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Want to travel faster than walking but not depend on a car? Try commuting or zipping around on errands with the best electric scooter.
Super Turbo 1000watt Elite 36v Electric Scooter
A great investment
Powerful (even for climbing hills)
Fast
Variable speeds with Econo/Turbo modes
Brakes need frequent checks and adjustments
Replacement parts expensive
Glion Dolly Foldable Lightweight Adult Electric Scooter
A great investment
Durable
Rides very well
Super convenient pull handle/dolly function
Poor battery indicator
Electric brakes not great for making sudden stops
Pulse Performance Products GRT-11 Electric Scooter
Economical
Easy to ride, handle, and stop
Great for beginner scooter riders
Battery not strong or long-lasting enough for some
Questionable quality
Writer
GOTRAX Glider Electric Scooter for Kids & Adults
Worth the price and convenience, but no suspension.
Worth the price
Decent range
Folds and is light for convenient portability
No suspension–bumpy
Battery range and power declines over time
Handlebar quality questionable for some
USCOOTERS/e-TWOW Electric Booster Plus Scooter
Powerful with great suspension, but front brake is slow and battery meter is unreliable.
Powerful
Great shock-absorbing suspension
Folds away conveniently
Front electric brake not good for sudden stops
Battery meter unreliable
Zippy
Battery life longer than expected for many
Small and more suited to kids
Hard rubber wheels not good for non-smooth surfaces
Back wheel breaks (which means both wheel and hub motor need replacing)
Razor E200S Seated Electric Scooter
Easy and smooth operation, but long battery charge time yields short ride time/range.
Suited for older kids and young adults
Easy to assemble, operate, and charge
Stable and smooth
Long battery charge time for short ride time and range
Chain pops off easily
Back tire prone to flats
8 Electric Scooter Reviews - Zip Around in 2024
Geek and a fan of new technologies. He writes reviews of new gadgets and advises electronics stores.
Jose C. Withers
Scooters aren’t just for kids! Electric scooters are perfect for tooling around and exploring, running errands, and commuting for short distances - easily, economically, and emission-free. Learn about the best electric scooter for adults to get around while satisfying their inner child.
After researching over 30 of the most popular electric scooters, we narrowed the list down to these top picks. We consulted industry leaders and consumers to choose the eight top electric scooters.
It’s an investment
Before plunking down money to purchase one of these cruising machines, you should read what others already think about them.
We pored over feedback from hundreds of owners of all different ages in order to investigate the good, the bad, and the ugly.
We learned about electric scooter riders’ experiences with and opinions about specific models.
Knowledge is power!
We also double-checked each scooter’s specifications on its manufacturer’s website to confirm accuracy of information. Safety is paramount, so we want to communicate exact details about brakes, speed, durability, and more.
Hop aboard…
…and learn about electric scooters in general and specific models.
The Super Turbo 1000watt Elite 36v Electric Scooter is super sturdy and powerful.
With its solid steel frame, it’s “built like a tank” and “takes off like a young animal.”
Further endorsements include “responsive,” “full of energy,” and “very dependable.”
One user who’s been using it for seven months to commute 12 miles daily, five days each week, describes it as “very durable.”
Speaking of commuting…
Reviewers love the “great” ride and that they look “cool” on their way to work or just tooling around.
Now here’s the really good part...
The Super Turbo 1000watt Elite 36v Electric Scooter’s turbo motor makes it fast and strong.
Several riders love its power and report the scooter climbs hills on turbo with no problem.
The manufacturer sells a supplementary hill kit for riders who want even more of a boost.
People close to, at, or even a bit over maximum weight (250 pounds on flat ground) feel the scooter handles well and doesn’t lose power or speed during drives.
Looking for a change of pace?
The scooter allows riders to adjust power with an Econo/Turbo mode button.
Those who aren’t in a hurry and wish to just cruise can–and will really feel the difference between the turbo and econo modes.
Accelerate at your own pace–from very slow to slow to medium to fast to very fast–very gradually or within several seconds.
Whoa, let’s slow things down for a sec...
The main concern about the Super Turbo 1000watt Elite 36v Electric Scooter is its braking performance.
The scooter is heavy.
