{"id":33177,"date":"2022-10-25T07:29:20","date_gmt":"2022-10-25T07:29:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.electricscooterinsider.com\/?p=33177"},"modified":"2023-01-23T17:17:57","modified_gmt":"2023-01-23T17:17:57","slug":"buying-an-electric-scooter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.electricscooterinsider.com\/buying-an-electric-scooter\/","title":{"rendered":"Buying an Electric Scooter: A Beginner’s Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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After 4 years of testing scooters, amassing a database of 140+ models, and helping 100,000+ people find the right scooter every month, we\u2019ve summarized our expertise into the ultimate guide that\u2019ll take you through each step and consideration that you should take when buying an electric scooter.<\/p>

\"Josh<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\tStep-by-Step Guide\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t\t\tBeginner's guide on how to choose and buy an electric scooter.\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFactors to Consider\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t\t\tAll the factors that you should consider when choosing a scooter\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFind the Perfect Scooter\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFind the best electric scooter for your needs by use case.\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Choose an Electric Scooter<\/h3>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t
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1. Your Experience Level: What Type of Rider Are You?<\/span><\/h3>

The first step you need to take when choosing an electric scooter is to determine what type of rider you are. There are three categories to choose from: beginner, intermediate, and expert.<\/p>

Beginner<\/h4>

If you haven\u2019t ridden an electric scooter before and only have experience on push scooters or bikes, you\u2019ll need to look for one that is suitable for beginners.<\/p>

\"Josh<\/p>

These types of scooters will have simple, easy-to-use controls, slow acceleration, kick-start functionality, and a top speed of 20 mph.<\/p>

Recommended Scooters Categories: Entry-Level<\/strong><\/a> and Commuter<\/strong><\/a><\/p>

Intermediate<\/h4>

If have some experience riding electric scooters, are familiar with their controls, and can maintain balance at various speeds, then you can be considered an intermediate rider.<\/p>

\"Josh<\/p>

Scooters that fit the profile of an intermediate rider will be more powerful than those destined for beginners. They have more motor power, bigger batteries, and are packed with features. The top speed of these models can reach 40 mph.<\/p>

Recommended Scooters Categories: Commuter<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0and Performance<\/strong><\/a><\/p>

Expert<\/h4>

Riders that have owned and ridden several different types of electric scooters are considered experts.<\/p>

\"Josh<\/p>

An expert rider has the experience needed to ride the highest-performing scooters. These scooters are exceptionally powerful and fall into the categories of performance, high-performance, and ultra-performance. Most will have a top speed greater than 40 mph, blistering acceleration rates that less experienced riders will struggle to control, and a wealth of premium features – including hydraulic brakes, hydraulic suspension, and high-quality batteries. They also have excellent build and ride quality.<\/p>

Recommended Scooters Categories: Performance<\/strong><\/a>, High-Performance<\/strong><\/a>, Ultra-Performance<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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2. Scooter Categories: Choosing the Right Type of Scooter<\/span><\/h3>

Now that you understand what type of rider you are (beginner, intermediate, or expert), you can select the type of scooter will best suit your experience level and needs.
<\/a><\/p>

Entry-Level:<\/h4>

Entry-level electric scooters are simple models that have been designed to minimize cost while maintaining as many key features as possible.<\/p>

\"Turboant<\/p>

They are ideal for beginners because of their low speed, lack of complicated extra features, and cheap price tags.<\/p>

They generally cost between $300 and $700, are light, and don\u2019t exceed 20 mph. Importantly, they are fitted with small motors and batteries, and because they rely on their tires for shock absorption, are suitable for use on well-maintained sidewalks and streets.<\/p>

The build quality of budget models is basic, however, several have surprised us (i.e. the Turboant M10<\/strong><\/a> and X7 Max<\/strong><\/a>).<\/p>

