More and more of you are choosing to use an electric scooter to get to work. Unfortunately, the sun doesn't always shine in the morning and you wonder whether you can use your scooter in wet weather.
Water and electricity do not mix well, and most users often forget the right way to use their electric scooter in the rain. But not all scooters are created equal when it comes to humidity.
So we've selected the best waterproof electric scooters for you, along with a list of tips for getting around safely in bad weather.
Can you ride your electric scooter in the rain?
Electric scooters are primarily designed for use in dry weather. The delicate weather conditions of our temperate European climate can therefore alter the optimal functioning of this means of transport.
What are the road conditions for a safe ride on an electric scooter?
If the road is wet or slightly damp, you can consider riding your bike. The electrical components are more or less protected from fine drops of water, depending on the model. However, you may encounter some difficulties with the grip of your tyres. We advise you to slow down in order to avoid slipping and to anticipate your braking for greater safety during your daily journeys.
Can rain damage your electric scooter?
If it rains more heavily, manufacturers really don't encourage using your electric scooter to get around. If you are worried about the risk of electrocution, it is very unlikely. The electrical circuit is enclosed within the scooter and the only connectors within reach are the brake and accelerator levers. However, these carry very little current and are generally quite well insulated.
However, if you are still planning to brave the rain, you should be aware that it is absolutely essential to avoid riding in puddles. If your electric scooter is immersed in water, even for a short time, the battery will be irreparably damaged and the warranty will not be valid. As the battery is the central element of your machine, it should be given special attention.
Once you have finished your journey in the rain, we recommend that you, if possible,drain your electric scooter vertically in a dry place at room temperature or, better still, dry it with a towel in order to absorb the moisture present.
How to choose an electric scooter in rainy weather?
Still not afraid of riding in the rain? Then we advise you to invest in a waterproof adult electric scooter. Some models are better equipped to cope with rainy weather.
Don't skimp on your own safety either! Efficient braking saves you from many dangers. You should not be satisfied with a simple foot brake, which is usually on the rear wheel. As this is not very powerful, it is better to rely on a drum brake, electromagnetic brake or, better still, a disc brake system.
To help you find your way around the purchase of your waterproof electric scooter, there is a protection index (called: IP) against water and dust. This is a determining factor in the purchase of your device if you intend to travel regularly in the rain. It is an effective investment to prolong the life of your scooter and avoid going to the after-sales service.
The waterproof electric scooter: the solution to your problems
The sealing standard
The protection rating is the key element to know how waterproof your device is. The international IP standard is followed by two numbers indicating the level of resistance of your device to the intrusion of solids and liquids.
The first number refers to resistance to solids such as dust or other residues, rated out of 6(the higher the number, the greater the protection). When no criteria are met, the number can be replaced by an X.
For information :
- The second number 4 means: Protected against water spray from all directions
- The number 5 in the second line means: Protected against water jets from all directions at the lance
- The number 6 in the second line means: Protected against strong water jets from all directions at the lance
- The second number 7 means: Protected against the effects of temporary immersion (up to 1 metre and for 30 minutes)
Now that you have all the information you need to make your choice, we have selected the best models of waterproof adult electric scooters for you.
The best waterproof electric scooters
Inöe Sweemie Electric Scooter (IPX7)
Toute nouvelle sur le marché en 2023, la Inöe Sweemie, en exclusivité chez Weebot, est la trottinette électrique possédant la meilleure étanchéité du marché.
Comme son nom l'indique, elle est parfaitement capable d'aller sous la pluie avec un haut niveau de résistance à l'infiltration de l'eau. Aussi bien au niveau du moteur qui est protégé sur les côtés mais aussi de la batterie qui reçoit une certification IPX7 permettant de résister à l'immersion sous 1 mètre d'eau pendant plusieurs minutes.
Si nous ne vous conseillons tout de même pas de passer l'engin au karcher, c'est en 2023 de loin la trottinette la plus robuste du marché. Avec ses 30 km/h de vitesse maximale ainsi que les 50 km d'autonomie, la Inöe Sweemie possède des caractéristiques proches de la Ninebot Max, sa concurrente directe.
Main differences in favour of the Sweemie versus the Ninebot Max :
- A double suspension front fork (no suspension on the Ninebot Max)
- Turn signals at the rear
- 500W brushless motor (350W on the Ninebot Max)
- 190mm wide deck (170mm on the Ninebot Max)
- Better water resistance (IP65 only on Ninebot Max)
Ninebot Max Electric Scooter by Segway
By being IPX5 certified, the Ninebot Max by Segway is one of the most resistant electric scooters in the rain. The number 5 means that it is protected by water jets coming from all directions at a level comparable to that of a hose. One of the few in its class to offer this level of protection!
With it, forget the stress of lack of autonomy! Its Samsung lithium battery with a huge capacity of 15300 mAh will take you on journeys of up to 65 km in total relaxation.
On top of all this, the Ninebot Max does not skimp on comfort. It is equipped with 10 inch tubeless tyres that will ensure a very good damping of the various roughnesses on the road, while offering an excellent protection against punctures.
With its 300W brushless motor (which can be extended to 700W), you will never lack the power to move its 19kg even on the steepest of climbs (up to 20%).
Inöe Bloomy and Inöe Tweeky Electric Scooters
The French brand Inöe develops the most water resistant electric scooters. If you are looking for a cheap waterproof electric scooter, Weebot advises you to buy these 2 models.
