Sunday, January 27, 2008

Review : Razor E200 Electric Scooter


Razor Electric Scooter model named Razor E200 Electric Scooter drive by scooter's boy


Cruise around the neighborhood in style with the Razor E200 electric scooter. Boasting an adjustable handlebar that adapts to riders of all sizes, an ultra-quiet chain-driven motor, and a handy twist-grip throttle accelerator, the E200 is the perfect device for teens and adults wanting to speed over to a friend's house or head to the park. Unlike Razor's E300S and E500S scooters--which offers a seated ride--the E200 requires you to stand while zipping through town. But standing in the E200 isn't a problem thanks to the full-size deck and frame, which are custom designed for ages 12 and up. Once you're on the move, the variable-speed motor ramps up to 12 miles per hour--fast enough to have fun, but not fast enough to be a menace on the street or sidewalk.

The long-life rechargeable battery, meanwhile, lasts for up to 45 minutes of continuous use per charge (with an eight-hour charge time), so you can easily cruise to the grocery store and back without running out of juice. Other details include 8-inch pneumatic tires for a smooth ride, a hand-operated rear brake, and such accessories as a pair of 12-volt batteries, a charger, and tools. The E200, which offers a maximum weight limit of 220 pounds



Features

  • Sleek electric scooter with ultra-quiet chain-driven motor and twist-grip throttle
  • Adjustable handlebar adapts to riders of all sizes; hand-operated rear brake
  • Motor cruises at speeds of up to 12 mph; up to 45 minutes of use per charge
  • 8-inch pneumatic tires for smooth ride; full-size deck and frame hold up to 220 pounds
  • Recommended for ages 12 and older

Thursday, January 24, 2008

Review : Razor E125 Electric Scooter



Cruise around the neighborhood in style with the Razor E125 electric scooter. Boasting an adjustable handlebar that adapts to riders of all sizes, a chain-driven, high-torque motor, and a handy twist-grip throttle, the E125 is the perfect device for pre-teens and teens wanting to zip over to a friend's house or head to the park. Unlike Razor's E300S and E500S scooters--whose motors start from a standing position--the E125 requires a small manual kickoff to 3 miles per hour before starting (the rider presses a trigger to engage the motor). Once your child is on the move, however, the electric motor ramps up to 10 miles per hour--fast enough to have fun, but not fast enough to be a menace on the street or sidewalk. And thanks to the long-life rechargeable battery, which takes about eight hours to fully charge, riders can cruise for up to 40 minutes at a stretch. Other details include a folding handlebar mechanism for easy storage and transport, an 8-inch pneumatic front tire and 4.9-inch polyurethane rear wheel, and a hand-operated front brake. The E125 is recommended for ages 8 and older and offers a maximum weight capacity of 120 pounds. It also comes with a pair of 12-volt batteries, a charger


Key Features:

  • For ages 8+
  • 120-pound weight limit
  • Can reach speeds up to 10 miles per hour
  • Up to 40 minutes of continuous use
  • Features a chain-driven, high-torque motor
  • Twist-grip throttle
  • 125mm polyurethane rear wheel
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Hand-operated front brake
  • Adjustable handlebar height
  • 8-inch pneumatic front tire

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Review : Razor E100 Electric Scooter

Razor Electric Scooter Model named Razor E100 Electric Scoooter drive by kid


Cruise around the neighborhood in style with the Razor E100 electric scooter. Boasting a chain-driven, high-torque motor, and a handy twist-grip throttle, the E100 is the perfect device for pre-teens and teens wanting to zip over to a friend's house or head to the park. Unlike Razor's E300S and E500S scooters--whose motors start from a standing position--the E100 requires a small manual kickoff to 3 miles per hour before starting (the rider presses a trigger to engage the motor). Once the rider is on the move, however, the electric motor ramps up to 10 miles per hour--fast enough to have fun, but not fast enough to be a menace on the street or sidewalk. And thanks to the long-life rechargeable battery, which takes about eight hours to fully charge, riders can cruise for up to 40 minutes at a stretch.


