Do you remember the first ride on your e-scooter after you purchased it?
Everything about it must’ve felt so nice—the high-performing engine and the smooth suspensions.
But things are not the same anymore, now that it’s been a few months, and you wonder what happened to those features that made you buy the e-scooter in the first place.
Unfortunately, that can happen if you don’t take care of your e-scooter. Without proper upkeep and maintenance, it can feel rough, prompting you to question your decision of purchasing an e-scooter.
However, it’s nothing worth losing sleep over.
Regular maintenance can get your e-scooter back in good shape. Here’s a list of all components that should be in top-notch condition for the e-scooter to run smoothly:
Battery Maintenance
One of the most crucial parts of an e-scooter is the battery. Each battery consists of cycles, representing their life.
For instance, some have 300 cycles, while others have 1000 cycles.
To ensure the battery performs to its fullest, you must adhere to certain guidelines, including:
- Read the user manual to understand how often you should get it serviced.
- Store the battery in a place with a temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Extreme temperatures can affect battery life.
- Use the original charger that came with the e-scooter.
- Unplug the battery after it is fully charged.
- Do not wait for the battery to be empty before charging it again—recharge when it’s around 20-30% for optimal battery health.
Tire Maintenance
The right pressure in your e-scooter tire can help keep it running for long. This is especially true if you ride the e-scooter on rough or uneven terrain.
Here’s what you can do to properly care for your tire:
- Check the pressure of your tire before heading out.
- Do not exceed the recommended pressure.
- Inspect the tires for wear and tear and get them repaired if necessary.
- Clean the tires frequently, more so if you drive on rough terrain.
Brake Maintenance
Although brakes play an important role in keeping you safe while riding an e-scooter, you cannot do much to prevent brake failure. That said, check your brakes before commuting daily.
Additional instructions include:
- Inspect the brake pads for wear and tear; if they’re too thin or worn out, get them replaced immediately.
- Check the brake cables for signs of corrosion or fraying.
- Adjust the calipers of your disc brakes with a screw or bolt; they should be neither too tight nor too loose.
Suspension Maintenance
The part that connects the vehicle to the ground is called a suspension. In addition to keeping you safe, it helps you stay comfortable while riding over rough terrain.
Some essential suspension-maintenance tips are:
- For a spring or rubber suspension, make sure the screws are adjusted correctly and tightened enough.
- Hydraulic suspensions require an oil change periodically, for which you will require professional assistance.
Electrical System Maintenance (Motor)
Caring for your e-scooter motor may seem difficult, but it’s relatively easy. Just keep the following points in mind, and you’ll be good to go:
- Keep moisture away from the motor. Otherwise, it may begin to rust. Some motors can withstand light exposure to water as long as they are dried fast. Still, do not go out while it’s raining.
- Avoid overheating the motor, as it may cause the electrical system to malfunction. If you smell a distinct odor coming from your motor, stop the e-scooter. Do not drive the e-scooter during scorching weather.
Cleaning and Lubrication
Riding a well-lubricated e-scooter is easy because pedaling the bike is easier and consumes less energy. If you’re looking for helpful tips, we’ve mentioned a few below:
- Before lubing your chain, use a degreaser to wipe off dirt or oil.
- Apply a moderate amount of lube, as too much lube can make your chain a mess.
- After lubing the chain, use a clean cloth to remove excessive oil.
General Maintenance Tips
In addition to specific components, adopting a few general maintenance practices can prolong the life of your e-scooter.
- Regularly inspect the vehicle for wear and tear, loose parts, or unusual noises.
- Keeping a maintenance schedule and sticking to it ensures that all parts are checked and serviced timely, avoiding potential breakdowns during use.
- Invest in a high-quality cover to protect your e-scooter when it’s not in use. This will shield it from dust, rain, and harsh sunlight, which can degrade the components over time.
- If your e-scooter has an app or smart connectivity, regularly update the software for optimal performance and security.
Conclusion
Maintaining your e-scooter isn’t just about ensuring it runs smoothly; it’s about maximizing its lifespan and keeping your rides safe and enjoyable.
By following these maintenance tips, from battery care to regular cleaning and lubrication, you can prevent many common issues and keep your e-scooter in top shape.
Regular upkeep will not only enhance your riding experience but also give you peace of mind, knowing your e-scooter is reliable and ready for the road.