In fact, it weighs 92 pounds--61 pounds without battery.
Which affects its ability to stop quickly. Nonetheless, we also encountered these anecdotes:
One rider, Joseph, commutes through a hilly area and admittedly rides his brakes “a lot”.
When he first started driving the scooter, it would “stop on a dime.”
However, after a few weeks, he discovered the brakes began requiring a longer stopping distance.
Another owner of this scooter, Shaun, warns the scooter doesn’t come to a complete stop quickly and that he “almost hit a person because [he] couldn't stop fast enough.”
Going down a hill is “scary” because the brakes "slide" even after tightening.
A third rider in a hilly area who “really uses the brakes a lot” says that after a month, the brakes were not as effective as they were earlier.
One of experts, Steve, who also happens to own this electric scooter, added the brakes “don't seem to grab” as well as expected--even from the first day of use.
Is it really that bad?
While the brakes do work, he suggests squeezing them firmly and learning to anticipate stops.
Steve also warned:
The Super Turbo 1000watt Elite 36v Electric Scooter’s front and rear brakes need frequent adjustments.
A few people found and viewed a video on the manufacturer’s website providing step-by-step instructions on adjusting the brakes.
For some, that did the trick, but for at least one other person, the adjustment changes didn’t help.
Another maintenance tip is to check and tight bolts before rides because they loosen during rides.
Mixed
For most people, the lead battery lasts long and is fine.
A few people plan to switch to lithium batteries.
While the Super Turbo 1000watt Elite 36v Electric Scooter folds up for convenient storage, it is heavy to carry.
Assembly is fairly easy.
Finally, purchasers of the Super Turbo 1000watt Elite 36v Electric Scooter praised the manufacturer’s excellent customer service and rave about Chris.
To see a review and demonstration of this model by a new owner, watch this video.
A great investment
Powerful (even for climbing hills)
Fast
Variable speeds with Econo/Turbo modes
Brakes need frequent checks and adjustments
Replacement parts expensive
Well designed and engineered for adults, the Glion Dolly Foldable Lightweight Adult Electric Scooter appeals to a wide range of riders.
Figurative feedback on this model’s performance includes:
This scooter is solid and durable.
After using it for daily commutes across campus for two years, a happy owner states it’s still going strong for urban transportation.
How’s the power?
The battery life is good, with decent ride time and “juice.”
One commuter we spoke too, Sutton, rides about one hour each way, each day.
Think that’s impressive.?
Check out this:
She leaves home with a fully charged battery and arrives with a still decently charged battery.
The battery indicator/meter shows how much “juice” is left via the number of bars.
Many people think the indicator is too vague, wishing it displays percentages of battery power left.
All of our experts were sure to mention how they dislike the scooter’s lack of a speedometer and odometer.
Nonetheless…
The battery certainly pulls riders’ weights over inclines.
A 250-pound commuter, Sam, rides this scooter daily over a “legitimate hill” and enjoys the scooter’s consistent climbs without stops or push assists.
Another 220-pound rider, Jackie, also says the scooter handles hills well.
What about the brakes?
The Glion Dolly Foldable Lightweight Adult Electric Scooter’s electromagnetic regenerative brakes are steady for some and jerky for others.
Many riders would feel more secure with an additional mechanical/manual brake for back-up.
Several people note the brake is good for adjusting speed going around corners, but not for stopping quickly to avoid hitting a person suddenly walking into the scooter’s path.
Feel this:
The Glion Dolly Foldable Lightweight Adult Electric Scooter doesn’t have a suspension, just large tires to absorb little bumps and cracks in the road.
Forget rough terrain, even with small branches or rocks, the ride is much rougher and less stable.
Guess what?
Foldable and portable, the scooter has a unique pull handle dolly and wheels that allow users to stand it up and roll it like luggage.
People love this convenient feature.
Less convenient is the position of the On/Off power button that’s easily accidentally pushed when the scooter is folded.
One last note...
Riders describe the manufacturer’s customer service as “off the charts amazing,” “spectacular,” “phenomenal,” “outstanding” and more.
Watch this video of a new owner’s demonstration and review.