Other details include a folding handlebar mechanism for easy storage and transport, an 8-inch pneumatic front tire and 4.9-inch polyurethane rear wheel, and a hand-operated front brake. The E100 is
recommended for ages 8 and older and offers a maximum weight capacity of 120 pounds.

Key Features

  • Powerful fun at speeds up to 10 miles per hour
  • Up to 40 minutes of continuous use
  • Chain-driven, high-torque motor
  • Twist-grip throttle
  • 125mm polyurethane rear wheel
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Hand-operated front brake
  • 8" pneumatic front tireFor Ages 8+
  • Weight Limit: 120 pounds

Monday, January 21, 2008

How to Choose a Motorized Scooter





So you've seen all the kick scooters and wondered if you could get a little more juice under your feet. Motorized scooters allow you to travel longer distances faster with less effort. Plus, their pneumatic air tires are larger and wider than on their kick counterparts and allow you to ride on a wider range of surfaces. Consider a few points before you purchase your new toy.



Things You'll Need
  • Electric Motorized Scooters
  • Gas Motorized Scooters
  • In-line Skating Helmets
  • Scooter Carry Bags
  • Skateboard Pads


6 Steps to Choose a motorized scooter

Step One Gauge your budget. There is a big price range among motorized scooters (from $300 to $1,500, depending on what bells and whistles you go for), so decide how much you're willing to spend.

Step Two
Decide whether you'd like a gas or an electric motor.

Step Three
Select an electric motor if you like the environmental idea of zero emissions. They can travel from 10 to 25 miles per hour depending on the model, and go 10 to 15 miles on a charge. These numbers can vary depending on the weight load. At full throttle, the sound emitted is significantly less than that of the gas-fueled models. Plus, storing electric models in the house isn't a problem.

Step Four
Choose a gas motor if you like the idea of more power. These scooters can generally go longer distances at faster speeds than electric scooters. They are a better choice for any off-road riding you may want to do. Gas scooters have many more options for modification if you plan to soup up your rig. But make sure you have somewhere to store your gas-powered model - the smell of gas in the living room might not be so appealing.

Step Five
Make sure that the weight of the scooter is feasible for your lifestyle. You may want to look into a lighter scooter if you live on the fifth floor of a building without an elevator. Many electric scooters are lighter, and they are allowed on public transportation, while gas engines are not.

Step Six
Check to be sure the handlebar extends comfortably to the height you need, and that the deck is comfortable to ride on. Take the scooter for a test-drive to see how the whole thing works. You should feel like you can adequately stop and start the scooter. Test the brakes and make sure they're accessible for you.

Tips & Warnings

  • Consider what drive type you prefer. Direct drives contact the wheel directly, which can cause tire wear, but they are efficient and inexpensive. Chain drives use a belt or chain, similar to a bike. They are generally faster but more expensive.
  • Being out among other motorized vehicles, most of which are bigger than you, is always risky. Don't make sudden and erratic moves in high-traffic areas.
  • Wear a helmet and knee and elbow pads to minimize injuries in the event of a spill.
  • Obey the rules of the road.

Sunday, January 20, 2008

How to manual on a Kick Scooter







Ever wondered how people on a scooter can manual for so long? Well, now you will find out how!



7 Steps to manual on a kick scooter

Step One Ride along at about walking pace.

Step Two Put one foot in the center of the deck and the other foot right in front of the break near the back of the scooter.

Step Three
Pull up.

Step Four
If you feel yourself tipping over the back wheel, touch the brake.

Step Five
If you are falling forward, pull up on the handle bars.

Step Six
Ride like that for as long as you want to. If you start to slow down, put one foot the manual

Step Seven
to you gain speed again, and go back too two feetLand smooth and ride away.



Tips
  • Learning to manual doesn't come along straight away it takes month of practice to get it right.

Warnings
  • Always wear a helmet and pads

Things You'll Need
  • a scooter (possibly a razor a3)
  • helmet
  • pads
  • a lot of space


Saturday, January 19, 2008

How to Ride a Kick Scooter







Introduction

So you've jumped on the scooter wave and are testing out the waters of alternative transportation. The simple design - two wheels, a riding deck and handlebars - makes this a lightweight and fun alternative to walking. Get the riding basics down and start enjoying your new toy.


