It seems that electric scooters are here to stay: they have become one of the most innovative and popular means of transportation in our cities. They offer a sustainable, economical and fun alternative for getting around, so their use has grown exponentially in recent years. However, riding an electric scooter requires knowledge of safe riding techniques, urban regulations and basic maintenance.
In this article we will guide you through the essentials of riding an electric scooter. From preparation before setting off to tips for efficient city riding, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to become an expert and conscientious scooter rider.
Preparation before driving
Before you embark on an urban adventure on an electric scooter, you’ll need to know how to ride safely. Here’s how to prepare yourself properly before you start.
Equipment verification
To use an electric scooter you must perform a series of checks so that you can move with peace of mind. These are the most important ones:
- Charged battery: Make sure the battery is fully charged to avoid running out of power halfway.
- Inflated tires: Tires should be inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure to optimize performance and safety.
- Working brakes: Check that the brakes respond properly. Effective braking is vital to your safety.
- Lights and reflectors: Check that all lights are working properly, especially if you plan to drive at night or in low visibility conditions.
Safety equipment
Don’t forget: Safety equipment is as important as the scooter itself. You should carry:
- Helmet: You should always wear an approved helmet. It is the most basic and essential protection against head injuries.
- Knee and elbow pads: These accessories offer additional protection for your knees and elbows in case of falls.
- Gloves: Gloves not only protect your hands in case of a fall, but also improve your grip and control of the handlebars.
- Reflective vest or clothing with reflective elements: Being visible is crucial, especially at night or on cloudy days. Reflective clothing or vests significantly increase your visibility to other drivers and pedestrians.
First steps to drive an electric scooter
To make your experience riding an electric scooter as safe and enjoyable as possible, it is important to familiarize yourself with some functions from the beginning. Here we will guide you through the first steps to start driving an electric scooter:
Power on and start
- Power: Locate the power button on your electric scooter. Most models have a clearly marked button. By pressing it, you will activate the electrical system.
- Checking the control panel: Once powered on, make sure the control panel displays all indications correctly: battery level, speed, and any other indicators specific to your model.
- Start of ride: To start moving, place one foot on the deck of the scooter and use the other foot to push off the ground. Once moving, use the throttle (usually located on the handlebars) to gradually increase speed.
Basic settings
- Handlebar Height Adjustment: Before you start riding, adjust the handlebar height to a comfortable level.
- Checking the suspension (if applicable): If your scooter has suspension, familiarize yourself with how it works.
- Familiarization with controls: Also familiarize yourself with the location and operation of the accelerator and brakes. Practice using it in a safe area before heading to busier streets.
Basic driving techniques
Although it may seem that it is not necessary to master any specific technique to drive an electric scooter, it is advisable to keep some recommendations in mind. Here are some key tips on acceleration, braking, and how to perform maneuvers and turns correctly.
Acceleration and braking
- Gradual acceleration: Always start with gentle acceleration to avoid loss of balance. As you become more familiar with the response of your scooter, you will be able to adjust the speed more comfortably.
- Using brakes: Familiarize yourself with the braking system, which may include hand or foot brakes. At first, brake in a controlled manner and gradually increase the pressure on the brake.
- Braking distance: Always maintain a safe distance from objects and people in front of you. Speed and weight will affect your stopping distance, so adjust your speed accordingly.
Maneuvers and turns
- Signaling: Before turning, be sure to signal your intentions to others using your arms if your scooter does not have built-in turn signals.
- Look before you turn: Always look over your shoulder to check traffic before making a turn.
- Turn Safely: Reduce speed before entering a turn. Slightly tilt your body toward the direction of the spin while keeping your feet firmly on the platform.
- Practice in safe areas: Before heading into traffic areas, practice your maneuvers and turns in a safe area.
Tips for safe driving in the city
Riding an electric scooter in the city means being careful with traffic and pedestrians. We present some essential tips so that you can move around with total respect and safety:
Driving in urban spaces
- Keep your attention at all times: The urban environment is full of unforeseen events. Stay alert to anticipate the actions of vehicles, pedestrians and other cyclists.
- Obey traffic signs: As with motor vehicles, you must obey all traffic signs.
- Appropriate speed: Adjust the speed to the surrounding conditions. In busy areas, it is prudent to reduce your speed to be able to react in time to any unforeseen events.
- Safety distance: Maintain an adequate distance from vehicles and pedestrians.
- Avoid blind spots: Be aware of blind spots on vehicles, especially buses and trucks.
Use of bicycle lanes
- Prioritize bike lanes: Whenever possible, use bike lanes. These lanes are designed to offer you a safe space, away from motorized traffic.
- Respect the rules of the bike lane: Even if you are in a lane designated for bicycles and scooters, it is still important to respect the applicable traffic rules, such as yielding when necessary.
- Predictable driving: Even within bike lanes, maintain predictable behavior. Uses hand signals to indicate turns and stops to other lane users.
- Pay attention to crossings: Crossings between bike lanes and roads can be especially dangerous points. Slow down and make sure it is safe to cross before doing so.
Now that you have all this information about how an electric scooter handles, you might want to experience the adventure of driving one. Maybe you are exploring Maspalomas and want to take an electric scooter tour to discover the city in a unique and exciting way. At Scooter and Bike Rental, we offer you the excellent opportunity to rent electric scooters in Maspalomas, guaranteeing maximum safety and offering top quality service. Try them!
