Deciding on your first electric scooter is by no means an easy feat. The reason for that is the sheer amount of various options. Most of them are quite costly at that. So, before you give in to an impulse buy, read our article to choose the best electric scooter for your needs.
You need to ask yourself an essential question
Before you make this seminal decision, you need to ask yourself a key question.
"What do I need my first electric scooter for?" - when you find the answer to this question, it will make the entire process much easier later on. Because it will determine the most important technical details of your new ride. So, be true to yourself. Want to have some fun around the block? That's fine, but choose a suitable model for that, not a monster track. More about it further down.
Different types of e-scooters
For now, let's break down the types of electric scooters you can choose from. There are two most common ways of categorizing electric scooters. The first one refers to their usage or purpose, the other one to the price range.
Riding style
Casual - Designed for laid-back rides, these electric scooters focus on comfort, portability, and a smooth ride. Perfect for quick errands, social outings, or a relaxing spin around the neighborhood. With lightweight frames, easy-to-use controls, and moderate power, they're ideal for beginners and casual riders alike.
Commuting - These scooters are built for reliable, long-distance travel. They feature a more powerful motor to tackle inclines, extended range batteries, and comfortable suspension, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride.
Off-road - These rugged scooters are built for tackling rough terrain, dirt trails, and uneven surfaces. With powerful motors, all-terrain tires, and advanced suspension systems, they offer superior traction, stability, and control. Durable frames and water-resistant components ensure they can withstand the elements and keep you riding wherever your adventures take you.
Performance - These electric scooters push the limits of what's possible on two wheels. They're designed for experienced riders seeking adrenaline-fueled rides. Due to the inherent risks involved, these scooters are for skilled riders who understand the importance of safety and have the expertise to handle their exceptional power.
Price range
Budget (up to $1000)
Perfect for quick errands or short commutes, budget electric scooters offer a convenient and affordable way to get around. Yet, their lower motor power (<300W), limited range (8-10 miles), and lower top speeds (around 15mph) make them less suitable for frequent or more challenging rides.
Key Takeaways:
- Best for short, flat rides on smooth roads
- Not ideal for hills or rough terrain
- Focus on affordability over performance
- May have limited braking capabilities
Mid-Range Scooters (around $1,500-$2,000)
This is where the fun begins! With larger batteries, powerful motors (up to 1000W, even dual), and often suspension, these scooters offer a significant boost in performance, range (20+ miles), and speed (25+ mph) compared to their budget counterparts. However, this extra power comes at the cost of portability, as they tend to be heavier (40+ lbs).
Key Features:
- Powerful motors for hills and acceleration
- Extended range batteries for longer rides
- Suspension for a smoother ride
- Top speeds over 25 mph
- Heavier weight for added stability
Premium (around $3000)
Think of these as the luxury cars of electric scooters. Powerful dual motors (2000W+), top speeds of 40 mph, and impressive range (30-40 miles) make them perfect for tackling hills and long distances with ease. They often come packed with useful features and innovations.
Key Features:
- Serious speed and acceleration
- Long range for extended commutes
- Premium features for comfort and safety
- Top-notch construction
What to focus on?
Below you will find a bunch of useful tips and tricks about the features you should pay extra attention to.
Top Speed
Speed is what sends a thrill down our spines. We all love the feeling of accelerating, but most of the time we don't need it to the extent some electric scooters offer. Mind you, most electric scooters are not as stable as cars, and speeds over 40 mph(64km/h) is an accident in the offing. Unless you know what you're doing, we advise against it. And remember about wearing a helmet.
Motor power
Motor power determines the rider weight and the inclines your electric scooter can tackle. If you're a heavier rider, or planning on challenging steep inclines, then you should give motor power a careful consideration.
Range
Range is paramount for commuters, as well as for more adventurous spirits. Depending on the distance to your destination, you should choose an electric scooter with ample range. Of course, it's always a trade-off. Higher range will come at the cost of speed or other features. But it's better to go a bit slower, when you're commuting, than not to get where you wanted at all.
Water-resistance
Water-resistance and dust-resistance are crucial when riding in bad weather. Take into account the fact that no e-scooter is fully waterproof. High quality scooters have IP ratings of 67. What is it? IP stands for Ingress Protection, which grades the resistance of an enclosure against the intrusion of dust or liquids.
Warranty
The warranty is a crucial aspect to consider when buying an electric scooter. It acts as a safety net, protecting your investment and providing peace of mind. A good warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions. It also speaks volumes about the manufacturer's confidence in their product's quality. Be sure to review the warranty terms, including coverage duration, exclusions, and the claims process, before making your purchase.