Our Top Pick: Turboant X7 Max<\/strong><\/a><\/p>

Specs<\/strong><\/th>Description<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Price:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Price Range<\/td>$300-$700<\/td><\/tr>
Power:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Motor Power<\/td>250-500W<\/td><\/tr>
Top Speed<\/td>10-20 mph<\/td><\/tr>
Battery Power<\/td>5-10Ah<\/td><\/tr>
Max Mileage<\/td>10-30 miles<\/td><\/tr>
Incline Ability<\/td>0-5 degrees<\/td><\/tr>
Brakes<\/td>Electronic, Disc, Foot<\/td><\/tr>
Ride Quality:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Suspension<\/td>None<\/td><\/tr>
Tires Size<\/td>8-10 inches<\/td><\/tr>
Tires Type<\/td>Solid, Pneumatic (Inner-Tube)<\/td><\/tr>
Design:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Weight<\/td>20-40 lbs<\/td><\/tr>
Load<\/td>220-275 lbs<\/td><\/tr>
Folding<\/td>Foldable Stem<\/td><\/tr>
Terrain:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Street<\/td>Yes<\/td><\/tr>
Off-Road<\/td>No<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>

<\/i>
\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Entry-Level Electric Scooters<\/strong><\/a>
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<\/a><\/p>

Commuter:<\/h4>

Commuter scooters are perfectly suited to getting you to and from work. They\u2019re also favored by weekend warriors who are in search of a fun means of cruising around the city or getting from A to B.<\/p>

\"Side<\/p>

Compared to budget models, they pack more motor and battery power, meaning you can ride faster and further. Consequently, you\u2019ll have to pay more for them, with the average price ranging from $700 to $1,500.<\/p>

Because the focus is on commuting, they often come equipped with a range of foldable mechanisms – including telescopic stems and collapsible handlebars – to make their folded dimensions as compact as possible so that they can be transported and stored easily.<\/p>

Our Top Pick: EMOVE Cruiser<\/strong><\/a><\/p>

Specs<\/strong><\/th>Description<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Price:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Price Range<\/td>$700-$1500<\/td><\/tr>
Power:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Motor Power<\/td>500-1000W<\/td><\/tr>
Top Speed<\/td>20-30 mph<\/td><\/tr>
Battery Power<\/td>10-30Ah<\/td><\/tr>
Max Mileage<\/td>20-60 miles<\/td><\/tr>
Incline Ability<\/td>5-10 degrees<\/td><\/tr>
Brakes<\/td>Electronic, Regen, Disc, Drum<\/td><\/tr>
Ride Quality:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Suspension<\/td>Front & Rear (Springs, Rubber, Swingarms)<\/td><\/tr>
Tires Size<\/td>8-10 inches<\/td><\/tr>
Tires Type<\/td>Solid, Pneumatic (Inner-Tube)<\/td><\/tr>
Design:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Weight<\/td>40-60 lbs<\/td><\/tr>
Load<\/td>220-352 lbs<\/td><\/tr>
Folding<\/td>Foldable Stem, Foldable Handlebars, Telescopic Stem<\/td><\/tr>
Terrain:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Street<\/td>Yes<\/td><\/tr>
Off-Road<\/td>No<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>

<\/i>
\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Electric Scooters For Commuting<\/strong><\/a>
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<\/a><\/p>

Performance:<\/h4>

Performance electric scooters are well suited to intermediate and expert riders. They have large motors (1000W-2000W), reach high speeds (30-40 mph), and deliver fast acceleration rates. As a result, they are higher up on the price scale and can cost between $1,500 and $2,500.<\/p>

\"SPLACH<\/p>

Most will have high-quality suspension, excellent hill-climbing capability, and can be ridden along dirt paths and forest trails, as well as burn rubber in the city.<\/p>

To cope with the higher speeds you\u2019ll also find better brakes including semi and fully-hydraulic systems. However, they\u2019re also more expensive and can cost between $1,500 and $2,500.<\/p>

As to be expected, performance scooters are much larger and heavier than budget and commuter models. They can still fold, though – and some sport foldable handlebars to make their folded dimensions more compact.<\/p>

With all that performance scooters have to offer, it will come as no surprise to learn that they are one of the most popular types of scooters.<\/p>