A great investment
Durable
Rides very well
Super convenient pull handle/dolly function
Poor battery indicator
Electric brakes not great for making sudden stops
The Pulse Performance Products GRT-11 Electric Scooter seems to be another scooter more geared toward kids. Most feedback was from parents and grandparents of children ages five to eleven.
Nonetheless...
This scooter is sturdy, strong, and holds riders weighing up to 120 pounds. It’s “zippy but not too fast,” easy to ride, easy to handle, and easy to stop. Overall, this model is well suited for beginning scooter riders.
With a top speed of eight mph, it’s perfect for riders not in a hurry.
And...
The battery is adequate. Thouhg, some users wish it would hold a charge longer than an hour.
One person describes the scooter as “underpowered” because it couldn’t propel a 60-pound passenger up an incline.
Although easy to assemble, the scooter seems to have issues with parts and quality.
Two people report kickstands breaking soon after the scooter’s first use.
Several note the scooter arrived damaged.
Finally, some users state that despite lack of roughhousing, the scooter or its parts broke shortly after early rides.
See for yourself the quality and functionality of the Pulse Performance Products GRT-11 Electric Scooter in this video review.
Economical
Easy to ride, handle, and stop
Great for beginner scooter riders
Battery not strong or long-lasting enough for some
Questionable quality
The Razor EcoSmart Metro Electric Scooter is perfect for commuters and adults of all ages (including older teens and senior citizens). Its sturdy, heavy-duty, and easy-to-assemble frame offers stability while its padded adjustable-height seat and solid bamboo deck provide comfort for a smooth ride.
Now does it feel?
With no suspension, this model can have a bumpy ride on rough surfaces. Several people didn’t find the seat comfortable. They actually switched to another one.
Nevertheless...
The Razor EcoSmart Metro Electric Scooter is excellent for running errands, carrying groceries (in a detachable rear rack), and commuting.
One person says the scooter is a great automobile “replacement” for short trips close to home. Another rider commutes 12 miles through a city on a single charge.
A third user finds the scooter’s range for rolling, hilly terrain to be about seven to eight miles.
After each ride, the battery is easy to charge.
Although, we read reports of the battery indicator not being very helpful, as it doesn’t always show when the battery is low or displays no percentage, just a green light that turns to yellow light when the battery is low.
Several users grumble the battery holds a charge less effectively within several weeks, but after the 90-day warranty. Speaking of warranty, customer service received multiple negative ratings.
And...
The Razor EcoSmart Metro Electric Scooter’s rear disc brake is okay for level ground but “not good for hills.”
With much use, the brake can overheat and becomes less effective.
Many owners wish this model had a front brake as well for stronger and quicker stopping. Likewise, the motor located on the right side can get hot after a few miles, so be careful not to touch it then.
The top speed of 18 mph is fast enough for many riders. Controlling speed and acceleration via the throttle can be a bit tricky for some.
There have also been a few reports of a mystery “clicking” noise during rides. Our experts warn this may be related to the throttle or brakes.
Note:
One reviewer noticed many users accidentally snap off the charge port cover. They noted the charge port cover is NOT a plug, but rotates or twists clockwise out of the way of the charging outlet.
To see the unboxing, assembly, and helpful review of the Razor EcoSmart Metro Electric Scooter, watch this video.
A good value/deal
Great for commutes and short trips
Detachable rear basket
Battery mediocre
Single rear disc brake less effective without front brake
The GOTRAX Glider Electric Scooter for Kids & Adults is popular with teens and young, middle-age, and senior adults. Stable, sturdy, and heavy-duty, this model is safe and comfortable for kids and grown-ups. One 6’5”-tall rider tried and likes it but thinks that people in the 5' to 5'11”-tall range are ideal. A self-described “large frame” person weighing 240 pounds finds the scooter fast and powerful.
Feel the need for speed?
The GOTRAX Glider Electric Scooter for Kids & Adults cruises up to 17 mph but you have to know how to get the scooter going that fast. Two reviewers note that directions for changing gears aren’t clear and offer these helpful instructions:
1) Push the red power button once to turn on the scooter.
2) Double click the button to switch to second gear, as indicated by two rows of vertical lights.
3) Double click again to switch back to first gear, as indicated by one row of vertical lights.
