Portrait of Mitchel Anderson, Rider Guide's Editorial Lead
Ben Flynn
August 23, 2022

Meet Ben, your go-to scooter aficionado and in-house wordsmith at Rider Guide. With a genuine passion for two-wheelers (6 years of riding), he’s not just penning reviews but sharing firsthand experiences in an articulate narrative. You can catch him ripping through rocky trails on his Suzuki Vstrom 1000 or doing 45 miles an hour on his Dualtron Victor when he’s not busy at his writing desk, offering you the most unique and informed perspective on every scooter that rides the streets.

man riding the emove roadrunner seated electric scooter on the street

When it comes to e-scooters, most manufacturers try to balance between performance, range, portability, and price. This juggling act often results in e-scooters that typically offer a maximum range of 10 miles–25 miles. While this may be adequate for most users, others require an electric scooter that can travel a greater distance before recharging. For those individuals, long-range scooters are the best option.

These e-scooters have been designed keeping in mind people who have to commute long distances or run errands that make them cover greater grounds. Consequently, they come with powerful batteries that can last anywhere between 30 miles to 60 miles on a single charge. Some models even come with an additional battery pack that can be swapped in when the first one runs out of juice.

 Apart from having a powerful battery, these e-scooters also come equipped with additional features like bigger wheels, comfortable seats, large decks, a powerful motor/dual motors, and a more comfortable riding position that makes them ideal for long journeys.

Of course, all this extra range and power comes at a price, as long-range electric scooters are usually more expensive than their shorter-range counterparts and tend to be heavy and bulky. But, their extended range and durability make them a wise investment for those who need an efficient and reliable way to get around.

When looking for a long range e-scooter, it is important to do your research to ensure that you are getting a quality product. But like any other purchase, you can be overwhelmed with the no of options available; the current market is flooded with thousands of scooters from different manufacturers, some knock-offs, some with unrealistic salesy claims that are designed to lure buyers, so you have to be ready to do your homework when looking for an excellent long range electric scooter. A little research can go a long way in ensuring you don’t end up with a lemon. 

How far do you need to travel? How much weight can the e-scooter carry? What is your budget? These are just a few of the questions you’ll need to answer before making a purchase.

This blog post will detail each of these factors so that you can make an informed decision when selecting your new long range e-scooter. Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list – each person’s needs may vary. We’ll also provide a few suggestions for specific models that may be a good fit for your needs.

What Is Considered A Long-Range Electric Scooter?

NAMI-BURN-E-scooter-Full-Picture

A long-range scooter is typically defined as having a range of 25 miles or more. This extended range means that riders can travel further without worrying about running out of power, making them a great choice for commuting or traveling long distances. Most e-scooters have a range of 10 miles–25 miles, so a long-range e-scooter can be considered an upgrade.

 Based on the ranges, we can group e-scooters in order of the maximum distance they can travel, 

    • Low-Range Electric Scooters: These are the most basic and simple electric scooters, perfect for beginners. They typically cover distances of less than 10 miles.

 

    • Moderate Range Electric Scooters: This is where most production scooters lie, covering distances of 10 miles–25 miles.

 

    • Long Range Electric Scooters: This marks the start of performance electric scooters; they typically cover over 25 miles.

 

    • Extra Long Range Electric Scooters: The creme de la creme of performance electric scooters–these are the most expensive and powerful electric scooters; they cover over 40 miles.

Of the electric scooters we’ve tested, the longest range e-scooter on our list is the Dualtron Thunder 2, which can travel up to a maximum range of 60 miles on a single charge. You can check out the Duatron Thunder II review for a comprehensive rundown of its other specs. 

Benefits Of Having A Long-Range Electric Scooter 

While you might initially be drawn to a long-range e-scooter for its increased distance capabilities, there are actually many other benefits to consider.

Better Performance

Anyone who’s ever been on a long-range electric scooter can attest to the fact that they are a blast to ride. In addition to being more convenient, long-range electric scooters also tend to perform better than their shorter-range counterparts. 

