Electric scooters are becoming more and more popular as a convenient urban mobility tool.
For people who need to travel short distances, electric scooters with less than 500W are an ideal choice. These electric scooters usually have moderate power and speed and can meet the needs of daily commuting and weekend leisure. They are not only environmentally friendly and energy efficient, but also easy to operate and suitable for people of all ages.
In this blog, I will introduce you to entry-level electric scooters under 500W, what they do, and what scenarios they are suitable for, as well as recommend 3 electric scooters under 500W to help you better choose the right mobility tool for you. Let’s explore these commuter electric scooters and enjoy a more convenient and efficient traveling experience!
Basic Information on Electric Scooters Under 500W
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Motor
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Single Motor
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Simple structure, easy maintenance, stable operation, suitable for some simple application scenarios, with a certain degree of economy and practicality.
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Motor Power
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250W-500W
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Suitable for riding on flat road surfaces.
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Top Speed
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24 km/h-32 km/h(15mph-20mph)
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In the United States, the speed of electric scooters is controlled by different laws and regulations in each state. Generally speaking, the speed limit of electric scooters is usually between 15 and 20 MPH. When using an electric scooter, it is best to check your local laws and regulations to make sure you are acting legally and safely.
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Endurance
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16km(10miles)
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Convenient for one-way traveling on most daily commutes (carry the charger with you).
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Brake system
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Usually achieved by combining a single mechanical brake (disc, drum or foot brake) with regenerative braking
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Lightweight and easy to maneuver for everyday urban travel.
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Tire
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Solid tire.
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Suitable for flat paved roads.
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Suspension
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Usually not.
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Suspension is associated with vibration damping, so for a better vibration damping experience it is recommended to buy an electric scooter with suspension.
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Light
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Basic Lighting
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Satisfies basic lighting needs, with a focus on practicality and safety.
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Weight
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≤20kg（44lbs）
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Portable and easy to maneuver.
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Loads
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≤100kg（220lbs）
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Be careful to buy the right scooter for your weight.
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Waterproof level
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IPX4
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Suitable for wet ground, fog/dense fog; light rain.
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Budget
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Within $500
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Suitable for those on a tight budget.
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Target user
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For newcomers, commuters with flat roads, and those on a tight budget.
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The above people are recommended to consider the electric scooter with less than 500W, which is cost-effective.
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Detailed Annotation
Single Motor
What is a single-motor electric scooter
Single-motor electric scooters have only one motor driving the wheel, usually located in the rear wheel hub. Single-motor electric scooters are generally cheaper than dual-motor models. They are suitable for riders who prioritize cost-effectiveness and do not require excessive power or speed. Single-wheel scooters also have longer battery life and a longer range due to reduced power consumption.
Motor Power
The motor is the power unit of the electric scooter. This means that it determines and generates the power that the electric scooter uses while riding. It will also determine the acceleration, maximum speed, climbing ability, overall performance, and power consumption of the electric scooter. Most commuter electric scooters come with a single motor, but high-performance or off-road electric scooters often use dual motors to provide additional power.
Electric scooter motor power is measured in watts (W). The wattage indicated on the motor is the amount of power the motor can consume. A motor with a higher wattage rating means it will consume a lot of energy in a short period of time. It also means the motor is powerful because the more energy the motor consumes, the more mechanical power it produces. By being powerful, the motor will accelerate faster, support heavier riders, and climb steep hills.
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Power
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Top Speed
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Applicable models
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Applicable terrain
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250W
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25KM/H (15MPH) or less
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Entry commuter scooter
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Flat terrain
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350W
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25-35KM/H (22MPH)
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Commuter scooter
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Flat terrain, gentle slopes
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Top Speed
City cars on the market are generally limited to a maximum speed of 20 mph. Each state in the U.S. has different laws and regulations for electric scooters, as shown in the attached chart.
