Buying your first electric scooter can feel overwhelming. With so many models available, each offering different specifications, features, and performance levels, it can be difficult to know which scooter is right for you.
This beginner’s guide is designed to help you understand the key factors that matter most when choosing an electric scooter, including range, battery, motor power, weight, speed, and warranty. By understanding these basics, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision and choose a scooter that fits your lifestyle and commuting needs.
Range
Range refers to the distance an electric scooter can travel on a full charge before the battery runs out.
Several factors influence real-world range:
Battery capacity
Motor power
Terrain and hills
Rider weight
Scooter weight
Riding mode and speed
Manufacturer-quoted ranges are usually tested under ideal conditions, such as flat terrain, low speeds, and light riders. In real-world use, it’s sensible to expect around 25–40% less than the advertised range.
For example:
A PURE Air or LOCO Lite is well suited for shorter urban commutes and everyday city riding.
For longer daily journeys and riders who prioritise battery range, models such as the PURE Air Ultra Suspension and LOCO Motion Pro are better suited, offering higher-capacity batteries and extended real-world range.
Battery
The battery is one of the most important — and most expensive — components of an electric scooter.
Most modern electric scooters use lithium-ion batteries, which offer good energy density and long-term reliability when properly maintained. Over time, all batteries naturally degrade, and most will last 300–500 full charging cycles, depending on usage and care.
Larger battery capacity generally means:
Greater range
Longer charging times
Increased scooter weight
Charging is typically done overnight, and most scooters take 4–8 hours to fully charge, depending on battery size.
Motor Power
Electric scooters use brushless motors, usually located in the front or rear wheel. Motor power affects:
Acceleration
Hill-climbing ability
Overall ride performance
Urban-focused scooters like the PURE Air or LOCO City are designed for everyday commuting on flatter terrain.
Higher-performance models such as the PURE Air Ultra Suspension, Pure Advance, Pure Escape and LOCO Motion Pro deliver significantly more power, making them better suited for hills, heavier riders, and demanding riding conditions. The PURE Air Ultra Suspension, in particular, offers high peak power, providing strong acceleration and excellent climbing ability.
Scooter Weight
Scooter weight is an important consideration, especially if you need to carry your scooter up stairs, into apartments, or through buildings.
As a general rule:
Lighter scooters are easier to carry but usually have smaller batteries
Heavier scooters often provide longer range and better performance but are less portable
If portability is a priority, it’s important to strike a balance between weight and range.
Rider Weight
Every electric scooter has a maximum rider weight, which can be found in the product specifications.
Exceeding the recommended rider weight can:
Reduce range and performance
Increase wear on components
Lead to long-term mechanical issues
Always choose a scooter that comfortably supports your weight for optimal safety and performance.
Top Speed
Top speed varies depending on the model and local regulations.
In Ireland, electric scooters intended for public-road use are designed to comply with current legislation. Some scooters may offer multiple riding modes or app-based settings that allow riders to limit speed if desired.
Modifying firmware or hardware to increase speed can:
Damage internal components
Void your warranty
Lead to costly repairs
We always recommend riding within manufacturer and legal limits.
Warranty & After-Sales Support
Understanding warranty coverage is essential when choosing an electric scooter.
Warranty terms vary by model:
LOCO Motion Pro includes a 2-year warranty
Most other scooters include a 1-year warranty
Extended warranty options may be available at the time of purchase
Warranty coverage applies to manufacturing defects in key components such as the motor, battery, controller, and frame. Wear-and-tear items — including tyres, brake pads, and punctures — are not covered.
Buying from a specialist retailer also ensures access to proper diagnostics, genuine spare parts, and professional repair support when needed.
Final Note
We hope this beginner’s guide has helped you better understand what to look for when choosing your first electric scooter.
Whether you’re commuting short distances, tackling hills, or simply looking for a reliable and efficient way to get around, choosing the right scooter makes all the difference.
For tips, updates, and behind-the-scenes content, follow LOCO Scooters on Instagram, where we share everything electric scooter related.
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