Jul 3, 2024
Looking for the best electric scooter for commuting? You’ve come to the right place.
This article reviews top-rated scooters to suit different needs, whether you want something lightweight, budget-friendly, or capable of long distances.
Choosing the ideal commuter scooter goes beyond selecting the most appealing model available. There are key factors to consider that will ensure you get the most out of your new set of wheels.
From the battery life that dictates your range between charges to the portability that determines how easily you can take your scooter on public transport, these features make all the difference.And let’s not forget the importance of motor power, especially if you’re tackling steep hills on your commute.
We’ll examine the main aspects of a scooter and guide you in choosing the perfect one for your commuting requirements.
Battery life is a concern for e-scooter users, particularly those using it for commuting. There’s nothing worse than your scooter sputtering to a stop halfway through a commute because you forgot to charge it the night before.
The best electric scooter will offer a range that confidently covers your daily route on a single charge, with some juice to spare just in case. Some models even boast regenerative brakes that feed energy back into the battery, extending your ride even further.
Remember, though, the range provided by manufacturers can be affected by various factors such as terrain, climate (cold temperatures cause batteries to drain faster), and rider weight, so it’s always best to aim for a scooter with more range than you think you’ll need.
Portability plays a significant role in the choice of the best scooter for commuting. The right scooter should feel like an extension of you, effortlessly folding up for easy carrying and storage.
Compared to bikes, which can be less convenient to store during your commute, a lightweight, foldable scooter is a game-changer for those who need to combine their two-wheeler ride with other forms of public transport or for those with limited storage space at home or work.
The motor constitutes the core of the electric scooter, with power serving as its driving force. Dual-motor setups offer a powerful punch, making them a great choice for swiftly navigating city streets. If your commute involves hills, you’ll want a scooter with a motor that can handle the incline – think 500 watts or higher.
Speed control is also important; it’s not just about how fast you can go but how safely you can manage your speed to prevent accidents. In Europe, scooter speeds are limited to 25 km/h, and in some countries like Germany to 20 km/h.
Anything above 25 km/h puts the scooter into a different category and might require a licence and registration. Double-check your country’s legal requirements regarding the maximum electric scooter speed.
Safety’s paramount when discussing two-wheeled commuting. It’s about more than just getting from point A to point B past traffic; it’s about doing so without risk.
A commuter scooter needs to be equipped with reliable features: from brakes to lighting, to handle the unpredictability of city streets and the rigors of daily use. We’ll now take a look at just some of the scooter features you should consider when making your next purchase.
A scooter’s braking system is its most critical feature for your safety. Electric scooters for adults typically rely on dual braking systems, employing both a rear wheel and a front wheel brake, and combine more than one type of braking system.
This redundancy ensures you have reliable stopping power in various situations.
Now, for the types of brakes:
As day turns to dusk, good lighting isn’t just a convenience — it’s a necessity. Commuter scooters should come equipped with bright front and rear lights to ensure you’re visible from all directions, with added brake lights to signal when you’re slowing down.
High-quality reflectors complement the lighting by enhancing your scooter’s visibility from various angles, which is crucial for those night rides and low-light conditions.
Many modern commuter scooters now come equipped with built-in turn signals, allowing riders to indicate their intentions to turn left or right. These signals are typically activated via buttons on the handlebars and provide a visual cue to other drivers and pedestrians, enhancing safety during lane changes and turns.
A scooter’s suspension system is like the cushioning in your favourite pair of trainers — it makes all the difference in comfort and stability. A well-designed suspension system absorbs the shocks from uneven road surfaces, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride, even on bumpy streets.
Bigger wheels with pneumatic tyres offer an added layer of shock absorption compared to their solid counterparts. With both front and rear suspension systems, your scooter can deliver a stable and smooth ride, even when the pavement is less than perfect.
Navigating city traffic requires a reliable electric scooter capable of handling daily commutes, short hops around town, and everything in between. That’s why we’ve hand-picked the best electric scooters for commuting, each offering a unique blend of features to cater to different commuting needs.
