In college life, choosing the right transportation is crucial to daily campus life. Due to its convenience and environmental protection, electric scooters have become one of the preferred means of transportation for more and more college students during their studies. However, there are several important factors to consider before choosing an electric scooter as a means of transportation on campus, including campus regulations, price, range, weight and portability, and maintenance and repair. Next, we’ll dive into the key factors to consider when choosing an electric scooter for college students.
- Campus regulations and local legal requirements
- Campus regulations: Schools may have specific campus regulations, including regulations on the use, parking and charging of electric scooters. These regulations can usually be found in the school's transportation or campus management policies. For example, some schools may prohibit e-scooters from operating in certain areas or prohibit their use during certain periods of time.
- Legal regulations: In addition to school regulations, you also need to understand local laws regarding electric scooters. Different regions may have different legal regulations, including speed limits, age limits, driving route restrictions, etc. for electric scooters. Some areas may even require e-scooter registration or a driver's license.
- Safety regulations: In addition to driving regulations, you also need to comply with relevant safety regulations, such as wearing helmets, using lights and reflective equipment, etc.
- Price options
When college students choose electric scooters, price is an important consideration. Electric scooters can range in price from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars, depending on factors such as brand, model, performance and additional features. Here are some price range
- Entry-level: Entry-level electric scooters typically range in price from $200 to $500. These scooters usually have basic features such as moderate range, moderate speed, and a simpler design.
- Mid-range: The price of mid-range electric scooters ranges from approximately US$500 to US$1,000. These scooters usually have longer range, higher speeds, better build quality and some additional features such as LED lights, Bluetooth connectivity or folding designs.
- High-end level: The price of high-end electric scooters is usually over $1,000, or even over $2,000. These scooters typically feature state-of-the-art technology and design, including longer range, faster speeds, lighter weight, higher quality materials and some advanced extras such as smart APP connectivity and more advanced brakes system etc.
- Range is a very important consideration
- Short commutes: If your campus is small and most of your classes are held in the same location, an electric scooter with a range of around 10 to 15 miles (16 to 24 kilometers) should be enough for your needs.
- Long-distance commuting: If your campus is relatively large and you may need to frequently shuttle to different campuses or need to make longer trips within the campus, then an electric scooter with a range of 20 to 30 miles (32 to 48 kilometers) or more may be more appropriate.
- Extra backup batteries: If you need more range, but the electric scooter you choose has a limited range, you might consider purchasing extra backup batteries. This allows for quick battery replacement when needed, extending the scooter’s lifespan.
- Charging facilities: Make sure your campus provides charging facilities so you can easily charge your e-scooter when needed.
- Weight and portability
- Lightweight design: Choose a relatively lightweight electric scooter. Generally speaking, lightweight scooters are easier to carry and maneuver, especially when you need to lift them up stairs or carry them through crowds of people.
- Folding design: Choose an electric scooter that can be easily folded. This makes it easier to fold the scooter up for easy portability or storage when needed, such as under a desk or in a dorm room.
- Portable Size: In addition to weight, consider the size of your scooter as well. Choose a scooter that is compact and portable, making it easier to slip it into a bag or other carrying device.
- Convenient Carrying Handle: Some electric scooters have uniquely designed carrying handles, which make them more convenient to carry.
- Weight Carrying Capacity: While a lightweight design is important, also make sure the scooter has enough weight carrying capacity to safely support your weight.
- Durability: Try to choose an electric scooter that is lightweight but also durable to ensure that it will not be damaged or require frequent repairs during long-term use.
5.Is subsequent maintenance convenient?
- Regular cleaning: Clean the electric scooter regularly, including cleaning the body, wheels and other parts. This helps maintain the appearance and performance of your vehicle.
- Battery care: Properly charge and discharge batteries according to manufacturer's guidelines to extend battery life. Avoid over-discharging or over-charging, and use in low or high temperature environments.
- Regular inspections: Regularly inspect all components of the electric scooter, including the brake system, tires, axles, handlebars, body connections, etc., to ensure that they are operating normally and are tight.
- Tire maintenance: Check the air pressure in your tires regularly to make sure they are within the proper pressure range. Check tire wear regularly and replace severely worn tires promptly.
- Lubrication: Regularly lubricate key components of your electric scooter, such as bearings and friction parts, to reduce friction and wear.
- Care Manual: Read and follow the recommendations and guidelines in the care manual provided by the manufacturer to ensure proper care and maintenance.
- Regular maintenance: Regularly check the electrical system, braking system and other key components of the electric scooter, and perform timely repair and replacement.
Choosing an electric scooter as a means of transportation for college students during their school years has many advantages, but it also requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure the right model is selected and is properly maintained. By complying with campus regulations, choosing prices appropriately, considering range, weight and portability, and performing regular maintenance and repairs, college students can enjoy the convenience of electric scooters and move around campus life more freely.