Attachment: U.S. State Laws and Regulations
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State
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Driving Range
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Regulations
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Age
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Protective Gear
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Texas
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It is legal to drive an electric scooter on a carriageway with a speed limit of 35 km/h or less.
Whether they can be driven on the footpath (Sidewalk) is still under discussion.
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Currently, riders of electric scooters are required to follow the same traffic laws as motorists, including stopping at traffic lights and the direction of travel in the lane.
As the law only allows electric scooters to be driven on roads where the speed limit is less than equal to 35 km/h, it means that it cannot be used on motorways.
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Unspecified
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Although the law requiring the wearing of protective gear (such as helmets) is not yet in place, and electric scooter hire companies are only advocating the wearing of helmets, the wearing of helmets is still very important for riding, judging from past injuries caused by accidents resulting from the riding of electric scooters.
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California
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California law states that electric scooters can only be driven in bike lanes.
No matter where they are, the maximum speed limit is 15 mph, one of the few such demanding speed limits in many North American states and exceeding the speed limit can result in a $250 ticket.
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1. The scooter must be equipped with a light that provides illumination within 300 feet of the front side by side, with the front light being replaceable with a searchlight worn by the rider;
2. the rear side must be fitted with a red reflector to ensure visibility within 500 feet;
3. a yellow or white reflector with visibility for 200 feet is required on both the front and rear sides of the vehicle, with the rear side reflector being replaceable with a reflector worn by the rider;
4. mandatory installation of brake brakes;
5. stopping on the rear side of the intersection at the right-hand curb;
6. must cross the road on foot;
7. must not operate the scooter while under the influence of certain drugs or alcohol, and driving while intoxicated may result in a DUI charge of ‘driving under the influence’ and a $350 ticket.
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California law requires riders under the age of 18 to wear a helmet.
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Riders must be at least 16 years old and have a valid motor vehicle license to operate an electric scooter on the road or face a $200 ticket.
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New York
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It may be driven on motorways with a speed limit of up to 30 mph, as well as on cycle paths, and is prohibited on pavements.
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1. Different cities may decide how to regulate electric scooters;
2. Shared scooter companies may not operate in Manhattan or densely populated boroughs;
3. It is legal to own your own electric scooter in New York;
4. Electric scooters must weigh less than 100 pounds;
5. Prohibit the operation of an electric scooter while intoxicated.
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Must be at least 16 years of age, but does not specify whether a motor vehicle driver’s license is required.
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All riders under the age of 18 must wear a helmet.
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Michigan
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Electric scooters are allowed on public roads.
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Keep to the right-hand side of the road as much as possible.
No more than 2 people may ride side by side.
Use designated paths when required by local ordinances.
No passing between lanes. (MCL 257.660(1), (2), (3) and (4)).
Unusually, you can ride on the pavement, but you must ‘yield the right-of-way to pedestrians’ and you must ‘give an audible signal before overtaking and passing pedestrians.’ (MCL 257.660(5).
If riding on a roadway between one-half hour after sunset and one-half hour before sunrise, you must have a white headlight that is visible from a distance of at least 500 feet, and you must have a red reflector or a red rear light that is visible from a distance of 500 feet ……’ (MCL 257.662(1)).
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Children under 12 years of age may not ride an electric scooter or electric skateboard ‘on a public highway or street.’ (MCL 257.658(9)).
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Only operators of scooters or motorized scooters under the age of 19 must ‘wear a helmet’. (MCL 257.658(4)).
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Indiana and Illinois
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Electric scooters cannot be ridden on pavements, cultural trails or any greenway.
Electric scooters must be ridden on the street, obeying all normal traffic laws.
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You can ride on cycle lanes;
You cannot ride against traffic on one-way streets.
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Unspecified
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Helmets are recommended but not yet mandatory.
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Indiana and Illinois
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No restrictions, license, insurance, or registration are required.
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It must have handles.
The net weight of the scooter must not exceed 34 kg (75 lbs).
It must not be ridden at a speed of more than 32 km/h (20 mph).
