In the dynamic life of a college student, where every minute counts and flexibility is key, electric scooters have become quite ubiquitous. As more and more students are resorting to this as their most efficient method of commuting to classes, choosing the right electric scooter becomes a critical decision (take it from someone who just spent a week trying to decide on the right scooter company). Here are some of the various factors to consider when finding your perfect fit.
1. Battery Life: The general battery life of electric scooters should be two to three years. In this case, it’s safe to say that battery life would be a key factor to the life of the scooter. Look for scooters with long battery life to eliminate the hassle of battery changes in the middle of your rides.
2. Power and Speed: Consider the scooter’s motor power, as it determines the speed and performance. A good electric scooter would have a motor rated at 500W. Even 350W-powered scooters are equally fast on straight roads but frustrating on a slope (something Bruins can definitely relate to).
3. Weight and Portability: Look for a lightweight scooter for easy portability, especially if you need to carry it upstairs or inside buildings. The average weight of electric scooters is around 30 pounds, which is a good metric to go by.
4. Mile Range: This is probably the deal breaker for a lot of students. Evaluate the scooter’s range on a single charge, considering your daily commuting needs. 40-mile range at 13 mph and 20-mile range at 19 mph is considered the industry standard for a good scooter, but you can opt for more or less.
5. Sturdiness and Durability: Invest in a scooter with a robust frame and quality construction to withstand daily wear and tear. Honestly, I am not a fan of feeling vibrations throughout my body while encountering even the slightest of imperfections on the road, therefore a heavy, sturdy body is much better than a light one.
6. Wheel Size: Larger wheels provide better stability and smoother rides, especially on uneven surfaces. 8.5-inch tires are generally good, but 10-inch tires would be your safest bet.
7. Electric Scooter’s Price: Again, a big deal breaker for almost all students. Electric scooters are available in all price ranges depending on the specifications and brand. They start as low as $100 and can be as expensive as $1000. Check the above specifications according to your needs and choose from the options available. A good basic scooter costs around $500.
Based on the preferences of students, the most common brands are Hiboy, Segway and GOTRAX. If you’re not keen on purchasing a scooter outright, renting can be a convenient alternative, especially for occasional users.
In conclusion, choosing the right scooter for you is a personal choice and the above factors provide a good guide for you to make your decision. Be on the lookout for discounts during sales or holidays, and happy buying!
Shriya Maanya tells us that her “scooter was a really good price for how much I use it” and that “the scooter is really reliable but I would recommend using a helmet cause the road can be unpredictable.” Photographed by Finn Martin/BruinLife
Shaan Kewalramani praised the convenience his scooter gives him, saying, “I get 20 more minutes of sleep every night.” Photographed by Finn Martin/BruinLife.
“It helps me get to class during tight windows. It was such a good deal for the lifeline it had become. It always saves me when I need it” says Shreyas Mytri. Photographed by Finn Martin/BruinLife
—
Featured image photographed by Uriel Meza/BruinLife
