When choosing your first electric scooter, it’s easy to get bewildered by electrical ratings. Volts? Watts? Brushless DC Motors? You just want a fast, affordable scooter that can climb hills!
But you can learn to decipher the rated specs of any electric vehicle's motor power. In fact, it's the superpower you need to find an electric scooter best suited to your riding needs and preferences.
Need one motor or two? What is peak power, and why does it matter? Do all electric scooters have brushless DC hub motors?
We’ll answer these questions and many more in our beginner’s guide to electric scooter motors below.
Most every scooter – the overwhelming majority of electric scooters, that is – uses some kind of BLDC hub motor, which means that the motor lives inside one or both of the scooter’s wheels. A hub-mounted electric motor is a part we hardly ever notice, but without it, the most powerful scooters on the road wouldn't be going anywhere.
BLDC motors have almost fully replaced brushed DC motors, an older electric motor technology that uses mechanical brushes to move electrical current. Brushed motors are far less efficient than Brushless motors and more subject to mechanical failure and overheating.
Since you'll probably never see a Brushed DC motor on an electric scooter, we won't dwell on other differences. It's enough to say that BLDC motors allow for regenerative braking, in which the excess heat generated by electronic braking gets turned into electricity and transferred back to the battery.
Electric motors are primarily rated in Volts and Watts, although a few other numbers can also come into play. Power itself comes from the battery, the electric scooter’s gas tank.
When you turn the throttle, the controller sends the right amount of electrical power to the motor, and the BLDC hub motor turns electricity into physical torque, transmitting it directly to one or both wheels.
Voltage measures how much current can push through to the motor. A higher voltage motor will generally be more efficient. An electric scooter motor's voltage correlates with the voltage of its controller and battery, and all work together to deliver power most efficiently.
Some of the most common voltages for electric scooters are 24V, 36V, 48V, 52V, 60V, 72V, and even, at the very high end, 84V in hugely powerful scooters like Minimotors Dualtron X Limited. In general, higher voltage electrical systems generate more power for faster acceleration, more torque, and a higher top speed.
Watts is a measure of power consumption, or the amount of power that a motor can consume. In general, a higher motor watt rating will mean faster acceleration, higher load limit, and higher top speeds.
Motor wattage offers one key indicator to motor performance, but it's not the only one, and two motors rated with the same wattage can perform very differently in the real world in terms of acceleration and hill climbing ability, for example.
Watts tells you how much power an electric motor can take, but not how much power output it can generate in return.
Nominal power, also called continuous power, is the amount of motor power an electric scooter motor can safely consume for an extended period of time without overheating or incurring damage. Like "horsepower," watts is an imprecise measurement, and manufacturers can measure motor wattage differently.
Watts are not a measure of how efficient a motor might be. Two 500W motors, for example, might not have the same mechanical power. This number doesn't tell us much about scooter performance, on its own, and two motors with the same sustained or continuous power consumption might have very different motor performance in the form of output.
Most quality electric scooters will list their motor power rating in two figures: Nominal (or continuous) power and Peak power.
Peak power consumption refers to the amount of power a motor can consume in shorter bursts of high intensity.
Generally, the higher the rated peak power, the faster an electric scooter will accelerate and climb hills, so it's important to pay attention to this number.
Torque describes the twisting force produced by a turning motor, and it's the force that turns the wheels and makes the scooter move.
Torque is measured in Newton meters (NM) or foot-pounds. Most electric scooters, however, don't list a motor's torque (though some might describe their vehicles as "torquey").
Watts measures the input capacity of electric motors-- the amount of power they can consume -- while torque describes their output, the actual motor power generated.
Electric scooter manufacturers do not provide this figure, so it's important to read reviews written by people who have ridden an electric scooter you might want to buy to find out how it actually performs on the road.
When it comes to speed and acceleration, a motor's wattage is not the only factor to consider. The weight of the rider and the terrain can also affect performance.
Additionally, the type of motor an electric scooter can also impact acceleration and top speed. For example, a dual motor scooter will generally have faster acceleration and a higher top speed than a single motor scooter.
As noted, an electric scooter's voltage can also affect speed and acceleration, as can the size of its battery cells and the efficient operation of its motor controller.
Higher wattage motors and motors with higher torque are better equipped to handle steep inclines. hill climbing ability is also greatly affected by factors such as rider weight, terrain, and even weather and wind direction.
It's important to consider the climate, the terrain you'll be riding, and the weight of the rider when choosing an electric scooter motor.