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Unspecified
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Unspecified
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Columbia/Washington DC
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Cyclists are not allowed to wear headphones.
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The speed must not exceed 10 miles per hour.
Cycling is also not permitted on footpaths in the CBD.
Cyclists are not allowed to wear headphones.
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Must be 16 years old.
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Unspecified
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Range
The range of an electric scooter is the distance it can travel on a single charge. The range distance depends on factors such as the brand and model of the electric scooter, battery capacity, motor efficiency, vehicle weight traveling speed, etc. Generally speaking, the range of time is between 10 and 30 kilometers.
Is the Size of the Electric Scooter’s Battery Related to its Range?
Brake System
Drum Brake
Working Principle: Drum brakes are mounted inside the wheel hub and have built-in brake shoes or pads. When the brake shoes or pads are pushed outwards, they come into contact with the drum and create friction to slow down the rotational speed.
Disc Brake
Working Principle: The friction between the friction disc and the brake pads is used to slow down the scooter or stop it. Disc brakes are usually operated using a handle or foot pedal.
Foot Brake
Working Principle: The simplest braking system, where the rider steps on the rear wing and slows the wheels by pushing into the tires.
Regenerative Brake
Working Principle: Recovers energy generated during braking and stores it in the battery to extend the driving range.
Tires
Commuter electric scooters generally have solid tires.
It is made of dense rubber or similar material and is puncture-resistant and maintenance-free. Typically smaller wheels (usually 6-8 inches), slower speeds, poor vibration damping, poor passing qualities, and only suitable for flat surfaces.
The larger the tire size, the greater the passing and stability.
However, there is no shortage of low-power electric scooters that use higher-end tires, including tubeless tires (vacuum tires), tubular tires, etc., to bring about better passability and shock absorption.
Tubeless tires (vacuum tires) are mounted directly on the rim and do not require an inner tube.
They remain airtight by being tightly fitted and, in the event of a puncture, can be repaired using a tire sealant, sometimes without even having to dismantle the tire. Tubeless tires are more complex in design, cost more in materials, and are therefore more expensive.
Tube tires, on the other hand, contain an inner tube, which is placed inside the tire and inflated to maintain the shape of the tire and provide cushioning.
The inner tube’s own airtightness maintains the tire’s inflation pressure and, in the event of a leak, the tire is simply removed to repair the inner tube and then re-installed.
In the event of minor damage to the outer tire, only the inner tube needs to be replaced, greatly reducing maintenance costs.
Light
Electric scooters under 500W usually have lower light power, which is mainly used to provide a basic lighting function to make the rider more noticeable to other vehicles and pedestrians at night or in dimly lit environments.
These lights usually feature LED bulbs, which consume less power but provide good illumination. Some electric scooters are also equipped with blinking lights or reflective strips to enhance rider visibility and safety. Overall, electric scooter lights under 500W focus on practicality and safety rather than high power and exaggerated designs.
Is an Electric Scooter Under 500W Right for Me?
For Beginners
Suitable for electric scooter beginners, not fast, ranging up to 10 miles, high safety.
Short Commuting Distance
Suitable for students, commuters, or people who need to travel short distances in the city. This lower-power electric scooter is suitable for use on flat urban roads. The speed is usually about 20km/h, which can meet daily mobility needs.
Flat Road Conditions
Suitable for commuting, leisure, shopping, and other means of transport, good road conditions, flat, no steep slopes and gravel.
Light Weight
Riders weighing 220lbs or less are suitable for the choice, heavy riders are recommended to buy 500W or more electric scooters to get faster speed.
Budget Requirement
Usually, the price of an electric scooter under 500W is under $400, which is economical.
