Electric scooters have become a popular means of transportation in recent years, with many people opting for the convenience and affordability of these vehicles over traditional modes of transportation (particularly when it comes to urban commutes).
In this guide, we share some of the most important things to consider before buying an electric scooter. We also discuss the benefits and drawbacks of these personal transport vehicles, as well as provide you with tips on how to choose one that’s right for you.
The Pros of Electric Scooters
They're easy to use.
The best thing about electric scooters is that they’re so easy to use. Many of them fold up and can be stored in the back of your car, in your garage, or under a bed.Â
Electric scooters are also super easy to ride. You don’t need any experience or special training to ride, and anyone can hop on one to get around.
They're relatively lightweight.
Compared to electric bicycles, electric scooters are lightweight and easy to carry. This makes them great for people who need to bring one along to school or the office. Electric scooters are also an excellent option for apartment-dwellers who don’t have a garage or large storage areas.
They're fast.
Electric scooters are also fast. You can go anywhere you want to go on them and they make it super easy to get from point A to point B anytime you’re in a hurry.
They offer unmatched mobility.
Electric scooters are extremely convenient for people who want to get around town without having to deal with gas stations, parking lots, and traffic jams.
They're fun.
Finally, electric scooters are just so fun to use. They’re a blast to ride and a great alternative to driving your own vehicle.
The Drawbacks of Electric Scooters
They can be expensive.
The price of electric scooters can be expensive. In fact, some models like Apollo’s Phantom V2 cost a few thousand dollars (although you get what you pay for when it comes to performance, features, and build quality). Having said that, when you look at the cost of buying a car these days, buying an electric scooter suddenly doesn’t seem so costly.
They have limited range.
One of the biggest drawbacks of electric scooters is their limited range. Ideal for quick trips and short commutes, most models can only travel for about 15 to 20 miles before the battery will need to be recharged.
They can be dangerous.
Scooters can be dangerous if used improperly, and it’s important to wear a helmet and appropriate clothing when riding. They can also be a safety hazard for pedestrians and other vehicles, so it’s important to ride responsibly to avoid dangerous accidents.
How to Find the Perfect Electric Scooter
It's all about you.
It’s important to choose an electric scooter that’s right for you. You’ll want to consider how you plan to use it, as well as what size you need.
What's your budget?
You’ll want to make sure you have a budget in mind when you’re buying an electric scooter. Remember that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a scooter that’s perfect for you – narrow down the list of things that are most important to you and buy the best scooter you can afford that meets the criteria. Be sure to check out our frequently updated page of the best electric scooter deals for up-to-date details on coupon codes, promotions, and sales.
How safe is it?
Safety is a big concern when it comes to choosing an electric scooter. Make sure you choose a safe, well-built scooter from a brand that you can trust.
Size matters.
Electric scooters come in a range of sizes, from tiny to huge. It’s important to consider how you plan to use the scooter. If you only plan to use it for short distances and are going to be carrying it around a lot, we’d recommend shopping for a more compact, lightweight model sold by brands like Levy and Uscooters.
Do you have the space?
It’s important to think about how you plan to store your scooter. If you live in a small apartment, you don’t want to end up with a scooter that is too large to conveniently stow away.
What are the customization options?
You can find electric scooters with a wide range of accessories, including baskets and locks. If customization is a concern, we’d focus on brands that offer a large range of add-on accessories.
Build quality.
We recommend buying a high-quality electric scooter that’s built well and backed by a company with a well-established track record.
Hello, is anyone there?
The final thing to consider is the warranty and customer support. There’s a lot of variation among brands when it comes to after-sales support, so be sure to do your homework.
What to do When Your Battery Dies
If your electric scooter battery dies while you’re out riding, there are a few things you can do to get back home. First, make sure that you have a working phone so you can call a friend for a ride or try to find a place where you can recharge your scooter. If all else fails, you can grab an Uber or walk home.
Final Thoughts
Buying an electric scooter is a big decision and requires a lot of research. You need to find a fun and reliable electric scooter that’ll meet your needs, but you also want to get a good deal. Unfortunately, this can take a lot of time, and comparing electric scooter models may not even be possible in your area.
If you’re stressing out over this, don’t worry! Recharged Rides tests the models of today’s top electric scooter brands and reports our findings — saving you a ton of time and helping you make a more educated buying decision. Our in-depth electric scooter reviews evaluate models based on a wide variety of factors, including features, performance, value, reliability, and warranty. Lastly, our list of electric scooter brands is also a great place to begin your search and our handy comparison chart is a reference that you’ll want to check out as you begin shopping around.