If you plan on tackling hills frequently, or riding in adverse conditions, it's best to opt for a scooter with a higher wattage motor, higher peak power rating, and higher torque.
Dual motor power will pretty much always get you over hills faster than single motor power.
Single motor scooters use one DC electric motor mounted in either the front or rear wheel. While several great budget electric scooter models, like the Gotrax G3 Plus, have front-mounted hub motors, rear-mounted motors are preferable for reasons we'll discuss below.
As the name suggests, front-mounted DC electric motors mount inside the front wheel of an electric scooter. Scooters with front hub motors tend to also have relatively low wattage and rarely rate above 500W for continuous power.
Electric scooters with rear hub motors, like the EMOVE Cruiser, tend to have better traction on wet or slippery roads, and they also tend to have better hill climbing ability than scooters with front hub motors.
This is because front hub motors tend to do more pulling than pushing, with the weight of the scooter and rider creating unwanted drag.
Since riders mostly plant their weight over the rear wheel, especially when stopping or climbing hills, a rear wheel drive scooter will tend to have more stability and be less prone to spinning out in wet conditions.
You've got to have at least one motor to power your scooter, but why not one in each wheel? Dual hub motors give an electric scooter twice the power for exceptional climbing and faster acceleration.
Most dual hub motor electric scooters cost well over $1000 and weigh over 50 pounds, with one very rare exception, the Unagi Model One Classic and Model One Voyager, both of which have dual 250W motors but weight under 30 pounds.
Dual motor scooters typically require more battery capacity. The Model One Voyager's energy dense battery cells give it about twice the miles of its predecessor, for dual motor power and up to 25 miles of range.
As we've noted, rear wheel scooters perform better in wet conditions, even better than dual motors unless you have traction control. For that reason, it's better to switch off dual motors and use only the rear motor if you happen to find yourself riding in the rain.
Most dual motor scooters will consume less power and get longer range in single motor mode. Surprisingly, the Unagi Voyager's motors are so efficient that it gets better range with both motors switched on.
Entry-level and commuter electric scooters, designed for short commutes or leisurely rides around town, often have motors in the 350-700W range.
These scooters are great for those on a budget or those who don't need a lot of power for their daily rides, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be plenty powerful.
High quality electric scooters with motors rated between 350-500W can typically reach speeds of 18-20mph, accelerate quickly, and climb relative steep inclines with ease.
Scooters with motor power ratings between 700W and 1000W are typically intermediate vehicles with fast acceleration, high speeds over 20 mph, and longer ranges than entry level or basic commuter scooters.
Whether single or dual motor, these scooters have more power on hand for climbing hills and can typically handle a higher weight limit and coast over rougher terrain.
Electric scooters with motors rated at over 1000W are typically dual motor performance scooters with very high top speeds (40-50mph), race-worthy acceleration, and off-road abilities.
Examples in this category include huge dual hub motor scooters like the NAMI BURN-E 2 and Kaabo Wolf King GT, both of which boast over 2000W of power from their combined front and rear motors.
Scooters with this kind of power come with price tags to match and will typically cost somewhere in the $2000-$4000 range.
Let's review: while a motor's power consumption rating, expressed in watts, gives us some idea of its overall output power, two motors with the same wattage can perform very differently. It's a motor's efficiency that makes the difference.
Motors with higher voltage tend to be more efficient and have higher torque for more power over hills and faster acceleration.
The amount of power you need to power your electric scooter, however, will depend entirely on the main reason you're riding that scooter. If you're cruising around town, running errands, and commuting a few miles each way, then a single 500W motor can be more than enough. Some scooters with 350W motors perform just as well or better than many rated at 500W.
Few, if any, single motor 500W scooters will perform as well as the Unagi Voyager. With its dual, switchable 250W motors, 36V system, and energy dense 21700 Lithium ion battery cells, the Voyager combines is the ultimate in compact, portable, electric motor power.
Are you considering making the switch to an electric scooter but feeling overwhelmed by the vast array of choices available? Fear not, because we've got you covered! Welcome to "Your Essential Electric Scooter Buying Guide: Top Tips for the Perfect Ride."
In this guide, we're here to simplify the process and help you discover the electric scooter that perfectly fits your needs. We've combed through the technical jargon and distilled the essential features you should consider, whether you plan to use it for your daily commute or for thrilling weekend adventures.
Choosing the right electric scooter can be a challenging task, but with our streamlined guide, we'll make it a breeze. We've carefully sifted through the important details, from battery range to build quality, to ensure you have all the insights you need before making your purchase.
