Which Battery is Best for an Electric Bike or Scooter?
- by Bryan Veldboom - updated on 3/11/2021
Electric scooters are becoming increasingly popular as alternative forms of transportation. These battery-powered vehicles are perfect for recreation and a great way to save gas on short, local trips. Keep reading to learn more about your replacement battery options, plus charging tips to help you get the best performance possible.
What Kind of Battery Does an Electric Scooter Use?
Electric scooters primarily run on three types of batteries: sealed lead acid, nickel metal hydride and lithium-ion. Each of these types differ in cost and life expectancy, which is measured in charge cycles. The number of charge cycles for a battery refers to how many times it can undergo the process of charging and discharging completely before it is no longer viable.
Sealed lead acid (SLA) batteries are the most common type of batteries used in electric scooters. Unlike the lead acid batteries used in many ATVs, boats and other applications, SLA batteries are completely sealed and spill proof. SLAs are the most affordable battery option, however, they also have the shortest life cycle of the three. If maintained properly, an SLA battery can last up to 300 charge cycles before it needs to be replaced.
Nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries offer the middle ground in terms of cost and life expectancy. If you're using a nickel metal hydride battery, you can expect it to last up to 500 charge cycles.
Lithium-ion batteries (LIB) are the most expensive of the three battery types but offer the longest possible life. A lithium-ion battery can last up to 1,000 charge cycles. They are also the lightest of the three battery types, which can help save energy while riding.
Before purchasing a replacement, be sure to check which types of batteries are compatible with your model scooter. You'll also want to determine what voltage you require, though most scooters run on 12-volt batteries.
Keep Your Electric Scooter Battery Charged
It's important that you regularly charge your battery to help keep it maintained. Allowing your battery to discharge too low can shorten its life cycle. You'll also want to monitor the charging process to avoid overcharging, which can also have a negative impact on your battery. Another good rule is to avoid operating your scooter in temperatures below 32° F and above 113° F, as extreme temperatures put an enormous strain on batteries.
Most scooters require that you use chargers made by the original manufacturers, however, we do offer a number of chargers for SLA batteries including the X2Power 3.8 Amp Charger and the X2Power 7.5 Amp Charger. The 3.8 model is compatible with 6V and 12V batteries, while the 7.5 charger works with 12V and 24V batteries. Both feature a recovery mode to save low voltage or sulfated batteries. Before purchasing a charger for your scooter, be sure to check your owner's manual or the brand website to make certain it is compatible with your brand and model.
Batteries Plus makes it easy to find the right battery for your electric scooter online. Or, stop into any one of our 700+ stores today. While you're there, take advantage of our additional services, including cell phone repair, car battery installation and key fob replacement.