Scooters with inflatable wheels: types, best models and secrets of choice
Scooters with inflatable wheels are quite popular now both among children and adults. Modern types of this transport are simply amazing, because they differ in quality, size, shape and other characteristics. In this article, we will look at the features of this type of transport, the best models and the secrets of their choice.
Advantages and disadvantages
A scooter with inflatable wheels is quite common today, after all, its main advantage lies in the fact that it provides comfortable movement even on bumpy and rocky roads... He can even bounce, but this will not affect the soft ride. Excellent shock absorption - this is its main advantage, which provides convenience during long trips. Safety and ease of management also refer to the pluses of such vehicles.
Modern solutions are complemented by brakes, mirrors and footrests to make it easy to place the device. If we consider the brakes on scooters, then they can be of two types - front and rear.
For children's models, it is the rear braking system that is preferable. If you use the front brake, there is a risk of falling when braking hard.
This popular equipment has the following disadvantages:
- it is quite difficult to push off on it, so such transport is not purchased for small children; it is worth emphasizing that even rolling it will require significant efforts from the baby;
- there is a chance to puncture a wheel while driving, so you should be extremely careful, which is unusual for small children;
- models with inflatable wheels are usually large when compared to their counterparts;
- they cannot be called high-speed, they usually go slowly.
Comparison with other models
Modern scooters are available on a variety of wheels.
- Inflatable wheels have a lot in common in appearance with bicycle wheels, because they also consist of an inflatable tire and a rigid rim. They are distinguished from others by their large size and guarantee excellent shock absorption, as well as a comfortable ride even on bad roads. At the same time, it should be understood that inflatable wheels can puncture, and they also need periodic inflation of tires.
- Polyurethane. Such wheels are quite common on modern scooters. They have a solid rim and a one-piece polyurethane tire. Among their strengths, it is worth noting reliability, noiselessness and a long period of operation. Compared to inflatable ones, they are puncture-proof. Compared to plastic wheels, they create less noise and, of course, are resistant to sudden temperature changes.
- Rubber. Such wheels are quite rare. They have a solid rubber tire and a plastic or metal rim. Their main advantages are resistance to mechanical damage, good shock absorption and noiselessness. Unfortunately, rubber wheels are quite sensitive to temperature changes. Also, this material quickly deteriorates.
- Plastic. Plastic wheels are usually found on children's models. Both the tire and the rim are made of plastic. They are inexpensive and usually come in bright colors. But while driving, they make a lot of noise and also give a strong vibration.
- Silicone. Such wheels are used in children's scooters. They have a one-piece soft silicone tire and a hard plastic rim that provide excellent cushioning.
- PVC. These wheels are cheaper and highly resistant to wear, but they are inferior to polyurethane.
Species overview
There are many types of scooters with inflatable wheels. This transport is suitable for different age categories. Both children's and adult models are on sale. Each age category has weight restrictions, which should be taken into account when choosing the optimal model. Bigger wheel solutions are more popular because they guarantee a softer ride. Let's consider the main types in more detail.
Urban
Such equipment is the most common and simple type of scooter. It is designed to move along the city streets of a large city when they are congested with transport. Among the advantages of urban models, the following should be noted:
- compactness - most city-type models have a folding mechanism so that if necessary they can be easily folded and put in a closet or trunk of a car, with it you can even go down into the subway;
- versatility - thanks to the adjustable steering wheel, the scooter can be adjusted for several family members - each of them can comfortably move around the city on it;
- profitability - for little money, you can find a quality model. Economy-class scooters are even produced by well-known companies, for example, Razor.
City scooters are characterized by such disadvantages as:
- exactingness to the quality of the road - such models are more intended for driving on asphalt;
- average roll - it is impossible to develop high speed on such a scooter;
- insignificant strength - city models are not suitable for performing various stunts and jumps.
If you are going to use a scooter for city trips, and you are not going to set records on it, then a device on rubber wheels is ideal for you.
Sports
This category of scooters includes stunt and speed solutions. They are characterized by the following advantages:
- excellent characteristics - they are specially designed for performing tricks, are high-speed and maximally adapted to perform unusual movements;
- high reliability and durability - the frame is strong and solid, because it must perfectly cope with extreme loads.
