Every year, more and more people change from cars to more economical modes of transport. These include not only a moped or bicycle, but also a scooter. Manufacturers produce not only simple, but also electric models, which are very popular. Electric scooters have many advantages and useful characteristics that attract consumers. In this article, we will get to know a closer look with this type of transport and find out how you can choose the perfect "adult" model.
Purpose and requirements
Scooters produced today differ from simple devices with a platform for legs and a wheel, which require some effort to be controlled, especially if you need to gain good speed. Models equipped with an electric motor can be a good means of transportation, as they are easier and more convenient to drive. Devices can easily reach speeds of up to 60 km / h. Adults can use the scooter to drive to the store, to work, to rest in the country. For easy riding, these devices are also perfect.
The stores sell not only adults, but also children's varieties of electric scooters. The second is not designed for a set of high speed.
An adult electric scooter must meet a number of requirements.
- The device must be equipped with a quality battery.. They are lithium and lead. Experts say that lithium options turn out to be more reliable and practical - they are characterized by a longer resource, low weight, sufficient capacity.Optimal devices are those in which there is a battery with a capacity of at least 200W.
- The scooter must have wheels of a suitable diameter. The larger the wheel, the softer the device will be on the road, but it will be more difficult to control. The optimal size is 8 or 10 inches. Certain characteristics of the wheels of the electric scooter directly depend on the terrain on which the rider plans to ride. Often these products are made on good inflatable wheels.
- A reliable motor must be present in such vehicles. It can be a chain-driven mechanism or a motor-wheel. Experts recommend giving preference to the second options, as they drive quietly, last longer and are resistant to wear.
- The weight of the device should be optimal for its user. Both light and very heavy structures go on sale. It is important that the scooter meets the requirements and forces of the user, otherwise it will not be too convenient and simple to use.
- The device must be safe - This is one of the most important requirements that should not be forgotten when choosing the optimal model. The scooter must be of high quality, its assembly should not be in doubt. In addition, transport should be convenient for the rider. If the scooter meets these requirements, a person will use it with pleasure, without experiencing discomfort or inconvenience.
The device must meet all of the above requirements so that the rider is confident in it and travels comfortably.
Device and principle of operation
Electric scooters in general are classic models, but with a powerful frame, a reliable electric motor, a battery, an electronic controller responsible for controlling the main systems. In the complex, the listed components make it possible to combine both electric and muscular drives, or to use an electric engine.
In electric scooters, braking is carried out by drum, disk or tick-type brake mechanisms, with a drive on the steering part with a handle.
Modern models of electric scooters are often equipped with a large number of different useful additions that are useful for riders. These details include:
- the presence of a folding or stationary seat for a comfortable and convenient ride over long distances;
- measuring devices - odometer, speedometer and the like;
- light signaling is carried out in the form of turning signals, a headlight or brakes;
- rear-view mirror, as in conventional cars;
- spacious and comfortable trunk with a basket in which you can place the cargo;
- suspension of wheels on shock absorbers for maximum comfort while riding the device.
The principle of operation of such vehicles is in the application of electric energy stored in a battery for driving electric motors (there can be 1 or 2) with the parameters set by the controller.
The controller determines the operating mode based on the features of its internal device. This element can function not only at the command of the rider. The main command is the position of the accelerator handle, and with it the information from the angle sensor to the road (gyroscope) and other sensors present in the design.
Then the torque of the electric motor is transmitted to the wheelbase of the device. The wheels set the scooter in motion. An important function of many modern models is feedback. It means that when driving from physical effort or downhill, when the wheels spin freely, the engine acts as a generator - it charges the battery.
Kinds
Different types of vehicles go on sale. They differ from each other in functionality and additional equipment, but the principle of operation and purpose remain the same.Before you go to the store to buy the best model, you need to get acquainted with its different types, differing in a number of basic criteria.
By the number of wheels
The most common and popular are classic two-wheeled models. They are relatively inexpensive, presented in a huge assortment. They are characterized by increased reliability and wear resistance. Typically, two-wheeled electrical products have a modest mass, are versatile in operation and are highly efficient.
Modern electric scooters on two wheels and a battery have one serious drawback for many users - when using them, you must try to maintain balance. For beginners who have certain problems with the management of such vehicles, this can be a serious difficulty.
Additional space for the placement of batteries in such devices is not provided. They are located under the deck.
There are three-wheeled models of electric scooters. These devices are equipped with two rear wheels. Structures of this kind are more bulky and complex, but they can be driven more and with comfort. Such products are inferior to two-wheeled models in their impressive weight and dimensions, but they are ahead of them in terms of power and power reserve. Devices equipped with a seat and a wide deck can be operated even for trips out of town. Many varieties of such scooters are complemented by a small auxiliary wheel to support and unload the frame part of the device.