Long-range scooters are usually equipped with high-capacity batteries, powerful brushless motors, controllers, and comfort features, e.g., suspension and braking systems to match. This allows them to generate more power for better hill climbing, achieve higher top speeds, and easily handle rough terrain. 

In short, long-range e-scooters offer a great combination of power, performance, comfort, and range, making them a great option when selecting an e-scooter.

Less Frequent Charging 

When it comes to e-scooters, one of the key differences lies in the battery life. A short-range scooter will typically have a smaller battery, which means that it will need to be charged more often. In contrast, a long-range e-scooter can go much further on a single charge. This means you can go longer between charges, which is more convenient. 

While short-range electric scooters typically need to be plugged in after every use, long-range models normally only require charging twice or thrice per week, depending on your usage frequency. This can be a significant benefit if you don’t have easy access to a power outlet or if you simply don’t want the hassle of dealing with frequent charges. In addition, it can be more convenient to only have to worry about charging your scooter every few days as opposed to every day.

More Distance To Be Covered

Most electric scooters have a fairly limited range, usually topping out at around 20 miles on a single charge. While this is fine for short commutes or errands around town, it can be a real problem if you need to cover more ground. That’s where long-range electric scooters come in. These electric scooters have larger batteries that offer 25 miles or more range, meaning you can cover greater distances without worrying about running out of juice. This is especially beneficial for commuters who need to travel further distances or for anyone who wants the freedom to explore their surroundings without being tethered to a charging outlet. 

Why A Long-Range Electric Scooter Might Not Be For You

A long-range e-scooter might not be for you if you are looking for

Portability 

kaabo mantis king gt folded

While long-range electric scooters have many advantages, they may not be the best choice for everyone. One downside is that they are often much less portable than shorter-range models. 

Portability is an important factor to consider when choosing an e-scooter. Bulkier and heavier scooters will typically occupy more space; thus, it may be more difficult to carry them on public transportation or to store them in a small apartment when not in use. 

However, it’s important to keep in mind that portability and range are often at odds with each other. If you need more range, you should contend with the fact that you will have a bigger battery on the e-scooter. These batteries are heavy and occupy a considerable amount of space, which increases the scooter’s weight and dimensions, thereby reducing its portability.

Less Charging Time

charging an electric scooter

It’s simple, the bigger the battery capacity, the greater the range and the higher the charging hours. 

While a longer range and higher capacity battery might sound appealing initially, it is crucial to consider the charging time. Batteries with a bigger capacity can take upwards of 7 hours to charge, and some even as long as 26 hours. This means more downtime when you can’t use your scooter. If you like to be frequently and randomly out and about, a battery with a shorter charging time might be a better option. Yes, you might have to charge it more often, but you’ll also be able to use your e-scooter more consistently throughout the day.

A Cheap Electric Scooter

Long-range e-scooters can be pretty expensive, so if you’re on a budget, they might not be the most practical choice. However, if you’re willing to invest in a quality model, you’ll likely find that the extra range and power are well worth the price tag.

That said, you can still find affordable models that still offer great value. Some of the best electric scooters with a cheap price tag include the Fluid Freeride Horizon (13 Ah), Segway Ninebot Max, and Inmotion L9.

While they may not have all the bells and whistles of the more expensive models, they still deliver on range, making them an excellent option for budget-conscious shoppers.

Also, be sure sure to check out our video below on the cheapest electric scooters you can currently get on the market:

Factors To Consider When Selecting A Long Range Scooter

When selecting a long-range e-scooter, there are several factors to consider in order to ensure you’re making the best possible choice. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:

The Distance to be Traveled, Obviously

icons representing distance from point to point

Obviously, you want to choose an e-scooter that can cover more ground than you need it to. 

First, map out your daily routes and errands to get an idea of the average distance you travel each day. Then, select an electric scooter that has a range that is at least 5 miles–10 miles greater than your average daily travel. This will give you some wiggle room in case you need to go further than you had planned.

A standard electric scooter would be sufficient if you only need to travel a few miles/kilometers each day. However, if you frequently travel 20 miles or more, a long-range electric scooter would be a good investment.

