More and more people are making the switch from cars and motorcycles to scooters. After all, they're more affordable, cheaper to maintain, and more city-friendly. Also, scooters are mainly available in two options: gasoline-powered and electric-powered. If you're unsure which type of scooter you should buy, check out this guide to help you make an informed decision.
Affordability and Fuel Efficiency
Image via Flickr by scotted400
In terms of affordability, electric scooters are the outright winner because they cost significantly less than gas scooters. When it comes to fuel efficiency, both options offer compelling savings, so it comes down to the cost of gasoline versus the cost of electricity in your locality.
Performance
Depending on their powertrain specifications, gasoline-powered scooters can achieve a top speed of up to 100 mph. Electric scooters, on the other hand, are mostly only capable of a maximum speed of up to 25 mph. They aren't designed for performance but rather for convenience and fuel efficiency.
Ease of Operation
Both electric and gas scooters are easy to operate. For the most part, they just require you to turn them on and start riding. They both feature continuously variable transmissions, so you don't need to deal with the hassle of changing gears. Therefore, anybody can ride them competently with just a little training and practice.
Engine Noise
If you're concerned about engine noise, electric scooters are the better option. Gasoline-powered scooters can be quite noisy. The drones of their engines can be similar to those of lawnmowers, which many people find irritating. Electric scooters, on the other hand, are very quiet. Even when you're pushing it hard, all you'll hear is a low humming sound.
Impact on the Environment
Electric scooters are also friendlier to the environment than gas scooters because they don't produce any carbon emissions. However, you should consider the fact that gas scooters produce way less carbon emissions than motorcycles and cars. Therefore, you'll still get marks for being environmentally conscious no matter which type of scooter you choose.
Durability
The durability of any scooter largely depends on its make because build quality can vary greatly from one manufacturer to another. This is why scooters of certain makes are more expensive than others. However, you should note that gas scooters are typically tougher machines because they're meant to handle higher speeds and longer distances. Electric scooters are mostly used within city limits where electric power is readily available. As such, their manufacturers usually don't give precedence to body strength.
Convenience
Gasoline-powered scooters are more convenient to use because they give you more range with a full tank of gas. Most electric scooters can only travel up to 50 miles on a single charge, so you won't be able to go very far from the place where you recharge your scooter.
All things considered, the choice between a gas scooter and an electric scooter comes down to personal preference. Both types of scooters have their strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, you need to take your personal needs into consideration before making your final decision.
