The different types of electric scooter tires
Like any vehicle, one of the most important parts of an electric scooter is its tires. In this guide, we will discuss the different types of electric scooter tires and their unique features.
The most common type of tire found on electric scooters is the pneumatic tire. These tires are filled with air, which provides a comfortable ride with good shock absorption. They can either use an inner tube to hold air, or hold air using a vacuum seal like with tubeless tires. These tires do require regular maintenance to ensure they are properly inflated. Additionally, they are more susceptible to punctures than other types of tires.
Another type of tire commonly found on electric scooters is the solid rubber tire. As the name suggests, these tires are made of solid rubber and do not require air. They are more durable and puncture-resistant than pneumatic tires, making them a great choice for those who ride on terrain with objects that could often cause flat tires. However, they do not provide as smooth a ride as pneumatic tires.
Tubeless Tires relies on a vacuum seal around the rim to hold air, no inner tube required.
Similar to tires used on larger vehicles like motorcycles
PROS
Can be easier to maintain in the case of a small puncture, as tire sealant can stop any small leaks
Air-filled tires provide natural shock absorption that solid tires do not.
CONS
Requires frequent refilling of air. Since the tire relies on a strong vacuum seal, letting the tire get to lower pressure can cause leaks / flat tires.
Installation of a new tubeless tires is harder than a tubed tire. It will require a high pressure air compressor, and the tire will need to be heated before installation.
Tubed Tires use an interior inner tube to hold air pressure
Similar to tires used on most bicycles
PROS
Inner tubes are cheaper and easier to replace than tubeless tires
Do not require the higher frequency of refilling that tubeless tires do.
Air-filled tires provide natural shock absorption that solid tires do not.
CONS
Can be more prone to punctures if riding on rough surfaces
In the case of any puncture (large or small) the tube will need to be replaced. Tire sealant does not work as effectively when compared to tubeless tires.
Solid rubber tires are non-pneumatic (do not hold air or use tubes)
They are maintenance / flat free
PROS
Will never develop a flat or puncture
Have a much longer lifespan compared to pneumatic tires.
Similar to tires used on larger vehicles like motorcycles
CONS
Do not provide the level of shock absorption that air filled tires do.
New solid tires (like tubeless tires) can be difficult to install without the right equipment.
Less traction than pneumatic tires on wet surfaces.
