Electric scooters: characteristics, manufacturers and tips for choosing

Nowadays, on sale you can find not only ordinary, but also more convenient electric scooters in operation. This technique is very popular, it is chosen by many people who want to travel by more economical transport than a car. In this article we will take a closer look at modern electric scooters and find out what their characteristics are.

Before purchasing such an interesting type of transport, you need to understand its structure. The electric scooter itself is a traditional, simple model, but supplemented by a powerful frame, battery, electric motor, electronic controller. The braking systems in these devices can be different. Manufacturers produce models with disc, caliper or drum brakes.

The device of modern electric scooters can also contain various useful additions. Due to the presence of such details, transport becomes more convenient and functional. Scooters with the following components are on sale:

• a folding or stationary seat that allows you to travel long distances on a scooter in comfort;
• necessary measuring instruments such as odometer, speedometer and the like;
• light signaling, which can be represented by a headlight, brakes or a turn signal;
• rear-view mirror (as in cars);
• spacious trunk with a basket, where it is possible to carry various cargo;
• wheel suspension on shock absorbers, making the ride on the electric scooter more convenient and comfortable.

The characteristics of scooters of different modifications and from different manufacturers may vary. Choosing such an "iron horse", special attention should be paid to the main parameters.

• Battery capacity. The power reserve of the device directly depends on this characteristic. The more capacious the battery is, the further you can go on the scooter. Devices for adult users usually have batteries with a minimum capacity of 10 Ah. Such a detail will allow you to cover a distance of about 35 km. But remember that the more capacious the battery, the longer it will take to inflate.
• Maximum speed. These characteristics are related to the power level of the engine. In older devices, 500 W motors are often installed, and their speed can be 35-40 km / h. On sale you can also find more powerful, faster specimens that can accelerate to 50 km / h.
• Wheel diameter. This parameter is directly related to the level of cross-country ability and the speed of the electric scooter. The larger the diameter of the wheels, the more comfortable and fast transport is. But large wheels are bad for the scooter's maneuverability. The optimal parameter is 8 inches.

The principle of operation of these vehicles cannot be called too intricate. This technique works due to the implementation of the accumulated electricity in the battery, that is, the electric motors of such devices with the indicators set by the controller are activated.

The controller is responsible for determining a specific mode based on the distinctive characteristics of its internal hardware. The specified part can be activated not only with the command of the user. The main command is presented in the form of the position of the accelerator handle, and at the same time the necessary information from the tilt angle sensor to the road.

Further, the torque of the electric motor is transmitted to the wheelbase. The wheels allow the device to move. Today, models that provide feedback are popular. Simply put, while driving from physical impact or downhill, when the wheels spin freely by coasting, the engine performs the same functions as the generator - it charges the battery (models with recuperation).

Progress does not stand still, and more modern and sophisticated electrical devices have replaced simple models of scooters. This technique is becoming more and more popular every year, since many people, in order to save money, try to change from cars to more budgetary modes of transport.

They have such positive qualities.

• These are economical and affordable modes of transport. They are often compared to mopeds, which in these parameters cannot outperform an electric scooter.
• This technique is highly maneuverable. This is especially true for high-quality devices with wheels of the appropriate diameter.
• Most modern scooters can be used in the rain. They are designed with good waterproofing, which protects the battery, controller and motor from moisture penetration. However, it is still not recommended to check the depth of puddles on such vehicles.
• Electric scooters are affordable means of transportation. To ride the same moped, you must first unlearn and get a license, but to move on a scooter, this is not necessary.
• Such devices are famous for their high cross-country ability. They can be safely driven in almost any pedestrian zone. It can be a public garden, a simple sidewalk, a park area, or a residential courtyard. A moped will not give such freedom of movement.
• Fast devices are on sale that can cover long distances in a minimum of time.
• This type of transport can be safely called universal. On an electric scooter, you can not only ride for leisure purposes, but also go shopping, to work, and on business. With the devices, you can freely visit shopping centers, go down the subway.
• With this technique, you can travel long distances in comfort, especially if the scooter is equipped with a seat.
• Electric scooters are presented in a large assortment. They differ not only in terms of power and design, but also in design.

These modern devices have few disadvantages.

• This technique is often expensive.
• Electrical models can be problematic and difficult to repair. In the event of a breakdown, the original part can be difficult to find.
• Short run times can be a problem. This is especially true for low-power devices.
• In terms of speed indicators, electric scooters are inferior to mopeds. But this minus is relative, since 20-30 km / h will be enough for a rider in the city.
• Electric scooters are sensitive to weather conditions. It is not recommended to use the devices in cold weather, and they will not function at full capacity - rechargeable batteries are not designed for operation in winter or cold autumn.