Overview of Electric Scooters Up to 500W (Off-Road)
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Images
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Product Name
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E9 Pro
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LEQISMART A11
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Atomi Alpha
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Motor Power
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350W
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350W
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350W
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Top Speed
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20km/h (12MPH)
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20km/h (12MPH)
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25Km/h (15.5MPH)
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Range
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30km (18.6MPH)
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30km (18.6MPH)
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40km (25MPH)
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Braking
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Disc Brakes and EABS
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Drum Brake, Electric Brake
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Drum brakes and EABS
anti-lock brakes
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Tire
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8.5″
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10” Vacuum puncture-proof tires
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9” Tubeless tires with puncture protection
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Light
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Headlight, tail light
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Headlight, tail light
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Headlights, turn signals, tail lights
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Waterproof
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IP54
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IPX4
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IP65
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Load
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120kg (265lbs)
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100kg (220lbs)
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120kg (265lbs)
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Weight
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13kg (29lbs)
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16.7kg (37lbs)
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16.4kg (36lbs)
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Certificate
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ABE
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ABE
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E9 Pro–Excellent Value for Money
- Motor Power: 350W
- Max Range: 20km/h (12MPH)
- Max Speed: 30km (18.6MPH)
- Brakes: Disc Brakes and EABS
- Max Load: 120kg (265lbs)
- Tires: 8.5″
- Lights: Headlight, tail light
- Waterproof Level: IP54
- Weight: 13kg(29lbs)
The E9 Pro is a cost-effective 350W electric scooter with a 350W motor that can reach a maximum speed of 20km/h (12MPH) and a range of up to 30km for your daily commute, IP54 waterproofing for light rain and wet floors, and a bright headlight with a range of up to 15 meters for visibility during night time rides. Ideal for daily commuting or short trips.
LEQISMART A11– 10” Vacuum Large Tires
- Motor Power: 350W
- Max Range: 20km/h (12MPH)
- Max Speed: 30km (18.6MPH)
- Brakes: Drum Brake, Electric Brake
- Max Load: 100kg (220lbs)
- Tires: 10” vacuum puncture-proof tires
- Lights: Headlight, tail light
- Waterproof Level:
- Weight: 16.7kg (37lbs)
The LEQISMART A11 is a very passable 350W electric scooter. 10” vacuum puncture-proof tires are designed to handle uneven surfaces with gravel and gravel, and are well damped. 350W motor can reach a maximum speed of 20km/h (12MPH) and has a range of up to 30km, making it perfect for short commutes or casual rides around town. Equipped with front LED lights, rear brake lights, drum brakes, and electric brakes to provide reliable braking power when you need it. The platform height of 200mm allows for comfortable foot placement.
Atomi Alpha–Premium Vacuum Tire Commuter Scooter
- Motor Power: 350W
- Max Range: 25Km/h (15.5MPH)
- Max Speed: 40km (25MPH)
- Brakes: Drum brakes and EABS anti-lock brakes
- Max Load: 120kg (265lbs)
- Tires: 9” Tubeless tires with puncture protection
- Lights: Headlights, turn signals, tail lights
- Waterproof Level: IP65
- Weight: 16.4kg (36lbs)
Atomi Alpha is a high-end commuter electric scooter. Equipped with a powerful 650W peak rear motor, it can climb up to 20°, so you don’t need to worry about the lack of power when you live in areas with many slopes.9” puncture-proof tubeless tires provide better comfort, traction, and rolling performance on rough road surfaces. With a long range of 40km (25MPH), it can satisfy the trip around the neighborhood, so that you can enjoy the journey.
Conclusion
When choosing an electric scooter under 500W, you can pick the right style and brand according to your needs and budget to make traveling more convenient and enjoyable.
We hope that through the recommendations in this article, you can better understand the features and advantages of electric scooters under 500W so that you can be more informed when choosing and buying.
We hope that you can pay attention to safety in the process of using electric scooters, comply with traffic rules, and enjoy a healthy and environmentally friendly way of traveling. I wish you a smooth and trouble-free ride, and enjoy the fun of this new way of traveling! Thanks for reading this article.
More Reading
How to Choose the Right Electric Scooter Tires for You?
Is the Size of the Electric Scooter’s Battery Related to Its Range?