Our Top Pick: SPLACH Titan<\/strong><\/a><\/p>

Specs<\/strong><\/th>Description<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Price:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Price Range<\/td>$1500-$2500<\/td><\/tr>
Power:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Motor Power<\/td>1000-2000W<\/td><\/tr>
Top Speed<\/td>30-40 mph<\/td><\/tr>
Battery Power<\/td>15-30Ah<\/td><\/tr>
Max Mileage<\/td>30-70 miles<\/td><\/tr>
Incline Ability<\/td>10-25 degrees<\/td><\/tr>
Brakes<\/td>Regen, Disc, Semi-Hydraulic, Full-Hydraulic<\/td><\/tr>
Ride Quality:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Suspension<\/td>Front & Rear (Springs, Rubber, Swingarms)<\/td><\/tr>
Tires Size<\/td>10 inches<\/td><\/tr>
Tires Type<\/td>Pneumatic (Inner-Tube)<\/td><\/tr>
Design:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Weight<\/td>50-80 lbs<\/td><\/tr>
Load<\/td>265-330 lbs<\/td><\/tr>
Folding<\/td>Foldable Stem (Some Foldable Handlebars)<\/td><\/tr>
Terrain:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Street<\/td>Yes<\/td><\/tr>
Off-Road<\/td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>

<\/i>
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Fast Electric Scooters<\/strong><\/a>
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<\/a><\/p>

High-Performance:<\/h4>

High-performance scooters can do everything performance models can, but they increase the power to an entirely new level.<\/p>

\"NAMI<\/p>

With these scooters costing anywhere between $2,500 and $3,500, you can expect huge motors, herculean batteries, and excessive amounts of power that can take you from 0-50 mph in a matter of seconds.<\/p>

Unlike performance models, these usually come with large tubeless tires. Now while this may seem like a trivial difference, it plays a vital role.<\/p>

Firstly, because high-performance scooters are designed for aggressive riding, they need to be able to withstand wear and tear, and tubeless tires do just that. Using these instead of pneumatic tires with inner tubes substantially reduces the risk of puncturing since there\u2019s no tube to puncture – whether that be from sharp objects or pinch flats when the tube is squashed between the tire and rim. Secondly, they\u2019re faster because they have a lower rolling resistance.<\/p>

Ultimately, high-performance scooters are best suited to riders that seek adrenaline.<\/p>

Our Top Pick: NAMI Burn-e 2<\/strong><\/a><\/p>

Specs<\/strong><\/th>Description<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Price:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Price Range<\/td>$2500-$3500<\/td><\/tr>
Power:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Motor Power<\/td>2000-3000W<\/td><\/tr>
Top Speed<\/td>40-50 mph<\/td><\/tr>
Battery Power<\/td>20-35Ah<\/td><\/tr>
Max Mileage<\/td>40-90 miles<\/td><\/tr>
Incline Ability<\/td>25-35 degrees<\/td><\/tr>
Brakes<\/td>Regen, Disc, Full-Hydraulic<\/td><\/tr>
Ride Quality:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Suspension<\/td>Front & Rear (Springs, Hydraulics, Swingarms)<\/td><\/tr>
Tires Size<\/td>10-11 inches<\/td><\/tr>
Tires Type<\/td>Pneumatic (Tubeless)<\/td><\/tr>
Design:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Weight<\/td>70-110 lbs<\/td><\/tr>
Load<\/td>265-330 lbs<\/td><\/tr>
Folding<\/td>Foldable Stem<\/td><\/tr>
Terrain:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Street<\/td>Yes<\/td><\/tr>
Off-Road<\/td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>

<\/i>
\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Fast Electric Scooters<\/strong><\/a>
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<\/a><\/p>

Ultra-Performance:<\/h4>

Ultra-performance scooters are the Bugatti Chiron\u2019s of the scooter world.<\/p>

These top-of-the-range scooters are priced above $3,500, can reach wind-whipping speeds of up to 80 mph, boast blistering acceleration rates, and have outrageously huge batteries that can keep the wheels rolling for between 70-140 miles.<\/p>

\"Dramatic<\/p>

Imagine high-performance scooters but with jet thrusters.<\/p>

Given the immense size of all the components that go into making an ultra-performance scooter, it's no surprise that they are also the heaviest. Weighing between 80 and 150 lbs, you can wave goodbye to portability and make space for their huge, hulking frames.<\/p>

This category of scooters is home to the smallest number of models since they are built for electric scooter enthusiasts, as opposed to the mass market – like budget and commuter scooters.<\/p>

