How Fast Do Electric Scooters Go? Top Speed Guide

Wondering how fast electric scooters can go? Most commuter electric scooters reach speeds between 15 and 25 miles per hour, while entry-level models are slower, and high-performance scooters can go much faster. 

Your actual speed will depend on the scooter's motor, battery, and even your weight or where you ride.

In this top speed guide, we’ll break down average speeds, the fastest models available, and what factors affect how quickly your e-scooter can go.

⚡ Quick Insights:  How Fast Do Electric Scooters Go?

• Entry-level scooters: 12–15 mph (20–25 km/h)
• Commuter scooters: 15–20 mph (25–32 km/h)
• High-performance models: 30+ mph (48+ km/h)
• Speed depends on motor wattage, battery, rider weight, and terrain
• Always check local speed limits and safety laws

How Fast Do Electric Scooters Go? Understanding Average Top Speed Categories

Electric scooters can be grouped based on their top speeds. Each category is best suited for certain riders and situations, from beginners and short trips to serious enthusiasts who want maximum power.

Entry-Level E-Scooters (Under 15 mph)

Entry-level e-scooters usually max out at speeds between 12 and 15 mph (about 20 to 25 km/h). These scooters are designed for new riders, teens, and those who need a basic ride for short distances.

They are often lightweight and easy to carry. Many models in this range are also the most affordable.

Pick one of these if you care more about safety and budget than speed. They're a good fit for campus rides, neighborhood errands, or anyone just starting out.

Common features:

• Simple controls
• Lower price points
• Smaller batteries
• Limited range

Mid-Range Scooters (15–20 mph)

Mid-range scooters reach 15 to 20 mph (24 to 32 km/h). This is the most common type for city commutes or daily rides.

These scooters provide a nice balance. They are fast enough for most urban needs, but not too quick for safe use in areas with lots of pedestrians.

They offer more features and better battery life than entry-level units. Most brands focus on this class because of its wide appeal.

What makes them popular:

• Enough speed for commuting
• Usually comfortable with larger wheels
• Moderately priced
• Good for regular city trips

High-Speed E-Scooters (25–40+ mph)

High-speed e-scooters can reach 25 to 40 mph or more (about 40 to 65 km/h). These are not for most people.

They are built for speed fans or for off-road use. Cities may not allow these scooters on public roads, so always check your local laws.

Important points:

• Require a helmet and sometimes insurance
• Often heavier and more expensive
• May be illegal to ride on public streets
• Not as portable or easy to store

You should consider these only if you need serious speed or are riding away from crowded areas. Safety and legal requirements are very important for this category.

How Fast Do Electric Scooters Go? Factors That Affect Speed

The speed of your electric scooter comes down to three main things. Your scooter needs a strong motor, a healthy battery, and the right riding conditions to hit higher speeds.

Motor Wattage and Torque

The wattage of your scooter’s motor is a big deal when it comes to speed. Motors with higher wattage can push your scooter faster and handle hills better.

• Entry-level scooters: Usually have motors between 250 and 500 watts. These can go up to 15-20 mph, but might slow down on hills.
• Mid-range to high-performance scooters: Use motors between 1000 to 2000 watts or more. These scooters can reach 25-40 mph, depending on the design.

More wattage also means quicker acceleration. Torque is the force that helps your scooter pick up speed, especially when starting or climbing a hill. Good torque from a strong motor is what helps you feel that quick “kick” when you twist the throttle.

Battery Voltage and Charge Level

Your scooter’s battery determines how much power reaches the motor. Higher voltage batteries send more energy at one time, letting your scooter go faster for longer.

• Fully charged batteries Give you the best performance and highest speeds.
• Low battery: Power drops off and so does your top speed. You may notice the scooter feels sluggish as the battery drains.

Be sure to keep your battery charged if you want to get the top speed every ride. If your battery is worn out or faulty, you might lose speed even on flat ground with no wind.

Rider Weight and Terrain

Your weight and where you ride can change how fast your scooter feels. Heavier riders will notice that their scooter might not reach the listed top speed.

Terrain changes also make a huge difference:

• Smooth, flat roads let you go fastest.
• Hills, bumps, or gravel slow you down.
• Wet or rough surfaces might not just cut speed, but also increase stopping distance.

When you combine a hilly route with a heavy load, your scooter has to work harder. If you want to go as fast as possible, ride light and stick to level, paved roads.

How to Check the Top Speed of Your Electric Scooter

You can find your scooter’s top speed from its technical specs or measure it yourself using simple tools. Knowing both tested and real-world speeds helps you set realistic expectations.

Manufacturer Specs vs Real-World Speed

Look for the top speed listed in your scooter's manual or on the brand’s website. These numbers are usually measured in labs with perfect conditions, such as smooth roads and a lightweight rider.

Factory speed tests are often a bit higher than what you will see on the street. Expect your real-world speed to be about 5 to 10 percent lower. The difference comes from things like rough surfaces, rider weight, wind, or battery strength.

If you want actual numbers, check reviews online for your specific model. Reviewers often share real-world speed tests. Here’s where you can usually find manufacturer info:

• User manual
• Official scooter website
• Product packaging
• Online scooter stores

Use a GPS Speedometer App

A simple way to see your actual top speed is to use a GPS speedometer app on your smartphone. These apps track your speed in real time while you ride.

Popular options include:

• Strava
• MapMyRide
• Scooter-specific apps (check your brand for options)

Some electric scooters come with built-in speed displays. These show your speed directly on the handlebars. If your scooter doesn't have one, just download a GPS app and secure your phone for safety.

To measure speed with a GPS app:

1. Charge your phone.
2. Open the speedometer app.
3. Secure your phone to the scooter or keep it handy.
4. Ride in a safe, open area and watch your speed on the display.

