How Fast Can You Go on a Kick Scooter? Why Electric Scooters Might Be the Better Choice

Kick scooters are fun and eco-friendly, but how fast can you really go? Most riders reach 5–15 mph, depending on skill and effort. Electric scooters, however, offer a faster, effortless ride—ideal for commuting, errands, or city cruising. Knowing the speed potential helps you choose the right scooter for your needs.

Average Kick Scooter Speeds

Kick scooters can reach surprisingly quick speeds depending on the rider’s skill, fitness, and the type of scooter. Understanding these speed ranges helps riders set realistic expectations and ride safely.

Casual Riders

For most beginners and recreational riders, kick scooters achieve an average speed of 5–10 mph (8–16 km/h) on flat terrain. This pace is 3–4 times faster than walking, making kick scooters an efficient option for short commutes or leisurely rides. Children and beginners often stay on the lower end of this range, around 5–7 mph, as they focus on balance and control.

Maintaining this speed requires consistent pushing, which can be tiring over longer distances. Smooth surfaces like asphalt or concrete help maintain momentum, while rough pavement, gravel, or grass can significantly slow riders down.

Athletic or Experienced Riders

Riders with more experience or better fitness can sustain speeds of 12–20 mph on flat ground. Short bursts up to 20 mph are possible with strong leg kicks and efficient technique. On downhill slopes, gravity can propel skilled riders to speeds exceeding 40 mph, though such speeds require advanced skill, protective gear, and careful attention to safety.

These riders often optimize their technique by using full leg extension, proper body positioning, and momentum maintenance to achieve maximum speed without excessive fatigue. Factors like wheel size, bearing quality, and scooter weight also play a crucial role in sustaining higher speeds.

Factors Affecting Kick Scooter Speed

Several factors determine how fast a kick scooter can go. Understanding these can help riders maximize performance and ride safely.

Rider Effort

The most obvious factor is the rider’s own effort. Stronger legs and better cardiovascular fitness allow for longer, more powerful pushes, resulting in higher speeds. Efficient kicking technique—using full leg extension and alternating legs—also improves momentum and reduces fatigue.

Wheel Size & Bearings

Wheel size greatly impacts speed and stability. Larger wheels (120mm+) maintain momentum better and roll more smoothly over uneven surfaces, while smaller wheels accelerate faster but lose speed quickly.

Bearing quality also plays a critical role. High-quality bearings, such as ABEC-7 or ABEC-9, reduce friction and increase efficiency, allowing riders to maintain faster speeds with less effort.

Rider Weight and Terrain

Heavier riders must exert more force to reach the same speed on flat ground, although extra weight can help on downhill slopes by increasing momentum. Terrain also matters: smooth asphalt or concrete allows for optimal speed, while rough, uneven, or uphill surfaces significantly slow riders down.

Techniques to Maximize Kick Scooter Speed

Improving your kick scooter speed isn’t just about strength—it’s also about technique, body positioning, and momentum management. Mastering these elements can help you ride faster, farther, and more efficiently.

Proper Kicking Form

Powerful, consistent kicks are key to maximizing speed. Use full leg extension, pushing from the hip rather than just the knee, to transfer more energy into each push. Alternate legs every 3–5 kicks to prevent fatigue and maintain a smooth rhythm. Longer, strong kicks are more effective than rapid, short pushes. Keep your kicking leg close to the scooter to avoid wasting energy.

Body Position and Aerodynamics

Slightly leaning forward reduces wind resistance, which becomes increasingly important above 12 mph. Keep your shoulders relaxed and avoid tensing your arms. A slightly bent standing leg helps absorb shocks and maintain balance, while keeping your weight centered over the deck ensures stability and efficient energy transfer.

Momentum Maintenance

Maintaining momentum is essential for sustaining higher speeds. Coast efficiently between kicks, anticipate turns or stops to avoid unnecessary braking, and use gentle slopes or smooth surfaces to build and retain speed. Smooth, fluid motion is always more efficient than jerky, uneven pushes.

Equipment Upgrades for Faster Riding

Optimizing your kick scooter’s components can significantly improve speed, efficiency, and overall performance. Even small upgrades and proper maintenance make a noticeable difference.

Upgrade Your Wheels

Larger, harder wheels (120mm+) retain momentum better and provide a smoother ride over uneven surfaces. Harder wheels reduce rolling resistance, allowing for faster cruising speeds. Smooth pavement benefits from harder wheels, while slightly softer wheels improve grip on rough terrain. Big scooters with oversized wheels can achieve higher speeds and smoother rides on flat surfaces.

High-Quality Bearings

Bearings determine how smoothly your wheels spin. Upgrading to ABEC-7 or ABEC-9 bearings reduces friction and enhances speed. Ceramic bearings offer top-tier performance but are more expensive. Regular cleaning and lubrication of bearings are essential for maintaining peak efficiency.

Lighter Frames and Decks

A lightweight aluminum frame improves acceleration and handling, while a rigid deck transfers more energy from each push. Removing heavy accessories or unnecessary components further enhances speed.

Maintenance for Maximum Performance

Proper upkeep is crucial:

• Clean and lubricate bearings regularly.

• Inspect wheel wear and replace worn wheels promptly.

• Tighten bolts and check the deck for damage.

• Keep the deck and wheels free from dirt and debris to minimize drag.

Safety Considerations at High Speeds

Riding a kick scooter at higher speeds can be thrilling, but it comes with increased risks. Understanding safety precautions is essential for both casual riders and experienced enthusiasts.

Protective Gear for Kick Scooters

When riding at speeds above 15 mph, wearing a helmet is mandatory. Full-face helmets are recommended for downhill or high-speed rides. Knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards provide added protection, while gloves improve grip and prevent hand injuries. Always wear closed-toe shoes with good traction, as riding barefoot or in sandals can be extremely dangerous.

Common Hazards at High Speeds

High-speed scooter riding increases stopping distance, making it harder to react to sudden obstacles. Small debris, cracks in pavement, and wet surfaces can cause loss of control. Strong wind gusts also affect balance and stability. Riders should remain aware of traffic, pedestrians, and environmental conditions to ensure safe riding.

Safe Riding Practices

Riders should maintain a speed they can safely control and reduce speed in crowded areas, intersections, or low-visibility conditions. Practicing in controlled environments before riding in traffic builds skill and confidence. Planning routes to anticipate stops and avoid sudden braking is essential for safe high-speed riding.

How Fast Can You Go on a Kick Scooter vs. an Electric Scooter

Choosing between a kick scooter and an electric scooter depends on speed, effort, safety, and comfort. Kick scooters typically reach 5–20 mph, depending on rider strength, skill, and terrain. Maintaining higher speeds requires continuous effort, and longer rides can be tiring, though they are lightweight and portable.

Electric scooters, on the other hand, offer effortless speeds of 15–30 mph. Riders can maintain these speeds without physical exertion, making them ideal for commuting or city travel. Many models include built-in brakes, lights, and stability features, providing safer and more comfortable rides.

Overall, kick scooters are great for portability and exercise, while electric scooters excel in speed, convenience, and efficiency. Choosing the right scooter depends on whether you prioritize physical activity or effortless, fast commuting.

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Conclusion

Kick scooters are fun, eco-friendly, and great for exercise, but reaching higher speeds requires physical effort and stamina. Long rides can be tiring, making them less practical for commuting or city travel.

Electric scooters, on the other hand, deliver fast, consistent speeds with minimal effort, making them ideal for commuting, errands, or longer rides. With built-in safety features, smooth rides, and low maintenance, electric scooters are a modern, convenient choice for riders who want speed without the effort.