Our Top Pick: Wolf King GT<\/strong><\/a><\/p>

Specs<\/strong><\/th>Description<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Price:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Price Range<\/td>$3500+<\/td><\/tr>
Power:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Motor Power<\/td>3000-4000W<\/td><\/tr>
Top Speed<\/td>50-80 mph<\/td><\/tr>
Battery Power<\/td>30-45Ah<\/td><\/tr>
Max Mileage<\/td>70-140 miles<\/td><\/tr>
Incline Ability<\/td>35-50 degrees<\/td><\/tr>
Brakes<\/td>Regen, Disc, Full-Hydraulic<\/td><\/tr>
Ride Quality:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Suspension<\/td>Front & Rear (Springs, Hydraulics, Swingarms)<\/td><\/tr>
Tires Size<\/td>11-13 inches<\/td><\/tr>
Tires Type<\/td>Pneumatic (Tubeless)<\/td><\/tr>
Design:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Weight<\/td>80-150 lbs<\/td><\/tr>
Load<\/td>265-330 lbs<\/td><\/tr>
Folding<\/td>Foldable Stem<\/td><\/tr>
Terrain:<\/strong><\/span><\/td><\/tr>
Street<\/td>Yes<\/td><\/tr>
Off-Road<\/td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>

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\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Fast Electric Scooters<\/strong><\/a>
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3. Selecting a Scooter: How to Choose a Reliable Model<\/span><\/h3>

Now that you know which type of scooter you want, it\u2019s time to choose a reliable model.<\/p>

Check If the Scooter Has Been Featured on Trusted Review Websites<\/h4>

Electric scooter manufacturers go to great lengths to convince you to spend your money on their scooters. The best way to sieve through all the sales talk and work out which is best for you is to look at which models are recommended by trusted review websites.<\/p>

To ensure that a review can be trusted, look for those that are just as honest about the bad points as they are about the good. It\u2019s also important that they take a neutral stance, letting you come to your own conclusion without pushing you to make a specific purchase.<\/p>

Similarly, some websites don't review the product hands-on. Instead, they do desk research. As a result, they aren\u2019t able to give an accurate representation of how a scooter performs. A good indicator of this is sites that use stock imagery (i.e. pictures showcasing scooters on a white background). Here, you should only trust websites that have reviewed the scooters hands-on.<\/p>

\"Josh<\/p>

At Electric Scooter Insider, one of our core foundations is impartial advice – we don\u2019t just focus on the good, we also highlight the bad to let you be the judge. You can read more about how we test and review electric scooters here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>

Check the History of the Brand\u2019s Product Line<\/h4>

Once you\u2019ve chosen which scooter you want to buy, a good step to take is to check out the previous history of the brand.<\/p>

This can easily be done by visiting their website and looking at their other scooters. You should then look for reviews of the other scooters. This will give you a detailed understanding of the brand\u2019s track record and give you peace of mind that the scooter you want to purchase will be a good choice.<\/p>

\"Multiple<\/p>

At Electric Scooter Insider, we are continually testing and reviewing scooters from established brands – whether that\u2019s new iterations of existing scooters or completely new models. By taking a look at our reviews page<\/strong><\/a>, you\u2019ll be able to see all of our reviews categorized by brand.<\/p>

Electric Scooter Brands to Avoid<\/h4>

With hundreds of electric scooter brands competing for your cash, it\u2019s no surprise that there are many untrustworthy ones. Unfortunately, some attempt to pass off inferior scooters as more expensive models.<\/p>

\"Aliexpress<\/p>

When shopping for electric scooters, avoid miscellaneous brands found on marketplaces like AliExpress. While they may match the performance specs of more well-known brands, they rarely have the same build quality. They also don\u2019t come with the same level of after-sales support or warranty, all of which are essential.<\/p>

Scooter Brands We Trust & Recommend<\/b><\/h3>

Based on many years of testing scooters from various brands, we\u2019ve pulled together a list of the brands that we trust and recommend.<\/p>

Brand<\/b><\/th>Budget<\/b><\/th>Commuter<\/b><\/th>Performance<\/b><\/th>High-Performance<\/b><\/th>Ultra-Performance<\/b><\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Fluid<\/b><\/a><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td><\/tr>
Mercane<\/b><\/a><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td><\/tr>
Unagi<\/b><\/a><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td><\/tr>
AnyHill<\/b><\/a><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td><\/tr>
GoTrax<\/b><\/a><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td><\/tr>
Turboant<\/b><\/a><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td><\/tr>
Hiboy<\/b><\/a><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td><\/tr>
SPLACH<\/b><\/a><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td><\/tr>
INOKIM<\/b><\/a><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td><\/tr>
EMOVE<\/b><\/a><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td><\/tr>
Apollo<\/b><\/a><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u00a0<\/td><\/tr>
VSETT<\/b><\/a><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td><\/tr>
Dualtron<\/b><\/a><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td><\/tr>
Kaabo<\/b><\/a><\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u00a0<\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td>\u2713<\/b><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>

