Whether you want to go off-road or just want an electric scooter that can handle some tough terrain, there are plenty of options out there. Read on to learn more about the best off road electric scooters in 2019.
Scooters designed for off-road use usually have better dual braking systems, front and rear suspension as well as larger tyres. These components equate to a more comfortable ride on any kind of terrain.
Design
An off road electric scooter is specifically designed to withstand the challenges of riding off-road. As such, it is built big and powerful to deal with rugged terrains.
To make the most of their performance, off road e-scooters feature high-quality components and materials to ensure durability and long-lasting functionality. These include metal-core wheel hubs, tough tires, and a robust suspension system that can absorb impacts without breaking or buckling.
While most off-road electric scooters are designed to be heavy, there are some models that have been specially engineered to be lighter. These models are suited for those who are looking to commute on their scooters on a daily basis but may not be able to handle off-road riding situations.
These models also come with a wide range of features, such as Bluetooth and mobile security and navigation app connectivity, switchable cruise control, and mechanical and electric anti-lock brakes. These features will help you get around more safely and conveniently on your off-road electric scooter.
Another great feature is a double braking system that combines anti-lock and other braking technologies to prevent you from losing control while riding on rough terrain. You should look for an off-road electric scooter that comes with a double braking system in addition to strong brake lights, and a good suspension system that will keep you comfortable even on tougher terrains.
In addition to these features, an off-road e-scooter should have a sturdy frame that will be able to withstand rougher terrains and wear and tear. These scooters are often made of aerospace-grade aluminium, polypropylene, or carbon fibre, which will withstand bumps and other road imperfections.
A good off-road e-scooter will also have strong, durable batteries that can power a large motor and provide decent range when fully charged. These batteries should also be protected within the frame or deck to avoid damage from water splashes and dust ingress.
Finally, it’s important to choose an off-road e-scooter that has a comfortable and easy-to-use grip throttle for quick and simple controls. This will help you get a better feel for your off-road e-scooter and increase your confidence when riding.
Suspension
The suspension of an off road electric scooter is essential for the best ride. It ensures that the tyres stay in contact with the ground, and absorbs any bumps or imperfections to provide a smooth ride on uneven surfaces.
The best off road electric scooters have suspension on both the front and rear wheels. These models tend to be a bit more expensive than non-suspension models, but they are worth it in the long run as you’ll get a much better ride and the scooter will last longer.
Some off road electric scooters also come with hydraulic shock absorbers, which are much more effective than standard models and provide a very comfortable ride across a variety of terrains. Hydraulic shock absorbers are especially useful for off road scooters as they’re able to withstand heavy weights, which standard models can’t handle (up to 150+ kg/330 lbs).
For example, the NanRobot Ghost has an excellent suspension system that soaks up vibrations and provides a very smooth ride on a range of different terrains. It’s also very light compared to other off road scooters, meaning that it won’t weigh you down too much as you glide along the roughest of trails.
In addition to the great suspension system, the Apollo Ghost has large 10′′ pneumatic tyres that provide enough traction on typical hiking paths and forest trails. These tyres aren’t quite as smooth as knobby road tyres, but they work well for most users.
It’s important to look for an off road electric scooter that can withstand the weight of the rider and all their gear. This is crucial, as you don’t want to have to stop suddenly when you’re riding up a steep hill or on a dirt road.
Another important consideration is the battery size of an off road electric scooter. The bigger the battery, the longer it can go on a single charge before needing to be recharged again.
The power of the battery can be expressed in watts, so it’s important to make sure that you’ve got enough to tackle any type of terrain you may encounter while using your off road electric scooter. Ideally, it should be at least 2000w to give you the power you need to conquer any hills and dirt roads.
Brakes
Brakes are the most important feature when it comes to off road riding, especially when you’re taking a scooter into terrain that is difficult or dangerous. You don’t want to be stranded in the middle of the trail with your scooter breaking down, so you need strong and reliable brakes that will let you stop quickly and easily.
There are a few different types of brakes to choose from, and they all have their pros and cons. Drum brakes are easy to maintain and adjust, and they offer good stopping power. However, they can be expensive to replace if you experience brake failure or need repairs.
Hydraulic disc brakes are also a popular choice for off road electric scooter, as they offer safe, powerful stopping power when you need it most. This type of brake works by pumping hydraulic fluid through a system of pistons to apply pressure to the rotors.
When you press on the brakes, the pistons push on the brake pads to create friction and slow the scooter down. Some models have a regenerative brake system, which converts kinetic energy into battery power to increase mileage.
Electromagnetic brakes are another common option for electric scooters from isinwheel, and they’re often found on budget or commuter models. They’re built into the braking lever or are engaged with a button. These brakes can help you stop faster and more easily, but they don’t recycle wasted energy like regenerative brakes do.
Lastly, you should look for scooters with front and rear disc brakes, as these are essential for safety. They’re also an excellent way to slow down in traffic.
It’s a good idea to test ride an off road electric scooter before you buy it, so that you can get a feel for how it rides on rough terrain. You can also make sure the brakes are working properly and are comfortable for you to use.
You’ll also need to choose a scooter with a high-quality battery. This is because off-roading requires a lot of speed and you’ll need a powerful battery to keep up with your pace. Batteries are expensive, so it’s worth shopping around to find the best one for you.
Tires
The tires on your off road electric scooter are a big part of the ride, and selecting the right one can make all the difference. They also affect how much you can go, the distance you can travel, and the safety of your ride.
Most scooters come with either pneumatic (air-filled) or solid rubber tires. These are the most common styles and each has its pros and cons.
Air-filled tires are the most popular type of tire for electric scooters because they provide good grip and absorb shocks and vibrations. However, they can be susceptible to flats and should be checked regularly and topped off with air once in a while.
Solid rubber tires are much more durable and prevent flats from happening. However, they are heavier and harder to repair than pneumatic tires.
Some electric scooters are equipped with a mixed configuration of these two types of tires. This combines an air-filled front tire with a solid rear tire for better control and traction.
In addition to these traditional styles, you’ll also find honeycomb tires on some electric scooters. These are similar to pneumatics in design but have a special honeycomb-like structure on the inside of the tire to protect it from punctures and flats.
Tubeless tires are another option and are a good choice for anyone who likes to take their scooter off-road. The outside of these tires have an airtight seal against the wheel hub, but they use a thick gel-like coating to protect against punctures and flats.
The downside is that these types of tires require much more maintenance, which can be expensive and time-consuming. They should be inflated according to their recommended PSI and checked regularly for wear and tear, particularly if you frequently ride off-road.
The best way to choose a tire is to match it to your style of riding. If you plan on going fast or taking your electric scooter off-road, a rounded front-on profile is ideal. On the other hand, if you plan on doing a lot of braking or skidding, a square profile is ideal.
