Tag scooter

Scooters can be a fun and quick way to get around in your neighborhood, on the way to school, or while taking in some fresh air at the park. While people of all ages can ride scooters, you may be wondering, “How fast can you go on a scooter?” In this article, we will discuss how factors such as the type of scooter, strength of the rider, and additional factors can affect the speed of a scooter. 

How Fast Are Kick Scooters?

Unlike electric or gas-powered scooters, kick scooters fully rely on human power. This means that the scooter’s speed will depend on how hard you push off the ground and keep momentum. Here’s what you can expect:

• Casual Riding: To comfortably get around without exerting too much effort, most scooter riders will cruise at 7-10 mph. 
• Active Riding: You can reach around 10-15 mph on smooth surfaces if you push harder and use the proper technique. 
• Downhill Speed: When riding downhill, gravity gives an extra boost, pushing speed to around 15-20 mph or more. Just be extremely careful when going downhill! 

In each of these cases, beginners will typically ride more slowly, whereas more experienced riders will be able to maintain faster speeds.

What Factors Will Affect Your Scooter Speed?

1. Rider Strength and Technique

Kick scooters are powered by your legs, so how hard you push off and how often you kick will go a long way in determining your speed. Start your ride with a strong push to get you going. If you can do so comfortably, alternate which leg you use to kick so you can avoid tiring out too quickly and maintain your speed.

2. Scooter Design

The design of your scooter will have a significant impact on your maximum speed. If you want to ride quickly on your scooter, consider the following features when you purchase yours:

• Wheel Size: Larger wheels rotate more quickly, thus providing greater speed, and can handle bumps better than smaller ones. Most high-quality scooters have 120mm or 200mm wheels.
• Deck Height: It is easier for riders to kick off and push their scooters when the decks are lower to the ground. An easier kick function allows for greater speed.
• Bearings: Scooters with good-quality bearings have less friction. Look for scooters with ABEC-7 or ABEC-9 bearings for a faster, smoother ride.

3. Terrain and Surface Conditions

The smoothness of the terrain you ride on will have a huge impact on the speed of your ride.

• Smooth Pavement: Smooth pavement is optimal for scooter riders who want to go fast. Flat surfaces will have fewer bumps to disturb the wheels of your scooter. Fewer disturbances mean maximum glide, minimal effort, and more speed.
• Sidewalks and Rough Roads: For the same reason, the smooth pavement will allow for increased speed, and sidewalks and rough roads will slow down your scooter. These paths have divisions, cracks, and bumps that will impact your ride.
• Grass: Grass is even worse for scooter speed than rough roads are. Depending on how tall or soft the grass is, your wheel may be basically immobile. You’ll be lucky if you can move at all, let alone move quickly, so it’s better to avoid grass for scootering.

4. Weather Conditions

Be mindful of weather conditions when heading out on your scooter. Wind resistance and a strong breeze can slow you down. Wet surfaces also reduce traction, making it harder to push.

How to Ride Faster on a Kick Scooter

Here are some tips to get the most out of your scooter’s speed:

• Use Proper Kicking Technique: When starting your ride, kick off firmly and fully extend your leg. Consider using both legs to avoid getting fatigued and to stay balanced. Some studies have even shown that pushing with your nondominant side can promote muscular balance development in children. 
• Stay Low and Lean Forward: Leaning forward slightly can improve your aerodynamics and boost your speed.
• Keep Your Scooter Well-Maintained: Clean and lubricate your scooter bearings, regularly check that the wheels are in good condition, and keep an eye out for any loose parts that could affect your scooter’s performance.

Safety Tips for High-Speed Scootering

Safety on your scooter is of the utmost importance, especially when you’re reaching high speeds. Follow these tips on how to stay safe while riding your scooter at higher speeds:

• Always Wear a Helmet: Even at moderate speeds, a fall can have severe consequences. A helmet will help protect against serious injuries.
• Use Protective Gear: Knee and elbow pads are an excellent way to avoid bodily scrapes and bruises. The usefulness of this extra protection cannot be overstated, especially for kids and new riders.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Watch out for pedestrians, cyclists, and other obstacles while scootering so you can avoid sudden stops or accidents.
• Regularly Maintain Your Scooter: Loose handlebars, worn-out wheels, or faulty brakes can make high-speed riding dangerous.

Get Your Scooter Equipment Today

While kick scooters cannot reach the extreme speeds of electric or gas-powered models, they can still be surprisingly fast. Most riders stay at 7-10 mph, while experienced riders can push up to 15 mph or more on smooth terrain. If you have more questions about how to maximize your speed while staying safe, consult our skate shop today!

Scootering is a fun activity that gets you moving and boosts your mood. No matter how old you are or what your fitness level is, scootering is something everyone can do. Many people scoot around to burn some calories, but others may use it as a form of transportation. No matter why you choose to scoot, it is important to stay safe. Should you wear safety gear while scootering? Below, you will find helpful information about how to ensure you reduce your risk of injury while skating.

Should You Wear Safety Gear While Scootering?

Many people ride a scooter for fun, but it is also a great way to get around. Skating offers so many benefits no matter why you do it. It can help you burn some calories, boost your mood, and help you socialize. However, as with anything, it comes with certain risks. Maintaining your safety while scootering is key. 

If you skate for fun, safety gear can help reduce your risk of injury if you scoot fast or do any tricks. Alternatively, if you scoot as a form of transportation, roads can get busy and dangerous. Having safety gear on can protect you in the event of an accident. No matter how experienced you are, wear safety gear while you skate to optimize your safety.

Safety Gear for Scootering

There are some essentials when it comes to safety gear when you scoot around. Be sure to get the following items before you begin scootering. 

Helmet

A helmet is the most necessary piece of safety gear for riders. It protects your head from injury in the event of an accident, dramatically reducing the risk of a serious injury if you experience head trauma. You must wear a helmet if you ride a scooter. Luckily, you can get it from the same skate shop where you purchase your scooter for optimal convenience.

Protective Clothing

Cover your skin when you scoot to fully protect your body. It is common for those who ride scooters to take a spill, whether by simple accident or because they are trying to perform a trick. Avoid wearing shorts, sandals, or tank tops. Exposed skin can be easily injured. Road rash is extremely painful and can increase your risk of infection. Wear thick clothing that will protect your skin if you fall.

High-Visibility Gear

Even if you avoid scootering at night, wear protective clothing that is highly visible, such as bright colors with reflective surfaces. They will make you more visible to others when you are moving around. If you do skate at night or early in the morning, reflective clothing and lighting are non-negotiable. They are a cost-effective way to protect yourself and reduce the risk of an accident.

Protective Padding

Protective padding is non-negotiable if you are a beginner at scootering. More advanced skaters may skip out on this, but it is still a good idea no matter what level you are at. Protective padding includes elbow pads, knee pads, and wrist guards. These are great if you are a beginner or have balance issues. They protect the main points of contact people hit when they fall off of a scooter.

The Importance of Wearing Safety Gear

Safety gear while you scoot around is helpful in protecting you. It keeps you safe and reduces the risk of serious injury. It can also help you feel more confident. Knowing you are protected if you get into an accident gives you peace of mind while you are on your scooter. 

In some places, safety gear may be a legal requirement. Be sure to check your local and state laws to ensure you are in full compliance. If you need to purchase safety gear, check out the selection at Crazy Skates today!