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Micromobility is here to stay, and it’s changing how we experience urban life for the better. With Unagi’s membership program, you can enjoy all the benefits of a top-tier electric scooter without the sky-high price of ownership or the inconvenience of ride-sharing.
We’re excited to celebrate Unagi’s 5th Anniversary, and we want you to join the fun! To thank you for your support, we're hosting an exclusive $10,000 Airbnb giveaway. No purchase necessary—just enter for your chance to win! Hurry, the giveaway ends on 10/4/2024!
In today’s fast-paced world, finding an efficient and cost-effective mode of transportation is crucial. E-scooters offer a convenient and eco-friendly way to navigate urban landscapes. Unagi stands out not only for its superior design and performance but also for its affordability and unmatched rental program.
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Some riders make it through these wet rides just fine. Others end up with spoilt scooters or worse. The difference often comes down to understanding a few key things:
These basic questions will help you weigh the risks before riding your e-scooter in wet conditions.
This guide will explore everything you need to know about riding electric scooters in the rain. We'll cover safety considerations, waterproof ratings, maintenance tips, and how wet weather impacts various scooter components. By the end, you'll have enough information to make your own call — not because there's a clear right answer, but because you'll understand the tradeoffs.
Not really. E-scooters have batteries, motors, and control systems. None of these like getting wet. Water can cause short circuits, corrosion, and other damage that, at best, reduces the scooter's lifespan and, at worst, makes it unusable.
Scooter manufacturers aren't naive, though. They know their products will encounter water. Maybe not full submersion, but at least the occasional splash or unexpected drizzle. So modern scooters are built with some level of water resistance. It's rare to find a e-scooter with zero protection against water. But - and this is crucial - "water-resistant" is not the same as "waterproof". They're designed to handle the occasional splash or light rain. But they're not built for extended rides in heavy rain or plowing through standing water. Even with water-resistant designs, regular wet weather use increases the risk of component failure, especially over time.
To understand how water-resistant an electric scooter is, you need to know about IP ratings. IP stands for Ingress Protection. It's a standard used to define levels of sealing effectiveness against foreign bodies like dust and moisture. In other words, it shows how well the e-scooter can keep dust and water out while protecting its internal components from damage.
An IP rating has two digits:
For water resistance, we care about the second digit. Here's what the numbers mean:
0: No protection
1: Protected against dripping water
2: Protected against dripping water when tilted up to 15°
3: Protected against spraying water
4: Protected from water splashes from all directions
5: Protected from low-pressure water jets from any direction
6: Protected from high-pressure water jets from any direction
7: Protected from short periods of immersion in water
8: Can withstand long periods of immersion in water
9: Withstands high-pressure, high-temperature water jets (often used in industrial or extreme environments)
Quick Tip: If your e-scooter has 3 or below, forget about riding in wet conditions.
Most electric scooters have an IP rating between IPX4 and IPX6. (The X means the rating for solids wasn't tested or doesn't apply.) Many high-quality, water-resistant electric scooters, like the Unagi Model One, have a water resistance rating of IP54. This means they can be ridden in light rain and will not be negatively affected by the occasional shallow puddle. Some scooters, like low-cost models, aren’t rated for water resistance at all and shouldn’t be ridden in wet conditions. It’s also a good idea to avoid riding shared scooters in the rain, as they’re often poorly maintained and lack reliable water resistance.
The electric scooter's IP rating gives you a general idea of how it might handle different levels of rainfall:
But even with these ratings, prolonged exposure to water isn't good for the scooter. Think of it like this: a raincoat will keep you dry in a drizzle or even a moderate rain. But you'll eventually get wet if you stand in a downpour for hours. Electric scooters are similar.
There’s no such thing as a truly waterproof electric scooter or rainproof model. Some models are more water-resistant than others, sure. But water-resistant isn't waterproof. Even "waterproof electric scooters" with decent ingress protection (IP) ratings, like IPX6, aren’t built to withstand extended wet use or submersion without potential issues. The ratings are more for occasional, unexpected exposure to water. However, waterproofing implies complete protection against moisture over extended periods, which no scooter truly offers.
Some manufacturers claim their scooters are waterproof, but be skeptical of these claims, as even highly-rated scooters have vulnerable components that can degrade over time, increasing the risk of water seeping in. Seals, gaskets, and protective layers will wear out with regular exposure to rain, creating openings for water to enter.
While some e-scooters can handle a light drizzle, there are times when you should definitely not ride:
In these conditions, consider your options. Maybe it's time to call a ride-share.