Additionally, keep in mind that the range of your electric scooter may be affected by factors such as temperature, rider’s weight, terrain, and wind resistance. Therefore, it is always best to err on the side of caution and choose a scooter with a slightly higher range than you think you will need. 

As such, selecting a model that has been tested and proven to perform well in the conditions you’ll be using it in is vital. Manufacturer stats can be a helpful starting point. Still, it’s important to remember that these figures are often exaggerated and carried out in conditions that can’t be replicated in real life.

The Battery

electric scooter battery

The battery is the most critical range determinant for an e-scooter, so you must pay special attention to it when selecting. There are a few things to keep in mind when evaluating the battery of a potential scooter purchase.

Battery Capacity

One key consideration when choosing a long-range electric scooter is battery capacity. This is measured in watt-hours (Wh), and it will give you an indication of how much energy the battery can store and how long the scooter can run on a single charge. A higher capacity battery will, at most times, provide more range.

For example, a battery with an energy capacity of 1008 Wh will typically give you a mileage of 20 miles–30 miles, while a battery with a capacity of 541Wh and below will mostly give you a range below 20 miles.

The largest battery we have ever tested was a 2880Wh on a Dualtron Thunder 2 electric scooter.

Battery Type 21700 Vs. 18650.

2170 vs 18650 battery types

 If you ever have a choice of selecting between the two when it comes to long-range, always go for the 21700 type. 18650 batteries are smaller, more portable, and less expensive but have less energy density than 21700 batteries. This means that they won’t power your electric scooter for as long as a 21700 battery will. 21700 batteries are more expensive, larger, and take longer to charge, but they have 20% more energy density than 18650 batteries. This extra energy can power your electric scooter for longer durations, making them the better choice for long-range electric scooters. 

Lead Acid Vs. Lithium

three black batteries in a line

Always go for lithium batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are the most popular and widespread type, and they offer a good balance of energy density, range, weight, and price. Lithium-ion batteries may be more expensive, but they use newer technology, have a better energy density, are lightweight, and have a longer life cycle. 

It’s really rare to find e-scooters using lead-acid batteries, but some still use them, e.g., Razor electric scooters. Lead-acid batteries are cheaper but have shorter lifespans and shorter ranges than lithium-ion batteries. 

Brand Vs. Generic  

Always go for brand batteries(LG, Panasonic, Samsung, etc.)

Any battery-powered device is only as good as the battery that powers it. When choosing a battery for your electric scooter, you may be tempted to save money by opting for a generic brand. However, this is usually a mistake. Generic batteries are often lower in quality, may not last as long as brand-name batteries, and may not be covered by a warranty or guarantee. Additionally, generic batteries may not offer the same level of performance as brand-name batteries. 

On the other hand, brand batteries may cost more upfront but are typically more reliable and longer-lasting than generic batteries. This means you won’t have to replace them as often, saving you money in the long run. Additionally, brand-name batteries usually come with warranties or guarantees, giving you peace of mind in knowing that you can get a replacement if something goes wrong.  Finally, brand-name batteries typically have higher performance levels, meaning that your electric scooter will run more smoothly and efficiently without hiccups.

Charging Time 

electric scooter charger

The larger the battery capacity, the longer the charging time.

Most long-range e-scooters have a charging time of greater than seven hours, which can be a significant inconvenience for some users. However, there are several of these long-range scooters on the market that come with reduced charging times. This can be accomplished by: fast charging and double charging. 

Fast charging is when you charge the battery for a shorter period at a higher voltage. Double charging allows you to use two chargers to charge the electric scooter. This essentially halves the charging time. Always go for the scooter that offers these features to minimize downtime between commutes.

Removable Vs. Non-Removable

Removable batteries offer some advantages over their non-removable counterparts. First, they can be easily swapped out, so you can carry an extra battery with you (if it’s not that heavy) and double your range. Second, they’re usually easier to charge, as you can simply remove the batteries and take them indoors for charging rather than taking the whole scooter in. However, non-removable batteries are more secure and less likely to be damaged as they’re housed within the scooter. 