This isn't about pushing a sale; it's about equipping you with the knowledge to make a decision that you'll be happy with. So, let's dive into the world of electric scooters and find the perfect ride that matches your lifestyle and preferences. Let's roll!
The initial phase of purchasing an electric scooter involves identifying your requirements. Do you intend to utilize it for regular commuting or weekend escapades? Maybe you’re just looking for a fun way to zip around your neighborhood. Regardless of your requirements, you’ll undoubtedly find a suitable electric scooter!
Electric scooters are available in a vast array of designs, each boasting distinctive features and specifications. Here are some factors to consider when choosing an electric scooter:
If you’re purchasing an electric scooter for commuting, you might prioritize a long battery life and a foldable design for easy storage.
If it’s for leisure and recreational use, comfort, style, and features like atmospheric lights might be on top of your list.
For thrill-seekers planning off-road adventures, you'd want a robust scooter with significant motor power and rugged tires.
Nevertheless, all electric scooters aren’t created equally. The key is to find the one that fits your lifestyle and meets your specific needs. From motor power to maximum speed, scooter weight to weight limit, and motor wattage to tire type, every detail matters when choosing your first electric scooter.
If you’re planning to trade your car or public transport for an electric scooter for your daily commute, you’re going to need a reliable workhorse. Commuting and city riding call for e scooters that are portable, have a good battery power to last the distance, and are durable to withstand frequent usage.
For instance, the Unagi Model One Classic and Unagi Model One Voyager are great choices for commuting. They have the following features:
Foldable design, making them easy to carry around, especially if your commute involves public transport
Decent range and quick charging times, so you won’t be left stranded halfway through your commute
Some models come with powerful dual motors for high performance and a bit of a speed thrill on your way to work.
If you’re looking for a scooter for leisure and recreational use, your priorities might be a bit different. You’d want something that’s comfortable and easy to ride, with a focus on style and enjoyment over long distances or high speeds.
One of the fun features you might enjoy is atmospheric lights. They not only make your ride safer by increasing your visibility, but they also add a cool vibe to your journey. Imagine riding along the beach at sunset with your lights illuminating the path ahead - sounds like a perfect end to the day, doesn’t it?
For those e scooter riders who crave adrenaline and want to take their e scooters off the beaten track, you’re going to need a real beast. Off-road adventures require electric scooters with powerful motors, rugged solid tires, and robust suspension systems to handle rough terrain and challenging conditions.
Off-road electric scooters are built to power through tough outdoor conditions, making riding electric scooters an exhilarating experience. They come with strong suspensions and reinforced parts to handle the bumpy ride. In addition, they are equipped with powerful dual motors and bigger wheels to drive you through those adventurous trails.
When it comes to tires, pneumatic tires are great for off-road conditions as they provide a smooth ride over uneven surfaces. But for longer distances, you might want to consider pneumatic tires, which can maintain consistent pressure. Pair these with a robust suspension system, and you’ve got a smoother ride even on the roughest terrain.
Upon identifying your requirements, the subsequent stage involves exploring the technical aspects. Electric scooter features play a significant role in your riding experience. From motor power and battery life to speed, braking systems, and suspension - each of these factors contributes to how your scooter performs.
The power of your scooter’s motor affects its speed and ability to handle different terrains. While a 500W motor might be sufficient for a leisurely ride in the park, you might need something more powerful for steep hills or off-road adventures. Similarly, the battery life and range determine how far you can travel on a single charge, which is crucial if you’re using the scooter for commuting or long rides.
Speed and safety should be balanced. It’s essential to consider local speed limits and your experience level to ensure a secure and enjoyable ride. The braking system is another critical safety feature. Options like disc brakes, drum brakes, and regenerative brakes offer varying levels of stopping power and maintenance requirements.
Motor potency and performance are pivotal for an excellent scooter experience. They determine your scooter’s ability to tackle hills, attain desired speeds, and ensure a smooth ride on different terrains.
For example, if your daily route includes steep slopes, a scooter with a motor strength of 400 to 500 watts would be optimal. On the other hand, high-performance scooters like the Beast Electric Scooters can hit impressive speeds of 50 mph or more, thanks to their powerful motors. Choose a scooter with a motor that matches your needs for the best riding experience.
Your scooter’s battery lifespan and range are vital in determining the distance you can cover on a single charge. Factors like your weight, speed, and the terrain affect how quickly your scooter’s battery drains.
