E-Bike vs. Electric Scooter: Which Is a Better Choice?

Both e-bikes and e-scooters offer a great way to move around, avoid traffic jams, and cover longer distances quickly while embracing a greener mode of transportation. Although these electric vehicles are equally popular today, determining a clear winner is not easy since each of them comes with its pros and cons. We will compare electric scooters vs. electric bikes based on several criteria, including riding experience, durability, maintenance, cost, and safety. Hopefully, by the end of this post, you will know which option is better for your specific needs.

Key Differences between Electric Bicycles and Electric Scooters

Understanding the differences between e-bikes vs. scooters can empower you to choose the most suitable means of transportation according to your lifestyle and specific riding needs. So, this is how they differ:

• Design and build: electric bicycles closely resemble traditional two-wheelers, as they have a frame, saddle, drivetrain, pedals, and wheels. E-scooters, in turn, feature simpler builds with a standing platform, handlebars, and smaller wheels. While electric bikes can be powered either using pedals or a throttle, e-scooters rely entirely on a throttle-controlled motor.

• Speed and performance: electric bicycles are generally faster than scooters, as they are often equipped with more powerful motors (up to 750W) that allow them to reach speeds of 20-28 mph. E-bikes also provide smoother performance on hills and tough terrains while offering a hassle-free cycling experience. Electric scooters are usually limited to 15-20 mph. Having a motor of 200-500W, they excel on flat roads but may struggle on steep hills and rough surfaces due to smaller wheels and less torque.

• Range and battery life: battery range is another notable difference between an electric bicycle vs. scooter. A regular 2 wheeled bike may be equipped with a 400-700Wh battery that allows you to ride 20-70 miles per charge, depending on your weight, assist level, and terrain. Electric scooters can handle only half of that distance (10-30 miles) on a single charge, as their battery capacity is smaller (100-300Wh). Some e-cycles (e.g., Avant Lagom) also support a dual battery, which extends their performance up to 140 miles.

Comfort and Riding Experience

Comparing the comfort and riding experience of an electric bike vs. electric scooter is not just about "sitting vs. standing" – there are many ergonomic factors to consider. E-cycles offer a familiar upright seating position, which proves to be comfortable for longer rides since it reduces strain on your wrists, legs, and back. Whenever the saddle becomes uncomfortable, you can stand up to relieve pressure.

E-scooters provide a less ergonomic experience due to their standing-only design. Even if a scooter has an attachment saddle, it will never be as comfortable to ride as an electric cycle due to the smaller size of the wheels. Even though high-end models have suspension systems and pneumatic tires, each bump or crack in the pavement is still translated directly to your joints. Because of this, you will definitely be on the alert for road imperfections if you are zipping around on a scooter at high speed.

When comparing electric bikes vs. scooters, it’s also important to note that e-cycles are inherently more stable since you can easily take a hand off the handlebars and keep going. At the same time, taking your hand off the handlebars on a scooter can result in wobbles and loss of control.

Electric Scooter vs. Bike: Which Is Simpler to Maintain?

E-bikes require more regular maintenance due to their complex design, which includes chains, gears, derailleurs, and brakes. To keep your two-wheeler in good condition, you should inflate the tires, clean and lubricate the chain, adjust brakes, tighten bolts, and take care of battery health. Although the process is straightforward, it demands more time and tools compared to scooters. 

Electric scooters are simpler to maintain day-to-day since they have fewer moving parts. Routine tasks include checking tire pressure, ensuring the battery is charged, and inspecting brakes and bolts. With no chain and gears, there’s less to clean and lubricate.

However, even though e-bikes require more maintenance, it’s often easier and cheaper, as you can do everything at home. In case professional assistance is needed, there are bike shops all over the place, but not nearly as many services that handle scooter repairs.

Read Also: What Is an Electric Bike (E-Bike)?

