speed, battery life, and comfort for daily rides.
- Three-Wheel Scooters – More stable. Good for people who need extra support.
Pick the right one, and your ride will be smooth.
2. Price & Warranty
Scooters range from under $200 to $3,999+ (like the Inmotion RS). But does a higher price mean a better ride? Not always! I once tested a $400 scooter that worked better than a $1,000 one.
What to check:
- Budget – More money usually means better quality, but not always.
- Warranty – See what’s covered. Xiaomi gives a 12-month warranty on scooters, 6 months on batteries.
- Extended Warranty – If you ride daily, extra coverage might save you money.
3. Battery & Range
For daily commutes, range is key. Brands list estimated ranges, but real-life distance depends on weight, roads, and weather.
📉 Cold weather can cut battery life by up to 30% – (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, NHTSA).
What to check:
- Battery Size (Ah) – More Amp-hours = longer rides.
- Charging Time – Some scooters charge fast. Good if you’re always on the move.
- Battery Life – Most lithium batteries last 2-10 years or 300-500 charges.
💡 Tip: Never drain the battery to 0%. Store it at 60% to extend life.
4. Speed & Power
Fast sounds fun, but many states limit scooters to 20 mph (32 km/h). Check local laws before buying.
What to know:
- Speed – Scooters range from 15-50 km/h. Faster isn’t always better.
- Motor Power – Measured in watts. A 350W+ motor is best for hills or heavier riders.
- Acceleration – Dual-motor scooters speed up faster, great for city travel.
- Weight Limit – Exceeding the max weight reduces speed, range, and battery life.
5. Safety First
Safety is everything. The CDC says nearly 45% of scooter accidents cause head injuries—so wear a helmet!
🔴 Brakes:
- Disc Brakes – Strongest stopping power.
- Drum Brakes – Easy to maintain.
- Electric Brakes – Regenerative but not strong alone.
- Foot Brakes – Basic, not great for fast rides.
💡 Lights – A bright headlight and brake light keep you visible at night.
🚲 Tires:
- Air-filled tires – Smooth ride, but need upkeep.
- Solid tires – No flats, but bumpier.
🚗 Suspension: – A must if you ride on bumpy roads.
🌧️ Waterproof Rating (IP Rating): – Look for IP54 or higher to handle rain and dust.
6. Easy to Carry?
If you need to lift or store your scooter, weight and size matter.
- Weight: Light scooters (like Gotrax GXL V2 at 26 lbs) are easy to carry.
- Folding: Should be quick and simple.
- Storage: Make sure it fits in your home, office, or car.
7. Read Reviews Before Buying
Always check real user reviews. I read Reddit and Amazon reviews before buying my scooter. It helped me avoid hidden problems.
🔎 Where to look:
- Expert Reviews – Sites like TechGearLab & Electrek do deep tests.
- User Reviews – Forums and online stores show real experiences.
- Comparison Tools – Use Electric Scooter Guide to compare models.
Scooter Care: Keep It Running
Want your scooter to last longer? Take care of it!
- Check screws, tires, and brakes often.
- Charge the battery properly. Never let it drain to 0%.
- Inflate tires (if needed) to the right pressure.
- Test the brakes regularly.
Must-Have Accessories
🔒 Locks – Keep your scooter safe.
🎒 Bag – Carry essentials.
⛑️ Helmet – MIPS-certified helmets give extra protection.
🧤 Gloves – Protect hands if you ride fast.
🚴 Tires – Upgraded tires can improve grip and speed.
Where to Buy?
🛍 Best places to shop:
- Scooter Stores – Get expert advice & test rides.
- Online Stores – More choices, better deals.
- Direct from Brand – Exclusive discounts, better warranties.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a scooter isn’t just about price. Pick one that matches your lifestyle, comfort, and safety needs.
🚲 Most important—always wear a helmet and follow local laws. Stay safe and happy riding!
