Top Factors to Consider When Buying Your First Electric Scooter

Electric scooters have quickly become the go-to choice for urban commuters, and it’s easy to see why. They’re efficient, practical, and incredibly easy to use, making them a perfect alternative to cars and public transport. But with so many options on the market, choosing your first one can feel overwhelming. So, how do I choose an electric scooter? Fear not, as I’ll walk you through the top factors to consider, ensuring you make a smart, informed decision that suits your needs and lifestyle.

Customer Service

When buying your first ride, it’s important to consider a scooters shop with good customer service. A good scooter isn’t just about the features and price; having reliable customer support can make a big difference in your overall experience. Whether you have questions about the vehicle before purchasing or need help with maintenance down the road, knowing that there’s a dedicated team ready to assist you can provide peace of mind. Quality customer support ensures that any issues are handled promptly, allowing you to enjoy your scooter with confidence.

It’s reassuring to know that you’re not just buying a product but also gaining access to a team that’s ready to assist you every step of the way. Whether you’re new to these vehicles or a seasoned rider, choose a scooters store that answers your questions and addresses any concerns that you have. Their commitment to customer satisfaction means you can shop with confidence, knowing that help is always available, from choosing the right scooter to getting advice on maintenance and repairs.

Reliability

Since these devices are still relatively new, it’s wise to stick with well-established manufacturers. I’ve seen some brands with as many as 30% of their devices having faults, so it’s important to choose a reliable company. One major factor to consider is the warranty. It’s essential to pick a company that will be around in the future to honour it. Also, check where you’ll need to send your vehicle if you need repairs. Some companies require you to send it back to places like China, which can be time-consuming and expensive. To avoid this hassle, opt for an Australian scooters shop and ensure

it’s covered locally. Another thing to watch out for is cheap imports from China. While these vehicles might look appealing, they often have lower quality components and can be unsafe. To avoid getting a subpar product, buy from trusted suppliers who stock genuine products. Regular servicing of your vehicle is also key to keeping it in good condition and ensuring it runs smoothly.

Weight

When buying an electric scooter, it’s important to think about its size and weight to ensure it’s practical for your needs. You’ll want to choose a vehicle that’s the right size for you when riding and easy to store when folded. Not all models fold, so if space is limited at home, make sure the model you’re interested in has this feature.

Also, consider how far you might need to carry it at the start or end of your journey. A lighter scooter will be easier to manage, especially if you have to carry it for a distance. If you’re worried about the weight, look into accessories like a specialised bag, which can make carrying your scooter much more manageable. Some models even come with folding handlebars, making them even more compact and easier to store.

Max Load

When choosing your first ride, it’s important to consider its maximum load capacity. Not all scooters online are built to handle the same amount of weight. Most of them can support up to 100kg. While many people who weigh more than this use these devices daily, it’s important to know that doing so could void the warranty and pose safety risks. If you exceed the recommended weight limit, you might affect the device’s performance. It may not reach the top speeds advertised and could struggle more on inclines. So, look for models with a wider range of body types in mind that can handle up to 120kg. This makes them a good option if you’re looking for a vehicle that offers both performance and safety for different weights.

Motor Power

The motor’s wattage directly impacts its performance, including acceleration and hill-climbing ability. Generally, budget scooters start at around 250 watts and can reach speeds of up to 15mph. However, these models might struggle with hills and won’t perform as well if you weigh over 80 kilograms. For a smoother ride and better performance, especially if you plan to tackle hills or need

more power, it’s a good idea to opt for a vehicle with at least 350 watts. If you want even more power, consider upgrading to a higher wattage. For example, a motor power of 500 watts provides excellent acceleration and hill-climbing capabilities.

Wheels

Some vehicles can be so uncomfortable that riding them on anything but a perfectly smooth surface becomes unbearable. These models might look good online but are often “bone shakers” that users quickly abandon. Just like when buying a bike, one key factor affecting ride quality of scooters is wheel size. I recommend avoiding models with wheels smaller than 10 inches in diameter. Smaller wheels can lead to a rougher ride and are more likely to get caught in potholes. Larger wheels with air-filled tires generally provide a smoother ride and are better suited for various terrains. If you plan to do off-road riding, look for designs with fat-treaded tires and good suspension.

Tyres also play a significant role in ride comfort. Pneumatic (air-filled) tires offer excellent shock absorption and handling but can be prone to punctures and require regular maintenance. To mitigate punctures, consider using puncture protection fluid, which can extend the life of your tires. Regularly checking and maintaining the correct tire pressure is also essential for safety, effective braking, and optimal performance.

Brakes

When choosing your first ride, the type of brakes it has is crucial for your safety. Here’s a quick overview of the main brake types you’ll find:

• Electric/regenerative brakes: These are low maintenance and use the motor to help slow you down. However, they’re not as effective for quick stops, especially at higher speeds like 24+ km/h;
• Disc and drum brakes: Drum brakes are enclosed in the wheel hub, offering consistent performance in wet conditions and generally requiring less upkeep. Disc brakes, on the other hand, provide the most stopping power and are lighter, which can enhance your vehicle’s speed. Both types will wear out over time and need servicing, just like car brakes;
• Foot brakes: Activated by pressing down on the rear mudguard, foot brakes offer a bit more stopping power but can be less comfortable and less effective compared to drum or disc brakes. They can take some practice to get used to, especially if you’re not familiar with using them.

Resistance to the Elements

It’s important to know that most electric scooters aren’t built to handle wet conditions. Many models are designed for the Chinese climate, where rain and wet surfaces might not be as common. This means that riding through puddles or in the rain can potentially damage it and even void the warranty, leaving you responsible for any repairs. If you plan to use your vehicle in rainy weather, it’s wise to choose a model specifically designed to be waterproof.