Determine the Right Scooter
How to Determine the Right Scooter for You!
You can ride a scooter of any size, but that doesn’t mean it will be the best for you to learn on or be the most comfortable. Riding a scooter that’s not properly fitted for you will take a toll on your body.
For your everyday needs, a scooter that is the right size for your body is going to provide you with the most enjoyable experience.
Here are a few tips on choosing the right size scooter:
- For Beginners: You should refrain from settling on larger scooter handlebars if you are under the impression that you will grow into them. This will cause the scooter to be harder to handle and more difficult to learn with.
- In most instances, the height of the handlebars on your scooter should be near your waist when standing on the deck.
- However, the size of your scooter is more of a personal preference than anything else. It comes down to your comfort – how does the scooter feel when you are riding it? If you’re comfortable with the size and you can handle it well then you have found the scooter for you!
- Weight: It will be much easier to learn and practice with a lighter scooter. Keep in mind the different weights of every part going on your Scooter!
Scooter Handlebars
The Scooter Handlebar is the component in which you hold onto. This will be your main component in which you control your scooter with.
If you are getting a one-piece bar for your scooter, you should consider if you want a steel (chromoly) or aluminum bar:
Steel bar: Stronger compared to aluminum bars, but also weigh more.
Aluminum bar: Lightweight construction, and depending on the quality, pretty durable too.
Diameter: There are two different diameters for the handlebars. These two different diameters are known as oversized and standard. Please keep in mind which size you purchase and ensure that all the components of your scooter work correctly!
Width: Riders have different preferences when choosing a width. A good hint is to choose a bar with the same width as your shoulders. A larger width with allow the rider to have more control of the scooter and generally will be more comfortable. A smaller width will be easier to do numerous tricks on. (Remember you can always choose a wide bar and cut it to your preference!)
Height: Pro scooters are usually lower than standard scooters. Choosing a height is also a matter of preference. Skilled riders often choose lower bars to gain stability and better control.
Back sweep: This is when the bars handles bend back by a small amount like bicycle bars do. This can add comfort, but can also take time to get used to.
Scooter Wheels
The more basic scooters come with 100mm or 110mm wheels for a low, stable center of gravity, pro riders tend to ride with 110mm. Most Scooter wheels are made of similar materials, and have similar design and construction.
Some wheels will be faster or smoother than others in result of the hardness of the urethane of the wheel. (Outer rubber-like compound around the wheel) Harder wheels are normally meant for outdoor riding to withstand the harder impacts. Softer wheels will be more ideal in the skate park where it’s easier to maintain speed and give a smoother ride.
Bearings
Bearings are the seven or eight balls at the center of each wheel. Each bearing has an ABEC rating that indicates the precision of their manufacturing. All bearings serve the same purpose. However, the better quality bearings will allow your scooter to roll faster!
Decks
The deck is the component in which you stand and balance yourself while riding your pro scooter. Most decks have a measurement of 4″- 4.5” wide by 19″ - 21” long. Be sure to choose the right size of deck for your scooter. Generally the smaller the rider, the smaller the deck within the above sizing parameters.