If we consider the shortcomings of sports solutions, then it is worth noting the following shortcomings:
- lack of folding mechanism - a one-piece frame becomes a major problem, since such a scooter cannot be folded;
- difficulties in choosing a convenient model - sports scooters usually have a fixed steering wheel;
- there is discomfort on a bad road - usually such solutions are equipped with small wheels, and they cannot guarantee comfort when driving on bumps.
If you have plans to play sports on a scooter, then you should buy a sports model, and if not, then it is better, of course, to give preference to a city scooter.
With shock absorber
Scooters with this addition have the main advantage - a comfortable ride, since the presence of a shock absorber eliminates shaking while riding. If we talk about its shortcomings, then it is worth noting the following:
- low strength - shock absorbers do not last forever, over time they all become unusable, so you should be prepared that soon it will need to be replaced or repaired;
- uselessness - the role of a shock absorber is not felt if we talk about scooters with inflatable wheels, since they themselves perfectly perform the function of a shock absorber;
- high price - these scooters usually cost 2 times more than conventional solutions.
Manufacturers
Today, specialized stores offer products from various brands, among which everyone can choose the best option for themselves, taking into account personal preferences. Consider the most famous manufacturers of scooters with inflatable wheels.
- Xiaomi. This is a manufacturer from China. The main advantages of the brand's products are stylish design, light weight and affordable price.
- Segway. It has won an excellent reputation in the international market. Many models are electric. The tires are quite large. The front wheels have additional shock absorption.
They provide a high level of comfort while riding the scooter.
- Razor. The American brand cares about the excellent quality and affordable cost of its products. All Razor scooters are practical and compact.
- Volteco. Models from this brand are compact and have excellent power. They have a good braking system. Both models with disc brakes and options with a hand brake are on sale.
- Y-Scoo. The range includes scooters of urban type, while they are small in size. The scooters are characterized by their maneuverability and lightness.
- Globber. This is a French brand that appeared only two years ago, but is already quite popular in many countries around the world. It offers scooters of different ages, including vehicles for adults weighing up to 120 kg.
- Yedoo. The Czech brand is constantly working to improve the quality of its products. It is this company that offers new items that have no analogues in other companies. A unique development is the use of an extruded aluminum profile.
- Stels. Scooters with large inflatable wheels are ideal for uneven roads where pits and bumps are common. The range of the company includes models with different wheel diameters - the most demanded steel is 200 mm and 230 mm. The model with 8-inch wheels has a lot in common with a mini-bike.
Selection Tips
Many modern models of scooters on inflatable wheels are additionally equipped with brakes, mirrors and a footrest. Today in online stores you can order any scooter you like. The advantage of such a purchase is that you can familiarize yourself with its assortment on the store's website, compare products from various companies in order to find the best option.
Models for both adults and children are on sale.
When choosing a scooter on inflatable wheels, start from several criteria.
- Frame design. The ability to change its height is very important, because purchasing a scooter, you already know that it will serve your child for several years, and there is no need to buy a new scooter every year.
- Brakes. It is worth purchasing those scooters that are already equipped with a braking system, while it is important that it is working. As mentioned above, the brakes can be either front or rear. For a children's scooter, it is better to purchase a model with a rear brake, which provides soft and smooth braking, the child will not fly out in front of the vehicle.
- The number and size of inflatable wheels. Some models have only 2 wheels, while others have 3. Usually the second option is more stable, therefore it is purchased mainly for children. Wheel size plays an important role in ride comfort as well as driving speed. For recreational scooters, a wheel circumference of 20 cm is sufficient.
It is worth trying out the vehicle before buying. If you are purchasing a scooter for your child, then you should take it with you.
He has to test it, test itto understand that it is convenient and comfortable for him to ride this type of transport, the height of the handle and the braking system are suitable, and also attracts the appearance of the product.
In addition, you should pay attention to the strength of the frame, as well as all the connecting elements. If your child is still small, then it is worth protecting him from falls. Knee pads, helmet and elbow pads should be purchased. There are even models on sale with a bell or a bottle holder, so that the child can always quench his thirst while riding a scooter.
For an overview of the city scooter with inflatable wheels, see the video.