The primary consumer group for electric scooters is currently young people, who use them as a means of transportation for short distances within cities. However, electric scooters have several design issues that make them less than ideal, including average battery life, inability to carry passengers, and restrictions on highway travel.
What are your reasons for buying an electric scooter?
- Small and lightweight, easy to carry up stairs or in elevators
- Provides flexibility, allowing you to change routes easily
- Convenient for short-distance travel within the city or campus
- Easy to bring along on leisure activities
- High-tech and stylish
Now, let's discuss what to consider when choosing an electric scooter.
1.Frame
When it comes to electric scooters, the frame is like the skeleton of a human. It's the main structure that supports the entire vehicle. Common materials used include aluminum alloy and carbon fiber.
When choosing a frame, it's important to keep in mind that the weight of the scooter shouldn't be too light. This is because a lighter frame may have limited carrying capacity. If you plan on using your scooter for commuting, you can consider buying a lightweight one. However, if it's too heavy, you'll need to consider your personal physical condition during the transportation process.
On the other hand, if you prefer to use your scooter for off-roading or frequently run on mountain roads, a heavier and better performing scooter might be a better fit for you.
2.Motor
The motor of an electric scooter is like the heart of a person, providing its power. Generally, brushless motors are used, which have strong anti-interference ability, low running noise, high efficiency, and long service life. Electric scooter motors work by using a battery to supply electrical energy to the motor. The motor then converts this electrical energy into mechanical energy, which propels the scooter forward. The speed and torque of the motor are determined by the amount of electrical energy supplied to the motor.
The power of an electric scooter is mainly determined by its motor power "W". The higher the power, the stronger the scooter.
Usually, we pay attention to the rated power of the motor, while the peak power is only the maximum power that can be exerted in a short time, which cannot truly reflect the performance of the motor. Unlike electric vehicles, electric scooters are limited by the overall structure, and excessive motor power may waste energy. It's kind of like a person with a large appetite. It would be great if they could fully digest and absorb all the food, but in reality, only a part of it can be converted into energy, while the other part will be converted into fat, which is a kind of waste. So when you're choosing a scooter, it is best to choose the power that best suits your own needs and preferences.
3.Battery
Lithium-ion batteries are the most commonly used battery type for electric scooters, and for good reason. They have several advantages over other battery types that make them an ideal choice for this application.
One of the main advantages of lithium-ion batteries is their high efficiency. This means that they can store and deliver energy more effectively than other battery types, which translates to better performance and longer range for electric scooters.
In addition, lithium-ion batteries are also relatively lightweight compared to other battery types. This is important for electric scooters, as they need to be as lightweight as possible in order to be easily maneuverable and portable.
Another advantage of lithium-ion batteries is their long lifespan. They can last for several years with proper care and maintenance, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Also, in electric scooter, voltage (V) plays a crucial role in determining the speed at which the device operates. The higher the voltage, the faster the device will operate. On the other hand, battery capacity (Ah/Wh) has a significant impact on the battery life of the device. Devices with larger battery capacities have stronger battery lives and can last longer before needing to be recharged.
4.Tires
When it comes to electric scooters, there are two main types to choose from - those with solid tires and those with air-filled tires. Speaking of air-filled tires, you can find them in two types: tubed or tubeless. If you're planning to ride your scooter in the city, opt for road tires as they offer more grip on slippery surfaces. On the other hand, tubed tires are more budget-friendly and easier to replace, but they are more prone to punctures.
Tubeless tires, on the other hand, are much more durable and can handle small punctures without any problem. However, they can be more challenging to replace.
If you want to avoid maintenance, solid tires made of rubber or polyurethane foam are the way to go. They are flat-free and require much less upkeep. But keep in mind that they offer less shock absorption and have less friction on wet surfaces. Always pay attention to the tire and ground conditions, especially when driving in rainy weather.
5.Shock absorber
The shock absorber of an electric scooter plays a crucial role in making the ride comfortable and safe. It is a component that absorbs and dissipates the impact and vibration caused by uneven surfaces on the road, such as bumps, potholes, and cracks. Without a properly functioning shock absorber, the rider may experience discomfort and fatigue due to the constant jolting and bouncing of the scooter. Additionally, a malfunctioning shock absorber can also compromise the stability and control of the scooter, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.
The design and construction of the shock absorber can vary depending on the type and model of the electric scooter. Some scooters may have a single suspension system that connects the front and rear wheels, while others may have independent suspension systems for each wheel. The most common types of shock absorbers are hydraulic and spring-based. Hydraulic shock absorbers use a fluid-filled cylinder and piston to dampen the impact, while spring-based shock absorbers use a coiled spring that compresses and expands to absorb the shock.
When choosing an electric scooter, it is important to consider the quality and performance of the shock absorber. A high-quality shock absorber can make a significant difference in the overall riding experience and safety. It can provide a smoother and more stable ride, reduce the risk of injuries, and extend the lifespan of the scooter.
6.Brakes
There are two main types of braking systems for electric scooters: mechanical brakes and electronic brakes. Mechanical brakes usually use disc brakes or drum brakes, which are controlled by a manual brake lever. Electronic brakes, on the other hand, use the reverse torque generated by the motor to achieve instant braking, while also being able to recover braking energy and convert it into electric energy stored in the battery, thereby increasing the range of the scooter.
If the terrain near your residential area is steep and there are long downhill roads, it is safer to choose a scooter with disc brakes.