E scooters and their top speed is not the first thing that comes to mind when considering one, or at least it shouldn’t be.
It is not exactly a vehicle where the max speed is the primary reason you get it and you plan on going full tilt all the time.
That would not be advisable.Most electric scooters have top speeds of 15-25 mph (24-40 kph). Plenty enough to get from A to B in good time. If someone thinks this is too slow, it is faster than the average commuter biker manages. Don’t believe me? Try biking at 18 mph (30 kph) for 30 minutes straight, see how that goes.
Faster e-scooters are starting to emerge and are a viable means of commuting longer distances for those who want something other than f.e. a motorcycle. They are bigger, and sturdier than the average share scooter, and can not really be compared to them.
When it comes to ultra-portable electric scooters, one doesn’t expect a respectable top speed. Yet we have exactly that in the very popular and stellar fluid Mosquito. This is an ultraportable 29 lbs (13 kg) front-wheel-drive 28 mph (45 kph) scooter. This is probably one of the fastest electric scooters in its weight category.
A number of factors will determine an electric scooter’s maximum speed. Battery power, size, and battery life are at the top of the list as is the wattage of the motor. In short, the higher the watt the motor has, the more heat and power it can handle.
A big strong fresh battery and motor power that can handle it is key to reaching the top speed. Single or dual motor will also play a role.
The weight would be second on that list. The closer to the e-scooters weight limit, the harder for the scooter. A heavier rider will not be as fast on the same e scooter as a lighter person.
If the electric scooter has pneumatic tires, making sure it has the correct tire pressure is also very important. Bigger tires will mean a higher top speed whereas smaller tires will be better hill climbers. The width of the tire is also a factor. The narrower the tire, the higher the top speed.
Obviously, hard-packed dirt will not be as fast as smooth tarmac.
Children’s and teens’ scooters usually have a top speed of around 10 mph (16 kph) limited by the manufacturer and also governed by laws.
If you are planning to get a proper fast scooter, first and foremost make sure that it has a great braking system. You will want to stop on a dime if possible. A strong chassis to handle the abuse a higher top speed produces is also to be considered. Opting for a sturdier built version is wise although it might cost a bit more.
Really fast electric scooters tend to be heavy. Although some of them can be folded, portability will not be a priority. Bear that in mind when looking for a performance scooter.
Where and how you ride is crucial. Going full tilt on city streets at 40 mph (64 kph) might not be so smart. The best way to minimize risk is to travel at top speed when you are alone, free of traffic, and not amongst other road users, pedestrians, or bikers. It is such a quiet vehicle to boot, assuming no one sees and hears you are a top tip.
Speed can be fun as well as effective. Sure. But with speed comes risk. Safety first always. The Nr one item to get before even looking at an electric scooter is a proper helmet. I am amazed every day when I see people riding without helmets, at 18 mph (30 kph). Apparently, they must think there is no risk and underestimate the speed and how fast things can go wrong on an e scooter.
You never see people ski or snowboard without a helmet, yet, standing on a plank with two small wheels is ok. The higher the speed, the more safety features and protective gear you need.
Gloves, elbow, and knee pads are next on that list. Be smart. Get them and use them before your first fall, not after it.
Post time: Aug-03-2023