Parts Availability

A great thing about e-bikes is that they share most of the same components as their non-powered counterparts. That means if something breaks or needs to be replaced, the parts are likely readily available at your local bike shop. Scooters, in turn, often have a variety of proprietary components made by their manufacturers, and if they have stopped producing the needed part, you are likely out of luck. Take this into account when choosing an electric bike vs. scooter, especially an older or used model.

Common Issues & Repair Costs

Cost Considerations

E-bikes and e-scooters come in many different shapes, sizes, and price tags. However, electric scooters still take the lead when it comes to affordability. This makes sense, as they typically have smaller batteries, less powerful motors, and fewer components. In addition, scooters require lower production costs, which also affects their price.

You can get a good electric scooter for under $700, while sturdy e-bicycles usually start at $1,000 and may reach a few thousand dollars for advanced models. Therefore, if cost is the factor when choosing an e-bike vs. scooter, the latter may be your way to go. 

Is a Bike or an Electric Scooter Safer?

According to the latest national UCSF study, the number of accidents tied to micromobility vehicles has been steadily increasing over the years, no matter if we are talking about electric bikes or scooters. Still, statistics show that bicycles are safer since they are more stable and easier to control, especially on rough terrains. Plus, cycles are more visible on the road and can handle adverse weather conditions better.

Just look at the numbers: electric bike injuries grew from 751 to 23,493 from 2017 to 2022, whereas the number of accidents involving e-scooters increased from 8,566 to 56,847 in the same period. Furthermore, 78% of scooter injuries were caused by falls, while 45% of e-bicycle injuries occurred due to motor vehicle crashes.

E-Bike vs. E-Scooter Regulations

E-Scooter vs. Bicycle Use Cases: Which One is Better for You?

• Commuting and urban travel: since both e-bikes and e-scooters are used for more comfortable rides in urban environments, the point is in the distance you are willing to travel. Bicycles have a bigger battery range, so they are more suitable for longer trips. However, scooters are more portable and convenient to transport if your daily commutes also involve other means of transportation (e.g., train or car).

• Off-road and trail riding: with larger wheels, robust frames, and more efficient suspension systems, e-bicycles are a top choice for those cycling on uneven surfaces. You can also opt for a fat-tire mountain e-bike (e.g., Avant FX-750) to handle rough terrain and steep hills effectively.

• Recreational use: e-bikes and e-scooters offer an equally fun way to get around. However, electric bicycles also deliver numerous health benefits, allowing you to stay active, strengthen muscles, and boost overall fitness while enjoying the rides.

• Cargo hauling: considering the shape of an electric scooter vs. electric bike, it goes without saying that bicycles are better suited for carrying cargo. You can add baskets to the front and rear racks, as well as leverage saddle bags and other storage solutions. With scooters, you are typically limited to a stem-mounted bag or a backpack, and that’s pretty much it.

Environmental Impact

It would seem that electric scooters are smaller and less powerful than e-bikes, meaning that they are more sustainable. Well, it does not work that way.

Scooters rely entirely on battery power and thereby consume more energy per mile, which increases their CO2 emissions (15-20 g per mile compared to 5-10 g per mile of an e-bike). Smaller batteries also require more frequent recharges and have a shorter lifespan, resulting in increased resource consumption. Furthermore, even though scooter manufacture requires less materials, mass production of budget models often involves fewer recyclable components. Therefore, if you are wondering which is a more sustainable transportation option - an electric bike or scooter - the first is a clear winner.

Final Thoughts: What’s Better, an Electric Bicycle or Electric Scooter?

So, what should you choose: an electric scooter or electric bike? E-bicycles generally prove to be a better option for longer rides due to their stability, versatility, terrain adaptability, larger battery range, and impeccable hill-climbing ability. Scooters, in turn, serve well for shorter trips in urban environments, especially if combined with public transport. But in the end, the choice comes down to your personal preferences. Therefore, whatever you choose - an e-bike or scooter - make sure it fits your lifestyle, daily routine, and transportation needs.