Scooters: features, types, selection and operation

Scooters are one of the most popular means of transportation. They are easy to use, you can have a great time with them, go in for sports. The range of these devices is huge - each consumer can choose for themselves the ideal model that meets all his requirements and wishes. In this article, we will take a closer look at all the features of scooters and find out how to choose them correctly.

The creation of the first scooter model dates back to 1761. This light vehicle was invented in Germany by Michael Kassler. There is another version of the appearance of this device, which states that the inventor of the scooter was Karl von Dres. Karl invented this mode of transport in 1817, and in 1820 modified the design, making the wheel in the front part manageable. Such types of devices have gained immense popularity and wide distribution in France and England.

In 1819, an inventor from England, Denis Johnson, patented an advanced model of a scooter developed 2 years earlier by Carl Dres. The frame of the new design was made of wood, as were the wheels. Instead of tires, there were rims made of metal. The brake was not provided for in the product design at all. The front fork was also made of iron, like all the elements on which the seat with armrest was located. The diameter of the wheels was 76.2 cm (39 inches).

The weight of such a scooter was approximately 30 kg. The method of movement on it was in many ways similar to the method of operating a modern runbike for children - it was required to push off both sides of the road in turn.

In the years 1839-1840, a blacksmith from Scotland named Kirkpatrick Macmillan continued to improve the design of the von Drez scooter. He provided the product with pedals, a crank and a lever attached to the rear wheel. With the onset of the 20th century, the world saw a new invention - a scooter equipped with an engine. In 1915, a company from America - Autoped Company of America began to produce the first models of scooters equipped with a lower valve 155 cc engine with a capacity of 1.5 liters. with. The device had small wheels, a folding steering wheel.

Over the years of its existence, the scooter has undergone a lot of changes and improvements. Much has changed both in its design and in its functional component. New models of these affordable vehicles were constantly appearing. In the Soviet Union, the transport in question was associated with a subject for children, however, in 1937, an article was published in a well-known scientific journal describing how an engineer Sergei Stanislavovich Lundovsky developed a scooter for adults.

In those days, such an innovation became something truly unusual. The “adult” scooter was capable of transporting the user 50 m from a single repulsive movement of the leg. The design could be equipped with a load of 30 kg. The scooter was a modified children's model "Orlik" with a lowered platform. The wheels in the "adult" design were attached using special lever nuts, they could be easily removed. Products were complemented by a trunk from a bicycle frame.

In the 80s of the last century, Soviet scooters ceased to be popular - in their place came imported bicycles, which in those days seemed like a real miracle of technology. In the 90s, attractive-looking children's scooters began to go on sale, characterized by mobility and lightness. After some time, road, sports and racing categories of devices began to be provided. Today, the range of scooters is gorgeous. There are many well-known manufacturers on the market, producing high-quality models of scooters of various modifications.

Scooter can be safely considered something between a bicycle and a skateboard. The design of the vehicle is assembled from a number of basic elements.

• Frame. The base is made of steel, aluminum alloy or magnesium. Many items can be folded up and are convenient to store and carry.
• Soundboard. The bar for the rider's legs.
• Steering wheel. It is either adjustable or unregulated. It is made T-shaped or "bicycle". There are instances in which the steering wheel is made in the form of a joystick.
• Wheels. The products provide 2 wheels. However, on sale it will turn out to meet and products where there are 3 or 4 wheels.
• Shock absorbers. They are not placed on all models, but if the shock absorber is present in the structure, the trip will be convenient and comfortable, as shock and vibration will be mitigated.
• Brake system. In transport, a foot brake is provided. The rear wing is responsible for its functionality. The latter is made of metal or plastic, with an attached metal block. When pressed, the brake presses the wheel, reducing the speed. There are instances in which braking is due to the action of the handle on the steering part. It connects to the brake pad on wheels both front and rear. Scooters with disc brakes are available.In t-shirts, bicycle brake systems are installed.
• Folding mechanism. Thanks to him, the device is convenient and “malleable” in transportation. A type of folding mechanism is common in which the steering rack must be folded together with the front wheel. Less common are options in which only the steering rack can be folded.

The principle of operation of scooters has not changed much over their two hundred year history. To move on this type of transport, you just need to push your foot off the ground, controlling the movement of the structure with a simple rudder. An exception may be only modern electric scooter models that are equipped with a motor and a comfortable seat. Modern models of scooters are characterized not only by a design thought out to the smallest detail, but also by small dimensions. Compact are urban devices.

All varieties of scooters are divided into several types, differing in functionality and device.

Models are more common than others. City two-wheeled scooters are often equipped with a high-quality shock-absorbing system, and their wheels differ in diameter of 150-250 mm. On the specified technique, it is possible to seamlessly drive through cracks and potholes on an asphalt road. Two-wheeled scooters have a lot of advantages:

• in city driving they are comfortable;
• equipped with a convenient folding mechanism;
• differ in modest weight;
• accelerate well, having an optimal wheel diameter;
• will be able to choose a glorious model for a reasonable price.

