A new school season brings the maddening calculations of how to zigzag across campus and show up to every class on time. Between crowds of other students, there is limited time to move from classes, meals and other daily tasks, making it tough to avoid tardiness. Not to mention, you’re lugging a day’s worth of books and materials with you if you don’t have a chance to visit your dorm throughout the day.
While rollerblades and skateboards are still spotted on college campuses, they’re not ideal for all terrain. Electric scooters, or E-scooters, are ideal for getting you to every class on time.
The accessibility of electric scooters makes them attractive for eco-conscious college kids.
They’re an earth-friendly alternative to driving cars on campus. If you’re a student who wants to minimize your carbon footprint, opt for an E-scooter. They produce zero emissions since they run on rechargeable electric batteries. That means they don’t use any fossil fuels like oil or gas.
E-scooters are easy to store and lock up safely with U locks on bike racks. They’re also slim enough to store in your dorm closet or under furniture when not in use. Some brands even offer folding electric scooters to save more space. Their small size and lightweight construction make them easy to bring to college year after year.
The convenience of heading out the door and hopping on a scooter makes them great for saving time, whether you live on or off campus.
Before buying an electric scooter, consider factors such as the distance you can travel before recharging, what type of breaks work best for your needs and your budget.
Electric scooters can only go so far before needing a recharge. They can travel between 6 to 50 miles on a single charge, though most fall on the lower end of that range. The battery’s capacity, the scooter's weight and how fast you ride all affect its range without recharging it.
To figure out whether a scooter will last all day before you can return to the dorms, estimate your daily routes and how many miles you need to travel as you navigate campus. Naturally, some campuses are larger than others, so students at other schools may need a different scooter than you. Find a scooter that will get you through an average day on your campus.
Scooters can have disc breaks in either the front or back wheel or foot breaks, which means you stomp on the back mudguard. Foot breaks are usually on cheaper models. They’re slower to respond and less effective than disc breaks. If you can afford to invest in a scooter with disc breaks, you’ll have a safer experience and be able to stop precisely when you need to stop, such as after a steep hill or in an emergency.
Most scooters max out around 15 mph, and many college campuses enforce similarly cautious speed limits. Going even slower often makes navigating through crowded walkways easier and safer. Though you won’t be whizzing past your classmates, scooters still get you to class much faster than on foot, shaving minutes off your route.
Electric scooters are unsurprisingly cheaper than cars. And since you’re allowed to ride them with a learner’s permit at age 16, even first-year college students with late birthdays can bring one along to campus. Prices can range from $148 into the thousands, though most fall within the budget range of $148-$400. More expensive models offer higher quality parts, longer battery life and higher speeds.
A. Yes. For most scenarios, a bicycle helmet is the preferred protection when riding an electric scooter. Though, it all depends on where you’re riding and how fast you’re going. If you’re taking your scooter out on the road with other cars and driving above 20 mph, a DMX or motorcycle helmet will do a better job of keeping you safe.
A. It depends. Most colleges have a safety policy geared toward transportation. Some even have specific guidelines around electric scooters, including required safety gear, equipment required to ride at night and maximum speeds. Check with your school’s public safety department to learn more about your specific school’s requirements.
A. A little. An electric scooter needs minimal maintenance to keep it in good working condition. For the most part, you’ll need to charge it regularly to ensure it can run when needed. You may need to tighten some screws or lube some mechanisms as needed over time.
A. Yes. After years of shuttling you around campus, you may notice your scooter’s battery begin to fade. To avoid further damaging your scooter, replace a dead battery as soon as it’s not working. This is best done by a trained mechanic. Some bike shops that work on electric bikes will also work on electric scooters. If you have your own tools and equipment, you may also be able to replace them as long as you proceed carefully.
This feature-packed scooter includes a steel frame, steel fork and air-filled front tire with a 100-watt, high-torque, single-speed and chain-driven motor. The battery supplies 40 minutes of consecutive power.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
This affordable option works as both an electric scooter and a kick scooter for when you need a little more control. The lightweight shell makes it easy to carry across grass or up flights of stairs.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Gotrax G4 Foldable Electric Scooter
This folding scooter offers a 25-mile range and 20 mph speed with a 350-watt motor, headlight and taillight. It has a built-in cable lock and electric code lock for added security.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Gotrax Vibe Foldable Electric Kick Scooter
For a more budget-conscious choice, this folding scooter can travel up to seven miles and reach 12 mph, which is plenty fast on a busy college campus. It has a headlight for safety and cruise control for long stretches of road.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Giro Isode MIPS Adult Road Cycling Helmet
For lightweight protection, this strong helmet is built to withstand accidents and falls. It’s light enough to be comfortable on your head, with soft and flexible straps to keep it secure.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Grottico Adult Bike Helmet with Light
This bargain helmet offers high-quality protection at an affordable price. Adjustable straps and lightweight construction make for a comfortable fit, while a front visor and taillight add relief from the sun and extra safety.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Kryptonite Series 2 Standard Heavy-Duty Bicycle U Lock
This two-for-one U lock provides both a large steel U lock and 4-foot vinyl-coated cable to ensure your scooter stays where you left it. It comes with two sets of keys.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
For a lightweight lock, this small U lock is small enough to carry in your bag, measuring just 5 inches by 7.75 inches. Though small, the steel frame protects your scooter from being stolen, and the silicone coating prevents scratches.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Katy Palmer writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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