Electric Scooter or Kick Scooter: Finding the Perfect Scooter for You

Introduction

If you want to spare your car for some time and get an alternative means of moving around your town, there are many options you can choose from. You could buy a bike or a motorcycle, but if you are fond of a mix of fun, convenience, and speed, then you must go for a kick-type scooter or electric scooter. While micro-mobility devices are a superb eco-friendly means of personal commute, some people find it difficult to get a last-mile solution for their commute and don't want to invest in the wrong micro-mobility vehicle.

In this article, we will explore what is a kick scooter and everything there is to know about kick scooter vs electric scooter to guide you in making the right choice.

What Are the Differences Between an Electric Scooter and a Kick Scooter?

Electric and kick scooters might look similar, sharing the essential features - two wheels, a deck, and a handlebar; however, they have remarkable differences in design, performance, and usability. So, whether you are leaning toward the electric scooter's ease of use or the manually operated kick scooter, let's look at the significant differences between the two. 

1. Design and construction

A scooter with kick generally has smaller frames than electric scooters, as the latter need more space to accommodate components such as electric motors, batteries, mechanical braking systems, and optional suspension.

Let's see some other design and construction-related features that differentiate electric from kick scooters:

• Handlebars and controls
• Deck
• Battery and motor
• Tires

2. Performance

Electric scooters perform excellently across all aspects due to the integration of high-quality motors, controllers, and batteries.

In contrast, scooters with kicks have a low top speed and acceleration, as they depend only on the rider's physical ability to push, which is intrinsically restricted over extended periods.

Let's see performance-related features that differentiate electric from kick scooters:

• Speed and acceleration 
• Range 
• Braking
• Hill climbing

3. User experience

The riding experience differs between an e-scooter and a kick-scooter regarding skill mastery, safety, and varying comfort levels during rides.

• Comfort and ergonomics
• The learning curve for beginners
• Safety

4. Practical considerations

Practicality is a crucial factor to evaluate when considering acquiring a scooter, whether electric or kick. You must refer to these factors to pick the one that meets your needs.

• Cost Comparison
• Portability and storage convenience
• Maintenance requirements
• Suitability for different users

5. Compliance with local laws and regulations

Kick scooters tend to race under the regulatory radar, mostly because of their straightforward, non-motorized designs. This general perception of their simplicity and harmlessness permits wide acceptance of their use in various settings, just like bicycles are treated, without much concern.

Electric scooters usually face stricter scrutiny and are confined mainly to bike lanes and shared pathways. The use of electric scooters on sidewalks and highways is casually permitted. However, such instances are rare. Some regions even have complete bans on electric scooters.

6. Energy efficiency and environmental impact

A scooter with a kick provides superior energy efficiency and environmental friendliness compared to an electric scooter. Kick scooters operate solely on human power, demanding no fuel or electricity, emitting almost zero emissions, and minimizing environmental harm. Moreover, they are often built from recyclable materials like aluminum or steel, further reducing the ecological footprint of the cities. 

In contrast, electric scooters are somewhat energy-efficient, contributing to electricity consumption and emissions during charging. Furthermore, the manufacturing process of electric scooters, requiring battery production, can necessitate environmental consequences if not properly managed.

Pros and Cons of Electric Scooters

Electric scooters are fun and lightweight, making roaming streets a breeze. In fact, many people opt for electric scooters with optimal features to make the most of their outings. So, before you invest in one, let's look at the benefits and limitations of electric scooters to help you make the right decision. 

Pros of Electric Scooters 

• High speed with multiple features 
• Easy to control 
• Rides are tireless
• The availability of brakes and lights makes your rides safer 
• Great range when buying the proper modes

Cons of Electric Scooters 

• Expensive
• Requires more maintenance
• Heavy weighted 
• Not as portable
• Not all models are suitable for kids
• Requires maintenance

Pros and Cons of Kick Scooters

You can experience fun and fantastic adventures by making a minor investment in a kick scooter. These fun rides are affordable, well-built, and broadly used by both kids and adults alike. However, before you get a scooter with kick, you should know the pros and cons of buying such a ride as mentioned hereunder: 

Pros of Kick Scooters

• Usually very cheap
• Lightweight and portable 
• Easy to ride
• Kid-friendly
• No charging times
• Low maintenance
• Encourages physical fitness

Cons of Kick Scooters 

• Low-speed and tiring rides
• Can't travel long distance 
• Cramp your style and disturb your joy 
• Limited to traveling over only certain kinds of terrain

Choosing the Right Scooter: Your Personal Compass

Before you decide to get a kick scooter or electric scooter, you have to look at different parameters side by side. For example, you must consider the terrain you want to ride, the distance you want to cover, speed, safety, portability, and other factors. These critical factors will help you ensure that you select the product that truly caters to your requirements. 

Identify Needs: 

Firstly, you must identify your needs. This will help you know which scooter will be able to fulfill it with ease. It may include various aspects like your intended use or distance if you want it for commuting, joy rides, picnics, etc. Also, you must know your level of physical activity, whether you want one that compels you to do strenuous exercise or is easy on your body. 

Budget constraints are also a big factor that can help you decide to pick one, and lastly, you must consider the local terrains to know if they can handle the street's surface. Let's look at each factor closely. 

1. Typical commute distance or intended use

Kick scooters take a lot of work to ride. So, if you intend to cover a long distance, at some point, you may get tired and won't be able to ride as quickly as you used to. On the other hand, electric scooters are well equipped to cover long distances that your manual ride can't cover. 

2. Desired level of physical activity

If you intend to keep fit, riding a scooter with kick will be beneficial. The process of kicking the ground again and again and using your energy to propel the manual commute forward counts as a form of physical exercise. 

3. Budget constraints

Usually, electric scooters are pricier than kick scooters. This is because of their complex and high-tech features, which are unavailable in manual commute variants.

4. Local terrain and infrastructure

You can get a manual one if you want to ride your commuter only on the smooth, plain surface around your street. However, if you intend to drive on rough surfaces or you need a ride that can climb hills, you must go for mid-range or premium electric rides. 

Matching Needs to Options: 

Based on the identified needs, you must now have an idea about which type of scooter generally aligns better with each scenario. Typically, electric scooters are fit for longer commutes, while kick scooters are great for leisurely rides. So before investing in any of these scooters, think wisely and ponder on these factors to pick the best one. 

The Bottom Line 

We know picking your most appropriate match is a tough nut to crack. In this article, we have shown you a comprehensive comparison between kick scooter vs electric scooters. Now you know that choosing a kick scooter or electric scooter depends solely on your requirements. So it's time to decide which scooter suits your lifestyle best, whether you are looking for a simple, more active way to roam around or if you need the speed and convenience of an electric scooter for your daily commute. Think about your typical travel distances, your budget, and how much you value exercise versus convenience.