An additional small wheel is located between the rear wheels and is the fourth in a row. Simply put, with a similar detail, the three-wheeled version can transform into a more convenient and stable - four-wheeled.
There are three-wheeled models. with two front wheels. Designs of this type are not so widespread and are rare. To ride them you need to have special driving skills. Such scooters are a hybrid of a segway and a simple scooter with an electric motor.
The main advantage of these devices is their high maneuverability. But they also have one significant drawback noticed by many users - comfort while riding on them is minimal.
By battery
Electric scooters also differ in the battery batteries that are installed in them. On sale there are types with lithium-ion batteries. Products with lithium-polymer batteries belong to the same category, although there is a different solution inside them. In terms of charge and application features, these varieties are the same.. In addition, polymer batteries are rarely used in electric scooters, since they are not designed for shaking.
Products in which it is provided lithium ion battery, rightfully recognized as the most popular and demand. These are universal models that are lightweight, last a long time, and hold a charge for a long time. Scooters with such batteries are small in size. The downside of these options is the price.
There may be problems with their operation in cold weather at sub-zero temperatures, although for winter this transport is usually not bought.
Electric scooters are available with lead batteries. These batteries are the cheapest. They are rarely installed in modern scooters. These batteries can be operated at low temperatures (though not very long - the charge is quickly lost), but these advantages are too few against the disadvantages.
Lead batteries are heavy, heavy, charge for a long time (about 8-10 hours), are designed only for 150-200 charging cycles.
By motors
In electric scooters, different motors can be installed. The power of the device depends on them:
- 120 watt the model can accelerate to a maximum of 15 km / h;
- 1000 watt The scooter will accelerate to 30-35 km / h.
If you want to develop an impressive speed on an electric scooter, then you need to select only options with powerful motors.
By drive
Another criterion for the separation of electric scooters is the drive. Models with different mechanisms are produced.
- Rear chain. In scooters with such a drive, torque is transmitted from the engine in front to the rear wheels.
- Single. In these designs, the wheel is mounted together with the motor. It can be fixed both front and rear. Scooters with such a drive are the most common.
- Four-wheel drive. All-wheel electric scooters are distinguished by the fact that both wheels are equipped with motors in them. Because of this, battery consumption increases, but cross-country ability becomes much better.
By design
Many models of electric scooters have a thoughtful folding design. These are very convenient and popular items that can be easily carried with you without feeling inconvenience. With such means of transportation, you can get into public transport, ride the subway, visit shops and shopping centers. When folded, they do not bother anyone. And also there are models for two: for example, for mom and baby.
Accessories
Electric scooters can be equipped with a large number of useful add-ons and accessories, making them more functional and convenient to use. These details include wings from spray. Today, not all scooter models are equipped with these elements, but this does not mean their uselessness. The wings can protect the rider from dirty splashes when riding in bad weather.
An excellent accessory for an electric scooter is an electronic on-board computer. Some models are equipped with a display that displays the most important indicators while driving (speed, mileage, percentage of battery charge). On sale you can find scooters that can be synchronized with mobile devices using applications.
Products equipped with such useful accessories are in great demand, although they often have a very high price.
A good accessory for an electric scooter - backlight. It can be different: lateral, front, back. With this addition, riders and their vehicles will be clearly visible. If the backlight is not needed, you can turn it off at any time.
For riding an electric scooter one must also acquire protection. You will need a helmet, protection of the elbows and knees.
It is advisable to buy such things in specialized stores. Protective equipment must be reliable and of high quality.
There are so many necessary accessories designed for electric scooters:
- additional batteries and chargers;
- sound pneumatic signals;
- function buttons on the steering wheel;
- trip computers;
- engine controllers;
- mud flaps;
- castles and more.
Any accessories for scooters should be purchased at specialized points of sale. Supplements should not interfere with driving in transport - they should be useful and necessary.
Security
The main drawback of the design of modern electric scooters is shortened base and shifted center of gravity. Such features at times increase the risk of a rider falling forward during braking times. Falling off an electric scooter can be easily done in other unforeseen situations where you need to act quickly. Many of the manufacturers, in order to reduce the risk of users falling forward, do not equip the device with a front brake, depriving the rider of the opportunity to brake sharply, which can be dangerous in difficult situations. When operating vehicles of this kind, it is recommended to use protective equipment.