For instance, models like the Apollo Ghost or Apollo Phantom can travel up to 39 to 40 miles on a single charge, making them ideal for long commutes or leisurely rides. However, your scooter’s motor power, your weight, and the speed you travel at can all affect this range. Therefore, it’s essential to consider these factors when evaluating the battery life and range of different scooters.
Balancing speed and safety is the key when it comes to electric scooters. While it might be thrilling to zoom down a hill at top speed, it’s also crucial to stay within safe limits and follow local regulations.
The maximum speed of most scooters is around 15 to 20 mph, making them suitable for commuting or recreational riding. However, high-performance scooters can reach speeds of over 25 mph, with extreme performance models hitting speeds of up to 80 mph! It’s important to remember that with great speed comes great responsibility. Always ensure you’re riding within your skill level and adhering to local speed limits.
Safety gear is paramount when riding at high speeds. Some essential safety gear includes:
A helmet
Wrist guards
Knee pads
High-visibility clothing
Additionally, some high-performance scooters, including dual motor scooters, also come equipped with motorcycle-grade horns for added safety. With various scooter brands available in the market, it’s essential to choose one that offers these performance scooters with such safety features.
An efficient braking system is indispensable for every electric scooter. Depending on the model, you might find options like disc, drum, or regenerative brakes on your scooter. Each system offers different levels of stopping power and requires different maintenance levels.
Disc brakes, for instance, offer excellent stopping power, making them ideal for high speeds and downhill rides. On the other hand, regenerative braking systems harness the energy lost during braking, including the use of disc brakes, to recharge the battery, contributing to increased efficiency.
Additionally, hydraulic brakes provide reliable and consistent performance in various conditions. It’s essential to understand the type of braking system your scooter has and how to maintain it for a safe and smooth ride.
Lastly, we must not overlook the significance of comfort. A good suspension system can make a world of difference to your ride quality, smoothing out bumps and vibrations.
Your scooter’s suspension system can vary from spring, rubber-based systems to hydraulic or air piston suspensions. Larger pneumatic (air-filled) tires can also improve comfort by providing better shock absorption. So, whether you’re zipping through city streets or tackling rugged trails, a good suspension system can ensure a smooth and comfortable ride.
Having gained an understanding of what to consider in an electric scooter, it’s now time to discuss your budget. Electric scooters vary widely in price, with options available for every budget.
Budget-friendly options are a great starting point for beginners. They offer basic features and decent performance without breaking the bank. However, if you have a bit more to spend, mid-range scooters offer a balance of quality, performance, and advanced features.
And for those who want the best of the best, premium electric scooters provide top-of-the-line performance, advanced features, and superior build quality.
Bear in mind, the priciest scooter doesn’t necessarily equate to being the most suitable for you. It’s all about finding a scooter that meets your needs and fits within your budget.
Budget-friendly or entry-level scooters are perfect for those who are new to the world of electric scooters or have a tight budget. These scooters generally offer a top speed of around 15 mph and a typical range of 8-10 miles, making them suitable for short commutes or recreational use.
Some good budget-friendly options include the Turboant X7 Max and the Ninebot KickScooter ES1L. These scooters strike a balance between affordability and quality, offering decent speed and range for their price.
Mid-range scooters are a step up from budget-friendly options. They offer a better balance of quality, performance, and features. For example, these scooters may have a longer range, higher top speeds, and additional features such as suspension systems.
Some of the best mid-range scooters include the Niu KQi3 Pro and the Segway E2. These scooters offer a good mix of features and affordability, making them a great choice for those looking for a bit more from their electric scooter.
If you’re looking for the best of the best, you’ll want to look at premium electric scooters. These scooters offer top-of-the-line performance, advanced features, and superior build quality.
Premium scooters like the Beast Electric Scooters offer impressive speeds and long ranges, setting them apart from most electric scooters. However, they also come with a higher price tag. If you’re a serious scooter enthusiast and are willing to invest, performance electric scooters can offer a truly top-tier riding experience.
Prior to taking to the road on your electric scooter, it’s paramount to comprehend the legal implications and local directives. These can vary greatly from place to place, so it’s essential to do your research.
Laws can determine:
Whether you require a license or registration to ride your electric scooter
Where you can ride, with some places allowing scooters in bike lanes and others prohibiting them on sidewalks
Speed restrictions in place
Safety regulations are another crucial aspect to consider. For instance, some places require riders to wear helmets and other protective gear. Failing to comply with these laws can result in fines or penalties, so it’s worth taking the time to familiarize yourself with them.