Even if your electric scooter can handle some rain, Riding an electric scooter in the rain isn't like driving a car in the rain. A lot more can go wrong. Here's what might happen:
Rain creates slippery surfaces, especially on metal, painted lines, or cobblestones. With small wheels and often smooth tires, most electric scooters don’t provide great traction on wet pavement. This can increase the risk of:
To mitigate this, riding slowly and avoiding sudden braking or sharp turns is recommended.
Rain can reduce visibility for both riders and other road users. Motorists may find it harder to see you in heavy rain or misty conditions, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Riding in the rain can be cold, wet, and uncomfortable, which can distract you from focusing on the road and responding to hazards.
After riding in the rain, it’s essential to dry your electric scooter thoroughly. Water tends to collect in crevices and hidden areas, potentially causing issues later if not dried out properly.
Many manufacturers won't cover water damage under warranty, even for scooters with water resistance ratings. So, if something goes wrong, you're on your own.
Water might get into the scooter's electrical components. Best case, your scooter stops working until it dries out. Worst case, it causes permanent damage.
Even if the electric scooter works fine after riding in the rain, exposure to moisture can cause rust and corrosion over time, shortening the lifespan of critical parts like bearings and motors.
For whatever reason, if you absolutely must ride an electric scooter in the rain, here's how to minimize the damage:
Stay comfortable and dry with:
These safety tips might help, but they're not magic. You're still taking a risk.
If you're determined to ride your electric scooter in wet conditions, you can take several steps to improve its water resistance. However, keep in mind that these modifications can be complex, risky and may void your warranty. Here's a comprehensive approach:
For a more thorough guide, explore our article on Waterproofing Techniques for Electric Scooters.
If your electric scooter has an unexpected encounter with water, here's what to do:
If the scooter is still on, power it down to avoid potential short circuits.
Avoid using the electric scooter until you are certain it is completely dry to prevent short circuits or further damage.
So, can you ride electric scooters in the rain? Technically, yes—if your scooter has a good IP rating and it’s only light rain. However, it’s not ideal and comes with risks. The real answer depends on several factors, including your scooter’s water resistance, the intensity of the rain, your comfort level with risk, and how willing you are to deal with potential issues.
For most people, in most situations, riding in the rain is not a good idea. The risks to both you and your electric scooter often outweigh the benefits. You could slide and fall on slippery surfaces, experience short circuits in the controls, motor, or battery, and deal with corrosion and rust over time. And let's not even mention the potential medical bills if things go sideways.
Success in wet weather riding comes down to having the right gear, preparation, and riding techniques. Ride slowly, brake early, avoid puddles, and dry your scooter when you get home.
With these in place, you can confidently handle occasional rainy commutes, but making a habit of riding in wet conditions isn’t advisable. Even the most water-resistant electric scooter can develop issues with regular exposure to rain. In the end, rain riding is a calculated risk. The smart move is to avoid riding in the rain. Take the bus. Work from home. Wait it out.
Yes, electric scooters can brake in the rain, but not as effectively as in dry conditions. The main issue is traction—even if the scooter's brakes function properly, the e-scooter may slip on wet surfaces, increasing the stopping distance and making it harder to control.
Only if you enjoy the smell of fried electronics. Wait until the scooter is completely dry before charging it. Moisture in the charging port can cause short circuits or damage to the battery.
Not all electric scooters have IP ratings. Check the product manual or contact the manufacturer to confirm the water resistance level of your scooter.
Air-filled tires offer better grip, which is crucial in wet conditions.
Yes, it’s a good idea to lubricate bearings and folding joints after riding in wet conditions to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. Just be careful not to over-lubricate, as this can attract dirt and grime.
In the U.S., most states don't require a license. For those that do, they usually just ask for a regular driver's license or a learner's permit.
Yes, you can bring an electric scooter on a plane, but it needs to have a lithium battery smaller than 100 watt-hours, which most don't.
Manufacturers advise against riding electric scooters in the rain. The main reasons are: water can fry the electronics, make the ride dangerous, and void your warranty.
“Is my scooter legal?” is a question many are increasingly asking. The micromobility industry is one of the fastest-growing and most exciting in the world—with promises for...in addition to abundances of the basics of time and money savings. And with this pace of innovation comes a struggle for regulation to keep up.
So, you're thinking about joining the electric scooter revolution, huh? You've seen those sleek and stylish scooters zipping around town, effortlessly gliding through traffic, and you can't help but wonder: Are electric scooters easy to ride?
In this guide, we'll break down what defines a lightweight electric scooter, why you should choose one, and the top features you should look for.
Want to get the most out of your electric scooter battery and extend your riding adventures? We've got you covered with our comprehensive guide full of maintenance tips and best practices.
*Disclaimer: Unagi, INC. has used best efforts, but does not in any manner guarantee the accuracy of the below findings regarding electric scooter laws in the United States or internationally. Electric scooter riders or those considering to purchase or begin…
