Should you buy a more expensive scooter, and what are some of the perfect use cases when making that decision is ideal?
I’m in the same spot as you right now, and I’m thinking of whether I should stay with my Xiaomi M365 Pro (which has been great so far, by the way), or go ahead and get one of those amazing scooters that cost $1500 or more.
Consider your financial situation firstStrategic risk: market volatilityCost: moderateDifficulty: lowOpting for a budget-friendly model can offer a decent experience without burdening your finances. It’s essential to balance your needs, budget, and long-term goals when making a purchase decision.
When you want a longer rangeStrategic risk: technological obsolescenceCost: $100 – $200 annuallyDifficulty: moderateIf you require a longer range for your electric scooter, opting for a more expensive model with advanced battery technology is a wise choice.
During seasonal promotionsStrategic risk: limited availabilityCost: 10% – 30% offDifficulty: moderateTake advantage of seasonal sales to score a more expensive electric scooter at a discounted price.
When you need an electric scooter with a longer better warrantyStrategic risk: reliability assessmentCost: $50 – $100 for extended warrantyDifficulty: lowInvesting in a more expensive electric scooter often comes with the added benefit of an extended warranty.
During Black FridayStrategic risk: limited stockCost: $50 – $200 offDifficulty: moderateBe sure to research and compare deals across various stores to secure the best value for your investment during Black Friday.
In the midst of clearance salesStrategic risk: outdated techonologyCost: savings of $100 – $300Difficulty: moderateClearance sales offer a chance to snag a higher-end electric scooter at a reduced price.
As new models hit the market…Strategic risk: user feedback uncertaintyCost: Potential 10% – 20% higher initial costDifficulty: moderateWhen manufacturers release new electric scooter models, older ones often experience price reductions.
When retailers offer financing dealsStrategic risk: impact on creditCost: 5% – 15% APRDifficulty: moderateSome retailers provide financing options for expensive electric scooters, allowing you to spread the cost over time
Upon the end of the fiscal yearStrategic risk: model availabilityCost: $200 – $500 in financial incentivesDifficulty: moderateWhen manufacturers release new electric scooter models, older ones often experience price reductions.
Holiday promotionsStrategic risk: limited stockCost: $50 – $300 offDifficulty: moderateThe holiday season often brings about various sales and promotions, making it an opportune time to invest in a more expensive electric scooter.
During Amazon Prime DayStrategic risk: limited stockCost: Exclusive Prime deals, potential savings of $50 – $150Difficulty: moderateAmazon Prime Day is a notable occasion to secure deals on a range of products, including electric scooters.
Back to school promotionsStrategic risk: limited availabilityCost: $50 – $200 offDifficulty: moderateRetailers may include scooters in their promotions, providing an opportunity to save money while purchasing a more feature-rich and durable model.
When to buy an expensive electric scooter?
While the price of an electric scooter is almost always directly related to its level of quality, you should be aware that even the most expensive electric scooters can have faults, issues, and downsides, and some may even break down as cheap electric scooters would.
Usually, expensive scooters are sold by the best scooter brands and merchants, and they offer generous terms and warranty and return policies that match the scooter’s price, so if your scooter arrives broken, you will either get a replacement, a free part, a free repair, or a full refund.
Let’s explore all the angles and options.
Consider your financial situation first
I’ve talked to several scooter owners who have bought scooters that they couldn’t afford. Interestingly, in many cases, they don’t seem to regret their decisions in the least, and some of them have mentioned even getting financing for buying the scooter, but they have often mentioned financial problems in other areas, which prompts me to give you this tip.
I’m kind of a value-shopper myself (or, a cheapskate, if you will). My Xiaomi M365 Pro costs around $500. At the time, I only had a bit more money than that, but I desperately wanted a scooter, so I went with a strong, trusted, reliable model, that still didn’t break the bank. Over the next year, I will probably buy a much more expensive scooter (the EMove Cruiser, the Kaabo Wolf Warrior, or even the Dualtron X2 eventually).
When you want a longer range
Higher-end scooters typically offer increased range capabilities, providing the convenience of longer rides between charges. Consider your commuting needs and invest in a scooter that aligns with your desired range.
See my guide on the best long-range electric scooters for some great picks.
During seasonal promotions
Retailers often offer substantial discounts during events like summer or winter sales, providing an opportunity to save while still getting a high-quality scooter.
Keep an eye on promotions and seize the chance to upgrade your ride during these periods.
When you need an electric scooter with a longer better warranty
Investing in a more expensive electric scooter often comes with the added benefit of an extended warranty.
If you prioritize peace of mind and want coverage for potential issues, consider purchasing a premium model with a robust warranty, ensuring a secure and reliable riding experience.
During Black Friday
Black Friday is a prime time to invest in a more expensive electric scooter. Retailers commonly offer significant discounts during these annual sales events, allowing you to capitalize on savings while acquiring a premium model.
In the midst of clearance sales
Clearance sales offer a chance to snag a higher-end electric scooter at a reduced price. As retailers make room for new inventory, they often discount older models. Keep an eye on clearance events to potentially find a great deal on a quality scooter.
As new models hit the market…
When manufacturers release new electric scooter models, older ones often experience price reductions.
This presents an ideal opportunity to acquire a more expensive model at a lower cost. Stay informed about product launches and consider purchasing the previous generation, which might still boast excellent features and performance
When retailers offer financing deals
Some retailers provide financing options for expensive electric scooters, allowing you to spread the cost over time.
Evaluate the financing deals available and choose a plan that fits your budget. This approach enables you to enjoy the benefits of a premium scooter without a significant upfront payment.
Upon the end of the fiscal year
When manufacturers release new electric scooter models, older ones often experience price reductions.
This presents an ideal opportunity to acquire a more expensive model at a lower cost.
Stay informed about product launches and consider purchasing the previous generation, which might still boast excellent features and performance
Holiday promotions
The holiday season often brings about various sales and promotions, making it an opportune time to invest in a more expensive electric scooter. Retailers compete for customers during this festive period, resulting in attractive discounts. Consider making your purchase during the holiday season to maximize savings.
During Amazon Prime Day
Leverage the discounts and promotions offered during this event to potentially acquire a more expensive scooter at a reduced price. Be sure to browse through the available options and check customer reviews for informed decision-making.
Check Inja’s video on the fastest electric scooters bought from Amazon.
Back to school promotions
Back-to-school sales events are not just for students.
Take advantage of these periods to explore discounts on electric scooters. Retailers may include scooters in their promotions, providing an opportunity to save money while purchasing a more feature-rich and durable model.
Expensive scooters are not perfect
While the price of an electric scooter is almost always directly related to its level of quality, you should be aware that even the most expensive electric scooters can have faults, issues, and downsides, and some may even break down as cheap electric scooters would.
Of course, the chances for defects and problems are much, much lower with expensive scooters. But as with every mass-produced product, there’s always the small chance of a scooter arriving at your home with a defect, or even completely broken.
Also, besides defects, all scooters have some problems and downsides, and while expensive scooters have them much less often, they can still have them.
Related to the above, quality is often directly proportional to price, so more expensive scooters will probably suffer fewer defects, flat tires will be less common, and maintenance will be easier in general.
If you’re looking for a powerful scooter, a fast scooter, a very long-range scooter, an off-road scooter, or a great climbing scooter, then you will almost certainly want to spend more money so that you get a scooter that’s truly good at those tasks. Also, if you need a safe scooter, or a waterproof scooter (truly waterproof), then an expensive scooter makes more sense.
If you are interested in buying a new scooter check my video for the most expensive electric scooters.
