Electric scooters are increasingly popular as a mode of transport. They provide the convenience of a bicycle in a smaller package and without the need to peddle.

If you're trying to decide which electric scooter to buy, it's important to consider your personal circumstances. Electric scooters are available in a wide range of different sizes, and the right choice for you depends on what you want to use it for.

Here are a few things to consider when buying an electric scooter.

How Does the Law Treat Electric Scooters?

If you'd like to buy an electric scooter, it's important to check the laws in your state. It's worth learning about this before you buy because it may affect what features you are willing to pay for.

• Some states have a minimum age.
• Most states do not require you to have a driving license.
• Most states do not allow you to ride on high-speed roads. This is defined as a speed limit over 35mph.
• Some states allow you to ride on the footpath, but many do not.
• Most states have a speed limit, and this limit varies.
• You're not legally required to wear a helmet (provided you are over 18), but you should wear one regardless.

Ten Factors to Consider When Buying an Electric Scooter

Electric scooters are still somewhat new. Most people who buy one are doing so for the first time. If you're pondering whether to buy an electric scooter, here are the ten most important factors to consider.

1. Motor Size

Electric scooter motors are measured in watts. They start at 200 watts and increase to over 5000 watts. The size of a scooter's motor is important because it basically dictates how much power the scooter has. This affects its ability to accelerate and climb up hills. For example, 250 watts is usually sufficient for traveling over flat ground. But you should aim for a more powerful motor if you plan on going up hills regularly.

2. Range

All scooters have an advertised range. This is the distance that a scooter can cover on a single charge. The further you plan on riding, the higher the range you will need. You should also aim for a higher range than you expect to use. A scooter's range is based on distance traveled over flat ground. It also assumes that the battery is holding a full charge. Many electric scooters start to hold less power the longer you own them.

3. Maximum Speed

All scooters have a maximum speed. This is typically around 15 mph and is fast enough for most purposes. If you are traveling in a city, you will probably spend a lot of time driving slower than that. It's possible to spend more money and get a scooter that goes up to 40 mph. But higher speeds usually aren't practical. Most areas have a speed limit for scooters, and the faster you go, the easier it is to fall off.

4. Waterproofing

Many people are surprised to learn that scooters aren't automatically waterproof. If you want a scooter for riding in the rain and/or over wet roads, it's important to buy a scooter that has been specifically designed for this purpose. Standard electric scooters can be damaged by water, and the warranty won't cover you if this happens.

5. Rider Weight

Electric scooters only support a certain weight. This is typically between 100 and 120 kg. If you weigh more than this, choosing a scooter with a higher limit is important. It's possible to ride a scooter regardless of what you weigh but going over the limit is not recommended. An overloaded scooter won't reach the highest speeds, won't accelerate properly, and may have difficulty breaking.

6. Tires

Scooters have either solid or pneumatic tires. Pneumatic or air-filled tires are superior because they offer better shock absorption against the ground. This makes the scooter more comfortable to ride and easier to control. It's important to note that pneumatic tires require regular maintenance, and some versions are easy to puncture.

Solid (or airless tires) don't require as much maintenance and are therefore popular with people who want a scooter that's always ready to use. The problem with solid tires is that they offer no shock absorption and are therefore not comfortable to ride on uneven surfaces.

7. Suspension

Many electric scooters have suspension on either the front, the back, or both wheels. Suspension is important if you plan on riding over a lot of rough terrain. It's also useful for riding over long distances as it makes using a scooter more comfortable. Suspension isn't strictly necessary because high-quality pneumatic tires can perform the same role.

8. Brakes

Brakes are obviously an important safety feature on electric scooters. There are many different types, but disk brakes are usually the most effective option. Disk brakes consist of a metal disk attached to the tire. To activate the brake, you simply press a hand lever on the handlebars. Disk brakes are recommended because they are reliable and allow you to stop quickly.

9. Weight

Some electric scooters are significantly heavier than others. This is largely irrelevant for some purposes. But if you plan on carrying a scooter around with you, it's a good idea to find something light. It's worth noting that the fastest scooters with the longest ranges tend to be heavier as a result.

10. Warranty

Electric scooters are not always reliable, and even a well-designed scooter needs regular maintenance. It's therefore important to buy a scooter with a warranty. Some manufacturers provide generous warranties. But many scooters, particularly those sold from abroad, do not come with any type of warranty.

What About Electric Scooter Accessories?

Accessories are important for electric scooters because they allow you to ride safely. Electric scooters are surprisingly fast and are often used around cars. This makes it important always to wear a helmet.

Some scooters have lights, but you can also purchase lights separately. This is recommended if you plan on riding at night. Electric scooters are also popular targets for thieves. If you plan on parking the scooter outside, it's a good idea to purchase a lock, and maybe even an alarm and tracking device.