Cons of urban two-wheeled devices are as follows:

• need constant care;
• for tricks will not work.

So they call bicycle scooters. These are off-road devices that have many similar features with ordinary bicycles. There are full-sized wheels with a diameter of 29 inches. T-shirt models have good overclocking. The typed speed is maintained better and longer, but the rider has to make a lot of effort to control them. T-shirts have these advantages:

• characterized by good speed and good coasting;
• with such a professional design, it is possible to overcome various obstacles;
• there is a large number of bicycle parts - there are no problems with replacement;
• a t-shirt can be easily customized;
• good hand brake;
• there is a shock-absorbing front fork.

But there are also disadvantages:

• large dimensions;
• well-felt load on the legs.

Kickboards are not far from skateboards. They have a shortened, wide deck. There are 3 wheels. The main pair is located in front. Such a solution makes it possible to turn to other riding techniques, rejecting the deck and forcing the product to turn (as on skateboards). This is facilitated by the replacement of the standard t-like steering wheel with a joystick. The devices are characterized by such advantages:

• differ in stability;
• fast models, can develop good speed;
• turn out to be hassle-free in transportation and carrying;
• driven by both the steering wheel and the legs;
• There is a foot brake on the rear wheel.

Weaknesses are:

• increased turning radius;
• not the most affordable price.

These scooters should not be confused with trike bikes. The devices are equipped with 3 wheels, but their main difference from kickboards is the presence of 2 short decks. In certain cases, the support platforms are made in the form of a transverse bar. Such instances are called inertial scooters, since they manage to ride them without contacting the road. In the basic configuration, the models are equipped with 2 foot brakes. For the purpose of comfortable control, the devices are often equipped with manual brake systems. Trikes are characterized by such advantages:

• high rates of sustainability;
• Beautiful design;
• endlessly making repulsive movements from the road is not necessary;
• it is possible to perform tricks;
• good handling;
• load on the muscles of the body and legs.

There are weaknesses:

• requirements for the status of asphalt pavement;
• at first it’s hard to keep balance.

Sport scooters having a hardened, non-separable frame that cannot be adjusted. There are small wheels (from 100 to 125 mm.). But this does not mean that stunt devices move at low speed - on the track they show themselves as good, high-speed models, since they contain bearings of the highest accuracy and class. Gimmicks can look a little childish, but easily transfer significant loads. Scooters are famous for the following qualities:

• strength characteristics;
• maneuverability;
• light acceleration in short sections;
• comfortable control.

Cons are:

• not suitable for road trips;
• the height of the steering wheel cannot be adjusted;
• functional filling is weak, and the price is high.

This is a kind of sports device suitable for extreme off-road driving. Products are equipped with wide inflatable wheels with a camera, a serious tread. A high-strength frame is present, but the steering wheel cannot be adjusted. Devices have such advantages:

• strong, high-strength construction;
• high cross;
• the ability to perform tricks;
• good speed set;
• easy handling.

Consider the cons:

• you have to make a lot of effort to ride;
• Dirt scooters are expensive.

To answer this question, you need to compare devices and understand in which parameters they are superior or inferior to each other.

• Most scooters are more compact and easy to store than bicycles. In small apartments, storing the latter can be problematic, as well as transporting them in the subway, especially if their base is not folding.
• Driving scooters is easier than riding bicycles. They are more maneuverable and "obedient", elementary in mastering.
• On a bike manages to overcome more impressive distances. In their design there is a seat that not all scooters have.
• When riding a scooter, the rider usually has to contact the surface of the road, and while riding a bicycle there is no need for this, which is especially pleasing in rainy and dirty weather.
• There is no need to park a scooter outside, unlike most bike models.
• The lion's share of scooters has a lower mass than bicycles.
• Scooters are often cheaper than bicycles.

Given all the above differences between the devices in question, you can decide for yourself which is better: a bicycle or a scooter. If you want to travel long distances, ride far and long in comfort, the bike will turn out to be the best, because it has a seat, trunk and pedals for control - you do not have to push your feet off the ground. If you need a compact, lightweight and manoeuvrable device for trips to work or just for leisure, then a scooter may come up.

Consider what is the positive impact of driving on this type of transport:

• while riding a scooter there is a strengthening of blood vessels and a person’s heart - this is an excellent prevention of vegetovascular dystonia;
• lung function is stimulated, varicose veins are prevented, male health is improved, pain in the neck and lower back is avoided;
• a scooter will allow you to keep your figure in shape and tone;
• riding a scooter positively affects the eyes - while moving on the device you have to look into the distance one by one, focus your eyes on close points - this is a good workout for the eyes;
• attention develops well;
• in the cold season, riding a scooter strengthens the human immune system.

Let's analyze a small top of the best brands that produce high-quality scooters.

