What Is an E-Scooter? A Modern Guide to Urban Mobility

Electric scooters, shortly called e-scooters, have surely captured the eye of many adults and kids since they burst onto the scene. You must've caught them rolling on the streets or gliding effortlessly in movies like Love Guaranteed and wondered, "What a cool way to move through the city!". 

But if you're considering trying these tech-savvy gadgets, the first question that pops into your mind must be, "How does it work?" or "Do I want this?" 

Today, we will be taking a closer look at e-scooters. By understanding these cool gadgets, how they work, their types, and whether they are safe for children, this electric scooter guide will help you make an informed decision about whether an e-scooter is worth your money. 

What Is an E-Scooter?

If you're new to the scene of micro-mobility or have recently witnessed a kid gliding through your neighborhood boulevard, You must've thought, "What is an e-scooter?". Let us make it easy for you. E-scooters or battery scooters are an innovative way to micro-commute through city escapes. 

An electric scooter is an electrical commute device powered by lithium-ion batteries that are linked to an electric motor, move on two wheels, handlebars for steering, and offer a platform for you to stand comfortably.  Unlike conventional scooters, electric scooters do not run on fuel. 

How to ride electric scooter, you ask? They work by a simple push of a throttle. With a powerful motor and high-battery capacity they allow electric scooter riders to safely and easily navigate through public roads. 

An E-scooter maximum speed limit is 15 km/hr, and they cover a range of approximately 20-60 kilometers. However, the range of an e-scooter also verily depends on the type of road surface and the body weight of the rider. 

Types of Electric Scooters

Types of Electric scooters depend on their range, battery level, smart function, and targeted users. Let us take a look at different electric scooter models and types to understand which will align with your needs perfectly. 

Classic Electric Kick Scooters

This is the simplest kind of electric scooter. They are two-wheeled, small, portable, and lightweight scooters that are designed to give you a comfortable ride on boulevards and multi-use paths. 

Electric kick scooters also feature a standing deck and an easy-to-navigate handlebar. 

Such electric scooters are designed for flat terrain, smooth roads, and city centers. They're not best for navigating through rough terrains or bumpy surfaces. Due to this nature, they're not relatively faster than other advanced options. This, in turn, makes them suitable for children. 

Convenient Foldable E-Scooters

If you wish to use e-scooters for your daily commutes, then foldable e-scooters are probably the best option for you. Just as the name suggests, you can easily fold these scoters and carry them along. 

These scooters come in different motor options, single and dual motors. The simple charge mechanism and powerful efficiency of motors work together to give you a smooth ride in clear road-conditions. 

Three-Wheeled Electric Scooters

As you can tell by the name, these e-scooters have an extra wheel either at the back or in front. The extra wheels offer increased balance and stability to electric scooter riders. 

This option is best for children as they are less likely to navigate two-wheeled scooters without falling off. With their alluring design, they are one of the best options for stylish scooters. 

Comfortable Seated E-Scooters

Similar to kick scooters, these e-scooter just have an additional seat to enjoy your ride. If you do not wish to ride while standing, this is a great pick for you.  

Seated e-scooters are more durable and have a weight limit of up to 80 kg. Its bigger tire size also contributes to gliding through even the bumpiest terrains. In short, it is a great option for a heavy rider. 

Off-Road Electric Scooters for Adventures

Off-road scooters come with two large wheels, a sturdier frame, and powerful suspension. Its extra robust features, like a high-watt single motor and 200 mm wheels, make it a perfect option for steeper hills and muddy roads. 

Electric Scooters for Adults vs Electric Scooters for Kids

Given the increased popularity of electric scooters among all ages, they are now a want for all. But how can you know which scooter is suitable for which age? Let's take a look at this easy breakdown. 

Most of the scooters discussed above are perfect for adults. Adult scooters usually feature a wide, resilient deck that is capable of taking up to 150 kg. They also have higher speed capabilities and lower ranges. 

While kids electric scooters focus more on safety and ease of use. Electric scooter riding can be fun for kids, but the risk of overspeeding is always lingering. That is why they are usually only capable of running at slower speeds and require minimal maintenance. 

Maximum Speed of E-Scooters and Which is Right for You

When riding an e-scooter or, more prominently, supervising your kids writing an e-scooter, the primary question that takes up your mind is, "What is the max speed of an e-scooter"?

Adult e-scooters can reach speeds of up to 25-30 km/h (15-19 mph). Contrary to this, kids' e-scooters only cap at 10-15 km/h (6-9 miles per hour), as safety is paramount.  

If you're looking for "the right" pick for you, make sure to consider your age, experience, purpose, road surface, and required speed before you select an e-scooter for you. 

E-Scooter Safety

Safety is a crucial factor to consider when selecting an e-scooter for your kid or yourself. Make sure to be equipped with all the necessary safety equipment like helmets, functioning lights, and reflectors. And for kids specifically, be sure to choose an e-scooter with lower speed limits and stable designs. 

More importantly, make sure to follow electric scooter laws and traffic regulations to stay safe. 

Conclusion

Electric scooters are making waves in the travel industry. Their easy-to-carry and eco-friendly mechanisms are making them a popular choice among kids and adults. The ample knowledge provided in the following guide will help you choose the right scooter for you and your kids. Waste no more time. Get your hands on this exceptionally good tech-savvy gadget and adapt to the new eco-friendly way of urban commute.