The Inöe Bloomy and Inöe Tweeky have a relatively light weight of 16.5 kg and 17 kg respectively. They are perfectly suited for urban traffic with a range of 30 km and 36 km respectively.
Foldable with a single push, these Inöe electric scooters are convenient to store in a car boot. They can also follow you on public transport. Because of their small size, they are ideal for use as a supplement to a journey, for example.
Both of these lightweight electric scooters have an IP65 rating. This puts them directly in second place in our ranking of the most rain-resistant electric scooters.
Discover without further delay this French electric scooter brand for affordable prices of 489€ and 539€!
Xiaomi 1S Electric Scooter - Xiaomi Pro 2 - Xiaomi Essential
The Xiaomi Essential, 1S and Pro 2 electric scooters are the best known on the market. These have replaced the ageing Xiaomi M365 Original.
It should be noted that the Xiaomi Essential is the most affordable water-resistant scooter in our selection. You have to be careful, because these Xiaomi models have plenty of counterfeits that look extremely similar but do not meet the requirements of the Xiaomi brand. The models we sell are the original IP54 certified ones tested on our blog.
The 1S, like its variants, is a cheap waterproof electric scooter weighing only 14 kg. This will allow you to carry it everywhere with ease. With a 6500 mAh LG battery, the Xiaomi offers you about 30 km of autonomy.
Be careful because electric scooters are prone to punctures. Don't hesitate to visit our tyre shop in case of punctures.
How to waterproof your electric scooter
If your model is not sufficiently waterproof, or if you simply want to improve the waterproofing of your electric scooter, there are solutions you can do yourself.
Anticipating breakdowns is still the best way to avoid costly repairs. First of all, we must point out that major modifications to the interior of your vehicle may expose you to a loss of warranty.
First step: maintaining your scooter
First of all, you should know that on the road your machine is subjected to many vibrations. Between paving stones, speed bumps and pavements, your scooter will be subjected to various mechanical stresses which will have an impact on the screws and bolts of your device.
It is therefore important to regularly check the condition of the bolts and nuts (at least once a month) on the handlebars, the wheels, but especially the chainring! The plate under your feet often contains the battery and is therefore much more vulnerable to water.
Then use a screwdriver or an Allen key to check that the screws are not loose, but never force them to avoid damaging the structure.
To hold your screws more effectively, we recommend applying threadlocker to the threaded part of the screw. But what is threadlocker? It is a glue used to limit the play and possible leaks in a screw.
You have probably seen it without knowing what it is if you have ever assembled an Ikea piece of furniture. It's the blue part found on some of the brand's screws. You can also replace it with nail polish, if that's all you have on hand.
Protecting your battery
Use a simple bathroom silicone sealant to reinforce the outer assembly of your tray. By applying the seal to the edges of the battery cover, this will further prevent rainwater from seeping into this area. Please do not apply too much of the sealant, however, so that you always have access to your battery.
Note that a waterproof kit is available for the Xiaomi M365.
Waterproofing electronic circuits
The use of a tropicalisation spray for electronic circuits gives you the possibility to protect the electronic components located on the handlebars. It is used by spraying directly onto the printed circuit board in the display of your electric scooter.
It is important to remember that all of these methods will never give you 100% waterproofing. It is therefore essential to use common sense to keep your electric scooter in good condition.
Our best products for maintaining your electric scooter
To keep your electric scooter for as long as possible, you need to take care of it. Discover the best maintenance products selected by Weebot.
Equipment for riding in the rain
If you plan to ride an electric scooter in the rain, it is important to use the right accessories to ensure that you are protected from the elements.
The mudguard
Most models are already equipped with mudguards, but if you are not, this accessory will quickly become an essential. It is a light and compact accessory that will allow you to keep your electric scooter and your clothes in good condition in bad weather.
The helmet
Even though helmets are not (yet) compulsory, they are strongly recommended when using an electric scooter. Especially in rainy weather when it is not uncommon to see several users sliding on the wet road, a manhole cover, or fallen leaves on the road.
In our shop, we offer various helmet models for your electric scooter. The Hyban model with visor from Abus offers you, in addition to good protection, extra visibility with its LEDs on the back of the helmet. The integrated visor provides additional comfort by protecting your eyes from rain.
The gloves
On our website you will also find a selection of gloves that protect you from the cold, rain and falls. It all depends on the style you are looking for, or the level of protection you expect.
The waistcoat
Rain exposes you to a lack of visibility, but also to that of others on the road. In order to be visible, the reflective sleeveless waistcoat also offers protection against wind and rain. A cold snap can happen at 25 km/h! Very light and practical to store, it can be used over your clothes. With its fluorescent and retro-reflective fabric, it is suitable for day or night driving.
The backpack
In order to optimise your journey in rainy weather, the Le Galuchon backpacks, also available in size XL, keep your personal belongings dry but also signal to other vehicles when you change direction. The LEDs on the shoulder straps and on the back of the bag serve as turn signals and can be controlled from your smartphone.
A waterproof phone holder
If your phone is not waterproof, there are waterproof mounts that allow you to use your phone in all kinds of weather. Both to guide you on your way, but also to interact with the various connected accessories of your waterproof electric scooter.
Conclusion on waterproof adult electric scooters
You now have all the information you need to ride your electric scooter in the rain without the risk of damaging it. Always keep in mind that there is a big difference between water resistance and waterproofing. You should therefore be extra careful in wet weather. So you are ready to ride safely and well equipped in the rain.