Things You'll Need

  • In-line Skating Helmets
  • Kick Scooters
  • Scooter Carry Bags
  • Skateboard Pads


8 Steps to Ride a Kick Scooter

Step One Grab the handlebars, face forward and place your left foot on the deck (board) of the scooter, leaving your right foot on the ground until you are comfortable and balanced. Reverse your foot positions if it is more comfortable to have the right foot on the deck.

Step Two
Pay attention to your stance on the scooter and watch that your feet and body aren't too close to the handlebars. This is dangerous because of the lack of weight distribution over the length of the deck. One bump and you might be in for it.
Step Three Place one foot slightly ahead of the other when riding. Both feet should be pointed forward, with your body weight kept back slightly.

Step Four
Push off with your right foot and start "kicking" the ground to build up speed. This is the same motion used to propel a skateboard. After you have some speed, place the right foot on the deck behind your left and enjoy the ride.

Step Five
Steer your scooter just as you would a bicycle: by turning the handlebars (which turn the front wheel) in the direction you want to go, and by leaning slightly into the turn.

Step Six
Stop in one of three ways. Stop kicking with your back foot and slow to a halt, drag your foot along the ground to act as a brake at slower speeds, or step on the rear friction brake over the back wheel of the scooter. Some kick scooter models actually have a brake lever on the handlebar, similar to the brakes on a bike.

Step Seven
Practice riding the scooter in less populated areas so you can focus more on the riding and less on the obstacles around you. Most people find scooters relatively easy to master.

Step Eight
Watch for fellow travelers. If you're on sidewalks or walkways, make sure you can maneuver around pedestrians, bikes and small animals. Always watch for cars and opening doors; they're the surest way to cut a ride short.


Tips & Warnings

  • Being out among other motorized vehicles, most of which are bigger than you, is always risky. Don't make sudden and erratic moves in high-traffic areas.
  • Wear a helmet and knee and elbow pads to minimize injuries in the event of a spill.
  • Obey the rules of the road.

Friday, January 18, 2008

Review : Razor Kiddie Kick Scooter


Features
  • Dimensions: 7.00" h x 12.50" w x 25.50" l, 7.50 pounds
  • Max scooter rider weight 45 lbs.
  • Super Cool Retro Styling.
  • Three wheel design for easy balance.
  • Quick and easy to assemble
  • Adjustable Handlebar Height.

This scooter is pretty in pink and great for young ones who are just learning to ride. It has great balance with 3 wheels, and a deck that is wide for little feet! My little girl loves it. Now if she would just have patience to learn how to ride. Humm?!

Steve


Our two-year-old has been enjoying the scooter since receiving it for Christmas. It is easier for him to handle than the version his older siblings have. We haven't seen any problems with the wheels that other reviewers have mentioned. The instructions do state that the scooter is made for maximum 45 lbs. Definitely one for younger children! We believe the price is right for the toy.


John Hamming


I bought this for my 4 year old daughter, and bought a regular razor for her older brother. I think it is great to have the 3 wheels since she is at the age where balancing on it was a little tough, but for some reason it doesn't roll smoothly like a 2-wheel scooter. It seems really slow and I think she gets frustrated with that. It makes it a little more work to push yourself along. I would say, wait till your child is old enough to ride a 2 wheel scooter and skip the Kiddie Kick. The 2-wheel razor works great.

Robert Roger

Where to Buy Razor Kiddie Kick Scooter?
You can buy Razor Kiddie Kick Scooter at Amazon and Get FREE with Super Saver Shipping. or Click here to order now.