Not a great feeling…
Cruising on the GOTRAX Glider Electric Scooter for Kids & Adults is smooth for many people, but we also found complaints of bumpy rides. The scooter’s hard rubber wheels and lack of suspension result in riders feeling every vibration from road cracks, pebbles, and sticks.
Caution
A few reviewers warn riders to watch out for potholes and rocks because it’s “easy to fly off” when hitting a bump. Helpful advice: bend your knees a little to help absorb shocks.
Also be aware
While the brakes work well for some–one person noted they were effective even while rolling downhill– they’re not hydraulic. Therefore, you’ll need brake sooner/earlier in anticipation of stops because immediate stops are almost impossible.
What goes up…
The GOTRAX Glider Electric Scooter for Kids & Adults’ battery is easy to charge and has a “good” life. Its nine-mile range allows for people to get out but not get stuck far away from home. Even better, if you use the motor to assist your kick-propelling (instead of enjoying a completely free ride), you can save some battery “juice” and get some exercise.
Here are a few testimonies about the scooter’s performance on a fully charged battery:
…must come down
Nonetheless, the battery declines over time. After several weeks, the battery’s range and ability to hold a strong change deteriorated for some users. A few reviewers don’t think the battery works well enough for inclines.
On the other hand
Three features were overwhelmingly praised. First, the bright LED headlamp is “radiant” and “great for night riding.” Second, the GOTRAX Glider Electric Scooter for Kids & Adults folds up and is light for easy handling, transport, and storage. Third, the customer service and support are excellent.
Warning:
We just want to pass along reports of the handlebar breaking (three) or, due to lack of a screw coming apart (several), which led to injuries.
To see this model’s manual, click here.
Worth the price
Decent range
Folds and is light for convenient portability
No suspension–bumpy
Battery range and power declines over time
Handlebar quality questionable for some
Powerful and fast, the USCOOTERS/e-TWOW Electric Booster Plus Scooter is great for commuting. Although a bit “heavy,” it zips along well for riders up to the maximum weight limit. A six-footer weighing 230 pounds (plus a backpack) travels about 10 to 14 miles on a single charge up to 16 mph. A 5’11”-tall rider weighing 200 pounds speeds up to 19 mph on straightaways.
Of course
Ranges and ride times can vary. One person reports reaching only 11 to 13 miles per change. Another says that the scooter drives reliably on flat terrain about 12 miles; going beyond that limit, the scooter slows down.
The good
What people agree on, though, is the USCOOTERS/e-TWOW Electric Booster Plus Scooter’s effective shock-absorbing suspension. It handles bad roads, rough urban streets, and bumpy surfaces well.
The (somewhat) bad
A less positive point of concurrence is brake performance. The front regenerative electric brake is okay except if you want to stop fast and on a dime. Not many riders actually use the rear friction brake, which we assume would only help. In any case, reviewers advise people to brake early, especially when going down a hill.
The ugly
Several users dislike the battery meter because it isn’t accurate and precise, but “all over the map.” One person finds that the meter’s measurement fluctuates (e.g., from 80% down to 20% in minutes and back up again) based on the ride’s strain on the battery. Another rider comments that after the scooter cruises fast for only one or two miles, the battery meter drops to 10%, which seems incorrect. On the other hand, a commuter travels five miles in stop-and-go traffic but arrives with the battery at 60%.
But at least
Owners like that the USCOOTERS/e-TWOW Electric Booster Plus Scooter is fairly easy to fold (be careful not to tear off the rubber power cord protector by mistake) and store at the destination or on public transit. A little heavy for some, the folded scooter can conveniently be rolled on its front wheel.
The automatic front light isn’t very bright but more “like a fog lamp.” Also, it always seems to be on, needing to be turned off manually.
For a review of the USCOOTERS/e-TWOW Electric Booster Plus Scooter, watch this video.
Powerful
Great shock-absorbing suspension
Folds away conveniently
Front electric brake not good for sudden stops
Battery meter unreliable
With a maximum rider weight capacity of 120 pounds, the Razor Power Core E90 Electric Scooter is good for children.
In fact, most feedback was from parents on the experiences of their kids who typically ranged in age from five to ten years.
