Razor E300 Review
Razor E300 Specifications
- Top speed: 24 kmh 15 mph
- Range: 16 km 10 mph
- Motors: chain drive
- Power: 250 W
- Battery: 168 Wh, 24 V
- Battery type: lead acid
- Charging time: 12 h
- Avg. charging cost: US: $0.03, Canada: $0.02, UK: £0.05, EU: €0.05
- Weight: 19.5 kg 43 lbs
- Weight limit: 100 kg 220 lbs
- Tire size: 9 in
- Tire type: pneumatic
- Tire pressure: 40, see side of tire psi
- Foldable: depends
- Foldable handlebars: no
- Seat: yes for E300S
- Trunk or basket: no (customization possible)
- Build material: steel + aluminum
- Terrains: urban
- Brakes: rear hand operated
- Shock absorbers: no
- Lights: no (customization possible)
- Speed modes: 1
- Cruise control: no
- Keys: no
- Alarm: no
- Warranty: 90 days
- Rider age: 13+
- Unfolded dimensions (L * W * H): 104 * 43 * 107 cm 40.94 * 16.93 * 42.13 in
- Deck to handlebar height: 96 cm (est) 37.80 in (est)
- Adjustable handlebar: no
- Notes: razor 300s weighs 23.5 kg
Tests and measurements
- Speed tests (EScooterNerds): 24 kmh 15 mph
- Speed tests (third party): 24 kmh 15 mph
- Range tests (EScooterNerds): 12 km 7 mi
- Range tests (third party): 16 km 10 mi
- Braking distance tests (third party): 5 m
- Climb tests (EScooterNerds): 14
- Climb tests (third party): 15
- Charge time tests (third party): 12
- Weight limit tests (EScooterNerds): 90 kg 198 lbs
- Weight limit tests (third party): 100 kg 220 lbs
- Waterproofing tests (EScooterNerds): no issues in rain
- Waterproofing tests (third party): no issues in light rain
Ratings and scores
Pros
- good value
- reliable
- popular brand
Cons
- clunky
- does not fold
- heavy
- slow charging
- small range
When to buy
The Razor E300 is an excellent choice for children and teenagers, fulfilling its intended purpose as arguably the best scooter for kids globally. Additionally, it makes for a fantastic gift, not limited to teenagers, thanks to its affordability, typically ranging between $300 and $350. The scooter offers great value, particularly when priced around $300.
When not to buy
For commuters the range of 10 mi / 16 km (maybe even less in the real world) is unacceptable, but the weight of 43 lbs / 19 kg will make carrying the Razor E300 in buses, subway stations, and through elevators and doors, a real chore. The non-foldable version of the scooter is not really portable. Not only can you not fold it to carry it, but it won’t fit in the usual places you need it to fit, like under your office desk or in the trunk of your car. Oh, and it kinda weighs a lot. The weight limit of 220 lbs / 100 kg will be enough for most people. Finally, the scooter lacks IP protection, and some parts seem like they might go rusty if exposed to too much water. This scooter will not be a good fit for anyone living in a rainy area.
The Razor E300 is an ideal electric scooter for kids. Let’s explore its features from various perspectives to determine if it can also be a fun and practical scooter for adults.
Basics
Here are some of the basics that you need to know about the Razor E300.
Unboxing and assembly
The box contains the scooter, assembly tools, charger, user manual, warranty card, and valve extender. Assembly for the non-folding version involves connecting the stem to the deck and tightening screws, taking about 5 minutes.
Check and adjust brakes to your preferences. The user manual provides instructions and troubleshooting tips for common defects.
Folding and unfolding
The Razor E300 used to come in both foldable and non-foldable versions. The non-foldable version, having one less moving part, is theoretically safer and more reliable.
The foldable version of the Razor E300, with its dependable folding mechanism, provides greater portability. It features a pin that you can loosen on the front to unlock and fold the stem.
I consider the folding version to be the superior choice.
However, the foldable version seems less common and may be discontinued, making the non-foldable Razor E300 the likely option available today.