Thursday, January 17, 2008

Review : Razor RipWinder Caster Scooter


Cruise through town with confidence with the Razor PowerWing caster scooter, a sleek and stylish trick scooter that powers itself. The PowerWing sports a pair of rear caster wheels on a double-wing platform, along with a 125 mm front wheel with a patent-pending brake system. The rear caster wheels are what make the PowerWing tick, propelling the scooter with a simple twist of the feet. Thanks to the unique design, it's easy to steer the PowerWing around tight corners or perform kick-outs, side drifts, spin-outs, and other tricks. You'll be delighted with the maneuverability of the PowerWing, while your friends will be astounded at its virtually unlimited trick potential. Other details include a sturdy steel frame, loop-out stoppers for better control, and a weight limit of 220 pounds. Suitable for ages 8 and older, the PowerWing measures 32 by 35 by 22 inches (W x H x D).


Key Features
For ages 8+
220-pound weight limit
Measures 32 by 35 by 22 inches (W x H x D)
Rear caster wheels
125mm polyurethane front wheel
Patent pending brake system
Steel frame
Loop-out stoppers
Features
Stylish trick scooter with pair of rear caster wheels
Caster wheels propel scooter with a twist of the feet
deal for performing kick-outs, side drifts, and spin-outs
Durable steel frame; 125 mm front wheel with hand brake
For ages 8 and older; measures 32 x 35 x 22 inches (W x H x D)

Where to Buy Razor Powerwing Caster Scooter?

You can buy Razor Powerwing Caster Scooter at Amazon and Get FREE with Super Saver Shipping. or Click here to order now.

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Review : Razor Pro Model Scooter


Designed and tested by Team Razor pro riders with durability and performance in mind, the Razor Pro Model scooter is a step above most other kick scooters. The Pro Model sports such features as full-deck grip tape designed by Team Razor pro rider Ricky Wernicke, a double-stacked head clamp for extra head-tube strength, extra-thick foam grips for additional palm protection, and a folding mechanism welded to the deck for maximum durability. Riders will dig the 98 mm reinforced urethane wheels, which are equipped with ABEC-5 high-speed bearings for a smooth ride, and the patented rear fender brake, which keeps your speeds under control. Best of all, the scooter folds up into a compact package, so it's a breeze to carry on the bus or fit in a closet. The Pro Model, which is made of aircraft-grade aluminum, accommodates up to 220 pounds


Key Features:

Aircraft-grade aluminum construction
Folding mechanism welded to the deck

Double-stacked head clamp

Full-deck grip tape

Extra-thick foam grips

98 mm reinforced urethane wheels

ABEC-5 high-speed bearings

Rear fender brake
220-pound user weight capacity

Where to Buy Razor Pro Model Scooter?

You can buy Razor Pro Model Scooter at Amazon and Get FREE with Super Saver Shipping. or Click here to order now.

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Review : Razor A2 Kick Scooter








The original kick scooter just got a whole lot better, making it even more fun for kids and teens alike. Though it'll never replace the internal combustion engine, the Razor A2 will get your child from point A to point B much quicker than on foot alone, and requires just a few scoots of one's shoes in the process. Plus, it's a blast to use, as your progeny will likely attest.







The Razor A2 is built of aircraft-grade aluminum, a sturdy material that holds up to use and abuse through the years. Razor combined the traditional aluminum construction, however, with a number of recent innovations, including a springless shock system that makes bumpy pavement feel smoother than ever and an all-new wheelie bar that guarantees an extra dollop of fun. Add in the foldable T-tube and deck, which tuck together to create a compact footprint (ideal for carrying when riding isn't appropriate), and you have a great kick scooter for virtually any situation. Other details include an enhanced finger guard, 98 mm inline-style wheels, and a patented rear fender brake for quick stops.


This version of the Razor A2, which weighs around 6 pounds and supports up to 143 pounds, sports red handlebars, a red deck logo, and red wheels and is recommended for ages 5 and older. It's also backed by a six-month warranty. For the next step up, try the Razor A3 Scooter.


This Razor A3 scooter with the larger wheels was a big hit with my 10 year old granddaughter for Christmas'07! She loved it and it was ready to go in a few seconds right out of the box. The larger wheels help it to go faster and the suspension helps smooth out small bumps on riding surfaces. It didn't take her long to figure out how to use the wheelie bar either. It was a great buy for a great scooter. It has larger, faster wheels than the Pro version so get the A3!

