Scooters are electric vehicles, so there are a few things you should and shouldn’t do when you buy one. First, if you’ve never ridden an electric scooter and are worried about shelling out the cash for one, try a ride-sharing service. Companies like Lime, Lyft, and Bird let you grab a scooter for a small fee, which is a good way to test the waters.
Put on the helmet. Need I say more? Protect your grandma. Our guide to cycling accessories has several helmet options – my favorite is the Thousand Heritage helmet – and follow this guide to get your helmet right.
Check local laws. Are electric scooters legal where you live? If so, what is the maximum speed limit? Should you be on the bike lane? In the last two years, scooters have become a common sight in many cities. Chances are, your state or city has regulations for riding them.
Do not charge your scooter overnight or when no one is home. The manuals of several scooters I’ve tested say the same thing. Not every battery or charger is UL safety certified, and I’ve seen too many stories of battery fires. Always be close by when you charge your scooter and unplug it when it’s finished charging.
Try to avoid the rain. You’ll want to check your scooter to see if it has an official IP water and dust resistance rating. If not, avoid driving in the rain. If there’s a rating, it’s still a good idea to get out of the rain quickly. More importantly, do no connect the charger without wiping the charging port and making sure it is dry.
Do not store your scooter at too high a temperature. Extreme heat and extreme cold are not good for batteries. Store your scooter in a cool, dry place, just like your breakfast cereal!
Only one rider, please. Unless the manufacturer specifically states that the scooter can carry two people, only one rider should be on board. These vehicles can go pretty fast, and you don’t need to be going more than 20 miles per hour to get into a serious accident. It’s also a good idea to check the weight limit on the scooter.
Check the manufacturer’s service and repair options. Before investing in a new scooter, check to see if the manufacturer offers replacement parts and can service your scooter in case of problems. You can contact local electric bike and scooter stores to see if they have experience with the brand you are choosing.
Do not leave your scooter unattended outside. Scooters are not easy to secure, so it probably goes without saying that they are very easy to steal. Ride them indoors if you need to, but keep them in sight if you don’t want to go home with a helmet in hand.