When buying equipment, it must be borne in mind that it is equipped with a shortened base. Electric scooters are distinguished by a shifted center of gravity. Using a technique with such features dramatically increases the risk of falling forward from it while braking. You can also fall off the electric scooter in other unforeseen situations, where you have to make decisions and act as quickly as possible.

Some manufacturers, in order to reduce the risk of a rider's fall, do not add front brakes to their designs. Thus, the user is deprived of the opportunity to brake sharply, which can lead to unpleasant consequences in dangerous situations.

In addition to the risks associated with brakes, there are other problematic things that relate to the design features of a scooter with a motor. When the electric model hits an obstacle or when braking suddenly, the load applied to the steering rack increases. As a result, such events can lead to serious damage to the steering wheel and injury to the rider.

When using such equipment, you must also bear in mind the danger of breakage of the fasteners of the saddle or folding mechanism. In order not to run into these troubles, you must always keep under control the technical condition of the scooter with a motor. It should be inspected before every departure from home.

There are many models of electric scooters. They differ according to different criteria.

Most often, there are two-wheeled scooters with an engine on sale. They are presented in the widest range, have a democratic cost. They are distinguished by good strength characteristics and a high level of wear resistance. Usually these are compact and lightweight specimens, characterized by high efficiency rates and versatility in operation.

Two-wheeled models have one significant drawback - when driving them, the user has to always keep balance. For beginners who have little experience in "communicating" with such vehicles, this may seem like a big problem. Additional removable batteries cannot be put into such a design - there is no place.

Three-wheeled electric scooters are widespread. They have 2 rear wheels. These products are more complex and heavier in design, but they can be driven more and more comfortably. These models are second only to two-wheeled copies in terms of impressive mass and bulkiness. However, their power level is higher and these models are available with a large power reserve.

Three-wheel options can be complemented by a wider deck and seat. It is permissible to buy these devices for riding outside the city. Often, the products are complemented by a compact auxiliary wheel, which is positioned to support and unload the frame.

Usually an additional miniature wheel is placed between the wheels at the back and automatically becomes 4 in total. With such an element, the three-wheeled model easily turns into a more stable and comfortable four-wheeled model.

Three-wheeled scooters with 2 front wheels are also available. Such patterns are rare. To operate these devices, you need to have certain skills. These are hybrids of a segway and a simple electric scooter.

Different models of scooters with a motor are equipped with different rechargeable batteries. The most common products are with lithium-ion batteries. There are also options with lithium-polymer batteries. These varieties have much in common, but polymer elements are rarely used in scooters - they are not designed for shaking during operation.

Constructions equipped with lithium-ion batteries, are more common than other options. Scooters with them have a relatively small mass, are durable and hold a charge for a long time. But this technique usually costs more. Lithium-ion batteries are not designed for low temperature environments.

It is rare to find electric scooters with lead batteries on sale. These items are cheaper than the others. They can serve even at low temperature values ​​(albeit not very long), but the listed advantages are too few compared to the disadvantages.

Adult scooters also differ in the type of drive.

• With rear chain drive. In such models, the torque is redirected from the motor, which is located in the front, to the wheels at the rear.
• Single. In these designs, the wheel is mounted together with the engine. It is fixed both in front and behind. Devices with the specified drive type are very common.
• With four-wheel drive. An all-wheel drive scooter with an electric motor is a kind of all-terrain vehicle in which both wheels are supplemented with engines. This affects the greater consumption of the battery, but increases the permeability of the device.

Today, electric scooters are very popular, which provide folding mechanism. These copies are considered to be one of the most convenient and practical to use. When folded, they do not bother anyone, they can be easily stored in a city apartment. You can also meet double option... These varieties are produced, for example, for mother and child.

In most cases, electric scooters are made from aluminum or steel. Models with an aluminum body are lighter, but steel ones are more reliable and stronger than them.

Electric scooters may also differ in design.There are both laconic options with a minimum of additional decor, and brighter specimens that attract more attention. Designs can have different colors and color combinations. There are black, gray, green, purple, red, white, silver and many other attractive models - every consumer has the opportunity to choose the best option for himself.

Depending on the specific battery type, the electric scooter can be fully charged in about 6-8 hours. There are also models that charge in just 2.5 hours. Usually, the duration of the operation of such devices is not measured in time, but in kilometers traveled. So, low-powered specimens can rarely travel more than 5 km. Experts recommend giving preference to such scooters, the battery of which will allow them to overcome at least 25 km.

