Electric scooters, also known as e-scooters, have become a popular mode of transportation in recent years, offering a convenient and environmentally-friendly alternative to the traditional mode of transportation, particularly in urban areas. In this guide, we’ll explore the overall pros and cons of electric scooters in more detail to help you determine whether they are the right choice for you.
Pros of Electric Scooters
There are several benefits to using an electric scooter as your primary mode of transportation.
Convenient and easy to use
Electric scooters are simple to operate, with a single button to turn them on and off and a handlebar throttle to control speed. They are lightweight and easy to ride, making them a convenient option for short trips or commuting.
Foldable and lightweight convenience
Foldable electric scooters are lightweight with aluminium and magnesium alloy construction, and easy to carry, making them convenient for running errands. They are also easy to store with foldable designs, as they can be folded up and stored in a small space when not in use.
Environmentally friendly
Compared to gas guzzlers, electric scooters do not produce emissions to cause harmful greenhouse gases, making them a more environmentally-friendly option than gas cars or motorcycles. They can also help reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality in urban areas.
Cost-effective transportation
Electric scooters are generally less expensive to purchase compared to a car or motorcycle. They require minimal maintenance, with no need to change the oil or perform other regular maintenance tasks that come in the package with each gasoline vehicle.
Fun and enjoyable
Many people find electric scooters to be a fun and enjoyable mode of transportation, with a sense of freedom and independence that can be lacking in other modes of transportation. There are no pedals to push, and their portability allows them to roam anywhere.
Suspension system
Although Pneumatic tyres are natural shock absorbers, there are high-quality e-scooters with built-in suspension systems that can be spring form or rubber, generally, off-road capable scooters offer such a high-end feature for all-terrain riding comfort.
Flat-free and solid tyres
For increased benefits, modern e-scooter tyres are classified into five categories. If you’re looking for dependability, Solid tyres and Flat-free tyres are maintenance-free, while Pneumatic tyres with air-filled tubes are soft for ups and downs, whereas Honeycomb and PU tyres are hybrid of airless and rubber tires for all surface grip.
Wheel sizes for higher incline
Even though ruler riders prefer low height and small size wheelbases for e-scooters to stay balanced and close to the centre of gravity. The longer wheelbase (9 to 13 inches) allows for extra-high inclines with minimal effort. Pink e-scooters for kids often have smaller wheels, typically 5 inches in diameter. These models tend to be more affordable compared to larger, more advanced e-scooters.
Lights for safe riding
With headlights and brake lights installed in the e-scooter, you can ride safely in dark. Also, deck lights and ambient lighting allow a catchy appearance to help you see the surroundings but also visibility to others around you.
Removable seats
Many e-scooters come with removable seats to help you get the most out of your scooter journeys, allowing you to fit the seat for pleasant cruising around the alley or remove it to fold up easily to keep the size to a minimum for storage.
Dual brakes
Dual braking systems determine safety in case one fails, such can be a combination of foot brakes with other forms of powerful brakes, such as disk, drum, hydraulic, regenerative, and electronic brakes, resulting in efficient stops.
Dual Motors
Off-road scooters are the most powerful types of e-scooters, with dual electric motors in each wheel, allowing them to incline to any height and navigate practically all-terrain on rough roads.
Cons of Electric Scooters
While electric scooters have many benefits, they also have some drawbacks that you should consider before making a decision.
Limited range
Electric scooters typically have a limited range, meaning that you may not be able to travel long distances without needing to charge the battery. However big battery models were able to travel around 25-40 miles on a single charge.
Battery size
Another element to consider is battery size, which can be beneficial or drawback depending on the situation. Larger batteries will typically provide more mileage, but they will also be heavier and take longer to charge approximately 8 hours.
Limited speed
Electric scooters are legally limited to 15.5mph, making them slower than cars and regular scooters and perhaps unsuitable for highways or motorways. If you need to get somewhere quickly, this can be a disadvantage.
Limited safety from incidents
Electric scooters are generally not as durable as cars and can be more prone to accidents than cars or motorcycles, due to their smaller size and limited visibility. If hit by other vehicles on the roads or pedestrians, it would cause pain. You should be aware of the dangers associated with them and wear helmets and other safety wearables.
Dead batteries
Like any other EV or battery-powered machine, e-scooter batteries do not work well in extremely cold or excessive heat. The weather has an impact on the life of Li-ion batteries, and improper charging and defective charger can gradually degrade battery capacity.
Limited cargo space
The majority of electric scooters don’t come with baskets to carry shopping goods, so it can be a drawback if you need to transport larger items or multiple bags.
Weight and height capacity
Most electric scooters are lightweight and they have limited strength to carry limited weight, such makes them unfit for overweight riders. This is why there are specific scooters range for adults and off-road. Also, your height may be an issue, being too short or tall, makes it difficult to ride.
Not all scooters have suspension or off-road capable
Off-road e-scooters are a reality, yet not every e-scooter is capable of travelling on dirt roads. The suitable off-road scooters have the smoothest suspension systems in the front and rear for comfort, but they are pricey.
Lights and reflectors
Cheap electric scooters have no lights pre-installed on them, as well as reflective stickers. As a result, unless the e-scooter meets these specifications, it is not considered road legal.
Not every scooter is watertight.
The fact that most e-scooters are not waterproof is a disadvantage; just a few are IP54+ and can ride in the rain or inclement weather.
Rare to find a parking kickstand
Since most e-scooters are lightweight, they omit the essential part, an adjustable kickstand with a clamp. However, if you go for a pricy model, it should include one for parking ease.
Not all have dual motors and dual batteries
Only off-road e-scooters are capable options with dual motors, but they cost more for BLDC motors with high-speed output. Also, dual-battery city e-scooters are rare to find.
Conclusion: Is an Electric Scooter Right for You?
Electric scooters can be a convenient and eco-friendly option for transportation, but they also come with their own set of pros and cons. If you live in an urban area and need a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, an electric scooter may be a good option for you after electric bikes. However, if you live in a rural area or need to transport larger items or travel long distances, an EV car or public mode of transportation may be a better choice. It is important to consider your individual needs and circumstances before deciding to purchase an electric scooter.
