Choosing the right scooter can be overwhelming with so many options available. From toddlers learning balance to adults seeking a fun way to commute, the perfect scooter depends on individual needs and preferences. This guide breaks down some popular scooter models, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make the best choice.
When considering scooters, several factors come into play. Wheel size, bearing quality, and overall construction impact the smoothness of the ride. Handlebar height and weight capacity are crucial for rider comfort and safety. Folding mechanisms and portability are important for storage and transport. Durability and safety features are paramount, especially for younger riders. Let’s explore how different scooters stack up in these areas.
Budget-friendly options like the Razor A and A2 are often considered starter scooters. However, their smaller 98-mm wheels and lower-quality bearings result in a less comfortable, bumpier ride. Learning to balance can be more challenging on these models compared to scooters with larger wheels and smoother bearings. Sidewalk cracks and uneven surfaces can pose a greater risk for riders on scooters with small wheels. The Razor A also lacks a wheelie bar, which can be a helpful feature for beginners.
For older kids and teens, the Hudora Scooter, a two-wheeler designed for ages 8 and up, offers a “grown-up” feel. Its large 8-inch wheels provide a smoother ride compared to scooters with smaller wheels. The T-bar handles fold down, and a carrying strap adds to its portability. However, at over 9 pounds, it can be heavy for younger or smaller riders to carry comfortably. Its bulkiness might also be a drawback for smaller users.
The Micro Cruiser LED offers a comfortable ride with its large, light-up LED wheels and curved handlebars, providing a more bike-like feel. While fun and visually appealing, its nearly 10-pound weight makes it difficult for smaller riders to manage. The handlebar height also doesn’t extend as high as some other models, making it less suitable for taller tween riders. The folding mechanism was also noted as being somewhat difficult to use.
The Jetson Jupiter stands out with its light-up deck, stem, and wheels, offering a smooth and easily maneuverable ride. However, its weight capacity is less than the Micro Sprite. Some online reviews have reported issues with the lights malfunctioning and concerns about overall durability. In one test, the brake mechanism reportedly broke after a day of use, raising questions about its long-term reliability under regular use.
The Razor Jr. Lil’ Kick, despite having a nice wide deck similar to the Micro Mini, feels more like a toy than a practical mode of transport. It feels less stable than Micro scooters and is described as slow and clunky. Its three-wheel design, with one front and two rear wheels, differs from the lean-to-steer mechanism of many popular scooters. Notably, it lacks an adjustable handlebar, limiting its usability as children grow.
Bird’s Birdie scooter shares features with the Micro Maxi but has a kickboard that feels less sturdy and wheels that are fatter and louder. Its single rear wheel brake design makes braking more challenging for heavier riders. While an older version was tested previously, a newer version, the Birdie Glow, is now available, though it hasn’t been tested in this comparison.
The Den Haven scooter, also sold under the OxGord brand, is noted for its cheap-feeling materials and less stable, harder-to-turn handling compared to Micro scooters. Its wheels and deck are noisier, especially on pavement, and narrower wheels contribute to a bumpier ride. Amazon reviews suggest frequent breakages, particularly with the rear fender brakes. This model is reportedly not currently available.
The Radio Flyer My 1st Scooter, with plastic wheels, is better suited for indoor use, according to online reviewers. Steering and pushing are reported to be difficult, and the overall ride is slow. These limitations make it less practical for outdoor use or covering any significant distance.
The Jetson Gleam, another three-wheel scooter with light-up wheels and a large deck aimed at beginners, is described as having a plasticky feel and being prone to scratches. While visually appealing with its lights, its overall build quality may be a concern for long-term use.
The Globber Primo offers attractive features like an adjustable handlebar and a steering-lock mechanism for straight-line riding. Marketed for a wide age range, its limited handlebar height adjustment range makes it less versatile compared to Micro scooters, which offer a wider adjustment range. A newer version with LED wheels is available, but it has not been tested in this comparison.
The Globber Ultimum and Master scooters are well-built and performed well in tests. The Ultimum has a high weight limit of 220 pounds, making it suitable for adults, while the Master has a 110-pound limit. However, at over 10 pounds, the Ultimum is heavier than Micro scooters. Testers generally preferred Micro scooters to Globber models, citing stiffer folding mechanisms in Globber scooters. Price points are similar to Micro scooters, but Micro has a proven track record for producing durable, long-lasting scooters.
Choosing the Best Scooter
While many scooters offer various features, the Micro brand consistently stands out for its quality, durability, and user-friendly design. Although the original article does not explicitly recommend “Best Scooters”, it implicitly highlights Micro scooters as superior through comparative negative reviews of other brands. When selecting a scooter, consider the rider’s age, size, and intended use. For younger children and those prioritizing ease of use and smooth rides, Micro scooters are a strong contender. For older riders or those seeking specific features like light-up wheels or higher weight limits, other models might be considered, but careful attention to reviews and specifications is recommended to ensure quality and durability.
