Your electric scooter is an investment. Like every other investment, you need to keep it safe and secure. To do so, you must invest in a security system.
There are many ways to keep your electric scooter secure. You will need to buy a good lock system. You also need to follow some essential security tips. This blog will discuss all this in detail.
Types of Electric Scooter Locks
There are different locks you can buy for your scooter. They include:
Cable locks
Cable locks are one of the best secondary locks for your electric scooter. Having an additional security means is enough to stop a theft from happening. Cable locks are lightweight and portable.
Pros
- They are lightweight and easy to carry.
- They make good secondary locks.
Cons
- Manufacturers make them from cables that you can cut with a knife.
U-Locks
The U-locks are popular locks for your electric scooter. They can secure the scooter around a sturdy object.
Pros
- U-locks are unbreakable.
- They are heavy and durable.
Cons
- They are expensive.
- They are so heavy they can be difficult to mount on the electric scooter.
Folding Locks
These are another popular lock choice. They are portable and provide security. They weigh less than a U-lock or chain and padlock. You can easily mount it on your scooter or fit it into a bag without losing balance.
Pros
- They are portable and offer more security than their counterparts.
- They are affordable.
Cons
- Power tools like saws can easily cut them.
Disc Brake Locks
These locks got their name from motorbikes. They are clamped on the electric scooter disc brakes to keep it from moving. Disc brake locks work only on scooters with disc brakes.
Pros
- They are excellent secondary scooter locks.
Cons
- You cannot rely on them as your primary security lock.
- They only work on electric scooters with disc brakes.
Factors to Consider when Choosing a Lock Based on Scooter Type and Usage
When choosing a lock for your electric scooter, keep these factors in mind:
Your Budget
A high-quality electric scooter’s locks are expensive. If you want one, you need to be ready to spend. Cheaper locks like cable locks are best for low-risk places like private parks. However, in a high-risk location, invest in a high-quality lock.
Your Electric Scooter’s Value
The higher the value of your scooter, the more attractive it is. An expensive scooter poses the risk of being stolen. If you own one, invest in a good security. This doesn’t mean that you cannot protect an inexpensive scooter. Regardless of your scooter’s model, ensure you always secure it.
The Risk Level
Before you choose a lock, ask yourself, “How long will I leave my scooter unattended? How safe is the park? Will I keep an eye on my scooter all the time?” Your answers to the questions will help you make a good buying decision.
Best Practices for Locking Electric Scooters
When locking your electric scooters, here are some of the best practices you should know:
Choosing Appropriate Locking Locations
You need to find a solid object for locking your electric scooter on. This could be a bike rack, a street sign, a tree, or a lamp post. You must ensure the object is large enough to stop thieves from stealing your scooter.
Also, look for a safe and secured parking area. If you park in public, lock your scooter on an object close to the security cameras.
Properly Securing the Scooter with the Chosen Lock
After choosing a lock and object, properly secure your scooter to the object. If possible, use more than one lock for added security. Lock removable parts like your scooter’s batteries and wheels.
Avoiding Common Mistakes that Compromise Security
You need to avoid making mistakes that might leave your scooter vulnerable. Even if you walk into a place for a few seconds, ensure you lock up your scooter. Remember the slack in the lock. Also, lock the removable parts of your e-scooters. Lock the frames and the rear wheel.
Additional Security Measures
You can provide additional security to your electric scooter. One such is the GPS tracking devices.
Use of GPS Tracking Devices
There are a few modern e-scooters that come with GPS trackers. Alternatively, you can buy and install this on your scooter. You can also configure it on your scooter. A GPS tracker allows you to track your e-scooter in real-time.
Pros of GPS Tracking for Scooters
- GPS trackers allow you to track your scooter in different locations, both in national and international countries.
- GPS tracking reduces the risk of losing your e-scooter to theft.
Cons of GPS Tracking for Scooters
- Some GPS trackers stop working in remote places.
- It also stops working underground or in large buildings.
- It is an expensive investment to make. E-scooters with GPS trackers are costly. If you decide to buy a stand-alone tracker, it costs a fortune.
Insurance Options for Electric Scooters
You don’t need to get insurance for your scooter in many situations. However, it is still a nice thing to do. Insurance protects your scooter from accidents and other unforeseen occurrences. E-scooter insurance can cover bodily injury, property damage, and even theft.
There are several insurance options to go for. One of which is the comprehensive coverage plan. This coverage covers everything related to the scooter, such as theft, vandalism, and damage. It also covers payment for custom parts. This coverage plan doesn’t cover issues when you are at fault. So, you must always obey the traffic rules and laws for e-scooters in your land.
Other plans include damage insurance coverage and property insurance coverage.
Tips on Choosing the Right Insurance Plan
When choosing an insurance plan, keep this in mind:
Your needs: You need to know which coverage plan is right for you. If you live in a safe area, you can go for a simple plan like a damage insurance plan. This will protect you and your scooter from damage. But if you want full coverage, go for the comprehensive plan.
Compare policies: Research different insurance companies and their policies. Choose the one that suits you best.
Consider price: Look for the best and most affordable insurance prices. Keep the reputation of the insurance provider in mind when making a choice.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Security
For long-term security, here are some of the best tips you should follow:
Regularly inspect and maintain locks: Even when you get a lock, check it frequently. Some locks can lose their grip and firmness. Make sure you maintain your locks all the time.
Lubricate moving parts to ensure proper functionality: Your locks can be prone to rusting. To avoid this, lubricate at all times. Ensure that the lock is properly working before use.
Upgrade locks as needed to adapt to evolving security threats: It is always good to adapt to change. Some thieves operate with power tools. They can even cut down hard steel. If that is the case, add an anti-theft alarm system to your e-scooter. You can also use locks with a biometric setup. Also, install a GPS tracker for added protection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ensure you get a lock that suits your needs best. Take the necessary precautions to protect your e-scooter from harm or theft. Keep your locks off the ground; instead, mount them on an object.
For added security, make sure you have an anti-theft alarm or GPS tracker installed. If possible, go for an insurance plan for full coverage. Your e-scooter is an investment you want to protect. So follow the steps above and keep it secured. You can learn more about e-scooters by visiting our website.