Certifications
Safety isn't just a buzzword for Apollo, it's a core commitment. That's why rigorous certifications like the UL 2272 for electrical systems are essential. Apollo scooters not only meet but surpass these standards. This dedication to safety extends to other important certifications like IP66,CE marking and FCC Declaration of Conformity. Choosing Apollo means choosing an electric scooter that's safe, reliable, and fully compliant with legal requirements.
- UL 2272: This certification focuses on the safety of the electrical drive train system, including the battery and electrical components, to minimize risks such as overheating, short circuits, and fires.
- CE marking: This marking indicates conformity with European health, safety, and environmental protection standards.
- FCC Declaration of Conformity: This declaration ensures that the scooter's radio frequency emissions comply with regulations, preventing interference with other electronic devices.
- IP66: This rating means the scooter is dust-tight and protected against high-pressure water jets from any direction, enhancing its durability and resistance to the elements.
Additionally, Apollo has recently acquired the UL 2271 certification for some of its newer models, which focuses on the safety of the electrical system of the entire scooter, not just the drive train.
Where to buy an electric scooter?
Big-Box Stores: Retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Target often carry a limited selection of entry-level electric scooters. These can be a good option for casual riders or those on a tight budget, but may not offer higher-end models.
Specialty E-mobility Shops: These stores specialize in electric transportation and offer a wider range of electric scooters, including higher-end models from various brands. Their knowledgeable staff can provide expert advice and guidance on choosing the right scooter for your needs.
Online Marketplaces: Online marketplaces like Amazon offer a vast selection of electric scooters from different brands and retailers. While this offers convenience and competitive prices, be sure to research the seller's reputation and the product's reviews before purchasing.
Good to have (accessories)
Riding electric scooters can be a thrilling way to get around, but it's crucial to prioritize safety and comfort. Investing in the right accessories can enhance your experience and protect you from potential hazards. Here's a list of essential gear you should consider:
Safety Essentials:
- Helmet: A non-negotiable safety item for any rider. Choose a certified helmet that fits snugly and provides ample protection for your head.
- Knee and Elbow Pads: Protect your joints from scrapes and impact in case of falls.
- Gloves: give you a better grip, reduce hand fatigue, and offer protection in case of a slide.
Visibility Gear:
- Front and Rear Lights: Increase your visibility to others, especially during low-light conditions.
- Reflective Gear: Wear reflective vests, armbands, or tape to make yourself more visible to motorists and pedestrians.
- Helmet Light: Illuminate your path and make your head more visible to oncoming traffic.
Security and Convenience:
- Lock: Secure your scooter when not in use to prevent theft.
- Phone Mount: Keep your navigation and communication tools easily accessible.
Additional Accessories:
- Bell or Horn: Alert pedestrians and other riders of your presence.
- Fender: Protect yourself from splashes and debris on wet roads.
Best e-scooters for adults – choose your first ride!
After taking stock of the above, you now know what you need your electric scooter for. The only thing left to do is to choose a model based on your conclusions. Here's our recommendation for your first electric scooter.
Apollo Air
- Ideal for: Beginners, casual riders, short commutes on flat terrain.
- Why you'll love it: Lightweight, portable, easy to ride, and affordable, making it the perfect entry point into the world of electric scooters.
- Consider this: Not designed for long rides or hills due to its lower power and range.
Apollo Go
- Ideal for: Leisurely rides, navigating urban streets, and short commutes.
- Why you'll love it: Sleek design, smooth ride, good portability, and decent range for exploring your city. It’s the perfect upgrade entry-level scooter. If you’re looking for something compact, but powerful
- Consider this: It has 9 inch tires, so while it can endure rough terrain, it’s not made for this.
Apollo City
- Ideal for: Daily commuters, longer rides, and those who need a scooter that can tackle hills.
- Why you'll love it: Powerful motor, comfortable suspension, longer range, and puncture-resistant tires for a smooth, worry-free ride.
- Consider this: Slightly heavier and less portable than the Go, but the added power and range make it worth it for serious commuters.
Electric scooter regulations
In Canada, electric scooters (e-scooters) are classified as power-assisted bicycles (PABs) and fall under the jurisdiction of each province and territory. Generally, PABs must have a maximum speed of 32 km/h (20 mph), weigh less than 120 kg (265 lbs), and have operable pedals. Some provinces have specific age restrictions (e.g., 16+ in Ontario), and helmets may be mandatory. Additionally, local municipalities may have their own bylaws regarding where e-scooters can be operated. Always check the regulations in your province or territory and local area before riding an electric scooter.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQ2u79vcYaE
Wrapping up
When choosing an e-scooter, prioritize safety, comfort, and quality. Don't hesitate to test ride a few models before making your final decision. And, if you're looking for a reliable brand with a proven track record of performance and customer satisfaction, Apollo Scooters is an excellent place to start your search.
We hope this guide has been helpful in your journey towards finding the e-scooter of your dreams. Happy scooting!
