The Razor E100 has been the best-selling electric scooter for youngsters for over a decade, but is it still the best option out there? Let’s look at what it offers and what it’s missing to see if the Razor E100 is right for you or your young ones.
See also: The best electric skateboards for kids
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What you need to know about the Razor E100
The Razor E100 is a scooter for kids between eight and twelve. It has a weight limit of 120 lbs (54 kg), which means your little ones might outgrow it sooner than later. However, its solid steel frame makes it durable and lasting, perfect for older siblings to pass down to their younger family members.
The rear wheel hosts a minimal 100-watt, chain-driven motor that only reaches speeds of 10 mph (16 km/h), safe for any suburban neighborhood. However, you won’t be able to ride for more than an hour, as the 24V battery lasts for 40 minutes of continuous riding. That may be enough to ride to school and back, so long as you remember to turn the scooter off.
The charge time is between 4-6 hours, best left plugged in overnight. The Razor E100 isn’t foldable, but it does have a small kickstand to prop upright and weighs ~25 lbs, which isn’t too heavy for children to push or carry should they run out of battery. Be aware that there isn’t a bell or any reflectors, so you won’t want to ride it after the sun goes down.
What’s good?
Sturdy build: The Razor E100 is built to last. The steel frame and deck make it durable to ride, and simple components won’t require much maintenance. The front air-filled tire is easy to inflate, and the back 8-inch pneumatic tire makes for a fairly smooth ride. While the back motor cover is large to hide the chain, it is a bit too big and can scratch the ground when going over a sudden curb.
Inexpensive: The Razor E100 is the most affordable option for an introductory beginner electric scooter. Because it is so durable, it is easy to pass down to younger siblings once you’ve outgrown 120 lbs, getting multiple uses out of it for years to come.
Easy and fun: The slow speeds and simple throttle make the Razor E100 super easy and fun to ride. Just twist the throttle on the right to go and pull the handbrake on the left to stop. The size also makes it easy to park at any schoolyard bike rack. My younger sister got the hang of it in less than ten minutes, and she appreciated the steel fender to rest her back foot.
What’s not so good?
Slow uphill: If you thought ten miles per hour was slow, just wait until you try to take the Razor E100 uphill. The scooter pretty much grinds to a halt up the incline, meaning the kids will have to provide a few push kicks.
Loud: For such a small motor, it certainly is loud. The 100-watt chain-driven motor roars like a buzzsaw, which some neighbors or parents might not appreciate.
Few safety features: The Razor E100 has no reflectors or bell to alert others. That’s surprising for a scooter geared towards children. Maybe Razor thought the motor was loud enough to replace a horn? You get a handbrake that can stop at a moment’s notice. Still, we would have appreciated some visibility. You can, however, buy these add-ons for relatively cheap.
Razor E100 specs
- Max speed: 10 mph (16 km/h)
- Battery life: Up to 40 mins
- Range: 6.5 miles (10 km)
- Weight: 11.5 kg (25 lbs)
- Max rider weight: 120 lbs
Should I buy the Razor E100 electric scooter?
If your young one is eager to start riding two-wheelers, then the Razor E100 is a fun beginner electric scooter. It’s easier to learn than a bicycle, as all you need to do is push off with one foot and twist the throttle to get going. The speed is perfect for outings that are *just* too far to walk. And the sturdy build will ensure the scooter lasts for years to come.
We would have liked to have seen added reflectors, even if just stickers, for added visibility. The same goes for the missing bell. However, you can pick up those parts at your local hardware store or on amazon for relatively cheap. You could also consider spending a bit more for the Gotrax GXL V2, which has both and can carry more weight as your kid grows up.
For just $170, the Razor E100 electric scooter makes for a steller birthday gift for the young ones that’ll have them riding around until the sun goes down.
FAQs
Q: How fast does a Razor E100 electric scooter go?
A: The Razor E100 goes up to 10 mph (16 km/h)
Q: How do I charge the Razor E100 electric scooter?
A: To charge your Razor E100, ensure the power switch is off and open the kickstand to keep it upright. Then plug your charger into the wall and align the three-pronged cord with the port beside your scooter. See the image below for reference.
Q: Which is better, the Razor E90 or E100?
A: Both scooters are relatively similar. However, the E100 has a twist throttle instead of a button which is a bit easier to use and has two 12V batteries, whereas the E90 only has one. For your money, the E100 is a better buy.
Q: How long does a Razor E100 battery last?
A: Razor says the E100 can last 40 minutes of continuous riding. If you start and stop frequently, you will get an average of an hour of riding before needing to recharge.
Q: What charger does the Razor E100 use?
A: The Razor E100 uses a 24 Volt 1.5 Amp 3-Prong Battery Charger. You can purchase one here.
Q: How do I start the Razor E100 electric scooter?
A: Flip the power switch beside the charging port to start the scooter. The switch will light up red when on. Then, push off with one foot and twist the throttle to engage the motor and start riding.