How to Choose a Scooter

A scooter is one of the easiest ways to get around quickly outdoors—to school, to work, on a bike path, or on short trips. Just a couple of pushes and you’re off.

But the differences between models aren’t just about design—wheel size, tire type, and portability play a major role, because these factors most influence your speed, comfort, and whether you’ll still be enjoying the ride after 20 minutes.

Quick selection based on what you're working on

1) I want a scooter for a child (about 6–9 years old)

✔ Look for a smaller scooter with lower handlebars and a reasonable weight.

Tip from ACRA: The Acra Joy Superhero scooter for children up to 9 years old
—recommended rider height 110–150 cm, 150 mm wheels, foldable, lightweight.

2) I want a comfortable scooter for trips (roads + rough terrain)

✔ Inflatable tires are the clear winner here—they’re more comfortable and better at smoothing out bumps (paving stones, gravel, rough asphalt).

Recommendations by size:

smaller / for younger riders: Acra Joy Grace 12” (12" inflatable tires)
versatile for both kids and adults: Acra Joy Jolly 16” (16"+12")
for longer rides + taller riders: Acra Joy Aven (20"+16")
if you want the same wheels front and rear: Brother Tornado 16/16 (16"+16" inflatable tires)

3) I mainly want a scooter for the city (fast, lightweight, and compact)

✔ Look for solid PU wheels around 200–205 mm—they ride smoothly, and the scooter is usually lightweight and easy to carry.

Tip from ACRA: Muuwmi aluminum scooter 205 mm
—205 mm wheels, foldable, height-adjustable handlebars, weight capacity 100 kg.

4) I want a "fast sports bike" with large wheels (road + light off-road)

✔ If you want higher speed and better handling over rough terrain, look for 230–270 mm wheels + suspension (at least in the front).

Good tip:

Acra Joy IMP – 230 mm wheels, foldable, weight capacity 100 kg
Acra Joy Stinger – large 270 mm wheels, foldable, recommended for riders up to about 180 cm

5) I want a scooter "for long distances" (almost like a bike)

✔ A model with giant inflatable wheels and V-brakes makes sense here—it’s stable, comfortable, and can handle even longer trips.

Tip from ACRA: Acra Joy Racer
– 26” + 20” inflatable tires, 120 kg weight capacity, front and rear V-brakes, recommended height 130–190 cm.

The 5 Most Important Parameters

1) Wheel size

150 mm = smaller children / shorter rides
200–205 mm = city riding, commuting, brisk riding
230–270 mm = speed + better comfort on rough terrain

2) Solid vs. inflatable tires

solid (PU/rubber) = lighter, hassle-free, “just grab and go”
Inflatable = more comfortable, better for rougher surfaces and longer rides

3) Foldable design

Foldability is mainly an issue if you carry your scooter into a car, your apartment, or to work. (Most city models are foldable.)

4) Weight capacity + recommended rider height

It’s better to choose a model with some wiggle room—the ride will be more stable and enjoyable.
(Example: The 205mm Muuwmi has a max. load of 100 kg; the Joy Racer has 120 kg.)

5) Brakes and safety

City scooters often brake via the rear fender
Larger “touring” models usually have V-brakes (better control at higher speeds)

A quick tip to wrap things up

✔ If you want to do jumps, look for a scooter designed specifically for freestyle—these models are primarily meant for riding.

✔ With inflatable tires, check the pressure occasionally—the scooter will ride better and you’ll exert less effort.

✔ Check the handlebar height—ideally, it should be roughly at waist or belly button level.
This makes the scooter easier to control, the ride more comfortable, and prevents wrist and back pain.
If you’re choosing a scooter for a child, it’s good if the model has adjustable handlebars—the scooter will last longer, even as they grow.

✔ It’s a good idea to have a spare inner tube on hand if you’re getting an inflatable model: 12" inner tubes, 14" inner tubes, 16" inner tubes