It's not just about speed or style; it's about strength and endurance. We put the Apollo scooters through the mill to see how the rider's weight (nearing and exceeding its maximum weight load) impacts the scooters' performance.
Read on to learn more about the results and many neat tips and tricks about scooters for heavy riders.
The Showdown
In the right corner, ready to conquer the Apollo Ghost, we have Randy, Apollo's main photographer, and videographer. Standing tall at 6'1 and weighing 276 lbs, he's a force to be reckoned with.
In the left corner, we have Justin, Apollo's logistics specialist, taking on the Apollo Phantom. Towering at 6'4 and a hefty 360 pounds, he is no pushover.
And don't forget Sean (5'9, 155 lbs), who will also perform the same tests.
Ready, steady, Go!
Testing Top Speed, Uphill Performance, Battery
The team is revved up and ready to push the boundaries to test the ultimate electric scooters designed for heavy adults. With a roar of excitement, they slam the throttle, engaging the dual motor mode to unleash the full power of these mechanical beasts.
The first challenge? A trial by fire, but not just any fire. This is a test of raw speed and control, a race to see how fast these electric marvels can go. The team unleashes the scooters' full potential with a determined push of the throttle. The engines emit a unique, futuristic sound, a symphony of technology and innovation, and in a breathtaking instant, they're off. The landscape blurs; the wind roars. Can they handle it? The question hangs in the air, charged with excitement and uncertainty, as they rocket forward on this thrilling quest for speed.
Next is a heart-pounding ascent up a steep hill with a 15% incline stretching 170 meters into the sky. The scooters snarl and whine, battling gravity as the team pushes them to their absolute limits. How fast can they climb? The tension is palpable, the excitement contagious.
But the adrenaline rush doesn't stop there. Next, they keep the wheels spinning, the motors humming, and the excitement building as they run the scooters until the battery gasps its last breath. Every pulse-pounding moment is captured, every twist and turn documented, as they ride the edge of technology's frontier.
Finally, the suspense peaks as they gather to compare results, dissecting the scooters' performance on this challenging terrain. As they reveal their findings, the air crackles with anticipation, laying bare the secrets of speed, power, and endurance. The results are in.
Results
Let's break down the results, revealing top speeds, hill climb times, and range.
Top speed
In the top speed department, both contestants had similar results. Rand hit his 50 km top speed in 25 seconds, and Justin reached 52 km/h after about 28 seconds. Their weight caused a 15% decrease from the advertised speed, which is not half bad. Shawn reached 60 km/h in 24s on Apollo Ghost and 63 km/h on Apollo Phantom in 25s.
Hill climb times
Despite the different weights of the riders, the heavy-duty electric scooters for adults held their own in the hill climb test.
(170 meters and 15% incline)
Range
The range results were a mixed bag, with Shawn hitting 35 km on Ghost and 42 km on Phantom, Randy (Ghost) cruising to 29 km, and Justin (Phantom) powering to 37 km.
Conclusions after the test
Both of these scooters' maximum weight capacity is around 285-300 lbs (130-136 kg), but the weight of our contestants barely impacted their functionality. Are you a heavier rider looking for an electric scooter that can handle your weight and still deliver on performance? In that case, the Apollo Phantom and Apollo Ghost will definitely be just the ticket.
How to Find Perfect Electric Scooter for Heavy Riders – Useful Tips
Many people want to experience the joys of owning an electric scooter—these vehicles are ideal for commuting to work, exploring the city, or off-roading on the weekends.
If you're interested in buying an e-scooter, what is the best electric scooter for heavy adults? After all, not every e-scooter has a high enough weight limit to support every size of rider. The good news? These days, there are many high-quality e-scooter models on the market made for heavier riders.
Below, we'll discuss the most essential features to look for in an e-scooter for a heavier rider. We'll also provide a few e-scooter options from Apollo Scooters that match these requirements.
What Is Electric Scooters' Weight Limit?
Weight limits can vary from one electric scooter to the next. Standard e-scooters can hold up to 220 pounds. And high-performance electric scooters may hold as much as 300 pounds.
An electric scooter's weight limit is often called its max load. It's important to remember that the max load is the maximum amount of weight an electric scooter can carry safely.
Why is There a Weight Limit on Electric Scooters?
So, why do electric scooters have weight limits in the first place?
Electric scooters are designed for a certain weight range. They operate better when they're not overloaded. Exceeding an electric scooter's weight limit may compromise the quality and safety of your ride. If you try to ride an electric scooter with an insufficient weight capacity, you may be more likely to experience the following issues:
Sluggish speeds – Placing too much weight on an electric scooter can slow down its speed and dampen your joyride.
Poor incline performance – Electric scooters with lower weight capacities often have less motor power than those with high max loads. As a result, they may not be capable of propelling heavier riders up hills.
Reduced riding range – Placing extra weight on an electric scooter forces it to work harder. Its battery power may run out faster, reducing riding range. If you ride an electric scooter poorly suited for your stature, you may only be able to ride a fraction of the distance a lighter rider could on the same vehicle.