Although, several adults, including our testers, tried the scooter and loved it! One 225-pound grown-up found it quite “zippy.”
Its “zippiness” is great for some riders, but too fast for other.
Especially younger kids.
Some parents wish the Razor Power Core E90 Electric Scooter could have more than one speed.
Nonetheless, it’s easy and fun to ride.
It is a bit short with low and non-adjustable handlebars.
Users don’t recommend this scooter for people over 5’ tall. Two 11-year olds found this model too short for them.
What about the battery?
The battery earned conflicting reviews. Charging it overnight yields at least an hour or more of continuous use.
To some people, the battery lasts longer than expected–even more than energetic eight-year-olds! On the other hand, a few report the battery holds a charge less and less well after a few rides or just a few weeks.
Made of hard rubber, the Razor Power Core E90 Electric Scooter’s wheels seem best suited for smooth surfaces like concrete, not asphalt.
One parent notes that riding on a rough surface will “shake the fillings out of your teeth!”
Want to hear something frustrating?
We found numerous reports of the back wheel seizing up.
Since the hub motor is in the back wheel, if either the wheel or the motor breaks, both must be replaced.
Many people also complain about problems occurring shortly after the 90-day warranty period… too late for returns or replacements.
Watch this assembly, demonstration, and review of the Razor Power Core E90 Electric Scooter.
Zippy
Battery life longer than expected for many
Small and more suited to kids
Hard rubber wheels not good for non-smooth surfaces
Back wheel breaks (which means both wheel and hub motor need replacing)
Most reviews of the Razor E200S Seated Electric Scooter were from parents and grandparents of children ages five through 13.
With a maximum rider weight capacity of 220 pounds, though, this scooter is “good for young kids to grow into” and great for college students driving around campus.
Parents admit sneaking rides on this scooter when their kids weren’t around…and having “a blast!”
Forever young, right!?
The Razor E200S Seated Electric Scooter is safe, stable, sturdy, and smooth. Easy to operate, it’s fun, fast, “maneuverable,” and comfortable.
Although we did hear from two people who find the removable seat is uncomfortable.
Guess what?
Although easy to charge, the battery requires many hours to charge fully. Users are disappointed that after being charging overnight, the battery yields only 30 to 45 minutes of ride time or three to four miles of range.
What’s more...
Many users note a couple of design/mechanical flaws.
First, the chain popped off for numerous riders, especially when braking suddenly and hard. The tension spring holding the chain on is weak and can fall out.
Second, the back tire seems prone to going flat.
Assembly is generally easy, but several consumers report their scooters arrived scratched, scuffed, dented, and perhaps even used–in torn and patched boxes.
To learn more about the Razor E200S Seated Electric Scooter’s assembly and setup, watch this video.
Suited for older kids and young adults
Easy to assemble, operate, and charge
Stable and smooth
Long battery charge time for short ride time and range
Chain pops off easily
Back tire prone to flats
In order to keep riding, stay safe with protective gear like a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and glasses.
If that sounds like overkill to you…
At least wear a helmet.
Head injuries are common, easily sustained, and severe.
Finally, in order to keep debris out of your eyes and see where you’re going, wear glasses.
Did you know?Helmets.org–a small, non-profit helmet advocacy program founded in 1989–suggests wearing a light motorcycle helmet instead of a bike helmet on an electric scooter.
For rides on powered scooters “capable of maintained speeds of at least 20 mph and likely to have more interaction with motor vehicles than non-motorized activities,” the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission recommends a moped or motorcycle helmet.
Further, they should meet Snell L-98, M-2005, M-2010, or CMS/CMR 20073 standards; DOT FMVSS 218-certified.
If the electric scooter runs “under 20 mph and [is] used in the same manner as a bicycle or kick scooter, a bicycle helmet may be appropriate.”
When shopping for an electric scooter, first think about how you plan to use it.
Will you ride it to commute to work (or at least part of the way in order to catch public transportation)?
Do you plan to use it for running errands or for recreation?
How far do you need to travel and over what kind of terrain (e.g., urban, suburban, or rural)?