Performance
Here are the performance aspects of the Razor E300.
Motor
The Razor E300 stands out with a chain-drive motor housed within the deck, a deviation from the hub motors commonly seen today.
Despite hub motors often being perceived as more modern, the E300’s chain-drive motor has proven exceptionally reliable over time, outperforming many hub motors in terms of durability.
Chain-driven motors offer customization options, allowing users to adjust torque by manipulating chain length or sprocket size. The E300 provides a user-friendly method to modify chain length for personalized performance.
While chain-related issues like dislodging or breakage are rare, they can occur, requiring occasional maintenance—an aspect absent in hub motors. The motor delivers a power output of 250 Watts.
Speed and speed test
The top speed of the Razor E300 is 15 mph / 24 kmh.
This is fast enough for most of the intended users of this scooter and within the legal speed limit of most places. The top speed may be less for riders closer to the weight limit of 220 lbs / 100 kg.
When I was testing the Razor E300 I had to push its limits.
I found a stretch of open road and pushed the throttle to its maximum. The scooter responded with a surge of power, and I watched the speedometer climb to 18 mph / 28.9 kmh .
This exceeded the scooter’s advertised top speed of 15 mph, and I couldn’t help but grin with excitement.
Still, we can’t say that this is a fast scooter. If you need more speed, check out my guide on the fastest electric scooters.
Range and range test
The Razor E300 has a range of approximately 10 mi / 16 km, translating to about 35-40 minutes of continuous riding. While generally realistic, individual circumstances may result in some riders getting less.
This is one of the weakest points of this scooter in my opinion. It will be enough for a younger rider to have tons of fun with it, no doubt, but it will be very difficult to commute with this scooter.
When I was testing it for the range, I got even less than that official range.
The battery died after only 7.4 miles / 12 km.
In essence, if you’re looking for a long-range electric scooter, the Razor E300 won’t be your choice.
Climbing and climb test
The Razor E300 handles hills well for its price, performing solidly on mild and some moderate inclines.
Its official climb angle is 15 degrees. I managed to climb only a 14 degree hill and it stopped after struggling for a couple of meters. If that happens to you it may require kick assistance.
Overall, the scooter climbs well, given its price, but if you live somewhere with lots of hills, I recommend taking a look at my guide on the best scooters for climbing hills.
Ride experience
The 9-inch pneumatic tires make Razor E300’s stable and enjoyable in my experience with the scooter. Its reputation for being “fun” is largely due to a low defect rate, providing users with reliable enjoyment.
The scooter’s motor produces a semi-loud sound, louder than most others. This could be an advantage in busy cities where pedestrians often collide with scooters due to a lack of audible warning.
The loud noise sometimes could be very irritating.
Razor E300 vs other scooters
Since the Razor E300 is extremely popular, it is often compared against other popular scooters.
Razor E300 vs Razor E300S
The Razor E300 and E300S are identical scooters, differing only in the inclusion of a seat with the E300S. While it’s possible to add a seat to the E300 with some custom work, opting for the E300S initially is preferable if you anticipate needing a seat.
The seat on the E300S can be easily removed by unscrewing the deck screws. You can find the Razor E300S on Amazon.
Razor E300 vs Razor E200
The Razor E300 is an upgraded version of the Razor E200 scooter.
The E200 is well-received for kids with its smaller 200 Watt motor, weight capacity of 154 lbs / 70 kg, and overall smaller size. It is recommended for children ages 2-10 on its Amazon listing.
A lot of the other features are the same, so only consider the Razor E200 if you have a child under 10.
You can see the full review of it, or find the Razor E200 on Amazon, usually cheaper even than the Razor E300.
Razor E300 vs GoTrax GXL Commuter
While the scooters have similar top speeds, the Razor E300 is designed primarily for children.
For adults, I recommend the GoTrax GXL Commuter (or even better, the GoTrax GXL V2 Commuter) as a superior choice.
Check out the reviews of the GoTrax GXL Commuter and the GoTrax GXL V2 Commuter to see when some of them may be a better adult option.
