The rising popularity of electric scooters has sparked a growing interest in their suspension systems. Suspension is a crucial component of scooters, providing a comfortable riding experience and absorbing shocks from uneven terrain. Composed of guiding elements, elastic components and damping components, suspension plays a vital role in enhancing the performance of electric scooters.
Let's delve into the composition of e-scooter suspensions and explore the features of different suspension systems, including rubber suspension, spring suspension, hydraulic suspension, and swingarm suspension. Feel the power of suspension systems as we unravel their secrets and upgrade your ride with the ultimate suspension experience.
The Evolution of E-Scooter Suspension
Riding a regular electric scooter on rough mountain trails can be a bumpy experience due to the simple connection between the tires and frame. To enhance comfort, engineers have added elastic elements like coil springs at this connection point. While this solution has improved shock absorption for most commuter scooters, riding on mountainous terrains is still a jarring experience as the springs bounce back after absorbing the shock.
To further improve the shock absorption effect and make up for the shortcomings of the spring damping effect, engineers have added damping elements, such as hydraulic oil, to the spring part. The hydraulic oil slows down the movement of the spring, which reduces the spring bouncing and improves shock-absorbing effects.
This is the common shock absorption solution in the current scooter industry (even the automotive industry) - suspension, which adds elastic elements (springs, rubber, etc.) and damping elements (hydraulic shock absorber) on the basis of the original connecting rod of the guiding element. The suspension consists of three elements: a guiding element, an elastic component and a damping element. With the combination of different types of these three elements, there are now a wide variety of suspensions available on the market.
Classification and Characteristics of Suspension
| Types | Advantages | Disadvantages |
Cost
|
Maintain
|
Lifespan | Applicable models | |
| Rubber Suspension |
|
|
 |
For scooters from the same brand, spring suspension is the cheapest, rubber and hydraulic suspensions are in the middle, and swingarm suspension is the priciest.
|
/ |
About 3 to 5 years | Commuter scooters and budget-friendly off-road scooters |
| Spring Suspension |
|
|
 |
/ |
About 3 years | Commuter scooters | |
| Hydraulic Suspension |
|
|
 |
Replace the hydraulic oil every six months | Around 5 years | Off-road scooters | |
| Swingarm Suspension |
|
|
 |
Pay attention to structure and production process | Around 5 years | Off-road scooters | |
Rubber Suspension (For Commuter Scooters and Budget-Friendly Off-Road Scooters)
Rubber suspensions and spring suspensions are classified according to different elastic components. Rubber suspensions absorb shock and vibration through the deformation of compressed rubber and do not require constant adjustments for riders of different weights. With a simple structure, it is lightweight and easy to maintain.
However, rubber is highly affected by temperature. Too high or too low temperatures can cause changes in the physical and chemical properties of rubber, affecting the shock absorption effect. Rubber suspensions typically have a life expectancy of 3 to 5 years and are commonly used in commuter scooters and economical off-road scooters.
Spring Suspension (For Commuter Scooters)
Is there any suspension unaffected by temperature changes? Yes, there is, and that's spring suspension. When vibrations hit, the springs compress and deform to absorb shocks. Simple in design, low in cost, and easy to maintain, this system rarely fails and is minimally impacted by temperature fluctuations.
However, spring suspensions without damping elements have limited ability to absorb and dampen sudden shocks and impacts and lack control over the movement of the suspension system, leading to a bouncy and uncomfortable ride. Spring suspensions usually last about 3 years and are typically used in commuter scooters.
Hydraulic Suspension (For All Off-Road Scooters)
A better performer than spring suspension is hydraulic suspension, which adds hydraulic oil as damping. The spring achieves shock absorption by compressing and deforming, while the hydraulic oil absorbs vibrations to improve the overall shock absorption effect. With superior support and adjustable rebound speed, hydraulic suspensions offer more comfort in riding. However, it is not easily adjustable and is relatively heavy. Typically lasting 5 years, it's popular for off-road scooters.
Swingarm Suspension (For All Off-Road Scooters)
Another suspension type prevalent in off-road scooters is swingarm suspension, which is often used in conjunction with spring or hydraulic suspension. The swingarm connects the frame to the wheels, supporting the frame and allowing the wheels to move up and down for better balance of the scooter. This combination provides exceptional stability and a smooth ride. With its dual structure, the swingarm suspension usually comes at a higher price but offers a lasting performance of approximately 5 years.
The Ausom Leopard and Gallop both feature a cutting-edge suspension system that combines spring suspension, hydraulic suspension and swingarm suspension, delivering effective shock absorption and ensuring optimum smoothness and comfort in riding.
Combining multiple types of suspension systems on an electric scooter can result in a smoother, more comfortable riding experience as it provides better maneuverability and stability over different types of terrain, delivers superior shock absorption, and improves overall riding performance and safety. Additionally, having multiple suspension systems helps to distribute weight more evenly, reducing pressure on scooter components and extending the lifespan of the scooter.
Therefore, when choosing an electric scooter, don't miss the quality and design of the suspension. Select an electric scooter with a premium suspension system that fits your riding style perfectly. If you are an adventure enthusiast passionate about conquering challenging terrain, don't settle for ordinary - upgrade to extraordinary with a high-end suspension system!