How to Choose A Safe Electric Scooter: The Complete Guide

Today, the electric scooter has become an essential mode of transport in France. Practical, fast, and eco-friendly, it is attracting more and more city dwellers. However, with the proliferation of models available on the market, safety remains the top priority.

Whether you're looking for a model for your daily commute (bike to work) or for leisure, choosing a safe electric scooter requires careful consideration. Between strict French regulations and essential technical criteria, here's our comprehensive guide to help you make the right choice with confidence.

1. What French law says: the basics of safety for a personal mobility device (PMD)

In France, electric scooters fall under the legal category of Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs). To ride legally and safely, your scooter must comply with the strict criteria of the Highway Code. 

According to the French Ministry for Ecological Transition, electric scooters used on public roads must comply with French EDPM regulations, including a maximum assisted speed of 25 km/h, mandatory lighting, braking systems, and other safety requirements.

Maximum speed: Your scooter must be factory-limited to 25 km/h . Riding on public roads with an unrestricted or modified model exposes you to a fine of up to €1,500.

Minimum age: The user must be at least 14 years old .

The prohibition of carrying a passenger: The electric scooter is a strictly single-seater vehicle .

Mandatory insurance: You must take out specific Civil Liability (RC) insurance for your EDPM.

Mandatory equipment on the vehicle: Your scooter must have front and rear position lights, retro-reflective devices (reflectors), a horn (bell) and an effective braking system.

2. Essential technical criteria for optimal safety

Beyond legal requirements, the technical design of the vehicle determines your actual safety on the road. Here are the four key technical aspects to check before you buy.

The braking system: the heart of your safety

Braking is the most critical factor in preventing accidents. A good electric scooter should have two independent braking systems.

Brake Type	Benefits	Disadvantages
Disc brakes (mechanical or hydraulic)	Excellent braking power, responsive in the rain.	Requires regular maintenance (pad replacement).
Drum brakes	Very weather-resistant, requires little maintenance.	Braking is slightly less progressive.
Electric motor brake (E-ABS)	Recovers energy, prevents wheel lockup.	Less effective on its own in an emergency stop.

 

Tip: Opt for models equipped with front and rear disc brakes, coupled with electronic engine braking.

Battery quality and safety certifications

The battery is the most sensitive component of your scooter. The risk of fire associated with poor-quality batteries is real.

Always look for the CE marking , which guarantees compliance with European standards.

Ensure the presence of an intelligent battery management system (BMS) . The BMS protects against overcharging, over-discharging, and overheating.

Tires and road handling

Tires provide your only point of contact with the ground. There are two main types of tires:

Solid (puncture-proof) tires: They prevent punctures, but they offer less cushioning and can slip on wet pavement.

Pneumatic tires (with or without inner tubes/Tubeless): They absorb road imperfections better and offer significantly improved grip on wet surfaces. Choose tires at least 8.5 to 10 inches wide for better stability when driving over potholes.

Visibility and lighting

To be seen by motorists and pedestrians, good lighting is vital. 

Headlights must be powerful enough to illuminate the road several meters ahead. The addition of integrated turn signals is now a huge advantage, allowing you to signal your changes of direction without having to take your hands off the handlebars.

3. Discover SUNNIGOO N5: Uncompromising security

This section shows you how our flagship model, the N5 , incorporates each of these aspects to offer you the safest riding experience on the market.

At Sunnigoo , we believe safety should never be an option. That's why we designed the N5 to exceed all French and European safety requirements.

Braking worthy of a professional scooter

The N5 is equipped with a dual braking system of drum brakes and electronic brakes to ensure stability and safety. The N5 has a maximum speed of 22 km/h, within the maximum speed limit in France, and its combination of drum and electronic brakes enables stable braking over short distances of 4-6 meters, ensuring safety even in rainy or slippery conditions and eliminating the risk of wheel lock-up.

Use safe lithium batteries

The e-bike is ABE-certified, making it compliant with German road regulations for eligible use. It is equipped with a 36V 7.5Ah lithium battery that provides reliable power for everyday riding.

Maximum 360° visibility

To ensure you are always visible, the N5 is equipped with:

A small front position light at the front of the vehicle that will not glare at other road users, providing a comfortable riding experience and effectively preventing falls.

Driving comfort that prevents falls

Thanks to its large 10-inch pneumatic tires and IPX5 waterproof rating, the N5 offers strong grip and comfortable shock absorption, easily handling brick roads, asphalt roads, and minor potholes. Its robust aerospace-grade aluminum alloy frame ensures perfect stability.

Related topics: Tested: Best Foldable Electric Scooter for Adults

4. Good habits for safe driving

Having a safe scooter is a great start, but the rider's behavior remains crucial. Here are our essential safety tips for your daily commutes:

Wear a helmet and gloves: While helmet use is not mandatory in all French cities (unless local regulations stipulate otherwise, such as in the Vaucluse department), we strongly recommend that you wear a qualified helmet. It can save your life in the event of a fall.

Be visible at night: If you are riding at night or when visibility is low, you must wear retro-reflective clothing (such as a yellow vest).

Stay aware of your surroundings: It is strictly forbidden to drive with earphones or headphones on. You must be able to hear traffic sounds.

Check your equipment regularly: Before each departure, take 10 seconds to test your brakes, check your tire pressure and make sure your lights are working properly.

Conclusion

Choosing a safe electric scooter means not compromising on key components: brakes, battery, and tires . By opting for a model that complies with French regulations and is designed by safety-conscious brands, you protect your life and the lives of other road users.

Ready to switch to safe, reliable and serene urban mobility? Discover all the technical details and take advantage of our safety guarantee on the N5 now by visiting our online store.

FAQs

1. Is wearing a helmet mandatory in France for riding an electric scooter?

In built-up areas, wearing a helmet is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended.

However, if you are riding outside built-up areas on designated roads (roads with a speed limit of 80 km/h), wearing a certified helmet becomes mandatory. For your safety, we advise you to always wear a helmet, regardless of your route.

2. Is it mandatory to insure your electric scooter in France?

Yes, insurance is strictly mandatory. An electric scooter is considered a motor vehicle. You must, at a minimum, have third-party liability insurance to cover any bodily injury or property damage caused to others. Riding without insurance can result in a hefty fine.

3. What is the maximum legal speed and can you derestrict your scooter?

In France, the maximum speed allowed on public roads is 25 km/h . Modifying an electric scooter to exceed its speed limit is strictly prohibited by law. In addition to risking a €1,500 fine, you will lose your insurance coverage and prematurely wear out the motor and brakes of your scooter.

4. Can I ride my electric scooter in the rain?

This depends on your scooter's water resistance rating (IP). To ride safely in light rain, look for a rating of at least IPX4 or IPX5 .

Our N5 model has an IPX5 rating, meaning it's highly resistant to splashes and wet conditions. However, be careful to avoid deep puddles, as these can damage the motor.