Electric scooters have taken the world by storm over recent years and with good reason.
They’re environmentally friendly, convenient, compact, and fun to use. Better still, you don’t have to pay for petrol or a bus ticket.
Not sure where to start in your search for an electric scooter? In this article, we discuss the key things to look out for and review six of the best electric scooters on the market in Australia.
Our top pick: Segway Ninebot ES2 Electric Scooter
One of the most popular mid-range scooters globally, the Ninebot ES2 from Segway presents impressive quality and performance at a reasonable price point.
In fact, leading scooter share companies Bird, Jump, Lime, and Spin have all chosen Ninebot scooters for their fleet thanks to the great value for money these products represent.
With a top speed of 25 km/h and a max range of 25km, this reliable, feature-rich scooter should be able to more than satisfy most users.
Lightweight and foldable, the ES2 is a great option for commuters or those who need to store their scooter in compact spaces. A bright LED display allows you to easily track your speed and battery life, while bluetooth connectivity provides access for feature controls and firmware upgrades.
Another major selling point of the ES2 is that it comes with the option to extend both the range and speed by adding an extra battery pack. It also comes with front and rear shock absorption that add to the comfort of your ride..
This scooter also looks great, thanks to no external cables, matt black finish, and customisable LED lights.
PROS
- Lightweight
- Foldable
- Fast acceleration
- Three speed modes
- Cruise control
- Optional extra battery pack
- Customisable LED lights
CONS
- More expensive than other options
Best Value: XIAOMI M365 Electric Scooter
A very close contender for our top pick, the Xiaomi M365 has proven itself over time to be both high performing and reliable, securing itself a spot as one of the most favoured electric scooters on the market.
This scooter is quick, reliable, fun to ride, and looks great. Its foldable design makes it very portable, while a top speed of 25km/h and max distance of 30km means it would suit both commuters and recreational riders alike.
The air-filled tyres are a differentiating factor of the M365 and these provide a uniquely smooth and silent riding experience.
The tyres are also one of the most commonly cited frustrations with this scooter, with them being quite difficult to change, which can be required if one gets a puncture.
This scooter is also packed with a wide range of well-thought features including a rubber footboard for added grip, headlight and brake light, cruise control, adjustable acceleration, kinetic energy recovery system, and ABS and mechanical disk braking.
PROS
- Lightweight
- Fast and Powerful
- Smooth and Silent ride
- Folding design
- Suitable for riders up to 100kg
- 30km range
CONS
- Tyre changing can be difficult
Bullet 300W Electric Scooter
Renowned for its superior quality, Bullet has created a tough electric scooter perfect for commuters.
Its hi-tensile carbon fibre and premium aluminium design boast a sleek yet aggressive look. Reaching a max speed of 28 km/h and impressing with a slim profile, the Bullet 300W will help you navigate through morning crowds with ease.
PROS
- Australian-approved UL battery certification.
- Foldable ultra-thin RazorDeck.
- Soft-grip handles.
- Ultra-bright LED headlight.
- Rear flare breaks.
CONS
- It may sometimes struggle to reach top speed.
Bullet TRZ 140W Mini Electric Scooter
This one can easily satisfy the big kid in you, delivering reliability and performance. It reaches up to 15 km/h and has 80kg weight capacity. Perfect for taller riders too, it comes with height adjustable handle, and it can even be used by big kids and teens aged 7 and over.
Boasting an Australian-approved design and coming at a price that won’t break the bank, this is undoubtedly the best mini electric scooter you can come across.
PROS
- Speeds up to 15 km/h.
- It can handle inclines of up to 15°.
- Low friction drive.
- Stylish, foldable design.
CONS
- Some users find it a bit slow.
Razor E300 Electric Scooter
Razor is another well-known name in the scooter market and their E-300 is a well-rounded electric scooter developed for all sorts of riders and uses.
Its greatest feature may seem the price, but it’s actually the super-sized deck and frame designed to accommodate users of all sizes.