Comfort, Ride, and Build Quality. 

dualtron storm deck on waterfront

Anyone who’s ever taken a long road trip knows that comfort is essential. After all, there’s nothing worse than being cramped and sore after hours in the car. The same is true for electric scooters, but unfortunately, many electric scooters on the market sacrifice comfort for portability or style. When considering a long-range electric scooter, prioritize features like suspension, large air-filled tires, grippy expansive deck, riding modes etc., for a more comfortable ride. A good suspension and large pneumatic tires(air-filled tires) will smooth out bumps on the road, and a wide deck will give you plenty of room to move around, so you won’t have to worry about being cramped up during your ride.

emove roadrunner seated scooter seat

You’ll also want to ensure that the electric scooter you choose has all essential features to reduce rider fatigue. For example, look for a scooter with a seat option, which will allow you to take a break when needed. Cruise control can be a big help on long rides, as it takes away the need to press on the accelerator throughout. Also, if you’ll be doing a lot of stop-and-go riding, regenerative braking can also be a big help in extending your electric scooter’s range.

Lastly, check the durability and build quality of different parts before making your final decision. Look for durable construction, high-quality components, and a sturdy frame. Pay attention to features like rust-resistant tubing, weather-resistant decking material, and durable plastic fairings. These features will help ensure that your scooter can withstand the rigors of the long open road. Pay particular attention to the tires, as they play a vital role in safety, comfort, and performance. 

Speed and Power

Though not as crucial since the range is the primary concern when selecting a long-range electric scooter,maximum speed and power are still relevant factors to consider. You will want a scooter with enough power to tackle different terrains and hills you will encounter on your daily commutes without struggling. For this reason, look for a scooter with at least 500W nominal power. Heavier riders(220 lbs) may want to look for an electric scooter with 1000W nominal motor power. Additionally, you will want a fast electric scooter that will reduce travel time. A scooter with a maximum speed of 10 mph would drag out the journey and is not ideal. A good speed to look out for in a long-range electric scooter is at least 20 mph; this is not too slow and not too fast, just perfect for long commutes.

The Rider’s Maximum Weight Capacity

While you may be able to get away with riding a standard electric scooter if you are slightly over the weight limit, it is not recommended.

If you weigh more than the scooter is designed to support, it will have to work harder, draining the battery power more quickly. As a result, you may find that your range is reduced dramatically. Not to mention, a scooter struggling to support your body weight will not be as enjoyable as its performance will be significantly reduced. In addition, you may also damage the electric scooter if you overload it on a regular basis. 

Therefore, it is important to make sure that you choose a scooter with a weight capacity that is high enough to support your weight without any issues.

 Most scooters have a weight capacity of around 220 pounds, give or take ten or so pounds. If you weigh more than that, it is worth looking for a scooter with a higher weight capacity.

Warranty 

warranty red badge

Finally, you should consider warranty coverage when choosing a scooter. Most electric scooter manufacturers offer 1- or 2-year warranties on their products. Some even offer extended warranties for an additional cost. Make sure to read the fine print carefully before making your purchase so that you know what is covered in case of a problem with your scooter down the road.

Factors To Consider When Selecting A Long Range E-Scooter(Conclusion)

lots of scooters in front of a nature road

E-scooters are becoming increasingly popular as a convenient way to get around, with many opting for long-range models that cover more miles/kilometers on a single charge. However, with this increase in demand comes an influx of new manufacturers who may not have the same level of experience or expertise as those who have been in the business for years. 

With so many new companies popping up, it’s essential to do your research and buy from a brand that you can trust and one that produces quality scooters. It’s also important to get a rough idea of what’s available and their performance capabilities. Our reviews are a great starting point in your research, and we encourage you to read them before narrowing down your options and making your final decision.

Now that you know the different factors to consider when purchasing an electric scooter be sure to use this guide as your buying checklist. Bear in mind that it won’t be easy to find a model that ticks all the boxes, but try to look for one that ticks most of them instead. 

With a bit of research and some thoughtful deliberation, you’ll be able to find an electric scooter that not only meets your needs but also exceeds your expectations. Happy riding! and also remember to check out our video on the best long range Electric scooters for 2022

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