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It has now transcended from a plaything decades past to an adult commuter’s alternative mode of transport that is both leisurely and fun.
Indeed, with the electric scooter, the possibilities are unlimited.
And recently, they have descended on New Zealand, where most Kiwis have been absolutely smitten by their presence.
Relatively a young and new industry still, but with a wide range of products to offer, the uninitiated can find it overwhelming to comprehend and truly appreciate the electric scooter’s features.
Before you’re overtaken by superfluous information, Mearth offers you this easy-to-understand guide to help you in your choice of the most suitable product based on your requirements.
Weight
Rule of thumb: The heavier the machine, the higher the likelihood of more advanced features.
While Mearth is a light electric scooter (weighing 12.5 Kg) and will generally have a smaller battery, this is not an issue with the hot swappable batteries as spare, for an uninterrupted trip, and an assurance of a smooth ride.
Weight versus the features mentioned is a trade-off and will come down to user preference. Regardless of weight, Mearth’s electric scooters fold down to a smaller size, carry it when you take public transport or you can put on it on the bus/ferry, and even in the boot or trunk of your car.
Motor
MEARTH electric scooters are all powered by internal brushless motors that are housed within the wheel. It seems like magic. But actually, it’s the result of magnets coupled with electric charge that creates a powerful force capable of propelling the scooter forward. The power of electric scooters is determined by watts or the symbol ‘W’, which is typically the maximum power output.
Recent (NZTA) NZ Transport Agency regulation has stated electric scooters must be under 300W. This is not the maximum motor wattage, but the maximum ‘possible’ wattage (defined as the battery voltage multiplied by the controller amps). Let’s say, for a 500W motor that has a 36V battery and a controller with a maximum output of 8 amps, the total power per NZTA would be 288W. (You can do the math).
Ride Comfort (MEARTH Suspension/Tyres)
Many are not aware that the two key decisive factors for ride comfort are: tyres and suspension. So if you travel on rough surfaces most likely you’ll get a headache and tired arms –if your electric scooter comes with hard tyres and no suspension. Mearth S Series does not cause these problems. Equipped with a front suspension system and pneumatic tires, the rider is provided with a smooth and comfortable ride even on uneven surfaces.
Tyres
Well, generally, tyres can be put into two categories — solid rubber or air-filled. While solid rubber tyres are a lot more durable and obviously cannot go flat, they will make your ride stiff and rigid too. The other option which is air-filled will occasionally get holes, and you can have pit stops to have it repaired. Another thing too is that size matters with tyres, Mearth has 10-inch explosion-proof, anti-skid pneumatic tyres.
Batteries
MEARTH’s range of powerful, top-of-the-line, high-quality electric scooters is powered by lithium-ion batteries. Generally, LG batteries are regarded as the market leader. This is primarily due to their reliability and the number of recharges possible. An LG battery (available in MEARTH) is designed for 400+ charges while maintaining 80 percent capacity. Battery size is determined by AH, which means Amp Hours. The higher the AH the larger the capacity of the battery, and therefore the further you can go. This, however, adds more weight to the e-scooter’s load, so be careful. For example, the Mearth S Pro has 180W.
Brakes
The Mearth S Series — Mearth S entry-level commuter e-scooter comes with a rear disc brake and an LED headlight for added safety and visibility during the ride, while the Mearth S Pro commuter electric scooter comes with a front and rear disc brake, an LED headlight, and a tail light, likewise, to provide added safety and visibility while riding.
Disk brakes are located externally and can generally handle more strenuous breaking conditions than drum brakes.
Retailer location and Warranty
Sure, Google, ChatGPT, and Facebook now know literally everything. Amid the information offered, Mearth still aims to guide you so you would be fully aware and understand who you are buying from. Are they based overseas? What if something goes wrong (and that includes the warranty) it’s adios! What a sad goodbye to your purchase as parts are scarce, with no assurance of arriving from overseas, and warranties seldom work.
A buyer who has a local retail presence, with the skills and expertise to service your scooter is the ideal and free you from headaches.
For further advice and guidance in buying your electric scooter then please contact our team or visit mearth.co.nz to know more about Mearth top-tier electric scooters and accessories.