The twist-grip acceleration control brings further benefits, helping you reach 24 km/h with incredible ease. Then, the pneumatic tyres ensure smooth rides, making this scooter perfect for quick cruises and long rides alike.
PROS
- Pneumatic tyres ensure smooth rides on most terrains.
- Two rechargeable batteries and charger included.
- High-torque motor.
- Super-sized deck and tyres.
CONS
- Handle grips may be a tad too spongy.
Bullet Stealth 1-6 1000W Electric Scooter
If you’re looking for utmost performance and don’t mind spending a bit more, check out the Bullet Stealth 1-6 1000W.
This electric scooter is designed for those who want to get to their destination faster, and it reaches up to 50 km/h in Turbo mode. The economy mode helps you save battery life when you’re not quite in a hurry, and even so, you can expect to reach a cruise speed of 34 km/h.
Sturdy yet lightweight, this scooter is also suitable to use on all terrains.
PROS
- Wide deck is perfect for taller riders.
- Pneumatic tyres.
- It is shipped fully assembled.
- Removable seat included in the pack.
CONS
- Some parts may need retightening every now and then.
Choosing Your Electric Scooter
1. Speed
Electric Scooters vary widely in terms of top speeds. The most popular, folding varieties generally come in at around 24-29 km/h.
More premium models with larger tyres and bigger suspension can often achieve speeds in excess of 40+ km/h.
The best option for you will depend on what you want to use your scooter for as well as your budget and personal preferences.
2. Range And Battery Life
There is hardly anything more annoying that having to manually push an electric scooter.
That’s why it’s crucial to pick one that comes with a reliable and durable battery. It’s important here to stick with brands that have a reputation for being long-lasting.
Note that some products like the Ninebot ES2 come with expandable battery options.
3. Size
Most electric scooters are well suited for average-sized adults. If you’re taller or shorter though, ensure you choose one that comes with an adjustable handle.
The width of the deck is also important, especially if you’re particularly tall or have large feet.
If possible, try out the scooter before buying it, to make sure it fits your stature and needs.
RELATED: The Best Electric Skateboard
4. Weight
The weight of an electric scooter is important for a number of reasons.
Light scooters are often more maneuverable and therefore more fun to ride. They are also easier to carry when not in use.
Lightweight scooters can, however, feel more flimsy and can also have lower battery capacity, so you may need to make a bit of a trade-off based on what is important to you.
5. Folding Electric Scooters
If you intend to take your electric scooter on public transport, or store it at work or school, you’ll likely be best with a folding option.
These electric scooters sacrifice little in terms of stability however fold into a compact configuration for storage when required.
6. Local Laws And Regulations
The laws regarding electric scooters in Australia vary from state to state and are currently in flux as scooter ride sharing company Lime rolls out trials in many states.
Check out this article to see what laws are applicable in your state.
Verdict
While the best electric scooter for you will ultimately come down to your needs and preferences, for us the Segway Ninebot ES2 takes out the top spot.
It’s perfect for most users, from restless teens to young professionals and even seniors who want to take advantage of the added mobility.
The battery and motor combo delivers outstanding performance and lets you reach up to 25 km/h. Throw in a reasonable price, and you’ve got a winner.
And if you need an even more affordable solution or feel the speed is not enough, you now know which are some of your best alternatives.
FAQs
The distance you can get on your electric scooter from a single battery charge will depend on a variety of factors. These include battery type, size and quality, the weight of the scooter and rider and the type of terrain. While high end scooters are capable of ranges of 25km or more, entry level models will only get you 8-10km before you need to recharge. Note that some scooters come with a second battery that can substantially increase the range.
In terms of overall lifespan, the lithium-Ion batteries used in electric scooters should be good for a minimum of 500-1000 charge cycles, or 2-4 years of regular use.
If you live or work in an area with hills, it’s definitely worth considering how your scooter will perform on this terrain. Look for one with a powerful motor (250 watts +) and a solid battery, ideally with a backup. Consider also the incline of the hills you are likely to use the scooter on. Even high-end electric scooters will struggle with very steep uphills.
