You must make the right decision with so many e-scooter types and features available. To help you get started, here are some of the considerations when buying:
The first question you must ask yourself is, “Why do I need an e-scooter?” Do you want an electric scooter for adults only, or do you also need a kid’s electric scooter?
Choosing the right scooter type becomes easier once you answer this question. Deciding on an e-scooter type should be easy and not overly complicated. The next step is pinpointing your primary purpose, whether for commuting, leisurely rides, or off-road adventures.
Safety should always be a priority, and safety-oriented features can significantly affect the price of an electric scooter. You must clearly understand your safety requirements before setting a budget. If you plan to navigate traffic-heavy areas, prioritise scooters with excellent braking systems and durable tyres designed for longer distances.
Once you know what you want, you must set a budget. However, this isn’t as simple as it sounds. Depending on the e-scooter type you want, you may need to be realistic with the budget.
For instance, if you’re eyeing a commuter scooter with a substantial battery, you may need to allocate a reasonable budget to ensure you get the features you need. To give yourself a good range of options, set a budget range, not a specific price.
You can look at scooter brands once you know what you want from an electric scooter. Australia has a competitive market with numerous options, making research more critical. Start by exploring the brands themselves. Visit their “about us” pages to gain insight into their history, values, and commitment to quality. And read customer reviews to see what others are saying about their products.
Here are Australia’s top electric scooter brands and their top models:
● Dragon has excellent performance and battery efficiency. Their top models are the Dragon GTR and the Dragon GTS (the GTR V2 Electric Scooter and GTS Max are popular versions of these).
● NUI’s electric kick scooter options are mainly for commuting and city riding due to the ease of parking and the fact that you can swap out batteries. Their most popular models are the NIU KQi2 Pro Electric Scooter, the NIU KQi3 Sport Electric Kick Scooter and the Aprilia ESR2.
● Mearth is a premium electric scooter brand focusing on high-quality design and performance. The Mearth RS (and the RS Pro) Scooter is one of their most popular models because it is compact; other popular models are the Mearth GTS and the Mearth Cyber.
● Kaabo’s scooters are all-rounders because they have good performance, durability and fair prices. Their popular models include the Kaabo Mantis King GT Electric Scooter and the Kaabo Wolf Warrior.
● Segway prides itself on scooters that balance excellent performance and comfortability. One of the most popular models is the Segway Ninebot Max G2; the Segway Nonebot p65A and the Ninebot Kickscooter are also great models, while the Max Electric Scooter has increased traction, making it great for slippery roads or tracks.
With these great brands, the Australian electric scooter market has something for everyone. Whether you’re after top-notch performance, hassle-free commuting, premium design, all-around versatility, or enhanced traction, there’s an electric scooter brand for you.
Ensuring a safe and enjoyable electric scooter ride requires a dash of intelligence and a dose of caution. Here are some practical safety tips to make riding an electric scooter as safe as possible.
Before you hit the road, gear up for safety. Wearing an excellent helmet is a non-negotiable step to safeguard your head in case of an unforeseen tumble.
Other protective gear you should consider wearing includes:
● Gloves to protect your hands from grazing.
● When riding at night, don a reflective vest to enhance visibility.
● Kneepads and elbow pads offer extra cushioning and protection, reducing the risk of injuries.
Safety goes beyond gear; it involves respecting the rules of the road in your area. For example, check your area’s maximum speed limit for electric scooters.
You also need to check if riding in certain places is legal in your State. For example, riding an electric scooter in NSW is illegal on public roads and paths – you can only ride on private property.
Finally, you must take extra care when riding an electric scooter on extreme terrain or in terrible weather. If you often ride on uneven terrain (like a dirt track), choose an electric scooter with durable tyres that suit rough terrain.
Keep your speed low on uneven terrain to maintain as much stability as possible. You also must be wary of extreme weather like torrential rain. If you can, avoid riding in weather like this. However, if you must ride in severe weather, wear all your protective gear and ride slowly.