When it comes to licensing and registration, the rules can vary widely. In the California, for example, you usually need a license or registration as electric scooters are considered motor vehicles. However, in the UK, you would need a category Q entitlement on your driving license to ride an electric scooter.
It’s important to check the specific requirements in your location before purchasing an electric scooter. This way, you can ensure you’re following all the necessary laws and regulations.
Safety should always be a priority when riding an electric scooter. This includes wearing a helmet and other protective gear like knee and elbow pads, especially if you’re riding at high speeds or on busy roads.
Helmet laws can vary by location. Some places require all electric scooter riders to wear helmets, while others only require them for certain age groups or under specific conditions. Regardless of the laws in your area, wearing a helmet is always a good idea for your safety.
Finally, it’s important to know where you can and can’t ride your electric scooter. Rules can vary from one location to another, with some places allowing electric scooters on roads, bike lanes, or sidewalks, and others restricting them to designated paths.
Some areas might have speed limits for electric scooters, and there might even be restrictions on where you can park your scooter. To avoid any fines or penalties, make sure to check the local rules and regulations in your area.
Similar to any vehicle, electric scooters necessitate routine maintenance for optimal performance. This includes everything from checking the tire pressure to ensuring the brakes are in good condition.
Furthermore, when choosing a scooter brand or seller, it is important to consider the post-purchase support they offer. This can include:
Technical support
Servicing
Warranty
Customer service
Good after-sales support can give you peace of mind and help you resolve any issues that might arise.
Ensure the ready availability of spare parts before committing to an electric scooter purchase. This can make maintenance and repairs much easier down the line.
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your electric scooter in top condition. This includes checking the tire pressure, inspecting the brakes, and ensuring the lights are working properly.
Tire pressure can greatly affect your scooter’s performance and battery life. Underinflated tires can reduce your scooter’s speed and range, so it’s important to check the pressure regularly. Similarly, worn-out brakes can affect your scooter’s stopping power and overall safety. Regularly inspecting and adjusting your brakes can help prevent accidents and ensure a smooth ride.
When buying an electric scooter, it’s important to consider the warranty and customer support. A good warranty can provide peace of mind, covering any manufacturing defects or issues that arise from normal use.
Customer support is just as important. Good customer support can help answer your questions, resolve issues, and even provide assistance with maintenance and repairs. Before purchasing an electric scooter, check out the company’s customer service reviews to ensure you’ll receive the support you need.
Finally, consider the availability of spare parts and accessories. Being able to easily purchase spare parts can make maintenance and repairs much easier. Plus, accessories can help customize your scooter to fit your personal style and needs.
Some scooter accessories you may consider include:
Replacement solid tires
Lights
Custom grips
Seat attachments
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your scooter or simply make it more comfortable, there’s likely an accessory out there for you.
Electric scooters have emerged as a fantastic choice for individuals seeking a blend of fun, convenience, and environmental consciousness in their transportation. Whether your goal is to find an affordable scooter for your daily commute, indulge in a premium model for off-road escapades, or strike a balance somewhere in between, the electric scooter market offers a diverse range of options.
As you embark on your scooter-buying journey, remember to assess your specific needs and budget carefully. Take the time to dive into the features and specifications of the models you're considering and be sure to familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations governing their usage.
Armed with this knowledge and the perfect scooter that aligns with your preferences, you'll be all set to hit the road or trail with confidence, knowing that you've made a choice that not only suits your lifestyle but also benefits the planet. So, get ready to experience the joy of buying an electric scooter while minimizing your environmental footprint!
When choosing an electric scooter, it's important to note that not all electric scooters are created equal. Therefore, consider the range, maximum speed, ride quality, weight limit, and safety features to find the best model for your needs. These features are essential for a great electric scooter experience.
A good wattage for an electric scooter is between 350-400 Watts for average hill-climbing, and 400-500 Watts for riding over flat ground and small hills. If you are planning to ride on steep inclines, consider a motor with at least 400 watts.
When choosing an electric scooter for commuting, prioritize portability, good battery power, and durability for frequent use. These features will ensure a reliable and convenient commuting experience.
Regular maintenance for an electric scooter involves checking tire pressure, inspecting brakes, ensuring lights work properly, and keeping the scooter clean to ensure its proper functioning.
Make sure to check your local laws for specific regulations on licensing, registration, helmet requirements, and permitted riding areas for electric scooters. Always stay informed and follow the rules to ensure a safe and legal ride.
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