Choosing a vehicle for comfortable movement around the city and beyond, every rider wonders what kind is better and why. In this article – about the features, pros and cons of electric scooters, which not so long ago firmly entered the life of the population. It will help you to compare the presented eco-friendly transport on the market and choose the right one for yourself.
Today electric scooters are not just an exotic toy, but a convenient mobile transport. It is suitable for daily movement on urban and suburban roads. In order for you to understand how good the electric scooter as a vehicle, we propose to study its advantages and disadvantages.
Considering the advantages of the electric scooter, we are talking about units for adults. So, to their pluses can be attributed:
Economy. First, you can save money on the purchase itself. You only need to choose a model that is suitable in terms of price and quality. Secondly, there is no need to spend money on public transport, gasoline for refueling, car service, car insurance, taxes, but only to charge the battery for 4-6 hours and travel comfortably at any time of day.
Affordability. Electric scooter can be used by adults and children, advanced riders and older people who do not have special driving skills. Master this vehicle can literally everyone for 1 day. Many models have a speed limit mode, which allows you to confidently entrust the wheel even to an 8-year-old child. In addition, the use of the unit does not require a special driver’s license or registration at the traffic police, if the model has a power up to 250 watts.
Safety. The machine is characterized by increased stability on the road – it is very difficult to fall from it even an inexperienced user. In addition, there are three-wheeled models that confidently overcome even steep hills and uneven pavement. It is only important not to start abruptly, do not squeeze the throttle lever or brake.
Maneuverability. The machine will go where a car, motorcycle or moped can’t because of its dimensions or traffic regulations. It completely gets rid of standing in traffic jams, overcomes bumps and even shallow snow. It can pass through the narrowest streets, among obstacles, any pedestrian area: sidewalks, parks, squares, yards.
Ease of operation, storage, care. Electric scooters are compact, especially folding models. They are easy to store in a small closet apartment, carried in the trunk of the car or on the hands in the subway. Even easier to use: just take it outside, stand up and go. Powerful, resourceful models are characterized by relatively low weight with a solid load capacity up to 150 kg. In the care unpretentious: you need to periodically wash the wheels, wipe with a damp sponge housing, lubricate the moving parts, do not forget to charge the battery.
The variety of models. They differ in electric motor power, size. As well as the number and type of wheels, type of shock absorption and battery. They can be with or without a seat. For example, an ergonomic saddle reduces the load on the back and legs, which will please those who like to move in comfort. And units without a seat are ideal for young and athletic riders who don’t have a hard time standing in motion.
Like any type of transport, scooters with an electric motor also have disadvantages. So, the main disadvantages of electric scooters:
Impressive weight. The average weight is 12-20 kg. However, some devices reach 50 kg in a complete set. Such a load is still very difficult to lift up the stairs, especially for girls.
Decrease of the engine power. With a load of more than 80 kg the unit is unlikely to go uphill, and if it will go, then with a good acceleration. And during the ascent experienced riders are advised not to stop and not to reduce the speed, otherwise you can roll back.
Restrictions on the time of use. The optimal time of year for riding is spring, summer, early fall. Riding during rain is highly undesirable. If the motor-wheel is submerged in more than ⅓ of water, a short circuit may occur. And riding under precipitation is uncomfortable: water soaks into your clothes and splashes in your face. In winter it is difficult to move because of the ice and snow, in addition, it is impossible to use an electric scooter in severe frosts.
Minimum capacity. If there is a need to ride a large company or with many things, the electric scooter is not suitable.
Complexity and costliness of repair. After the end of the warranty period repair work and the purchase of original spare parts will be tangible for the “purse”. Taking into account the fact that the specialists do not recommend saving on the battery and the electronic control system.
A scooter with an electric motor is an excellent urban transport. Relatively inexpensive, fast, maneuverable. It is ideal for those who are used to mobility on daily trips to work, for small purchases, to visit, for walks.
