The Five Must-Haves When Riding An Electric Scooter
If you’ve ridden an electric scooter, you’ve experienced by now how incredibly efficient and eco-friendly it is to get around.
And if you haven’t, you’re missing out because e-scooter are the best way to get where you need to. It is fast, reliable and easy to maneuver.
And here are the five (5) must-haves when riding an electric scooter? Let’s talk about these essential items:
- Approved Helmet:
While wearing a helmet is not currently mandatory when riding an electric scooter in most parts of Australia, it is highly recommended for safety as it can protect your head from injuries in the event of an accident. The approved helmet is definitely the first must-have you should own along with an electric scooter.
The mandatory standard is based on certain sections of the voluntary Australian and New Zealand Standard, AS/NZS 2063:2008—standard for bicycle helmets, which is also approved for use with electric scooters.
The AS/NZS 2063:2008 helmet offers protection to the cyclist’s head during impact as it features a shell, a liner and a retention strap fitted along the lower jaw area. Just make sure to choose a helmet that fits you properly.
- Protective Gear:
In case of an accident, it is important to protect other parts of your body when riding an electric scooter and this is the second must-have: protective gear. Knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards can help protect your joints and prevent scratches, wounds and/or injuries if you fall. It's especially important to wear protective gear if you're new to riding an electric scooter, which is the time you’re most likely prone to be off balance.
- Sunscreen:
Australia is a large country with diverse weather patterns, but generally, this continent country is known for its sunny weather and warm temperatures particularly in the northern regions – and many riders have overlooked the sun exposure. But there’s a solution to this, sunscreen!
Always travel prepared because sun exposure is a serious concern for anyone who loves the outdoors, like Australians. Sunscreen should be applied at least 15 minutes before going outside and reapplied every two hours. When choosing a sunscreen, look for one that is broad-spectrum and has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays, which are the two types of UV radiation that can cause skin damage. SPF measures how well the sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which are the primary cause of sunburn. It is important to use sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays because both can cause skin damage.
Sunscreen is surely a must-have as riders of convenient electric scooters are particularly at risk for sun exposure because they are often exposed to the sun's UV radiation from all angles, no matter the time of day. It is important to protect yourself with sunscreen.
- Lights:
Visibility is key when riding an electric scooter, especially at night or in low light conditions. Make sure your favorite e-scooter has built-in lights or install aftermarket lights to ensure you're visible to other riders, pedestrians, and motorists. A front light can help you see the road ahead, while a rear light can alert others to your presence and help prevent accidents.
- Lock:
Electric scooters have recently become a popular mode of transport and a popular target for thieves. It's important to secure your scooter when you're not riding it. A sturdy lock can help prevent theft and keep your reliable e-scooter safe. Look for a lock that's strong and durable, and make sure to use it every time you park your electric scooter.
So there you have it, make sure you have your five (5) must-haves like the approved helmet, protective gear, sunscreen, lights, and a reliable lock when riding an electric scooter. It is important to prioritize safety and be aware of the other essential items you need to have. By taking all these safety measures and being prepared, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable ride on your electric scooter.
If you need help in deciding what e-scooter is the best for you, hop on to Ride Hub Australia, Home of the Electrified Beasts (E-Rides) and reach out to the experts who can pave a way for you to have a more fun and efficient way to travel.