• Dominator. A well-known American company producing high-quality stunt scooters opens the rating. The devices are reliable and strong, but they are inexpensive and are presented in a large assortment. Scooters are produced for both beginners and professionals.

• Dualtron Dualtron scooters are an invention of the Korean concern Minimotors. Products are electrical, popular among both children and adults. They are distinguished by high ground clearance, several driving modes, two-way suspension.

• Playshion. Scooters are manufactured in China. Trick models presented in different color schemes are popular. Devices are inexpensive, but assembled from quality parts.

• Puky. German scooters of this brand are terribly popular in Russia. They are reliable, safe, functional and beautiful. Devices are officially warranted. Both children's and teenage models go on sale.

• Hipe. The brand of scooters, scooter spare parts and parts. The manufacturer specializes in producing affordable products for beginner riders. The quality of products is high, and their price is affordable. In the line you can also find professional scooters for advanced users.

• X-match. This is a sports brand that produces many products, including inexpensive scooters with an aluminum frame. The assortment contains mainly urban models with a load of up to 100 kg. Colors of products are different.

• Rush Hour. A manufacturer that produces high-quality two-wheeled and three-wheeled scooters in a huge assortment.

• Moby Kids. The brand offers reliable classic models of scooters.

• Limit A major Chinese manufacturer of low-cost devices for beginners.

• Xootr. A company that produces wonderful scooters with front brakes, a spectacular design and steering wheel adjustment.

• Reaction. The company produces multi-colored scooters with high stability, various platforms. Products are inexpensive and presented in a large assortment.

• Roces. The brand offers reliable and strong scooters with soft polyurethane wheels, shock absorbers that reduce vibration, as well as folding mechanisms.

• Jack Hot. These are attractive and reliable electric scooters. They can be expensive, but they will last a long time and will be convenient to manage.

• Zilmer. A reliable brand that produces scooters that meet all the norms and standards. Both budget and more expensive copies with increased functionality are on sale.

The choice of scooter should be done in accordance with the goals of the consumer:

• if you plan to ride a device to work or ride in the park on the weekend, it is better to take a two-wheeled urban version with a folding mechanism;
• for full-fledged sporting activities on special tracks or BMX sites, you should take a stunt model with small wheels and high-quality bearings;
• for trips away from the city it is worth buying a T-shirt or a powerful Dirt Scooter;
• if a product is selected for a child, then the best option would be a stable option like a kickboard or a reader, it is advisable to select models that are adjustable in height.

When buying a scooter, one must remember that there is always a risk of falling from it. This is especially important if you are buying a children's model. All protective equipment (knee pads, helmet, elbow protection) must be purchased. It is necessary to fall too correctly. It is advisable to work out the fall technique in advance (for both adults and children). If the model is used on large wheels, you should fall on your knees, protected by knee pads.

Scooters are not equated to the category of vehicles, nor to bicycles. Scooters obey the same rules as pedestrians. All requirements are listed in chapter 4 of the rules of the road. Here are some excerpts.

• Basically, the movement on a scooter should be on the sidewalk. In certain cases, you can drive onto the roadway.
• If there is no footpath, you can ride a scooter along the side of the road. When the rider here interferes with other pedestrians, he can ride along the edge of the roadway.
• If there is no sidewalk or footpath, it is permitted to drive along the bicycle road or along the edge of the carriageway. In the second case, you need to move in the direction of travel of other means of transport.
• In places where the traffic is regulated, the rider must be guided by the signals of a traffic light or traffic controller.
• At an unregulated pedestrian crossing, a person on a scooter can go to the carriageway, estimating the distance to approaching objects. It is impossible to create interference for other participants in the movement, to provoke dangerous situations (for example, to leave due to a stopped transport).

Learning how to ride a scooter is easy. A simple ride on a city model should be like this.

• The starting position is as follows: standing on the structure straight, leaning slightly forward, the supporting leg should be put on the deck, and the lead should be moved to the road.
• Now you can start the movement. Keeping one foot on the bar, the other should push off the ground. When riding, one must keep balance, moving weight from the leading leg to the supporting leg and back.

Braking happens like this.

• The jogging foot is lowered, pressed to the ground. Actually at low speed.
• Hand or foot brakes are used.

Consumers leave different reviews about scooters. Here is what pleases the owners in such devices:

• reasonable prices;
• light weight;
• the presence of folding mechanisms;
• availability of run counters on some models;
• the presence of high-quality brakes;
• comfortable and quiet ride;
• ease of management;
• maneuverability of most models;
• the presence of good shock absorbers.

But buyers noticed some disadvantages of such devices, such items include:

• flimsy design of some models;
• the presence of not the most comfortable, small rudders (less than 50 cm.);
• often scooters need manual revision;
• in electric models, many people are not satisfied with the battery capacity;
• buyers consider high-speed models to be too fast and not the safest;
• from sudden braking there is a rapid wear of the wheels.

See how to choose a scooter in the next video.