Where to Buy Razor A2 Kick Scooter?

You can buy
Razor A2 Kick Scooter at Amazon and Get FREE with Super Saver Shipping. or Click here to order now.

Monday, January 14, 2008

Review : Razor A Kick Scooter



The original kick scooter, the Razor A is a handy little ride for kids and teens alike. Though it'll never replace the internal combustion engine, the scooter will get your child from point A to point B much quicker than on foot alone, and requires just a few scoots of one's shoes in the process. Plus, it's a blast to use, as your progeny will likely attest.


The Razor A is built of aircraft-grade aluminum, a sturdy material that holds up to use and abuse through the years. Its T-tube and deck, meanwhile, fold up into a compact footprint, so riders can fit the scooter inside a bag or carry it at their side when riding isn't appropriate (it weighs around 6 pounds). And thanks to the 98mm inline-style urethane wheels, ABEC 5 bearings, and patented rear fender brake, riders will always feel smooth and in control when kicking along the sidewalk.


Recommended for ages 5 and older, the Razor A will support a rider up to 143 pounds. It's also backed by a six-month warranty. For the next step up, try the Razor A2 Scooter.


When you're done riding, the Razor A folds down to a nicely compact size.

Specifications:

* Scooter material: Aircraft-grade aluminum tube and deck
* Wheel size: 98mm
* Wheel bearings: ABEC-5
* Brakes: Rear fender
* Allen wrench: 5mm (not included)
* Handlebar height: 33 inches (wheel to handlebar)
* Weight: 6 pounds
* Maximum rider weight: 143 pounds
* Suspension: No
* Wheelie bar: No
* Kickstand: No
* Folded dimensions: 23.75 x 4 x 7.25 inches

If you want to buy a "Razor A Kick scooter" I recommend this site [Click Here]

Sunday, January 13, 2008

How to Buy a Kick Scooter





Introduction
Scooters are fun ride-on toys that provide a refreshing change from bicycles and tricycles. Today, even teens and adults are getting in on the action and using scooters to get places fast.

Things You'll Need
  • Bicycle Helmets
  • Electric Motorized Scooters
  • Kick Scooters
  • Scooter Carry Bags
  • Rollerboard Scooters
  • Scooter Foxes

11 Steps to buy a kick scooter

Step One Know that a scooter is a ride-on toy on which a child stands. There is a large wheel in the front and a handlebar for steering. The back has one or two small wheels. In between, the front and rear wheels is a flat area for standing on.

Step Two
Know, too, that the child holds on to the handles, places one foot on the flat surface and pushes off on the ground with the other foot.

Step Three
Understand that, when shopping for a scooter, you need to know how old the child is you are shopping for, as there are several types for different ages.

Step Four
Consider a scooter with two rear wheels for any age. These scooters are the easiest to balance on.

Step Five
Notice that some scooters have brakes on the handlebars while others have a foot brake over the rear wheel. The handle brakes are the easiest to use.

Step Six
Realize that, if you are shopping for a child in the 4- to 7-year age range, you will have a wide selection, as most scooters are made for this age range.

Step Seven
Check out the Razor Scooter, one of the more popular models. The Quincy Scooter ($90) has a basket on the handlebars and three wheels. Small Wheels' Red Scooter and Chrome Scooter ($90 to $100) have safety features such as hand brakes and handlebar safety pad.

Step Eight
Recognize that, if you are shopping for an older child, you may wish to consider the Seneca Street Cruiser. This scooter is really a skateboard with handlebars. It is inexpensive at $25.

Step Nine
Understand, though, that a child who already rides a skateboard may not appreciate this scooter, as it may appear too juvenile with the handlebars.

Step Ten
Look at the Red California Chariot Scooter, which is also made for this age range. It costs $170 and features a very large front wheel and increased stability with its two rear wheels.

Step Eleven
Shop for a scooter from the shopping list or at your favorite online or local shop.


Tips & Warnings

You may wish to have your child always wear a helmet when riding a scooter. If the child must always put on a helmet before getting on any type of ride-on toy, he or she will develop a habit for wearing one when using a bike or skateboard.