Consider your needs and then investigate each model’s features, including its size, maximum weight capacity, range and ride time (how far and long it runs on a single battery charge), speed, style (seated vs. standing, foldable or not), reliability, and performance.
Many of the above factors depend on the scooter’s parts. Things like its battery, engine, and brakes.
Examine each model’s specifications to make sure they fit what you need.
Just as every person is unique, each electric scooter model is different.
Maximum Rider Weight Capacity
Most models accommodate weights of at least 120 pounds, but we included ones that carry up to 250 pounds or more.
Range And Ride Time
Range is how far the scooter can travel on a charged battery.
Ride time is how long it can run on a charged battery.
Range and ride time are calculated with the scooter driven at full throttle on flat ground.
So, if you have a nine-mile one-way commute to work, make sure your scooter has a range of at least 10 miles.
Don’t get carried away and exceed your scooter’s range–or you may end up stranded with a dead battery.
Rider weight, speed, and terrain all affect range and ride time.
The heavier the rider, the faster the speed, and/or the steeper the incline, the shorter the range and ride time will be.
The battery, its power capacity (voltage), how long it holds a charge, and how quickly it recharges also affect range and ride time.
Various types of batteries produce different levels of power and require varying charge times.
In the above example–a nine-mile one-way commute to work on a scooter with a 10-mile range–you’ll need to recharge the battery during the workday.
How long will it take for the battery to recharge completely?
Will you have enough time to recharge the battery before your nine-mile return trip home?
Most electric scooters have one of the following two types of batteries:
Although electric scooters are emission free because they’re powered by batteries and not gas, we can’t ignore batteries’ environmental downsides.
The manufacture and disposal of batteries pollute the environment.
Also, obviously the batteries’ power has to come from somewhere. Unless you have a solar panel charger for your electric scooter’s battery (like this one), the electricity source you use to recharge the battery probably obtains its energy from coal-fired power plants.
When you need to replace your scooter’s battery, please dispose of the old battery responsibly.
Check with your town’s large battery disposal rules. Also, inquire if local auto part stores or recycling centers accept them.
In any case, please don’t simply dump your scooter’s old battery in the regular trash.
At least 250 watts is good for kids’ scooters.
You may want a more powerful engine, like 500w to 1000w. The higher the wattage, the higher the price, so think carefully about how much power you actually need.
The most common types of electric scooter motors are:
Manual scooters have foot brakes where the rider pushes down the cover of the back wheel, creating resistance between the cover and the wheel to slow and stop the scooter.
Electric scooters often use much stronger brakes and utilize either–or a combination of these brake systems:
Top speeds for small electric scooters range from about 10 to 30 miles per hour.
The models we review top out at 27 miles per hour, and that number varies depending on the terrain and rider’s weight (i.e., hills and heavier riders reduce speeds).
For safety, as well as legal reasons, you may not want to go faster than 15 miles per hour so. We’ll talk more about this and other safety recommendations after the reviews.
How does the model feel on the average road–smooth or bumpy?
Does it perform well on inclines as well as on flat ground?
Electric scooters of any size are investments.
You want the model you choose to last. Its lifespan depends on usage (i.e., frequency, distance, and terrain of rides), maintenance, and construction.
Does the model come with a seat?
And if so, is it removable?
Some people prefer riding standing up while others like to sit.
Does the scooter fold up to carry and store away easily?
This feature may be important for commuters but not so important for recreational riders.
While not one of the most important features, a scooter’s appearance (especially choice of colors) can affect riders’ choices.
Some want to look cool while others don’t really care.
Now let’s take a closer look…
You’ve chosen a suitable model and are eager to take it out for a spin.
Now, are you worried you’ll fall off a scooter?
Don’t. Really.
If you can ride a bike, you’ll be able to drive a two-wheeled scooter.
Even if you can’t, you should have an easy time learning to balance on a scooter, with its lower center of gravity.
Not so fast…
Also, small, two-wheel electric scooters are slower than bikes, often topping out at 15-18 miles per hour.
Although possible, crashes are unlikely. Especially since you can simply brake and hop off a scooter to avoid an accident.
As with any vehicle, be careful on the road so you can enjoy the ride.
Let’s get rolling!
