The benefits of electric scooters

What is an electric scooter? Is it an expensive means of transport? Can you ride them everywhere?
Our blogger Alain Dierckx gives you some useful information.

The electric scooter: attractive, practical and eco-friendly

Electric cars and electric bikes have recently become part of our everyday lives. But did you know there are other options for those who want to get around on two wheels without impacting the environment too much? Among the range of soft-mobility transport options, electric scooters, electric mopeds or e-scooters certainly have their place. These are lightweight means of transport that take up less space on the road than a car and are very easy to handle.
But how much do they cost, and where can (or must) you use them on public roads?
We explain in this article.

The characteristics of electric scooters

An e-scooter or electric scooter is an environmentally friendly means of transport. It's quiet and requires very little maintenance. This means of transport's great manoeuvrability and quick acceleration are also major advantages, making them particularly useful in dense urban traffic. Of course, this doesn't mean it can't also be used for recreational rides or daily commutes.

On the market, there are e-scooters and "e-choppers" that look like mopeds fitted with a petrol engine, but whose petrol engine and fuel tank have been removed and replaced with an electric battery.
Expect to pay between 2,000 and 2,500 euros to buy most brands. However, there are also models for which you'll pay more than EUR 4,000.

Charging an electric scooter

An electric scooter has a battery, just like its big brother, the electric car. This battery gives the scooter a range of around fifty kilometres. The maximum distance depends, as with an electric bike, on how hilly the route is, the rider's weight and their riding style. The weight of an e-scooter is around 70 to 80 kg, depending on the model chosen.

On some models, it's possible to easily remove the battery and recharge it at an ordinary charging point. The time needed to fully charge a battery is four to eight hours. The ideal duration will depend on your battery's power.

Some brands allow you to fit a second battery, doubling your range, but this system will of course be more expensive. Most batteries can be recharged at least 1,000 times before needing to be replaced. Finally, the cost of charging is around 0.50 euro per hundred kilometres travelled.

Class A or B?

• The maximum speed of an electric scooter can be limited by the manufacturer to 25 km/h (class A) or 45 km/h (class B).
• For class A, also called a moped, you must be at least sixteen years old. A driving licence isn't required. For class B, the same minimum age applies, and an A-type driving licence is required if you're under eighteen. If you're over eighteen, a B-type driving licence is sufficient.
• Wearing a helmet is compulsory for both class A and class B e-scooters.
• A class A e-scooter must always ride on the cycle path. Class B e-scooters are allowed on a cycle path, but only in an area where the speed limit is 50 km/h. Obviously, you're not allowed to obstruct cyclists there. On other roads, you must use the cycle path, unless road signs indicate otherwise.
• Carrying loads and luggage is allowed within the e-scooter's load capacity.

Useful tips for the road

• Don't use your mobile phone while riding an e-scooter, as it's illegal. Likewise, don't wear headphones or earbuds, so you can clearly hear the surrounding traffic noise.
• Buy a suitable child seat if you're carrying children (the child must be at least three years old).
• Keep your lights on at all times to make sure you're seen – it's a legal requirement.
• If you want more riding comfort, choose a scooter model with suspension.
• Check the maximum weight the e-scooter can support when buying it, if you plan to carry weights or loads.
• For extra safety, choose a model with a steering lock and/or a built-in alarm.
• Opt for a larger or additional battery if you need to travel long distances.
• Rent an e-scooter in advance to find out if this type of vehicle suits you, or try one out before buying.
• Find out about the accessories available for the type of e-scooter you want to buy, such as storage bags. Don't forget a good lock.
• Choose the right seat length, which is essential if you want to carry passengers.
• Wear sturdy shoes and clothing that can protect you in case of a fall.

Looking for peace of mind? Discover Bike assistance, which protects not only your (electric) bike, but also your scooter in the event of a breakdown or accident in Belgium and neighbouring countries.