Do you want to learn how to ride an electric scooter

Electric scooters are so popular nowadays, the reason behind this is that they are easy to ride. It has various features, like easy foldability, mounting, dismounting, lightweight, and more manageable means of easy transport. Now, the question arises whether it is easy to ride an electric scooter. Being a beginner can I ride an electric scooter? How to ride an electric scooter?

In this article, I will answer all the general queries regarding how to ride an electric scooter. Let us start with learning something new, which is always an exciting, frightening moment, and sometimes a mixture of both. I can relate to this, as I was one of those who experienced it firsthand. My husband gifted me an electric scooter on our anniversary. I was afraid of falling and hurting myself. It was not easy at first to gain confidence and step on it, as it requires patience and practice. You also need to understand the technology of the vehicle you are learning. Go through the manufacturer’s manual thoroughly to understand the different and important parts of the electric scooter. It took some time for me to adjust my body and mind. I learned a valuable lesson and this experience increased my confidence, and adaptability, improved brain functionality, and many more.

Proper Foot Placement On An Electric Scooter:

First and foremost the rider needs to identify on which foot he is comfortable while riding. If you ever ride any vehicle think about which foot will come forward naturally. Right foot forward is known as goofy stance and left foot forward is known as regular stance. It determines your position on the scooter. Depending on your model type, the platform shape and length decide how you will place your feet. For example, if the scooter’s platform is narrow and long, one foot will be forward and the other foot generally will be placed on the rear tail. It allows you to shift your weight forward and backward which helps in accelerating, braking and you push your weight either right or left to take smooth turns. If the platform is wider, you can comfortably place your feet side by side.

Types of foot placement-

There are two types of foot placement:

• One foot forward and the other one an angle.
• Side-by-side foot placement.

Often the ones with goofy stances will stand on the left side of your vehicle and vice versa in case of a regular stances i.e. will stand on the right side. At the time of take-off, the front foot will be on the electric scooter which pushes off, hands on the handlebar, apply a bit of throttle, and lift the other foot from the ground once you start to go. In the case of a kick-to-start electric scooter, the acceleration is up to 3mph before engaging the throttle whereas in the case of zero start, the acceleration, the throttle engages is at 0 mph. 

Maintaining The Correct Posture:

Please note that you should keep the handlebar nearest to the chest and belly leaning on the vehicle while taking off. The reason is that the force of acceleration will push you back naturally. Similarly, at the time of braking, you have to lean back. The same goes while you take a turn rather than moving your handlebar you should lean in the direction you want to turn. Have proper hand-to-eye coordination, and awareness of your surroundings like people, signs, rocky surfaces, and most importantly animals. One day a puppy suddenly appeared on the road, barely visible from a distance. Thankfully, I spotted it in time and managed to stop safely. I then picked up the puppy and placed it in a safer place.

Points To Remember While Riding:

The more you practice, the more your balance will improve when riding. While riding, be careful about uneven roads, potholes, and bumps. Until then ride slow and steady. Use brakes early and avoid skidding. Do not ride in heavy winds, rain, or sleet. Always use safety gear like a helmet, sunglasses, gloves, elbow guard, knee guard, and covered footwear. Always follow the traffic rules. To brief the summary, here are:

Step-by-step guidelines for riding an electric scooter:

• Switch on the electric scooter – Press the centrally located button that switches on an electric scooter including its LCD or LED display, once clicked.
• Select the speed mode – Generally, three-speed modes gradually increase in serial order. User must select the speed mode, depending on their usage.
• Accelerate – Keep one foot over the scooter and push your strong foot against the ground making the scooter move front. As the scooter moves accelerate using the throttle.
• Brake – When you observe an obstacle while riding at a decent speed you must press the brake gently. Sudden braking at high speed may damage your brakes. In certain cases, you may even fall due to sudden braking.  
• Steer – Lean your body in the direction you want to go. 
• Balance – You need to keep your weight centered.  
• Switch off the electric scooter – As soon as your ride finishes switch off the button and keep the vehicle safe.

FAQ

Conclusion

Riding an electric scooter is thrilling, only if you follow certain easy steps mentioned above. Be physically and mentally ready while riding. Now it is time to choose your favorite electric scooter, based on your needs and specifications, and enjoy your ride.