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(Last Updated On: )Electric scooters are gaining huge popularity today because they are fun, cool to ride around, and environmentally friendly. But are electric scooters safe in general? How hard is it to ride an electric scooter?
Electric scooters also give you the thrill of a kick scooter with a motorized element, so it can be difficult to ride it, especially if you are riding it for the first time. Because it is motorized, this type of scooter can be heavy too and requires a fair amount of balance from you.
Electric scooters as a whole are also equipment built with safety in mind. When getting an e-scooter for regular use, make sure that what you will buy is well built and is equipped with important safety features.
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E-scooter riding difficulties
Suppose you have experience riding kick scooters before. In that case, an e-scooter might seem like a piece of familiar equipment for you. The overall concept is the same but with just a little challenge because they are, after all, electric.
But you don’t have to feel scared or intimidated when riding an e-scooter because learning to ride them only takes a little time. In a week or two, you might be able to use this as your primary form of transportation around your village or city.
How to ride an electric scooter
Before riding your e-scooter out in the road, you may want to practice a little around your block for you to master its control and command. Check its weight, range, and speed limit and read the manual carefully. You also need to get very familiar with all its safety features to be ready when something unexpected happens.
If you are ready, you may check the tips below to help you with getting started.
Ready with your safety gears
Even if you are still in practice mode, you have to make sure you are equipped with the safety gear needed to have a smooth ride. Invest in a quality scooter helmet, a good pair of knee pads, and elbow pads.
Check riding conditions
Always be mindful of riding conditions when going out with your e-scooter. This cool equipment is not like a car that can protect you and your body. Here, you are out in the open. You should never ride your e-scooter in unfavorable weather conditions, especially if you are not equipped with the right gears.
For one, you should not ride your scooter when it is raining because it can affect the motor and battery. Riders who have done so have rain covers and other gears to protect them and their ride.
Practice on a flat road
Riding your e-scooter on a flat paved road without other vehicles is a good start. This will allow you to learn without worrying about obstacles. Even if you are knowledgeable enough, you should still avoid riding your e-scooter in rough terrain or hilly paths.
They are not designed to thread bumpy roads. If this can’t be avoided, you may want to fold and carry your e-scooter and walk until you get to flat ground.
Use your kick scooter knowledge
Before familiarizing yourself with various controls and commands of your e-scooters, you must also use your kick scooter knowledge to help you get started. The concept for both are typically the same, but with e-scooters, you won’t handle everything manually.
Use hand signals
Not all e-scooters have built electric signals. However, even if what you have is equipped with such, it is still crucial to familiarize yourself with hand signals that you can use when communicating with other drivers on the road. Here are some of the hand signals worth knowing:
- To signal a halt or stop, extend your left arm forward.
- To signal a left turn, extend your arm unto your left
- To signal a right turn, you need to extend your arm to your right.
Be mindful of your battery level
This generally affects the performance of your scooter. When going out on the road, make sure you have your battery fully charged. Make sure to check your mileage as well, as there is only specific mileage that this scooter can accommodate.
You don’t want to end up carrying your scooter or walking for an extended period with it because you did not check ahead.
Take easy, ride carefully.
You don’t have to be an expert to master and ride your e-scooter with ease. Some may find it easy to use, while others find it difficult, especially when considering other factors such as the weight and type of e-scooter. But It is good to remember that everyone learns and take things at a different rate and different time.
Again, it is not difficult to ride an e-scooter. But beginner or not, you must equip yourself with just the right knowledge on road rules and safety, and you must always keep yourself comfortable. Take note of the speed you are comfortable with. Always keep an eye on your range and battery level.
And most importantly, make sure you are familiar with the law on e-scooters in your country and city. Most cities have their own different set of rules designed to protect the rider, the pedestrian, and the environment.
When using your e-scooter for work, you must also check if the equipment, when folded, is allowed inside trains or establishments. Again, different rules for different places.
By being careful and following safety guidelines, you can minimize the chance of getting involved with accidents on your e-scooter. It is easy to lose focus when you are on your scooter, especially when you enjoy the outdoors.
Take it easy and give yourself a chance to experience it without scarfing your attention. Always adhere to regulations and follow the path of people. Happy riding!
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