Recommand
I think it's good to look at this shop [Kick Scooter Store]


Saturday, January 12, 2008

How to Choose a Kick Scooter





They're popping up everywhere, looking like a cross between in-line skates and a skateboard with handles ... they're kick scooters! Powered in the same fashion as skateboards, kick scooters allow even first-time riders to weave easily down the street. The trick is choosing a scooter that fits your budget and riding style.



Things You'll Need
In-line Skating Helmets
Kick Scooters
Scooter Carry Bags
Skateboard Pads


Steps to Choose a Kick Scooter

Step One Gauge your budget. Today's kick scooters are a far cry from their board-on-roller-skate ancestors. There's a good price range that allows beginners to get started relatively cheaply, while allowing enthusiasts to move into more specialized territory.

Step Two Start out on a simple, no-frills scooter for about $100, for example, or move on to spend upward of $400 for added bells and whistles.

Step Three Look at the size of the scooter. Most are less than 10 pounds for easy carrying and fold up to a length of 2 feet or less.

Step Four Grab a specialized bag for about $20 when you buy your scooter. Then fold up the scooter, drop it in the bag and tote it anywhere. You can also buy a strap that attaches to the folded scooter, and swing it over your shoulder for easy carrying. Some scooters come in kits with all of these accessories included.

Step Five Make sure your scooter's handlebars adjust to a comfortable height. You should be able to stand comfortably on the board and have the bars rise to mid-torso. You shouldn't have to bend over to use them, or you won't be able to look ahead comfortably.

Step Six Think about the amount of weight you'll have on the scooter and decide whether it will support you. Most are designed to hold between 300 and 350 pounds.

Step Seven Test-drive the scooter. A scooter's wheels have a larger diameter than those on skateboards - similar to those found on in-line skates - which makes for a smoother, more efficient ride. Make sure you feel like the scooter is something you can brake and steer. Many kick scooters use a rear friction brake instead of hand brakes on the handlebars. Decide which you are most comfortable using.

Step Eight Consider customizing the deck (the area where you stand). Most kick scooters have a relatively small deck that might not have enough room for both of your feet to rest on, especially if you wear size 13 or larger shoes. One foot is pushing the scooter most of the time anyway. But you can buy a wider deck that will allow you to get more of your feet off the ground.

Tips & Warnings
1. Being out among other motorized vehicles, most of which are bigger than you, is always risky. Don't make sudden and erratic moves in high-traffic areas.
2. Wear a helmet, as well as knee and elbow pads to minimize injuries in the event of a spill.
3. Obey the rules of the road.

Friday, January 11, 2008

Kick Scooter VS. Bicycle




To the basics of a kick scooter, a bicycle adds a seat and drive train. These complications bring more speed, cost, weight and bulk. At the end of a journey a folding scooter can be more easily folded and carried indoors than a folding bicycle or even a portable bicycle. Even a non folding scooter is easier to bring into crowded places, since it lacks pedals jutting out and snagging. Thus the transport advantages of a bicycle apply more to longer journeys and open spaces, and those of a kick scooter more to shorter and more crowded ones. Kickers seldom have a luggage rack, so the rider usually carries any cargo by backpack or other bag. At minimal speeds a bicycle is difficult to control while pedalling, which is why bicyclers may sometimes be seen kicking their way through dense traffic or other conditions where they cannot take advantage of the speed of their machine. Thanks to the superior low-speed stability of a kicker, it is allowed on many footpaths where riding a bicycle is forbidden. The feet being lower to the ground, it is easier to step on and off a scooter than even a step-through frame bicycle, hence the rider can alternate walking and pushing as energy and route dictate. Large wheel scooters --such as the Kickbike -- are a more effective cross training workout than standard bicycles as the whole body is engaged in the effort of kicking. Pushing or kicking a large wheel scooter places less stress on the knee joint than does pedalling a bicycle. Although the bicycle is a very effective long distance machine especially as it is ridden while seated, in 2001 Jim Delzer pushed a kick bike across the United States.