Razor E300 vs Xiaomi M365
In this comparison, the Razor E300 is primarily favored for its price.
However, the Xiaomi M365, being more proven and battle-tested, negates this advantage. While their speeds are similar, the Xiaomi M365 boasts a range of up to three times longer, lighter weight, and faster charging.
For adult use, especially with a budget of around $300, the Xiaomi M365 or its successor, the Xiaomi M365 Pro, is a superior choice.
Read my Xiaomi M365 review, or the review of the Xiaomi M365 Pro, if you are looking for a great choice for a serious adult scooter.
Razor E300 vs Swagtron Swagger v1
The Razor E300 is currently priced at around $300, while the Swagtron Swagger v1 is approximately $250.
Despite the Swagger v1 theoretically offering more range and water protection, its numerous defects and quality issues make it a risky choice.
The Razor E300, with large air-filled tires, provides a more comfortable ride and wins overall in terms of quality.
Razor E300 vs Swagtron Swagger 5 Elite
Despite the Swagtron Swagger 5 boasting more range, a higher water resistance rating (IPX4), and a greater weight capacity of 320 lbs / 145 kg.
The Razor E300 is the preferred choice due to its superior reputation, higher user satisfaction, and better overall build quality with fewer defects.
This makes it suitable for both kids, its primary target audience, and adults seeking a reliable option without common quality issues.
Build quality
The Razor E300 boasts a distinct and enduring design, maintaining tradition over time. This chain-driven scooter stands out in both form and function, being one of the most renowned models in its category.
It uses lead-acid batteries instead of the more common lithium-ion ones. The choice of build material is another interesting aspect that sets it apart.
The Razor E300 deviates from the common use of aluminum alloy, opting for significant steel construction. Some may view it as a bug, but I consider that a feature.
While this increases weight, it also enhances stability, reliability, and durability—critical factors for a children’s scooter prioritizing safety.
Usually, the scooter comes in three colors: blue, white, and grey.
All in all, the Razor E300 is actually a pretty well-made scooter.
Features
Here are the main features of the Razor E300.
Battery and charging
The Razor E300 features two 12-Volt batteries connected in series, resulting in a total battery voltage of 24 Volts. Unlike the common lithium-ion batteries, the E300 employs lead-acid batteries, extending the charging time to 12 hours.
A notable drawback is the extended charging period, prompting some users to switch to lithium-ion batteries for quicker charging.
It’s crucial to avoid complete drainage of the battery.
The charging port, located on the deck near the power button, accompanies the usual indicator light—red during charging and green when fully charged.
Despite the green light, charging for the recommended 12 hours is essential.
Unfortunately, the E300 lacks a battery meter, making it challenging to monitor the remaining battery life.
However, given the scooter’s limited range, the risk of being stranded far from home is minimal.
How to replace the battery on the Razor E300 electric scooter?
A major downside with lead-acid batteries is their shorter lifespan than the li-ion models. The battery’s capacity gets significantly lowered after two years of usage, and you might want to replace it with a new one.
Luckily, replacing the battery on the Razor E300 is very easy and done in less than 15 minutes. It gets done in 4 simple steps:
- Remove the deck cover by unscrewing the 8 screws that hold it tight
- Remove the old batteries by disconnecting the wires that go to the controller and the motor
- Install the new batteries, place the battery with the longer wire on the rear side, and connect the wires in the same way as the old batteries
- Reinstall the deck cover back
Here is a quick video to guide you through this process:
Brakes
The scooter features a single rear drum brake, connected to the left handlebar lever by a cable. The brake, positioned conventionally, delivers excellent performance with a short stopping distance.
Adjustments for sensitivity can be made at the nut near the brake lever or on the wheel itself.
Tires and wheels
The 9-inch tires are wider than most scooters, offering a comfortable, bump-free ride, albeit with a faster battery drain. Suitable for light offroad use on grass or gravel, the tires feature vent spews for assessing wear.
When the tiny hairs disappear, replacement may be needed. This typically happens after one to two years of normal use. The tires can be inflated using a standard bike tire pump, with the valve conveniently hidden in the right handlebar.
