E-scooters, also known as e-scooters or electric scooters, are the latest trend in urban mobility for commuting. In fact, some cities have reported that the number of people using these devices has increased by up to 400 percent in just one year.
However, while they’re great if you want to explore a new city or get from A to B without breaking a sweat, it can be slightly confusing trying to decide which one is right for you.
Do you need an e-scooter or an e-bike?
An e-scooter and an e-bike have many similarities. Both of them are designed for travelling on paved roads with lighter engines than motorcycles.
That being said, there are also some key differences between the two modes of transportation that will help you decide which one is right for your specific needs and circumstances.
| Feature | Electric Scooter | Electric Bike |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | 15-30 mph (24-48 km/h) | 20-45 mph (32-72 km/h) |
| Range | 10-40 miles (16-64 km) | 20-80 miles (32-129 km) |
| Weight | 25-50 lbs (11-23 kg) | 45-75 lbs (20-34 kg) |
| Maneuverability | Highly maneuverable in tight spaces | Moderate, depends on bike frame & wheel size |
| Storage and Portability | Easily foldable and transportable | Bulky, some models foldable |
| Comfort | Moderate, smaller wheels, less suspension | Better, larger wheels, suspension options |
| Safety | Adequate, lower stability, smaller wheels | Better, more stable, larger wheels |
| Cost | $300-$2000 | $1000-$6000 |
| Popularity | Increasingly popular | Highly popular |
| Power | 250-1000 W | 250-1500 W |
| Hill Climbing | Moderate, depends on motor power | Good, depends on motor power & gear options |
| License and Regulations | Varies by location, often no license needed | Varies by location, often no license needed |
| Maintenance | Low, fewer moving parts | Moderate, more moving parts |
| Noise | Quiet, electric motor | Quiet, electric motor |
| Weight Capacity | 220-330 lbs (100-150 kg) | 250-350 lbs (113-159 kg) |
| Storage and Parking | Easy to park & store, small footprint | Requires more space, bike racks available |
| Fitness Benefits | Minimal, mostly passive riding | Moderate, can pedal & engage in physical activity |
Electric Scooter:
Electric scooters are designed with smaller wheels, making them more susceptible to obstacles and uneven terrain. They typically have lower ground clearance, so riders need to be extra cautious when traversing rough surfaces.
Additionally, they usually have less powerful brakes compared to electric bikes, which can affect stopping distances.
Electric Bike:
Electric bikes generally offer better stability due to their larger wheels and higher ground clearance. They often come equipped with more advanced braking systems, providing greater stopping power. However, their higher speeds can increase the risk of accidents, so it is important for riders to be mindful of their surroundings and adhere to local traffic laws.
Electric Scooter:
The standing position on most electric scooters can be less comfortable for longer rides. Some models do offer a seat, but the overall ergonomics are typically less accommodating compared to electric bikes. Suspension systems are less common on scooters, which can make for a bumpier ride on rough surfaces.
Electric Bike:
Electric bikes offer a more comfortable riding experience, with ergonomic seating and the ability to adjust the saddle and handlebar height. Many models feature suspension systems that absorb shock, providing a smoother ride on various terrains.
Electric Scooter:
Electric scooters usually have lower top speeds, averaging around 15-20 mph. This makes them suitable for short commutes and urban environments with lower speed limits.
Electric Bike:
Electric bikes can reach higher top speeds, with some models capable of reaching up to 28 mph. This makes them more versatile for longer commutes and faster-paced environments.
Electric Scooter:
Electric scooters are generally more compact and lightweight, making them easier to carry and store. Many models can be folded, which further enhances their portability.
Electric Bike:
Electric bikes are bulkier and heavier, making them less portable. While some models do offer folding capabilities, they are still larger and more cumbersome to transport than electric scooters.
The price of an e scooter ranges from $300 to $2000; this is less than the price of an e-bike, which typically ranges from $500 to $5000.
If you’re looking for a device for short, everyday commutes, you’ll probably be able to find an e scooter that suits your needs and meets your budget.
However, if you’re looking for something for longer trips or something more robust, you’ll probably have to spend more on an e-bike.
One of the most important factors to consider when comparing e-scooters vs. e bikes is their range.
The range of an e scooter is typically 25-40 miles; this is less than the range of an e-bike, which is 25-100 miles.
If you plan to use your electric scooter for daily commutes, a long distance ride, or other longer excursions, you will want to make sure that you have enough battery life to get you there.
Longer range is essentially what sets e bikes and e scooters apart from one another, though they can be differentiated more by their purpose than their range.
For example, if you want to commute to work on an e bike, you could easily go 30-100 miles per day with one charge, while an e scooter could only reach 25-40 miles on a single charge. This is because an e bike is designed for longer distances.
Electric Scooter:
Electric scooters are ideal for short, urban commutes and can be easily combined with public transportation. Their lower top speeds make them less suitable for longer commutes or high-speed roads.
Electric Bike:
Electric bikes are more versatile for commuting, as they can handle longer distances and higher speeds. They can also be used on bike lanes and trails, providing more route options for riders.
Electric Scooter:
Electric scooters generally have a shorter lifespan due to their simpler construction and smaller components. However, with proper care and maintenance, they can still last for several years.
Electric Bike:
Electric bikes tend to have a longer lifespan due to their more robust construction and higher-quality components. With proper maintenance, electric bikes can last for many years, even with daily use.
Electric Scooter:
Electric scooters typically have lower maintenance costs, as they have fewer mechanical parts and require less upkeep. However, they may require more frequent tire replacements due to their smaller wheel size.
Electric Bike:
Electric bikes generally have higher maintenance costs, as they have more mechanical parts, such as gears and chains, that require regular upkeep. However, their larger wheels and more durable construction can lead to lower long-term costs for tire replacements and repairs.
As you embark on your electrifying journey, consider these crucial factors to make an informed decision that caters to your unique needs:
