Currie Technologies, making electric bikes and kits since 1997, now offers a range of scooters. Generally limited to a maximum speed of 15 mph, these scooters have been the "Chevy" of the industry since first introduced - nothing fancy, just inexpensive transportation. Their brushed motors are sealed with an external controller in the battery compartment. The pulse-width modulated (PWM) controllers protect your investment: low voltage battery protection, motor overheat protection, peak amperage protection, stall protection, and maximum speed protection. They're programmed to be rather tame, so don't expect rapid acceleration. Most of Currie scooters include an easy-on, easy-off seat assembly and basket. Some of Currie's lower-priced products move through big-box retailers. Here are some guidelines for shopping:
- Currie manufactures similar scooters under the Schwinn, GT, Mongoose and i-Zip labels; scooter weights range from 50 to 90 lbs.
- Look for scooters with both front and rear brakes.
- Motor power on most scooters ranges from 300 to 750 watts which is adequate for most people on most terrain.
- Motor power makes a difference in climbing hills and hauling big people (or multiple small people); bigger is better.
- Motor power makes no difference in top speed, but does support speed modifications (http://www.electricscooter.us.com/); bigger is better.
- More batteries means longer range; expect 5-8 miles with the standard dual 12V/10Ah battery pack.
Available From
Prices range from $200 to $500.
If you ever want to upgrade performance, http://electricscooter.us.com/Powerpack Motors offers high performance brushless motors that are compatible with the Currie (Schwinn, GT, Mongoose) and Lashout electric scooters. The external controllers can run at 24, 36 or 48 volts (36V and 48V provide higher torque and speed). |