In the current market, there are many large and well-known brands that produce reliable and popular varieties of electric scooters. Let's get acquainted with the list of current firms and the most popular models.

• Citycoco. The most popular and well-known model is the Seed Citycoco with an unusual design, large wheels and high quality brakes.

• NextBalance... The Chinese brand offers low-cost, yet feature-rich, easy-to-use electric scooters. Particularly popular is the KV-950 adult model with a low weight of 15 kg and a power reserve of 30 km.

• Zaxboard... Russian brand. The Zaxboard Titan model, which can cover 50 km on a single charge, is recognized as insanely popular. The maximum speed of the device is 55 km / h, it is produced with inflatable wheels with a diameter of 10 inches.

• Yokamura. A well-known Japanese brand that produces expensive but high quality electric scooters. One of the most popular is the RX1 scooter with a folding mechanism, disc brakes, LED headlights.

• Xiaomi. A sought-after brand that constantly releases fresh new items for both simple skiing and extreme drifting. A very popular model with increased engine power - M365 Electric Scooter Pro.

There are many other well-known brands whose products are in enviable demand. These include brands Kugoo, Airwheel, Ninebot and others.

If you want to buy a really good and rather powerful scooter with an electric motor, you should pay due attention to several basic criteria.

The device must have a high-quality and reliable battery. It is recommended to choose scooters with lithium-ion batteries. It is desirable that its power is at least 200W. Please note that batteries that are too weak will only be designed for a small power reserve. As mentioned above, such devices usually last no more than 5 km (although sellers will overestimate this figure to 15 km).

It is equally important to consider the size of the scooter's wheels. Experts advise to give preference to devices equipped with tires with optimal dimensions - 8-10 inches. On wheels that are too small and modest, long distances cannot be overcome. A scooter with wide tires rides very well off-road, but the impressive weight of such structures should be taken into account.

The choice of the best electric scooter is also influenced by its weight. The device should not be overly heavy. The optimal weight can be between 10 and 20 kg. The technique should be such that it could be brought into the apartment without any problems or managed independently if the battery runs out.

On sale you can find models that accelerate to a maximum of 10 km / h - for an adult this may seem very little. A more suitable speed is considered to be from 15 to 30 km / h. At such speeds, it will be possible to ride both safely and comfortably.

If you wish, you can pick up a more powerful version, accelerating to 50, 60, 70, 77, 90 and even 100 km / h. But these scooters are harder to drive, but they are almost always designed for a serious load of 120 to 150 kg.

It is desirable that the design of the scooter contains splash wings. They will protect the user from dirt that flies from under the wheels. It is worth choosing models in which the suspension comes with shock absorbers - this will make the ride much more comfortable. The on-board computer and reliable, folding handlebars will be useful.

There are many tuning elements that can make an electric scooter more comfortable, functional and beautiful. Often the device is supplemented with such useful elements:

• additional rechargeable batteries and charging devices;
• sound pneumatic signals;
• additional buttons (for example, on the steering wheel);
• trip mini-computers;
• mud flaps;
• backlight;
• locks;
• lighting lanterns;
• holders for gadgets.

Often, devices are equipped with parts such as a support for a child and a child seat. These items should be purchased from specialized stores.

It is not recommended to interfere with the electrical component of the scooter on your own if you do not have the appropriate knowledge.

You should ride such a technique, adhering to a certain algorithm.

• Place both hands on the steering wheel. They need to be compressed and clicked on the start button.
• One foot should be put on the scooter platform, and the other should be pushed off the ground a few times (this is how the starting speed is set).
• Then you can rearrange the second leg to the platform.
• Further acceleration of the technique will be carried out by smoothly pressing the accelerator lever.
• To turn left or right, you need to turn the steering wheel of the device.
• Braking / stopping is carried out using the brake lever. It must be squeezed all the time of braking until the scooter slows down or stands up by itself.

Before buying an electric scooter, there are a few guidelines to consider.

• The selected device must be tested. This will tell you if the model is right for you.
• You should always inspect the condition of the scooter before any trip. Its design must be in perfect condition.
• Black scooters are considered optimal - scratches and other defects on them are almost invisible, not striking.
• The device battery should be charged as fully as possible (100%). For this, the connection to the electrical network must last as long as indicated in the technical documentation.
• Such equipment should be charged exclusively from the original charger.

For information on how to choose the best electric scooter for city driving, see the next video.