In addition to the danger associated with poor braking and a great risk of overturning, there are other problems regarding the design features of electric models: when they run into obstacles or when the brakes are hard, the steering wheel load increases, which ultimately leads to its breakdown.Such troubles can result in serious injury to the rider.
Failures are no less susceptible to the fasteners of the saddle and folding mechanism with shock absorbers. To reduce the risk of problems to a minimum, you must carefully check the condition of the scooter before each departure from the house. It is important to pay particular attention to those parts that are most susceptible to rapid wear and tear.
Electric scooters with reflective parts, rear and front lights, as well as disc brakes are characterized by increased passive safety.
Selection tips
The scooter must be selected especially carefully. It is necessary to determine in advance exactly how you want to operate it - for rough terrain in the country and for flat city paths, different types of structures are suitable. Let's consider in detail what criteria should be paid attention to when choosing an electric scooter.
- Battery power. A lot of Chinese electric scooters are equipped with low-power batteries, which are enough for trips no more than 5 km. Usually, sellers intentionally overestimate this parameter (indicate 15 km in the description) in order to attract buyers' attention.
It should be borne in mind that such a mileage for these devices is too small. Such specimens should be selected that are designed for a mileage of at least 25 km.
- Ride speed. Paying attention to this parameter, it should be borne in mind that on a compact and lightweight product, even a low riding speed will be felt much stronger, especially when comparing this vehicle with heavy motorcycles. Some scooter models can accelerate only to 10 km / h, which is too little for an adult rider. A speed from 25 to 30 km / h is considered more acceptable. At these speeds, the user can ride comfortably and confidently.
Of course, you can find faster models that can reach a maximum speed of 50, 60, 65, 70-77 km / h, but it’s more difficult to manage such options - you need to have some experience. Similar models are designed for serious load - up to 130, 150 kg.
- Wheel size Experts recommend picking up electric scooters having optimal tire sizes of 8-10 inches. If the wheels are too small, they will not be able to overcome long distances. If you want to drive off-road, models with wide tires are more suitable, but they usually have considerable weight.
- Wings. It is best to buy such scooters with wheels (both large and medium), protected by special wings. Such accessories can effectively protect the consumer’s clothing from getting dirt flying from under the wheels.
- Weight. Important parameter. The scooter should not be too heavy. The optimal weight is 10-20 kg. The device should be such that it can be easily brought into the apartment, and with a discharged battery they could manage independently.
If the device is bought for a girl, then its weight plays one of the important roles.
- Dimensions The smaller the scooter, the better, as compact models are more convenient to store and transport. Folding options are considered the most popular. Some models have a seat that makes them larger, but it can be easily removed using special tools.
It is advisable to choose a scooter in which there is no seat - these options are easier, easier to fold and take up less space.
- Color. Which color of the scooter to choose - each buyer decides for himself. Optimal is black - it shows less scratches, dust and dirt. Defects that have appeared can be easily painted over with a black marker.
- Manufacturer. It is worth buying only branded electric scooters. Brand models (Japanese, German) are far from always the most expensive. In the assortment of many well-known manufacturers there are excellent inexpensive products.
Scooters should not be purchased from obscure companies that are not covered by the warranty - such equipment can last a little, and you can not find any parts if necessary.
Popular models
Consider a short list of popular models of electric scooters.
- Ninebot KickScooter ES4. The top model with a powerful engine of 800 watts. It speeds up to 30 km / h, however, at maximum battery consumption increases. This is a recuperated model. Both wheels are 200 mm, front and rear have shock absorbers. There are mechanical and electronic brakes.
- Xiaomi M365 Electric Scooter Pro. Model with increased engine power, at the peak produces 600 watts. Range - 45 km. The scooter is distinguished by excellent engine traction, high build quality. It has a very comfortable steering wheel.
- Airwheel Z5. On this scooter you need to not just stand - here you need to put your feet on comfortable side platforms. Motor power - 500 watts. The maximum speed is 20 km / h. Wheels with a diameter of 8 inches. A stylish, well-assembled unit, but its frame has limited strength.
- Kugoo M4 Pro 16 Ah. Demand Chinese scooter. The load capacity of the product is 120 kg. It can accelerate to 35 km / h. The model is not the lightest - 25 kg. There are disc brakes on both wheels.
Scooter riders will have to "bring to mind" on their own. If you do not want to spend time on improvements, it is better to buy another option more expensive.
- Xiaomi Mijia Electric Scooter. A popular model, but it does not have the most powerful motor at 250 watts. Laconic interface. There are disc brakes that are controlled from a classic bicycle lever. A very convenient folding mechanism, but can not boast of a good full-time rubber. There are no shock absorbers in the design.
See how to choose an electric scooter in the next video.