What’s more…
Some states require helmets for electric scooter drivers by law–check with your local DMV. United States residents can use this handy website to find their state’s official DMV website.
Electric Scooter Maintenance
Many small electric scooters–like the ones we reviewed–market themselves as being low- to no-maintenance.
While this may be true, as with any motorized device containing moving parts, you’ll want to take care of your electric scooter in order to reap years and miles of use.
Read your model’s owner manual for proper instructions to keep your scooter tuned up and ready to go.
Other general tips include:
Rules of the Road
As we noted earlier, some states require helmets for electric scooter riders while others don’t.
In fact, rules for electric scooter ownership and usage–licensing, registration, insurance, where they can be driven–vary from state to state.
Laws applicable to your chosen model also depend on its size and speed. To navigate this myriad of regulations, check your local DMV office for your jurisdiction’s laws regarding electric scooters.
What Does “Street Legal” Mean?
A motor vehicle that is “street legal must have “whatever equipment or features the law would require to allow one to operate it legally on the roads at any time and without restriction.” Specific stipulations on whether or not a vehicle is “street legal” varies from state to state.
Some electric scooters are considered street legal and thus can’t be driven on sidewalks.
Others aren’t street legal (i.e., too slow/under 25 mph, not sturdy enough, lack sufficient suspension and safety features, etc.) and can’t be operated roads with other traffic safely.
The small models we reviewed are between children’s scooters and the larger full-size electric scooters that are usually street legal. So where does this leave you to drive your small electric scooter? Again, check with your local DMV for rules applicable to your specific model. Riding on sidewalks is illegal in many places while zipping around in traffic on larger roads is illegal and downright dangerous. Neighborhood streets and bike lanes may be viable options.
Electric Scooters: Revered or Reviled?
Proponents of electric scooters praise their economy, ease, independence, and eco-friendliness.
Conversely, people annoyed by fleets of commercial rental electric scooters littering urban sidewalks dislike them.
Why?
Many citizens are angry at scooter rental companies for diverting money from public transportation, all just to make a buck. Hopefully, though, electric scooters can actually encourage the use of public transportation.
Is there a silver lining?
In places where public transportation pick-up points are far apart (e.g., Metro stations in DC and the Maryland and Virginia suburbs), riding an electric scooter may be perfect for just getting to the subway/bus stop.
Although your personal scooter isn’t one of the reviled rentals, keep a close eye on it.
Vandalized scooters–burned, tossed into water, run over, etc.–have become victims of frustrated citizens expressing outrage over the invasion of rental scooters.
There’s also the environmental impact to consider.
Trying to go green?
You’ll love this!
Electric scooters emit no pollution according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Science.
They’re quieter than cars and motorcycles (thus less noise pollution) and zero emissions.
In order to find the best electric scooter for you, analyze your needs as well as each model’s features, like its size, maximum weight capacity, speed, range, performance, design, etc. Don’t forget to learn about its brakes, battery, motor, and other parts.
Before you take off…
Always ride responsibly and respect pedestrians, cyclists, other motorists, and drivers. We all share the road and would hate for a few bad apples to spoil the joy of outdoor transportation for everyone.
Readers and riders, please tell us what you think. Do you agree or disagree with our advice and reviews? Did we leave out any information? Do you have anything to add? We’d love to hear from you.
Want to travel faster than walking but not depend on a car? Try commuting or zipping around on errands with the best electric scooter.
Want to travel faster than walking but not depend on a car? Try commuting or zipping around on errands with the best electric scooter.
Want to travel faster than walking but not depend on a car? Try commuting or zipping around on errands with the best electric scooter.
Driving a powered scooter doesn’t work your heart and muscles like rowing on a machine, dancing an hour of Zumba, or playing pickleball. Nonetheless, standing, balancing, and steering are more taxing than sitting in a car.
Combine scootering with walking. Even better, carry your scooter. Navigate twisty, winding roads, hills and valleys by shifting your body weight and maintaining your balance. Whether sitting or standing, maintain excellent posture and engage your core to work your abdominal and back muscles.
Geek and a fan of new technologies. He writes reviews of new gadgets and advises electronics stores.
Geek
Content Manager
Editorial Director
