So, you’ve just bought your first electric scooter. Congratulations! Electric scooters are an efficient, fun, and environmentally friendly way to navigate the city or simply enjoy a leisurely ride. However, if you’re new to the world of electric scooters, it’s easy to make mistakes that can either damage your new ride or make your experience less enjoyable. Let’s walk through some of the most common mistakes that new electric scooter owners make—and how to avoid them—so that you can make the most of your journey from day one.
1. Ignoring Safety Gear
One of the most common mistakes new electric scooter owners make is skipping out on safety gear. Electric scooters may seem less intimidating than cars or motorcycles, but they are still vehicles capable of reaching decent speeds. Falling off a scooter at 15 mph can result in significant injuries if you aren’t prepared.
Make sure you start by getting the right gear:
- Helmet: Wearing a helmet isn’t just for beginners—it’s an essential part of riding safely, no matter your experience. Look for a well-reviewed helmet like the Thousand Adult Anti-Theft Bike Helmet available on Amazon. This helmet is well-designed, has great reviews, and will protect you in the case of a fall.
- Gloves and Knee Pads: While they might seem like overkill, gloves and knee pads can save you from painful scrapes and bruises, especially when you’re just starting out. The JBM Adult/Child Knee Pads and Gloves Set is a good choice, offering a balance of comfort and protection.
- Reflective Vest and Lights: Especially if you plan to ride at night or early in the morning, make sure you are visible. A simple reflective vest and handlebar lights will ensure drivers and pedestrians see you coming.
2. Not Knowing Your Scooter’s Range
Every electric scooter has a specific range, and not being familiar with yours can easily leave you stranded with a dead battery. Understanding your scooter’s range and planning your trips accordingly is crucial, especially if you’re relying on your scooter for commuting.
Many new owners think that they can ride until the battery gets low without any issues, but this can leave you walking the rest of the way home. Always plan ahead, and if you’re traveling long distances, consider investing in a backup battery. The Segway Ninebot External Battery is compatible with certain Segway models and can help extend your range.
3. Skipping Maintenance Checks
Like any vehicle, electric scooters need regular maintenance. New scooter owners sometimes overlook small things that eventually become big problems. Loose screws, low tire pressure, or worn brake pads can all lead to trouble if they aren’t caught in time.
To avoid this mistake, make it a habit to do a quick check every week. Tighten up any loose screws, make sure the tires are properly inflated, and check that the brakes are responsive. Keeping a basic scooter repair kit, like the WOTOW Bicycle Repair Tool Kit, handy will make routine maintenance much easier and keep you riding smoothly.
4. Riding on Dangerous Terrain
Electric scooters are best suited for smooth pavements and designated bike paths. New riders often get excited and take their scooters off-road or onto rough terrain, which can easily cause damage to the wheels or suspension. Unlike mountain bikes, most electric scooters aren’t made for rugged paths, and hitting a pothole or bump too hard can cause a flat tire or worse.
If you do need to navigate rougher terrain occasionally, consider using an electric scooter with suspension that is built to handle those surfaces, such as the Apollo Explore Electric Scooter. It’s available on Amazon and is specifically designed for city streets and occasional bumps with good shock absorption.
5. Misjudging Speed and Braking Distance
Getting the hang of speed control and braking can be challenging. New owners often misjudge how quickly their scooter can come to a stop, especially when riding downhill or in wet conditions. Unlike bicycles or cars, electric scooters have smaller brakes, meaning that braking too hard can cause you to lose control or even throw you off balance.
Take your time learning your scooter’s speed and how it handles in different conditions. Practice braking gradually, especially when approaching intersections, and keep a safe distance from other vehicles and pedestrians. If your scooter allows for it, adjust the braking sensitivity to find what feels most comfortable and safe for you.
6. Forgetting to Lock Your Scooter
It’s easy to assume that because electric scooters are small, they aren’t as attractive to thieves as bikes. Unfortunately, scooters are lightweight and can easily be stolen if left unsecured. One major mistake new owners make is leaving their scooters unattended without a lock.
Invest in a sturdy lock, like the Hiplok Spin Wearable Combination Lock, which is highly rated on Amazon and easy to carry with you. It’s also good practice to bring your scooter indoors if possible, rather than leaving it parked outside for long periods.
7. Riding in Wet Weather
Most electric scooters are not designed for wet or rainy conditions. Water can damage electrical components, and slick surfaces can make riding dangerous. Even if your scooter has decent waterproofing, the traction on wet surfaces is significantly reduced.