<\/i>
\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Electric Scooter Brands: Our Experiences and Recommendations<\/strong><\/a>
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4. Buying a Scooter: Where\u2019s the Best Place to Buy From?<\/span><\/h3>

So, you\u2019ve found the exact scooter that you want and now you need to choose where to buy it from.<\/p>

Finding a Retailer You Can Trust<\/h4>

In our experience, retailers that are dedicated to selling electric scooters and similar products, are far better than generic marketplaces or sites that focus on a broad range of electronic goods.<\/p>

This is because dedicated retailers are experts in their products and can provide you with specific, detailed buying advice. They are also the best for technical support.<\/p>

\"Electric<\/p>

Marketplaces, electronic, and general retail stores simply can't deliver the same level of service.<\/p>

Before you purchase your scooter take your time to familiarize yourself with the customer support options. This will give you a good indication of how much support you can expect if you have questions before the purchase, or if there is an issue or problem after the sale is completed.<\/p>

Look through the contact pages, FAQs, and policies to establish what they provide in terms of technical support, servicing, repairs, warranty, shipping, and return procedures.<\/p>

<\/i>
\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Where to Buy an Electric Scooter: Recommended Retailers & How to Choose<\/strong><\/a>
\r\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/p>

Retailers That We Recommend<\/b><\/h3>

Using the table below you\u2019ll be able to find the retailers that we recommend alongside the brands that they sell.<\/p>

Retailer<\/b><\/th>Brands They Stock<\/b><\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
AnyHill<\/b><\/a><\/td>AnyHill<\/td><\/tr>
Apollo<\/b><\/a><\/td>Apollo<\/td><\/tr>
Fluid<\/b><\/a><\/td>Fluid, INOKIM, Kaabo, Mercane<\/td><\/tr>
GoTrax<\/b><\/a><\/td>GoTrax<\/td><\/tr>
Hiboy<\/b><\/a><\/td>Hiboy<\/td><\/tr>
Rev Rides<\/b><\/a><\/td>VSETT<\/td><\/tr>
SPLACH<\/b><\/a><\/td>SPLACH<\/td><\/tr>
Turboant<\/b><\/a><\/td>Turboant<\/td><\/tr>
Unagi<\/b><\/a><\/td>Unagi<\/td><\/tr>
Voro Motors<\/b><\/a><\/td>Dualtron, EMOVE, Kaabo<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>

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Factors to Consider When Choosing an Electric Scooter<\/h2>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe factors that you should consider when choosing an electric scooter can be boiled down into 7 broad categories, including power, ride quality, design, applicable terrain, extra features, customer support, and legality.\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Power:<\/span><\/h3>

Motor Power & Top Speed<\/h4>

Motor power is measured in two units: Watts and Voltage.<\/p>

Watts (W): Affects the size of the motors and their power output. Higher Watts = Higher speed.<\/p>

Voltage (V): Affects the motor\u2019s torque. Higher Voltage = Faster acceleration.<\/p>

\"SPLACH<\/p>

Budget scooters<\/strong><\/a> typically have a single 36V 350W motor and can hit top speeds of 20 mph, while ultra-performance models<\/strong><\/a> can have dual 72V 2000W motors and reach 80 mph.<\/p>

Ultimately, the larger the motor, the faster the scooter can go.<\/p>

<\/i>
\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Electric Scooter Motors: A Beginner's Guide<\/strong><\/a>
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Battery Power & Mileage<\/h4>

Battery power is measured in Watt-Hours (Wh).<\/p>

To calculate Watt-Hours, you take the amount of current that the battery can produce in Amp-Hours (Ah) and multiply it by its Voltage (V).<\/p>

For example, a budget scooter may have a 36V 10Ah battery. Multiplying these figures together shows us that the battery\u2019s storage capacity is 360Wh. This will keep the wheels rolling a maximum of 25-30 miles. On the other hand, an ultra-performance model may have a 72V 35Ah (2520Wh) battery that has enough energy stored for 100 miles.<\/p>