Lights
The Razor E300 comes with no lights. It is recommended you get some after-market light so that the scooter is not completely useless at night for you or your child.
Check out the guide on electric scooter accessories, or take a look at some inexpensive extra-bright headlights and rear lights on Amazon.
Weight, dimensions, and portability
The Razor E300 weighs 43 lbs / 19.5 kg. The bulk of the weight comes from the 2 lead-acid batteries, but the steel frame contributes a lot as well.
The scooter has pretty average dimensions, with measurements: 41 x 17 x 42 in / 104 x 43 x 107 cm (L x W x H).
It’s typically not foldable, and the foldable version may be discontinued. The lack of foldability, along with its considerable weight, makes it impractical for portability.
While carrying it briefly may be manageable, fitting it into an average car trunk is not feasible unless you have the foldable version.
Weight limit
The weight limit of the Razor E300 is 220 lbs / 100 kg. That makes it suitable for kids, but also for most adults as well, and many adults have chosen it as their scooter because of that.
Handlebars
The default throttle is a twist-throttle. The throttle may have a somewhat jerky acceleration, as it’s not a gradual throttle mechanism, more like an on/off switch.
There is a thumb throttle available for the scooter as well, which, in my opinion, is a far better way to ride, and it will give you variable speed depending on how hard you press.
Deck
The deck is comfortable for adults and features a raised back for optimal rear foot placement.
With ample ground clearance, it can navigate sidewalks, though caution is advised. Equipped with grip tape, the deck ensures a non-slip surface.
Water resistance
The Razor E300 lacks an official IP rating, leaving some components vulnerable to corrosion. While the battery and electronics are adequately protected, parts like screws, kickstand, and possibly the chain may be prone to corrosion.
It’s not recommended for use in wet conditions, and riding in the rain should be avoided. If you live somewhere rainy, take a look at my guide on the best waterproof electric scooters.
Accessories and customizations
The Razor E300 offers extensive customization options and upgrades. Enhancements like upgrading the chain and installing a more powerful motor can significantly boost performance.
Replacing the lead-acid battery with lithium-ion alternatives or adding extra batteries is a popular customization, but caution and knowledge are required when tinkering with the scooter’s electrical components.
Watch this video for a detailed guide on upgrading the Razor E300’s batteries.
Another customization that users frequently do on the Razor E300 is replacing the twist throttle with the thumb throttle. That enables the scooter to have a gradual speed increase, and in my opinion, is a very good idea.
Seat
The Razor E300 doesn’t come with a seat.
However, the deck already contains some of the screws for the seat mount, and installing the seat shouldn’t be too difficult.
Anyway, if you believe you may need a seat, it’s much better to get the Razor E300S (link to Amazon) version, which is basically the same scooter with the seat. You can remove the seat if you want, and add it back again later.
Problems, issues, and what to know
While the Razor E300 is a solid scooter, it’s not without its issues.
Although the defect rate isn’t high, occasional reports of the scooter abruptly stopping exist. While it doesn’t fall into the “terrible” category, defects are not negligible for a $300 scooter. If you’d like to see some higher-quality scooters, check out my guides on the best scooters under $1,000, or even best scooters under $2,500.
The throttle, lacking gradient speed increase, is a common complaint. The issue can be addressed with a custom thumb throttle, but it’s an additional purchase.
I’d say a big problem is the small range, although this may not be such an issue for a kid or someone riding just as a hobby. The range is definitely a dealbreaker for people looking for a commuter scooter.
Verdict
The Razor E300 stands out from typical scooters on the street, boasting a unique design and purpose.
Geared towards a younger demographic, typically teens and kids aged 13 and older, and even young adults, it offers a distinct experience.
Commonly chosen for young teenagers, the scooter is designed to withstand use and abuse.
Despite its youth-oriented focus, the E300 is spacious enough for adults. Its popularity, especially among kids, underscores its effectiveness.
Many adults also find satisfaction with the Razor E300, and I would recommend it as a great budget pick any day of the week.