From sleek designs to extended battery life, these scooters will ensure your ride to work or the grocery store is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
There’s no one vehicle that stands out as the ultimate best. That’s why we’ll shortlist three scooters praised as ‘the best overall’ by three different sources:
Here are the top two-wheeler picks that struck a balance between cost and the features needed for short commutes.
With these scooters, you might not get all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, but you still get a reliable, affordable option for getting around town without breaking the bank:
Shared scooters have become a popular means of transport for city dwellers and an eco-friendly alternative to a private car. In 2022, over half a million shared electric two-wheelers were on European streets.
Shared scooters can be easily located and rented through an app, making them perfect for short trips or first-to-last-mile commutes.
Unlike privately owned vehicles, shared scooters’ top speed is capped at a safe maximum of 20-25 km/h. Parking and storage are no problem for the user, making the whole scooting experience hassle-free.
Many employees, contractors, and freelancers use Bolt scooters to travel for business. And those leading companies have realised the benefits too. This includes Roman, the Producer and Co-founder of Vita Pictura in Tallinn, Estonia.
“I often use Bolt scooters in Tallinn to get to business meetings. With a scooter, you have more flexibility. You can take smaller alleyways to get to your location quickly and park in front of your destination. I feel more awake by the time I get to work, and on hot summer days, it’s nicer to feel the wind blowing rather than sitting in a cramped car.”
More of a bike person? Pick out your bike following our guide.
An excellent electric two-wheeler is merely the beginning. To truly enrich your commuting experience, consider investing in accessories that prioritise safety, security, and convenience.
Whether it’s gearing up with the right helmet or securing your scooter with a sturdy lock, these add-ons can make all the difference in your daily scooter or bike rides. We’ll examine some essential accessories for every scooter commuter.
Safety should never take a back seat, especially when it comes to riding on busy streets. That’s why protective headgear is the one accessory you should never ride without.
Here are some top picks:
And remember, no matter which protective headgear you choose, ensuring a proper fit is crucial for maximum protection. Just like your scooter needs to be a good fit for your commute, your headgear needs to be a good fit for your head.
With your safety gear sorted, let’s talk security for your scooter. Investing in a high-quality lock like the Kryptonite New York Legend Chain 1515 can deter would-be thieves and give you peace of mind when parking your scooter.
Compact folding locks and robust U-locks offer great protection and convenience, while disc brake locks add an extra layer of security by immobilising the wheel. It’s essential to secure your electric two-wheeler using the best lock within your budget to ensure it’s there when you return.
Even the most minimalist riders will appreciate the convenience of storage solutions. Handlebar bags are an option to consider with scooters. They’re a simple and effective way to keep your essentials within reach.
As we’ve cruised through the world of electric scooters, it’s clear that they offer more than just a way to beat the traffic, get to a bus stop in no time, or make commuting a tad more fun — they’re a lifestyle choice.
By considering a scooter model’s battery life, motor power, and top speed, and by equipping yourself with the right accessories, you can tailor your ride to perfection. So, gear up, charge up, and happy riding!
How far can I expect my electric scooter to travel on a single charge?
You can expect your scooter to have a range of up to 45 km.
What’s the top speed for electric scooters?
The top speed varies depending on regulations, model, and battery level. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Some higher-range vehicles require a licence. Make sure to check local regulations before purchasing.
Are electric scooters difficult to carry on public transport?
No, many electric scooters are lightweight and foldable for easy carrying on public transport. Consider a foldable model for convenience.
What are dual motors in commuter scooters?
In a regular electric scooter, a single motor is located in the hub of either the front or rear wheel. Dual or two motors are typically placed in the hubs of both wheels.
Do commuter scooters for adults come with a seat?
There is a growing number of electric scooters for adults with a seat. These are often called ‘seated electric scooters’ or ‘scooters with seats’. In Europe, these types of vehicles fall under the moped category and, besides other things, require a licence. Make sure to check local regulations before purchasing.
Can kids ride electric scooters for adults?
It’s generally not safe for kids to ride electric scooters designed for adults, even with supervision. Look for electric scooters specifically designed for children with lower top speeds, smaller frames, and protective features.