\"Electric<\/p>

Generally, the higher the Wh value, the longer the battery will last, and the greater range you will get.<\/p>

It's worth noting that not all batteries are made equal. Some electric scooters come with cheap Chinese batteries – which are chosen to keep the cost of the scooter down – while others use high-quality name-brand batteries from LG, Samsung, Panasonic, and Dynavolt. The key difference is prolonged battery life. Just as your phone battery decays the more times you recharge it, scooter batteries do the same. Those that are high-quality (i.e. name-brand batteries) tend to last for hundreds more charge cycles.<\/p>

Some scooters are also equipped with battery management systems. These regulate battery usage to ensure that they operate at optimum efficiency and are protected from damage.<\/p>

One other useful nugget of information is that when a scooter\u2019s maximum mileage is calculated it\u2019s based on a 175 lb rider, riding on a flat surface at a low speed. Consequently, most people can expect to get about two-thirds of the maximum mileage when letting the throttle rip.<\/p>

<\/i>
\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Electric Scooter Batteries: A Beginner's Guide<\/strong><\/a>
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Incline Ability<\/h4>

Each scooter is given an incline rate to indicate the angle of the slopes that it can climb.<\/p>

Typically, the maximum incline rate is written in degrees. However, it\u2019s important to note that if you were to take your scooter on a hill that matched its maximum incline rate, the motor would struggle, causing the scooter to either be extremely slow or stop completely.<\/p>

\"Electric<\/p>

As a general rule of thumb, an electric scooter's real-world incline rate is approximately 60% of what the manufacturer quotes. For example, if the scooter has a maximum incline rating of 10 degrees, it will only be able to comfortably climb hills with an incline of up to 6 degrees.<\/p>

<\/i>
\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Best Electric Scooters For Climbing Hills<\/strong><\/a>
\r\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/p>

Brakes<\/h4>

The faster and more powerful a scooter is, the better quality brakes it needs.<\/p>

\"Mantis<\/p>

There\u2019s a range of braking mechanisms to choose from, including electronic, regenerative, foot, drum, disc, semi-hydraulic disc, and fully-hydraulic discs. Fully hydraulic brakes are the best you can get and can be paired with regen braking for exceptional stopping power.<\/p>

For scooters that don\u2019t exceed 20 mph, a single braking mechanism is sufficient. For scooters that can reach up to 40 mph, dual brakes are needed, and for those that surpass 40 mph, we recommend opting for a scooter that has dual hydraulic brakes.<\/p>

<\/i>
\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Electric Scooter Brakes: A Beginner's Guide<\/strong><\/a>
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Charge Time<\/h4>

Most electric scooter batteries can be fully charged within 4 and 24 hours depending on their size. Smaller batteries charge quickly, and larger ones take longer.<\/p>

\"Electric<\/p>

Some scooters come with dual charging ports and have fast chargers to speed the process up.<\/p>

<\/i>
\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Electric Scooter Charging Guide<\/strong><\/a>
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Ride Quality:<\/b><\/span><\/h3>

Suspension<\/h4>

Suspension is a flexible joint placed between the scooter\u2019s wheels and its frame. It protects you from the bumps and vibrations of the ground and significantly improves a scooter\u2019s ride quality.<\/p>

Scooters with suspension are more expensive but will allow you to ride on a variety of different surfaces comfortably.<\/p>

\"Varla<\/p>

Basic suspension setups include metal springs and air shocks; they absorb shocks by compressing when the scooter passes over a bump. More complex types include swingarms, rubber cartridges, and hydraulics. Some of these can be adjusted to provide a greater range of motion and make for a more plush riding experience.<\/p>

<\/i>
\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Best Electric Scooters With Suspension<\/strong><\/a>
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Tire Type<\/h4>

Scooter tires are either solid, foam, or pneumatic.<\/p>

Solid tires are cheap, made of rubber, and don\u2019t get punctures, but they don\u2019t absorb bumps and vibrations.<\/p>

Foam tires are filled with polyurethane foam that traps small pockets of air. They\u2019re lighter than solid tires and have slightly better shock absorption.<\/p>

\"Varla<\/p>

Pneumatic tires are filled with air – some come with an inner tube, while others are tubeless meaning they only have an outer tire. In some instances, tubeless tires are lined with tire slime that plugs any punctures to prevent air from escaping – these are known as no-flat tubeless tires.<\/p>

