The Ultimate Electric Scooter Buying Guide for 2023
The Ultimate Electric Scooter Buying Guide for 2023
Electric scooters have gained massive momentum and popularity over the past few years. When it comes to the legal end of things, there are already plans to legalise the use of electric scooters for adults on public roads. Transport for London initiated an official trial scheme for e scooters in a selected number of London boroughs. In all other areas where there is no trial scheme, you must use an electric scooter on private land with the landowner’s permission.
Legal Warning: E-Scooters are not to be used on public roads or pavements in the UK.
But what does this all mean to you as the rider, and would it be a worthwhile effort in, possibly, ten years? And more importantly, how do you choose the best electric scooter when there is so much choice? In this article, we dissect everything you need to know to pick the best ride companion with confidence.
Are Electric Scooters the Future?
Before committing to anything new, it is always best to investigate how future proof the purchase is. E-scooters will not solve the transport problems we face today when considering the volume of goods and people we move every day. However, before you dismiss these quirky riders, it is worth noting that they have gained fame amongst the masses as environmentally friendly, easy to manoeuvre and convenient modes of transport.
Therefore, electric scooters will become a more common sight on our roads as their laws change over the coming years. Most local governments tend to favour this mode of transportation as they reduce congestion on the highways and help them meet CO2 targets. Although the exact future of e scooters as a primary method of transposition is not clear, it is evident that they are here to stay and will become a part of our lives in some way or the other in the coming decades.
But how do you pick the best electric scooter?
We list down everything you need to know when choosing the best electric scooter. From braking system to battery capacity, you can learn everything about electric scooters, including our very own Inokim e-scooters in London
Once you are satisfied that electric scooters for adults are for you and can be legally used in your area, you are ready to make the purchase. The most crucial question to ask yourself at this stage is the expectation from a scooter for you.
There are many factors to consider when weighing up your expectations. Your starting point should be the type and frequency of the use. Think about whether you are using the e scooter for fun or as an eco-friendly option. And then consider whether you will be using it on an occasional bank holiday outing or every weekday. There are various models and options in the market, so pinpointing what you need from the scooter will help you pick the best one.
Things to look out for when choosing the best scooter
1) Wight capacity and frame
The more weight you put on any motorised transport machine, the more energy it will consume. Therefore, you will need to be mindful of the battery capacity, especially if you are on the upper end of the weighing scale.
Typically, most brands, including Inokim e scooters in the UK, can easily carry between 100 kg to 150 kg. Watch out for the frame size and build quality, too, as this will determine how easy it would be for you to carry your scooter around.
2) Battery
Closely connected with almost every other aspect of the scooter, the battery of any electrically powered device is the most crucial aspect. You will need to consider the charge time and charge hold capacity. If using it as part of your commute, slightly extended charge times may not be an issue as you could charge the device at either end of your commute. However, you will need a quick charge battery if you plan to use the scooter for shorter and brisk journeys.
3) Ridable range
As a rule of thumb, a higher battery capacity (Ah) allows a more extended range. The critical consideration here is what is the longest range for one battery cycle. In other words, how long will you be able to ride the scooter in one single charge?
Typically, the maximum range is between 40 minutes to 1 hour. Inokim scooters in London are famous for providing longer ranges with quick charge times. See a list of products and their specifications for full details.
4) Braking system
Most new scooters have electric brake systems allowing you to stop with ease and comfort. However, manual systems are fixed to the rear mudguard, where you can bring the scooter to an immediate stop. There might also be a classic rear brake system in specific brands. They use either drum brakes or disc brakes controlled by a lever on the handlebars, which operates similar to a standard bicycle.
5) Wheels
Wheels are parts that connect you and the scooter to the ground and make navigation possible. There are two types: a) inflatable wheels and b) tubeless wheels. Every tubeless wheel is made of durable material, so you do not need to worry about getting a puncture during the journey. But tubeless wheels need to be replaced once they are worn out. On the other hand, inflatable wheels have a tube inside them, and they will adjust to the road and better absorb shocks caused by uneven ground.
There you have it. These are your five top tips to choose the best electric scooter. If all this sounded a little too complicated, why not contact our friendly team to discuss further?