E-scooter damage – Finally, riding an electric scooter with a limited weight capacity may cause damage. The e-scooter's frame could bend or break. Its tires and brakes may wear out faster, too.
To avoid overloading an electric scooter, shop for a ride that can comfortably support your weight. This way, you can protect the lifespan of your electric scooter and get the most out of your riding experience.
6 Important Electric Scooter Features when Riding Heavy
To help you select the perfect ride for your weight, we prepared a few key features that you should look for in your next electric scooter.
#1 Adequate Max Load
First, you must choose an electric scooter offering a max load above your weight. For instance, if you weigh 250 pounds, you should look for an electric scooter with a weight capacity of at least 265 pounds.
#2 Sufficient Handlebar Height
Many heavier riders are also tall riders. If you fall into this category, choose an electric scooter with a suitable handlebar height. For an optimal riding experience, your handlebars should sit somewhere between your waist and hips.
#3 Substantial Riding Range
The riding range is the maximum distance you can cover on one charge. As a heavier rider, you may not be able to reach the maximum range listed in your electric scooter's key specifications.
The reason? Putting a greater weight burden on your ride will drain its battery faster.
With this in mind, you should look for an electric scooter that offers more than enough range for your riding needs.
For example, if you have to ride 10 miles to work and back each day, look for an electric scooter that offers a riding range well above that. This way, you can confidently complete your riding journeys on one charge.
#4 Ample Motor Power
As discussed earlier, heavier riders need their electric scooters to provide more motor power to sustain their speed and riding ranges.
You can assess an electric scooter's motor power by looking at its watt count. The higher the watt count, the more powerful the motor. Heavier riders should shop for electric scooters that offer 600 watts of power or more. Ample motor power will enable you to achieve faster speeds and ascend steeper hills.
#5 Shock-Absorbing Suspension Systems
E-scooter excursions often take you over various terrains, including bumpy roads and uneven streets. Without a suspension system, your knees and hips will feel the full impact of every rock, bump, and crack in the road.
Heavier riders are even more likely to experience the full force of these uncomfortable road vibrations. If you're a heavier rider, your knees and hips will appreciate an electric scooter with a top-notch suspension system.
#6 Strong Frame Materials
Heavier riders require more durable electric scooters. You should pay close attention to the components used in your electric scooter's construction. Ideally, you should look for an electric scooter that features:
- Strong frame materials, like aluminum
- Sturdy folding mechanisms
- Roomy foot decks
These features may increase the total weight of your electric scooter. While they may reduce your e-scooter's portability, they can enhance the quality of your riding experience, too.
Durable electric scooters are also better at traversing off-road terrains, riding up hills, and reaching higher speeds.
The Tradeoffs of These High-Performance Features
Electric scooters that meet the above criteria can offer superior support, strength, and durability. However, high-performance e-scooter models may also be:
- Harder to carry
- More expensive
- What Electric Scooter For a Heavy Person Should You Choose?
- These days, there's no shortage of electric scooters for heavier riders.
At Apollo Scooters, we carry many high-performance e-scooter models that provide the above features. Let's take a look at five outstanding options.
What Electric Scooter For a Heavy Person Should You Choose?
These days, there's no shortage of electric scooters for heavier riders.
At Apollo Scooters, we carry many high-performance e-scooter models that provide the above features. Let's take a look at our outstanding options.
#1 The Apollo Phantom
Formerly, the most powerful model in Apollo's ranks, Apollo Phantom. This vehicle provides exceptional riding experience thanks to its rapid acceleration, quadruple suspension system, and helpful HEX display.
The Apollo Phantom has a max weight load of 300 pounds (136 kg).
- Dual 1200-watt motor
- Top speed of up to 41 mph (65 km/h)
- Up to 40 miles (64 km) of range
- Weight of 77 lbs (35 kg)
- Quadruple spring suspension
- Option of either mechanical or hydraulic brakes
- Front & Rear Disc + Regen
#2 The Apollo Pro
The Apollo Pro 2023, hailed as the “Cyber Truck of Scooters” is Apollo Scooters' groundbreaking and future-proof new model designed to redefine electric scooter performance. Equipped with dual 1200W motors, it boasts a top speed of 44 mph, a maximum range of 63 miles on a single charge, and a maximum load of 330 lbs. The list goes on and on. Below you can find just the most essential information. But know this is just a foretaste of its capabilities.
- 1200W dual motors
- 44 mph top speed (70 km/h)
- Up to 62 miles (100 km) of range in eco-mode
- Weight 93 lbs (42 kg)
- Dual drum and regen brakes
- Adjustable front hydraulic suspension & rear rubber absorber
- 360 light system for enhanced visibility
Wrapping up
Start your riding journey with Apollo Scooters today. Whether commuting to work or cruising for fun, the right scooter is out there waiting for you. Happy riding!
Watch the full video here, and don't hesitate to drop a comment or question. Sean and the team are there to help you make the right choice.