New owners often assume that because their scooter is electric, it can handle any kind of weather. Always check the manual for your scooter’s IP (Ingress Protection) rating—this indicates how water-resistant it is. If the rating is below IP54, avoid riding in rain entirely.
If you do get caught in a drizzle, make sure to dry your scooter thoroughly afterwards to prevent corrosion or electrical damage. A Chamois Drying Towel is a useful tool to have in these cases and can be easily found on Amazon.
8. Neglecting to Adjust Settings for Comfort
Many electric scooters come with adjustable settings, like speed modes and handlebar heights. One mistake new owners make is not taking the time to set these adjustments to suit their comfort and riding style.
Handlebar height, for instance, can make a significant difference in your comfort, especially on longer rides. Take a few minutes to ensure that the handlebars are at a height where your arms feel relaxed and you’re not hunching over. If your scooter has different speed modes, it’s wise to start with the beginner or eco mode until you’re comfortable with the balance and maneuverability of the scooter.
9. Overlooking Charging Habits
Many new electric scooter owners fall into the habit of either undercharging or overcharging their scooter. Undercharging means you’ll run out of battery faster than you expect, while overcharging can degrade the battery over time, reducing its overall lifespan.
Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for charging, and avoid leaving your scooter plugged in overnight. A Smart Charger with Auto Shut-Off, like the NOCO GENIUS1 Smart Charger, can be a great tool to avoid overcharging issues, giving you peace of mind that your battery will stay in good condition.
10. Not Planning Ahead for Repairs
Inevitably, you will need to repair or replace parts of your scooter, especially if you use it frequently. New owners often forget that scooters, like any vehicle, are susceptible to wear and tear. Waiting until something breaks before seeking out repair options can leave you without a ride for an extended period.
Before you need any major repairs, familiarize yourself with a local repair shop that handles electric scooters or learn to do basic maintenance yourself. Consider having a spare inner tube or set of brake pads on hand so you can do small repairs without waiting for new parts to arrive.
11. Ignoring Weight Limits
Every electric scooter has a maximum weight limit, and new riders often overlook this important spec. If you exceed the weight limit, it can affect your scooter’s performance, reduce battery life, and even lead to damage of the frame or suspension. If you’re planning to carry a backpack or any extra load, make sure it won’t push the scooter over its maximum limit.
For heavier riders, consider scooters designed for higher weight capacities. The QIEWA Q1Hummer Electric Scooter is known for being robust, with a high weight limit and powerful motor to accommodate larger riders.
12. Riding Without Insurance
One mistake that isn’t always obvious is not having insurance. Depending on where you live, riding an electric scooter might be subject to local laws regarding liability insurance. Even if insurance isn’t required by law, it’s often a smart idea to have coverage for damage, theft, or injury.
Research your local requirements, and if available, add coverage to your homeowners or renters insurance. This will give you peace of mind while you’re out riding.
13. Failing to Learn Local Regulations
Many cities have specific regulations regarding where you can ride an electric scooter, speed limits, and age requirements. New owners often assume they can ride anywhere without issue, which can lead to fines or conflicts with pedestrians.
Make sure you familiarize yourself with local laws before riding, particularly regarding the use of sidewalks versus bike lanes, speed limits, and parking rules. Riding responsibly not only keeps you safe but helps ensure electric scooters are accepted in more communities.
14. Not Using the Kickstand Properly
It might sound trivial, but incorrectly using the kickstand or not using it at all can lead to a toppled scooter. New owners may forget to check if the kickstand is fully extended before resting their scooter. This can damage the scooter or cause injuries if it falls unexpectedly.
When parking your scooter, always ensure that the kickstand is on a stable surface and fully extended before letting go. If you’re worried about stability, consider adding an aftermarket kickstand with a larger foot area, which will provide more support.
15. Overlooking the Learning Curve
Lastly, new electric scooter owners sometimes assume that riding will be intuitive and easy from the first moment they get on. There is definitely a learning curve, and it’s important to be patient with yourself.
Start by riding on smooth, flat surfaces, away from heavy traffic or pedestrians. Get used to how the scooter accelerates, brakes, and turns. Over time, you’ll feel more comfortable, and your confidence will grow, leading to a much more enjoyable riding experience.
Conclusion
Your electric scooter can provide countless hours of fun, convenience, and freedom, but avoiding these common mistakes is key to getting the most out of it. Remember to prioritize safety, learn the nuances of your scooter, and keep up with regular maintenance. By doing so, you’ll ensure your electric scooter stays in good condition and that you enjoy safe, smooth rides for years to come.
Are you ready to make the most of your new ride? Take the time to equip yourself with the right gear, respect your scooter’s limits, and always stay mindful of your surroundings. Safe travels!