A table like this can help you compare:

Safety Tips When Riding at Top Speed

Riding an electric scooter at its top speed can be exciting, but it also comes with real risks. Taking steps to protect yourself and following local rules makes high-speed rides much safer.

Wear Proper Gear for High-Speed Rides

The faster you ride, the more important it is to wear the right safety gear. A helmet is always a must, even if you are taking a short ride. 

At higher speeds, like over 20 mph, you should wear full-face helmets for better protection. Gloves help protect your hands in case you fall, and they also improve your grip on the handlebars.

For extra safety, especially if your scooter can go over 25 mph, consider wearing a padded jacket and sturdy pants. 

These will help shield you from scrapes and bruises during a crash. Reflective gear or a bright vest makes it easier for drivers to see, which is even more important at night. 

Elbow and knee pads are a good idea if you ride on rough roads or at top speeds.

Checklist for High-Speed Gear:

• Helmet (full-face preferred for fast rides)
• Gloves
• Padded jacket and pants for speeds over 25 mph
• Elbow and knee pads
• Reflective jacket or accessories

Wearing all this gear every time you ride keeps you much safer, especially when travelling at top speed.

Know Your Local Speed Limits

Every city has different rules about how fast you can ride an electric scooter. In many places, the top speed for scooters on public roads or trails is between 15 and 20 mph. Some locations set even lower limits, especially in busy areas. 

If you go above these speed limits, you could get a fine or your scooter could be taken away.

It is important to check your local laws before riding. If you want to ride faster than city limits, you usually need to be on private land or special off-road trails. These areas sometimes have fewer or no speed restrictions.

Key points:

• Most city streets: 15–20 mph legal top speed
• Parks or school zones may have lower speed limits
• Private property or off-road: less strict, but be careful
• Always watch for posted signs and changes in the law

By knowing and following these speed rules, you lower your chance of accidents and stay on the right side of the law.

Are There Legal Speed Limits for Electric Scooters?

Electric scooter speed is not just about what the scooter can do. State, city, and national laws set rules you need to follow to avoid penalties and stay safe.

U.S. & Global E-Scooter Speed Laws

In the United States, most cities set legal speed limits for electric scooters between 15 and 20 mph. 

Some states, like California, use a 15 mph limit for public roads, while others go up to 20 mph. Public rental scooters often come with built-in speed caps, usually set between 10 to 15 mph, for safety reasons.

Other countries also restrict e-scooter speed. For example, the United Kingdom limits scooters to 15.5 mph (25 km/h). 

Many European countries have legal limits ranging from 12 to 16 mph, and exceeding these limits can result in fines or confiscation of the scooter.

Some areas allow higher speeds, but only on private property or certain roads. Always check the latest local laws since rules can change. 

Riding above legal limits on public roads can lead to tickets or even having your scooter seized.

How to Stay Legal While Riding Fast

To stay within the law, many scooters use speed limiters. These are built-in electronic controls that stop you from going faster than the legal limit. 

Most rental scooters activate these automatically, but some personal scooters let you set the max speed in the settings.

If your scooter can go over the legal limit, only use higher speeds on private property. 

Riding over the speed limit on streets, sidewalks, or bike lanes can lead to problems with police or local authorities.

Tips to follow local scooter speed limits:

• Check your city or state's official website for up-to-date rules
• Use the scooter's app or settings to set a legal top speed
• Avoid riding on busy sidewalks or roads not meant for scooters
• Never try to modify or remove the speed limiter

Staying within legal speeds helps you avoid tickets and makes shared roads safer for everyone.

Conclusion

Electric scooters come in a wide range of speeds. Most standard models for city use can reach between 15 and 25 mph.

You can find slower scooters at about 7.5 mph, which are often made for kids or beginners. Some high-performance models can go past 50 mph, but these are less common and not recommended for crowded areas.

Here is a quick look at common speed ranges:

Actual speed can depend on many factors:

• Rider weight
• Battery charge
• Road surface
• Weather
• Local rules or speed limits

Faster does not always mean better. Think about your comfort and your daily needs before choosing a scooter. Always wear safety gear and follow local laws when riding.

❓FAQs About How Fast Do Electric Scooters Go

Electric scooter speeds are limited by laws, design, rider weight, and motor power. Some models are much faster or slower than others, and certain upgrades can affect speed.

How fast are you allowed to go on an electric scooter?

Maximum allowed speeds for electric scooters depend on your local laws. In many cities, the limit is between 15 and 20 mph. Some areas may set lower or higher limits, so always check with your city or state regulations.

How fast can an electric scooter go legally?

Most commuter electric scooters are capped at speeds of 15 to 20 mph to follow legal limits in public areas. Off-road or private property may allow higher speeds, but traffic laws and safety rules still apply.

Can an electric scooter go 100 mph?

No standard electric scooter for public use can reach 100 mph. The top speed for high-performance models is usually around 50 to 60 mph. Reaching 100 mph would require a custom-built scooter, which is not suitable or safe for regular riding.

Do heavier riders slow down e-scooters?

Yes, if you weigh more, it can lower your scooter’s top speed. Electric scooters need to work harder to carry heavier riders, especially uphill or on uneven ground.

Is 30 mph too fast for an electric scooter?

For many riders, 30 mph is fast and may feel unsafe if you are not experienced. Most city riding and commuter models are designed for lower speeds to keep you safe in traffic. Some advanced scooters can reach 30 mph, but always wear protective gear and check your local speed laws before riding at higher speeds.

Can I increase the speed of my electric scooter?

You can sometimes make a scooter go faster by upgrading components like the battery or motor. However, making these changes can void your warranty and may break the law. If you want more speed, make sure upgrades are safe and allowed where you plan to ride.

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