Originally published at: https://wheelive.com/2022/10/11/can-you-use-an-electric-scooter-in-the-rain/
Can electric scooters be used in the rain?
The question of whether electric scooters can be used in the rain is one that many people have. Yes is the clear-cut response. Most scooters can be used without issue in mild rain, however riding in severe rain will result in issues, such as damage to the scooters’ electrical systems, which will have a significant impact on future use.
However, if you have your own scooter, you should think carefully before deciding whether to brave the weather. These include: 1) your scooter’s design and build quality; and 2) the severity of the weather.
Depending on how much an electric scooter costs. See the second distinctive number. The second digit represents the degree of defense the enclosure offers against dangerous water infiltration. Most electric scooters with the IPX4 rating can be used in the rain. Even yet, riding an electric scooter in a downpour is not advised.
Of course, water should never be directly introduced to electronic parts. However, not every electric scooter is the same. Some have waterproof enclosures built into them, some have strong water-resistance that shields their components from splashes, while others have no protection and shouldn’t be used in wet environments. We’ll explore some of the key distinctions between these classifications below, as well as some additional qualities that an electric scooter may have.
IP Ratings Explained
The scooter’s IP (or “ingress protection”) ratings should be taken into consideration first. These ratings are based on an international standard that assesses how effectively a piece of equipment can withstand moisture and dust without sustaining internal damage. These figures ought to be printed on the scooter itself and in the specifications provided by scooter manufacturers.
FIRST number:
- 4 – protected from solid objects over 1mm
- 5 – limited protection from dust
- 6 – totally protected from dust
SECOND number:
- 4 – protected from water splashes from all directions
- 5 – protected from low-pressure water jets from any direction
- 6 – protected from high-pressure water jets from any direction
- 7 – protected from short period of immersion in water
- 8 – it can withstand long period of immersion in water
Here’re the most common examples you can come across:
- IP 66 – this one is totally protected from dust, high-pressure water jets from any direction
- IP65 – this one is totally protected from dust, low-pressure water jets from any direction
- IP 56 – limited protection from dust, protected from high-pressure water jets from any direction
- IP 55 – limited protection from dust, protected from low-pressure water jets from any direction
- IP 54 – limited protection from dust, protected from water splashes from all directions
Numerous premium, water-resistant electric scooters have an IP54 classification. This means that they are not adversely affected by the odd shallow puddle and can be driven in mild rain. When marketed as waterproof, scooters like the Boosted Rev can have an IP67 designation, meaning they can be completely submerged in water. This function comes with a price tag that is substantially greater than typical, a shorter range, and a weight that is roughly twice as much.
How well your e-scooter operates in damp situations is something else to take into account. When operating a vehicle, you naturally adapt your driving style to the road circumstances. The same logic should hold true while using an electric scooter because you would drive differently in these situations.
Make sure you adjust your riding to the changing weather. It’s better to ride at a slower speed, make gentle turns, and keep an eye out for any potholes or bumps in the road when the going is wet and slick. If you do intend to ride your e-scooter through the rain, be careful to dress appropriately to stay dry.
On public roads, the majority of adult electric scooters can go at high speeds, but the rider is exposed due to their design. Driving defensively and carefully is therefore necessary when using an electric scooter. It is best to stay away from dangerous riding and operating situations.
It is advised to avoid riding in the rain if visibility is so reduced by it that the rider cannot see objects 400 feet in any direction. Even though the scooter is waterproof, it’s best to seek shelter and wait out a storm if it suddenly gets worse. The visibility of both the rider and the surrounding drivers is compromised.
If you choose a high-end electric scooter from a reputable company, you ought to be okay if you are briefly caught in mild rain. Before making a purchase, always check the electric scooter’s IP rating. They need to be promoted effectively. Avert dangerous activity. Avoid using your e-scooter in subfreezing weather, torrential downpours, or standing water.
Want assistance selecting the ideal electric scooter for your requirements?
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