Out of all the tire types available, those that are pneumatic – whether inner-tube or tubeless – deliver the most shock absorption. They also serve as the best tire type when it comes to maintaining traction thanks to their pliable design.<\/p>

Tire Size<\/h4>

Electric scooter tires range between 8-13 inches tall and 2-4 inches wide.<\/p>

\"Short<\/p>

Cheaper, less powerful scooters have smaller, narrower tires, while more expensive, powerful models have larger ones.<\/p>

The larger the tire, the greater the level of shock absorption.<\/p>

Tire Profile<\/h4>

An overlooked, yet influential factor that can affect a scooter\u2019s maneuverability is its tire profile. While all tires share a perfectly circular shape, the front-on profile can differ. Some tires have square front-on profiles, while others benefit from more curvature.<\/p>

\"Round<\/p>

Having tires with a more rounded profile enables better cornering and handling since the curvature ensures that the rubber maintains traction at acute angles. When you learn into corners on tires with a square profile, they roll onto their edges and lose grip. In some circumstances, this can lead to the scooter sliding out from beneath you.<\/p>

<\/i>
\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Electric Scooter Tires: A Beginner's Guide<\/strong><\/a>
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Design:<\/b><\/span><\/h3>

Weight<\/h4>

Electric scooters can weigh anywhere between 20 and 150 lbs.<\/p>

Lighter scooters are more portable<\/strong><\/a> but have lower top speeds and shorter ranges. Heavier scooters have more powerful motors, bigger batteries, and more features, but are difficult to pick up and carry.<\/p>

\"INOKIM<\/p>

Load Capacity<\/h4>

The load capacity of a scooter indicates the rider weight that it can support.<\/p>

However, even if you fall within the manufacturer-quoted load capacity, a heavy rider<\/strong> <\/a>may still not be able to achieve the same speed and range as a lighter rider.<\/p>

\"Josh<\/p>

As a rule of thumb, we suggest choosing a scooter that has a load-bearing capacity that is at least 30 lbs beyond your weight.<\/p>

<\/i>
\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Best Electric Scooters for Heavy Adults (265-352 lbs)<\/strong><\/a>
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Folding Functionality<\/h4>

The folding functionality of a scooter allows it to be collapsed into a more compact form for transport and storage.<\/p>

Almost all electric scooters come with a foldable stem, while others have folding handlebars and telescopic stems to make their folded dimensions even more compact.<\/p>

\"Small,<\/p>

The more folding features a scooter has, the smaller its folded form is likely to be and the easier it should be to carry. However, folding sections can create weak points in the frame that may rattle while riding. Well-built scooters, from established brands, include strong joints and support mechanisms to prevent this.<\/p>

<\/i>
\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Lightest and Most Compact Folding Electric Scooters (Small & Portable)<\/strong><\/a>
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Build Quality<\/h4>

The build quality of a scooter can play a huge role in how it performs. This depends on what materials are used, how the parts are designed, and how they\u2019re assembled.<\/p>

Aluminum alloy is the most common scooter material because it\u2019s strong, light, and resistant to corrosion. It\u2019s used to construct the frame, while the consumables (i.e. throttles, handgrips, tires, etc) are made of reinforced, hardened plastic and rubber.<\/p>

\"Side<\/p>

When it comes to the design of a scooter\u2019s frame, the way it's put together can vary. For the best build quality, we recommend choosing a model that was built using CNC manufacturing. By using computerized numerical control (aka CNC), software dictates the movement of the tools and machinery making the scooter, thereby ensuring that each part of a scooter\u2019s frame can be three-dimensional cut from a single piece of aluminum alloy. This allows for a high precision finish with zero weldings, meaning zero weak points. This method is often used by INOKIM.<\/p>

Similarly, if metal components are made by being compressed into shape, this is called forging. Forged parts are stronger and more durable than those where the metal was melted and poured into a mold (known as casting).<\/p>

Dimensions (Frame, Handlebars, Deck)<\/h4>

For the most part, the more powerful a scooter, the larger its dimensions. This can include a taller stem, wider handlebars, and a larger deck.<\/p>

The height of the handlebars is particularly important, especially if you are taller than 6ft<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>

