E-Scooter

The modern means of transportation

E-Scooter

E for electric and scooter for kick scooter

What exactly is an e-scooter

An e-scooter looks like a kick scooter, but it is a scooter that is electrically powered.


Still, pedaling matters. The e-scooter only starts moving when you step on it. The electric motor, which is powered by a battery, then takes over the locomotion.

The scooter is suitable for short distances and can be driven without a driver's license.


However, there are also certain rules and obligations for driving an e-scooter.

No noise pollution
Environmentally friendly
Free carriage on most public transport

The 6th most important criteria for e-scooters (purchase)

If you are planning to buy an e-scooter, you should pay attention to the following:

1. Street legal

Most e-scooters are street legal (according to the StVO), which makes it possible to participate in German traffic. However, there are also e-scooters that do not meet the criteria of the StVO. This means that these scooters are not allowed to be driven on public roads.


So you have to be clear beforehand whether you only want to drive on private land - this is possible with e-scooters that are not street legal - or also on public roads. In this case you need the scooter with approval.

An e-scooter with road approval is usually more expensive than a model without it. It is possible to upgrade a scooter without a license so that it could be street legal. However, this is much more complicated and expensive than investing directly in an e-scooter with an existing license.

So decide whether or not to use it on the road and then take a close look at the technical descriptions before you buy. If there are any doubts, it is always worth contacting the manufacturer.


2. Motor

The motors are available with different outputs. The power is given in watts. The wattage determines the top speed and climbing ability. The latter indicates how well the scooter can master inclines.

The more power, the more power in the form of speed and climbing ability. However, at the expense of the battery charge level and thus the range.


3. BATTERY

The battery supplies the motor with energy and thus sets the scooter in motion. A powerful battery is important here in order to achieve a sufficient range.

Satisfactory battery charge time is also important. Batteries with high wattage/power usually require more power than batteries with less power.

The specified range of the battery serves as a guide so that you can find the ideal battery for your driving style.


4. Reach

The range depends on the battery and motor. Certain factors affect range.

On the one hand, the conditions of the route - whether hilly or flat, the ambient temperature - warm or cold, the driver's body weight, driving speed, etc.

The average range of an e-scooter is 20-50 km, depending on the model and battery.


5. Tires

size

The tires have a direct influence on the driving characteristics.

For pure street use, an e-scooter with smaller tires (e.g. 8 inches) is sufficient.

Larger tires (e.g. 10.5 inches) are recommended for frequent journeys over unpaved roads or terrain.


SPECIES WITH THEIR ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES
1. Pneumatic tire

Better cushioning of the ground

More prone to a flat tire


2. Solid tires

Almost indestructible due to the robust tire

Low cushioning

Solid rubber tires are particularly suitable for road and city traffic

6. weight

The weight differs from model to model and is usually between 7 and 20 kg.
The weight is decisive for the suitability in your everyday life. If you want or have to fold up and carry the e-scooter a lot, you should choose a lighter model.

On the one hand, the weight of the scooter depends on the material. Carbon fiber or aluminum is lighter and also cheaper than robust steel.
On the other hand, the weight is influenced by the built-in battery. Lithium-ion batteries are lighter but also more powerful than lead-acid batteries.

The larger the battery, the more range the scooter has but also the heavier it is.


Again, you have to find the perfect balance for you and your driving style.

Frequently Asked Questions

You have a question? We are glad to help you!

  • Is there a minimum age for e-scooters?

    Regardless of a driver's license, anyone over the age of 14 may use an e-scooter on the road.

  • Where can I ride my e-scooter?

    Primarily on cycle paths or cycle lanes. If there is no bike path, you can ride on the street. Important here is an existing street legal and a minimum age of 14 years.

  • Do I need a driver's license to drive an e-scooter?

    For electric scooters - e-scooters that are street legal and are therefore limited to a maximum of 20 km/h, no driving license is required. However, you need a minimum age of 14 years.

  • Are there any rules to be observed when driving on the road?

    Yes, there are also rules for driving an e-scooter on the road that must be observed. Otherwise there are fines and, if necessary, ads. Learn more about the rules here.

  • Do I have to wear a helmet?

    Basically, there is no obligation to wear a helmet. However, it is recommended to wear a helmet!

  • Can I lose my driver's license?

    In the case of traffic violations with an e-scooter, the usual rules for driving motor vehicles on the road apply.

  • When is an e-scooter worth it?

    E-scooters are always worthwhile when you have to cover a distance that is too long for a bike but too short for a car.

  • Do you need insurance?

    Yes, liability insurance is mandatory and is evidenced by an insurance sticker attached.

  • Who pays in an accident?

    The mandatory liability insurance covers damage caused by third parties. If you caused the damage yourself, you unfortunately have to pay for it yourself.