The Main Components of an Electric Scooter
Cities are changing, and so is how we get around. Electric scooters are now a go-to for daily rides. But looks aren’t everything. At YUME, we focus on what’s inside. Motor, battery, controller, brakes, tires, frame, and suspension—all must work as one. These electric scooter components decide how fast, safe, and smooth your ride feels.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the seven key parts of an electric scooter. You'll learn how each one works and what to look for when buying. This way, you can pick a scooter that truly fits your needs. If you're looking for a ride that goes beyond the basics, this parts list is your starting point.
1. Motor
The motor powers the scooter. It is usually placed inside one of the wheels, and this type is called a hub motor. Its job is to convert electrical energy into motion, pushing the scooter forward. Motor power affects top speed, acceleration, and the ability to go uphill. For example, a 250-watt motor works well in cities on flat roads. A 750-watt or stronger motor is better for hills or rougher terrain. For daily commuting, a 350-watt motor is usually enough.
2. Battery
The battery is the scooter’s energy tank. Its capacity is measured in watt-hours (Wh). The higher the number, the longer you can ride. A 360Wh battery can take you about 30 kilometers (18 miles) in low-speed, energy-saving mode, but real distance depends on real speed, road conditions, and rider weight. Most batteries are located under the deck or inside the stem. If you need to ride far each day, look for a battery with at least 500Wh.
YUME’s batteries are all over 1000Wh, so you can go the distance without worrying.
3. Controller
The controller is the brain of the scooter. It receives signals from the throttle, brakes, and motor, and manages how they work together. When you press the throttle, the controller decides how much power to send to the motor. This affects how fast you speed up. Different brands make controllers with different levels of speed, efficiency, and reliability. It’s a hidden part, but it makes a big difference in how your scooter feels.
We’ve finely tuned YUME’s controller so you can tap into the full performance of the scooter’s hardware.
4. Braking System
Electric scooters use three types of brakes: mechanical (like disc or drum brakes), electronic, and foot brakes. A common setup is front electronic and rear disc brakes. Mechanical brakes use friction to slow down. They are powerful. Electronic brakes use the motor to reduce speed. They don’t wear out parts. For beginners, it’s best to choose a scooter with both systems. That gives you better control and more safety.
To ensure maximum safety and reliability, YUME uses a combination of hydraulic and electronic braking systems. It can deliver superior stopping power. On the Predator model—which can reach speeds of up to 100 mph—we’ve custom-designed a four-piston hydraulic brake system to provide even stronger braking performance.
5. Tires
By internal structure, scooters have two main types of tires: pneumatic (air-filled) and solid. Pneumatic tires give better shock absorption. They’re good for rough roads. But they need air checks and can go flat. Solid tires are maintenance-free and can’t be punctured. However, they feel bumpier. If you ride in the city on smooth roads, solid tires are easier. But if the streets are rough, choose pneumatic ones for comfort.
By external appearance, scooter tires are classified as off-road tires and street tires. Off-road tires have a rougher surface with deeper tread patterns, which gives them stronger grip—especially on uneven or loose terrain like dirt paths, gravel roads, or grassy surfaces. They also offer better shock absorption. Street tires, on the other hand, have a smoother surface with shallower tread. They’re designed for paved roads like asphalt and concrete, making them perfect for urban commuting. Their main advantages are a quieter ride and easier, more efficient handling on flat surfaces.
All YUME models come equipped with pneumatic (air-filled) tires. As for the tread type, most of our scooters use off-road tires. However, the Raptor and Hawk Pro models also offer street tires as an option for you.
6. Frame and Build
Scooter frames may look simple, but design matters. Most use aluminum alloy, which is strong and light. The stem needs to be sturdy, so it can hold your weight and support your posture. Some scooters fold for easy storage and carrying. For beginners, look for a scooter with a non-slip deck, a handlebar at the right height, and a solid grip. That makes riding safer and more comfortable.
7. Suspension and Shock Absorption
Suspension is often overlooked by beginners when choosing a scooter. Its job is to absorb bumps from the ground, making rides smoother and easier on your joints. Common types include spring suspension, hydraulic shocks, and rubber dampers. Spring systems are most common and easy to maintain. They're good for everyday use. If you often ride on rough roads or downhill, choose a scooter with both front and rear suspension.This greatly reduces fatigue and improves safety and control.
As a leader in high-performance electric scooters, YUME puts customer needs first. All of our models are equipped with front and rear dual suspension systems – using either dual hydraulic or hydraulic plus spring combinations.
TL;DR
When you understand the e-scooter main components, everything starts to make sense. You see how each part works and why it matters. The motor, battery, brakes, and more all shape your ride. They affect speed, control, and comfort. With this knowledge, you won’t just guess when choosing a scooter. You’ll know what to look for—and what to avoid. Whether you ride to work or for fun, the right setup makes all the difference.