\"Josh<\/p>

If you\u2019re tall, a short stem forces you to ride with your back hunched over. To avoid this look for scooters that have handlebars that are 50-52 inches from the ground.<\/p>

In a similar vein, wider handlebars provide greater stability, particularly when riding at high speeds. And, when it comes to deck size, for maximum comfort it should be at least 20 inches in length to give you enough space.<\/p>

The shortest deck we\u2019ve ever tested was that of the INOKIM Quick 4<\/strong><\/a>. It was notoriously short measuring just 15.5 inches, and this, unfortunately, hindered ride quality.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Applicable Terrain:<\/span><\/h3>

Street<\/h4>

Not all electric scooters are made equal and some are confined to the streets.<\/p>

Scooters suitable for street use will have tires with a shallow tread pattern. Because most streets are well maintained and relatively flat there\u2019s less need for a deep tread.<\/p>

\"Josh<\/p>

It\u2019s also worth noting that scooters designed for use in urban environments don\u2019t have the necessary robustness to conquer off-road tracks. Riding off-road exerts additional pressures on your scooter, so staying within the realms of what is possible is essential to keep your scooter in full working order.<\/p>

One thing is for sure, though. All electric scooters – whether budget, commuter, performance, high-performance, or ultra-performance – can be ridden on the streets.<\/p>

Off-Road<\/h4>

While all scooters are street-grade, only performance, high-performance, and ultra-performance models have the necessary features and build quality to tackle off-road routes.<\/p>

\"Josh<\/p>

Off-road terrain can be unpredictable, bumpy, muddy, and have loose surfaces like sand and gravel. Scooters that can be used on this terrain need to have deep traveling suspension and large air-filled tires with a knobby tread. Some scooters even come with the option of off-road tires with a deeper tread pattern.<\/p>

<\/i>
\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Best Off-Road Electric Scooters<\/strong><\/a>
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Extra Features:<\/span><\/h3>

Display<\/h4>

Every electric scooter has a display. It\u2019s either mounted in the center of the handlebars or attached to them.<\/p>

You can use it to check key details such as your speed, distance traveled, and remaining battery life.\u00a0<\/p>

\"Apollo<\/p>

More advanced versions include additional data like the temperature of the motors and controllers, and allow you to access customizable settings such as acceleration and electronic braking strength.<\/p>

Lights<\/h4>

There are many different lighting setups to consider, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and additional deck lighting.<\/p>

More expensive scooters are more likely to have turn signals and LED lights along the side of the deck, but one area of a scooter\u2019s lighting setup that can be disappointing is the strength and placement of the headlight.<\/p>

\"SPLACH<\/p>

If the headlights are too low or not bright enough, they won\u2019t cast a strong enough beam to illuminate the way ahead. As a result, we often recommend picking up an additional headlight for almost every scooter that we review.<\/p>

<\/i>
\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Best Electric Scooters With Lights<\/strong><\/a>
Best LED Headlights<\/strong><\/a>
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Water-Resistance Rating<\/h4>

If a scooter has a water-resistance rating it is certified as being protected against water to a specific level. The most common ratings are as follows:<\/p>

IP Ratings<\/strong><\/th>Protected Against<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
IPX4<\/strong><\/td>Protected against water splashing from any direction<\/td><\/tr>
IPX5<\/strong><\/td>Protected against low-pressure water jets from any direction<\/td><\/tr>
IPX6<\/strong><\/td>Protected against high-pressure water jets from any direction<\/td><\/tr>
IP54<\/strong><\/td>Partially protected against dust and protected from water spray from any direction<\/td><\/tr>
IP55<\/strong><\/td>Partially protected against dust and protected from low-pressure water jets from any direction<\/td><\/tr>
IP56<\/strong><\/td>Partially protected against dust and protected from high-pressure water jets from any direction<\/span><\/td><\/tr>
IP67<\/strong><\/td>Totally dust tight and protected from submersion for a depth of up to 1 meter<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>

<\/i>
\r\n\t\t\tFurther Information:<\/strong><\/p>

Waterproof Electric Scooters For Riding in the Rain<\/strong><\/a>
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Anti-Theft Features<\/h4>

Electric scooters are valuable assets and a target for opportunistic and organized crime. Consequently, some scooters come with a range of anti-theft features to keep them safe. These include:<\/p>