Scootin’ about… a guide to buying an electric scooter
As scooter technology has improved, more people are buying into this alternative transportation
The days are getting longer and warmer, which means it is time to go outside and enjoy some Colorado sunshine. There is no better way to do that than to cruise around on popular and trending electric scooters. In major metropolitan areas, many opt to rent the e-scooter for a ride to the ballgame or to explore a new part of the city, without the expense or hassle of parking a car. Families hop on scooters to ride around the neighborhood or to get to the pool or park.
For those in the market, the question is which e-scooter to buy? Three key factors should be taken into consideration: Power, range and weight of the rider, or maximum load.
If the rider is going long distances or across uneven terrain, an e-scooter with air-filled tires would be a better choice versus solid, rubber ones. Air-filled tires offer a smoother and more comfortable ride, but are also prone to puncture. Solid, rubber tires should provide longer tire life but the ride will be noticeably different. Scooters equipped with suspension systems can ease the bumps on the journey. Brakes come in two varieties, disc or drum, and can be activated by hand or foot.
With all of these recommendations, three models rise to the top of the list.
Segway, Ninebot ES4 – Best for the commuter
Segway is probably best known for the self-balancing vehicles that came out in 2001. Today, the company has developed the “commuter scooter,” the Ninebot ES4. The scooter offers solid tires, shock absorbers, and an 18.6 mph top speed. It has a 220-pound payload capacity and a 28-mile range. The retail price is $700.
Razor, Power Core E90 Sprint Electric Scooter – Best for kids
Razor is probably well known to most parents and grandparents as those manual, kick-driven scooters that every kid on the block seems to have. Razor’s best electric option is the Power Core E90 Sprint Electric Scooter. The Core E90 has a maximum payload of 120 pounds, travels up to 10 mph, and has a runtime of 40 minutes. The scooter also offers side-by-side standing, a 90-watt motor, and an easy thumb-controlled throttle. The retail price is $180.
GOTRAX, Apex Electric Scooter – Best for entry level and budget pick
Finally, rounding out the scooter picks is the GOTRAX Apex that is available at most large retail stores. This is an inexpensive scooter that will allow many families to “dip their toes” into the e-scooter waters. With a top speed of 15 mph and powered by a 250-watt motor, this scooter will work for those sticking to a budget. The range is listed at 15 miles and retails for $380.
Regardless of which electric scooter is chosen, remember that an operator of an electric standup scooter is granted all the rights and privileges and is subject to all of the duties of a person riding a bicycle, including wearing a helmet.
By Bryan Goodland; courtesy photo