To the basics of a kick scooter, a bicycle adds a seat and drive train. These complications bring more speed, cost, weight and bulk. At the end of a journey a folding scooter can be more easily folded and carried indoors than a folding bicycle or even a portable bicycle. Even a non folding scooter is easier to bring into crowded places, since it lacks pedals jutting out and snagging. Thus the transport advantages of a bicycle apply more to longer journeys and open spaces, and those of a kick scooter more to shorter and more crowded ones. Kickers seldom have a luggage rack, so the rider usually carries any cargo by backpack or other bag.

At minimal speeds a bicycle is difficult to control while pedalling, which is why bicyclers may sometimes be seen kicking their way through dense traffic or other conditions where they cannot take advantage of the speed of their machine. Thanks to the superior low-speed stability of a kicker, it is allowed on many footpaths where riding a bicycle is forbidden.

The feet being lower to the ground, it is easier to step on and off a scooter than even a step-through frame bicycle, hence the rider can alternate walking and pushing as energy and route dictate. Large wheel scooters --such as the Kickbike -- are a more effective cross training workout than standard bicycles as the whole body is engaged in the effort of kicking. Pushing or kicking a large wheel scooter places less stress on the knee joint than does pedalling a bicycle. Although the bicycle is a very effective long distance machine especially as it is ridden while seated, in 2001 Jim Delzer pushed a kick bike across the United States.

Thursday, January 10, 2008

World of Kick Scooter


a little smile girl with her kick scooter


A kick scooter or push scooter is a small, 2 or more-wheeled platform t
hat is propelled by a rider pushing off the ground. The most common scooters have two hard small wheels, are made primarily of aluminum and for children, and fold for convenience. Some kick scooters have 3 or 4 wheels, or are made of plastic, or are large, or do not fold.


Models and history

In the late 1990s, a sleeker, narrower folding version of the kick scooter by JDBug (commonly known as an aluminum scooter or Razor) became wildly popular in Japan. In 1999 and 2000 the craze spread to the United States, with a wide variety of colors and styles, with the bubble bursting in 2000. Popular brands include Razor and Micro. The two companies continue to produce these types of scooters, which are popular with children and with a niche market of young adult riders who use the scooters to perform stunts. These stunt riders have swelled in numbers over the previous few years. The average aluminum scooter has a 18-24 inch (45-60 cm)long deck, with collapsible handlebars, a folding / locking mechanism, 10 cm (4") wheels, and a friction brake. Stunt riders often reinforce and replace many parts of
a scooter, sometimes to the point where the deck is the only part left of the original scooter.


"Adult" folders

Adult sized folding kick scooters include Xootr with 180 mm (7.1 in) wheels. These scooters generally have more durable parts, and are designed with wider and longer decks, hand brake and larger wheels, for smoother transportation.






Big wheels
Scooters made for racing use bicycle wheels. They do not fold. Some are used in dense urban areas for utility purposes, being faster than a folding scooter and handier than a utility bicycle. Some are made for off-road usage. Popular brands include Sidewalker and Diggler but since the development of the Kickbike in Finland from 1994 this type of push scooter has changed the way scooters are viewed. The kickbike has a large standard size bicycle front wheel and a much smaller rear wheel. This combination generates a much faster ride.


Besides commuting, sports competition and off road use, large wheel scooters are a favorite for Dog scootering where single or team dogs -- such as Huskies -- pull the scooter and rider in the same way that a sled is pulled across snow. Today variations on the Kicksled with scooter design features are also available -- such as the Kickspark.


Early scooters
Primitive scooters have been hand-made in industrial urban areas for at least 100 years. One common homemade version is made by attaching roller skate wheel sets to a board with some kind of handle. Steering is provided by leaning, or by a second board connected by a crude pivot. The construction was all-wooden, with 3-4 inch (75-100 mm) wheels with steel ball bearings. An additional advantage of this construction was loud noise, just like from a "real" vehicle. An alternative construction consists of one steel clamp–on roller skate divided into front and rear parts and attached to a wood beam.