The Ultimate Guide to Electric Scooter Tyres

Your electric scooter tyres are one of the most important parts of an electric scooter. After all, it’s one of the main components that allow your e-scooter to move. That’s why learning more about e-scooter tyres will allow you to care for your tyres properly. From the different types of electric scooter to knowing how to change electric scooter tyres, this ultimate guide to electric scooter tyres will give you all that you need to know about e-scooter tyres.

The Two Types of Tyres

If you're considering buying an electric scooter in Australia, then knowing the type of tyre an e-scooter has will help you determine if an e-scooter is right for you.

Pneumatic (air-filled)

Electric scooter pneumatic tyres, also called air-filled tyres, use air pressure and rubber material to retain the tyre’s shape. You can easily identify pneumatic tyres since they look like ordinary rubber tyres used in bicycles, motorcycles, and cars. Up close, it has a protruding valve that allows you to fill it with air and check the tyre pressure.

Pneumatic tyres also come in two kinds:

Tubeless tyres

As its name suggests, this kind of tyre does not have a tube inside the tyre itself. It only consists of air that’s tightly sealed around the tyre rim. These are usually used on automobiles because it’s resistant to punctures, better performing, and heavy-duty. Because of its durability, most premium or high-performance e-scooters sport tubeless pneumatic tyres.

Inner tube tyres

On the other hand, inner tube tyres contain a tube inside the tyre that holds the air. The tube is protected by a heavy outer tyre, which is the one that makes contact with the ground. Unlike the tubeless tyres, the valve stem is connected to the inner tube itself. In case that the tyres are punctured, you only need to replace the inner tube.

Solid (airless)

Electric scooter solid tyres, also called airless tyres, do not contain any air at all. The tyre is entirely made of rubber or a solid polyurethane foam filling to keep its shape. Since it’s solid, it’s completely resistant to punctures. Unfortunately, it’s more inferior to pneumatic tyres, so it's rare to see solid tyres on e-scooters. 

Solid tyres come in two forms:

Air pocket tyres

Some solid tyres sport an air pocket or honeycomb structure within the wheels. This design leaves holes in the wheel, making the tyre lighter and providing more cushioning to the e-scooter. However, it’s still not as light as pneumatic tyres. Electric scooter honeycomb tyres are made from the same rubber material as filled solid tyres.

Filled tyres

On the other hand, filled tyres contain filling made from rubber, foam, or polymer filler. These are heavier and stiffer but are more durable. However, it is still prone to damage and wear and tear if not cared for properly.

Which type of electric scooter tyre should you choose?

Here’s a quick list of pros and cons to help you decide on which type of electric scooter tyre you should choose.

Pneumatic Tyres

Pros

• Lower rolling friction
  This results in better mileage and higher speed.
• Better cushioning
  Thanks to the tyre’s air pressure it absorbs the impact from the bumps on the road.

Cons

Solid tyres

Pros

Cons

• Heavier
  Since it’s filled with more rubber, it’s heavier than pneumatic tyres.
• Slippery
  Since it has no traction, it’s not recommended to use in wet conditions. 

Verdict

Overall, pneumatic tyres are better than solid tyres in terms of ride quality and safety. However, if you prefer less maintenance on your electric scooter tyres, then solid tyres are better. 

The Importance of Tyre Size

Electric scooter tyres have different tyre sizes as well. It ranges from 5 to 10 inches, but most commuter e-scooters have a tyre size of 8 inches, while off-road e-scooters usually sport 10-inch tyres. Choosing the right electric scooter tyres can impact your e-scooter speed, riding quality, and performance. Remember that a bigger tyre size offers a more comfortable ride. Bigger tyres tend to be slightly faster or handle higher speeds. However, smaller wheels are easier to maneuver, making them better for beginners.

How to Maintain Electric Scooter Tyres 

Maintaining electric scooter tyres, specifically pneumatic tyres, can be a hassle for some, but here are simple tips to help you care for your e-scooter tyres. Check out Mearth’s blogs for more electric scooter guides.

Always check tyre pressure

Most e-scooter tyres need around 40 to 60 psi, but each manufacturer has a recommended tyre pressure for pneumatic tyres. If you’re not sure of your e-scooter tyre pressure, then check your tyres since sometimes the tyres are indicated on them. Having the right tyre pressure for your e-scooter will keep it in good condition and help your e-scooter perform well.

Check the tyre’s condition

See if the tyre has any punctures or if it is starting to wear and tear. Look at the tyre’s tread, the grooves moulded in the tyre, and check if it’s shallow or worn out. The inside of the outer tyre should also be checked, but this is usually done when you change tubes in the shop. If your tyres are wearing out, it’s best to replace them.

Add tyre sealant or slime

Pump a bottle of tire slime inside both of your front and rear tyres. When your tyre gets punctured, the slime will dry up and seal the hole, plugging the leak effectively. You can pump the slime through the tyre’s valve stem. 

Ride responsibly

Finally, the best way to maintain your electric scooter tyres is to ride properly. If your electric scooter can’t handle off-road riding, don’t push your e-scooter to its limit as it will wear down or might puncture your tyres.

How to Change Electric Scooter Tyres

Tyre changes are usually done in your retailer or manufacturer’s shop since it could be dangerous if it's not handled properly. However, there are instances when changing your tyres can be done at home, depending on your e-scooter model.

Since electric scooters have different designs, there’s no standard way of changing tyres. However, these electric scooter repair guides on how to change tyres with the Mearth S Series and Mearth GTS Series will give you an idea of how to change electric scooter tyres.

Watch the video tutorial on the Mearth S below or read the step-by-step instructions on how to change Mearth S Series tyres.

Watch the video tutorial on the Mearth GTS below or read the step-by-step instructions on how to change Mearth GTS Series tyres.

Frequently Asked Questions about Electric Scooter Tyres

How long do electric scooter tyres last?

Unless your tyres get punctured or damaged, electric scooter tyres can last 2,000 to 3,000 miles (3,218 to 4,828 km).

Can electric scooter tyres be replaced with generic tyres?

Yes. As long as you replace them with the same tyre size as the original or recommended size, it’s fine to change your electric scooter tyres to generic or off-brand tyres.

What’s the difference between a regular and an off-roading tyre?

Off-roading tyres are more durable and have better traction on the road than regular commuter e-scooter tyres.

Where to buy electric scooter tyres?

You can buy replacements from your retailer or the manufacturer. Generic tyres are also available online in electric scooter specialty shops. Just make sure that these shops are reliable before ordering online.