Taking care of your electric scooter is more than just riding it and parking it; it requires a level of care and attention akin to what you’d give to a car. Here are some practical tips for maintaining your adult electric scooter:
You need to charge your electric scooter battery regularly, especially if you take it on long journeys. Alternatively, if you take the e-scooter on long journeys, buy one with a large battery size.
Other tips for maintaining battery health include:
● Always use a charger compatible with your scooter.
● Use eco-mode on the e-scooter if it has it.
● Don’t overcharge the scooter.
Improper storage can lead to rust and render your scooter unfit for riding. Never leave your e-scooter outdoors, as exposure to rain can accelerate rust and make it an easier target for theft.
Store your e-scooter indoors in a dry place to maintain frame and battery health. Also, be careful when cleaning the e-scooter. When cleaning your scooter, pay close attention to the handlebars, frame, and wheels. Don’t let the battery get wet, though, as moisture can lead to expansion and damage.
Finally, you should schedule regular checkups for your e-scooter with a professional mechanic. A professional can spot problems you didn’t know about; it’s the best way to ensure your e-scooter is in good condition.
When researching the best e-scooter for you, one of the best things to do is look at reviews. There are two ways to do this: expert reviews and customer reviews.
Expert reviews provide authoritative insights into new models from a reputable brand, such as a certified Segway dealer. You can find these in online newspapers or comparisons on blog sites. Alternatively, customer reviews on retail websites offer honest feedback from passionate users, giving you a genuine sense of how much they appreciate their e-scooter.
Here are some things to consider before buying an e-scooter in Australia.
First, take a moment to contemplate the terrain you’ll most frequently drive. If it involves rugged dirt paths and off-road adventures, an off-road e-scooter with sturdy tyres and robust suspension might be your best bet for a smooth and enjoyable ride.
The total range an e-scooter can cover on a single charge is a pivotal factor, particularly if you intend to use it for your daily commute. Calculate the distance you’ll be travelling and match it with the e-scooter’s range to ensure it aligns with your needs.
Delve into the specifications of the e-scooter, as this is where the rubber meets the road. Look closely at:
Speed: Ensure it meets your desired cruising speed.
Power: Assess the scooter’s motor power for responsiveness.
Battery life: Gauge the battery’s longevity to avoid frequent recharging.
Braking: Examine the braking system for safety and effectiveness.
Suspension: Check for suspension features, especially if you plan on navigating uneven terrain.
Pay attention to the build quality of the e-scooter. High-quality construction ensures durability and contributes to a smoother and more stable ride. Sturdy frames and well-engineered components are indicative of a reliable scooter.
Determine whether the e-scooter comes with essential accessories or offers compatibility with add-ons. Accessories like phone holders, lights, and storage options can enhance your riding experience and convenience.
Warranty terms can vary from one website to another, so reviewing the warranty offered for your chosen e-scooter is prudent. Understanding the warranty coverage can provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen issues.
Whether you’re planning thrilling off-road escapades or a daily commute through bustling streets, making a well-informed decision offers more reliability. Electric scooters are a significant investment, so don’t rush and buy the first one you see.
Take your time, weigh up all the options, check reviews and research specifications – they’ll all come together to ensure you’re buying an e-scooter that fits your lifestyle and exceeds your expectations.
Can you legally ride electric scooters in every Australian state?
The simple answer is no. In some states, riding an electric scooter is illegal unless you ride in a specific area. For example, riding an electric scooter in NSW is illegal unless you ride on private property; you cannot ride on roads or public paths.
Where can you park electric scooters in Australia?
First, if you have a foldable electric scooter, you should fold it up and carry it with you instead of parking and locking it up. If you have to park and lock it up, buy a secure lock and place it in a designated e-scooter lockup area.
Can children ride electric scooters in Australia?
Children can ride electric scooters in Australia. Many e-scooter brands sell kids scooters. These are usually slower, come with durable tyres and are cheaper. The watts max is much lower than an adult electric scooter, so children can’t go too fast on e-scooters.
