Single Motor or Dual Motor Electric Scooters: Which is Right for You?

Many electric scooters today offer the flexibility of choosing between single and dual motors, significantly expanding riders' options. While a single motor is ideal for regular rides on flat terrain, opting for a dual motor electric scooter introduces superior acceleration and the capability to conquer even steep hills with ease.

The dual motor electric scooter is an electric scooter that has motors on both the front and rear wheels. These dual motor scooters for adults have more power and torque as compared to single motor electric scooters. In addition, dual electric scooters motors have improved modifications making them capable of going fast and going off-road. Both motors of the dual electric scooter are of high performance and when using them you can feel the power underneath your feet enabling you to reach your destination faster.

 

Part 1. Single Motor or Dual Motor Electric Scooter: How to Choose

 

1. Single motor electric scooters

Single-motor electric scooters are scooters that have one motor either on the front wheel or rear wheel. Single-motor electric scooters are cost-effective and easy to control because of their low top speed. They are lightweight and portable so you can carry them anywhere.

Electric scooter with rear-wheel drive(RWD)

An e-scooter with rear-wheel drive is less expensive since manufacturing it is easy and the design is very common. These motor scooters for adults are also better balanced with weight distribution because a motor is placed in the back. They can have affirmed and a better grip especially when driving up inclines and are safer when going downhills. They are also less prone to understeering and are good at handling turns and sharp corners. But the scooters are easier to oversteer when handling wet, slippery surfaces.

Electric scooter with front-wheel drive(FWD)

An electric scooter with front-wheel drive has better traction and power efficiency. These electric motor scooters are also lightweight and very compact. They are better at handling slippery wet roads than RWD and also less prone to oversteering. But it is difficult to turn corners when the speed is fast. And it is hard to get a good grip on the road during uphills.

 

Benefits of single motor electric scooters

Single motor electric scooters typically offer a more budget-friendly option compared to their dual motor counterparts. Ideal for riders seeking cost-effectiveness without sacrificing performance, these scooters provide ample power and speed for everyday use. Additionally, single motor scooters often boast better battery life and extended range, thanks to their lower power consumption.

 

2. Dual motor electric scooters

A dual-motor electric scooter is outfitted with two motors, positioned individually on each wheel. This innovative design enables independent control and precise power distribution to each wheel, leading to significantly improved performance and traction.

 

Benefits of dual motor electric scooters

Two-wheel drive electric scooters are better at handling weight distribution. This is because the motor scooters for adults have weight in the front and rear. They also have better traction and stability to gain fast acceleration when moving on wet and slippery surfaces. When it comes to handling turns, corners, and moving up and down hills, they are the best. But most dual-motor electric scooters are expensive and heavy to carry. The strong torque is more powerful for beginners and not a great choice for heavy traffic areas.

 

Performance and Power

 

Acceleration and Top Speed

Dual motor electric scooters outperform their single motor counterparts in terms of acceleration and top speed. The added power from the second motor enables quicker starts and superior overall speed performance.

 

Climbing Capabilities

When it comes to conquering steep hills and inclines, dual motor scooters shine. The combined power of two motors delivers ample torque, effortlessly navigating challenging terrains. In contrast, single motor scooters may struggle on steeper gradients due to their limited power output.

 

Battery Life and Range

 

Impact of Dual Motors on Battery Life

Dual motor electric scooters typically consume more battery power due to the simultaneous operation of two motors. While this can result in slightly shorter battery life, advancements in battery technology have narrowed the gap, and both types now offer respectable ranges.

 

Range Comparison

Single motor scooters, with their lower power consumption, generally boast a longer range on a single charge. Ideal for daily commutes or longer rides, they cater to riders for whom battery life is a significant concern. However, if speed and acceleration take precedence, a dual motor scooter may still be a fitting choice.

 

Handling and Maneuverability

 

Stability and Control

Dual motor scooters provide superior stability and control, thanks to distributed power on both wheels. Independent control of each motor enhances handling and maneuverability, particularly when navigating corners or uneven surfaces.

 

Turning Radius

In terms of turning radius, single motor scooters often outshine dual motor counterparts. Their smaller turning radius makes them more agile and suitable for navigating tight spaces or crowded urban areas. However, dual motor scooters compensate for this with overall enhanced performance.

 

Price and Affordability

 

Cost Considerations for Dual Motor E-Scooters

Dual motor e-scooters tend to be pricier due to the additional motor, electronics, and components. If performance is a priority and your budget allows, investing in a dual motor scooter may be worthwhile.

 

Cost Considerations for Single Motor E-Scooters

Single motor e-scooters are generally more affordable, offering a reliable means of transportation without compromising quality. For budget-conscious buyers or casual riders, a single motor scooter proves to be an ideal and cost-effective choice.

 

Part 2. 4 Best Dual Motor Electric Scooters for Adults 2024

Hiboy Titan Pro

Hiboy Titan Pro dual motor electric scooter has a wide and anti-slip stand deck that provides larger feet support with a clear LED display that shows the mode, speed, battery percentage, and distance. The electric motor scooter has powerful dual 1200W motors with a 17.5Ah battery that enables the scooter to reach a maximum speed of 32mph and a range of up to 40 miles. Hiboy Titan Pro features dual disc brakes and shock absorption making the scooter comfortable and safer when riding. The wider 10 inches off-road tires have deeper lines that provide a perfect anti-seismic and anti-slipping performance that makes the scooter keep driving even on bad roads.

 

 

Apollo Phantom V2 (52V Version)

Apollo Phantom features a quadruple suspension system with double reinforcement on the stem with the handlebar made from a single piece of metal. The dual motor electric scooter is powered by two brushless high-performance motors that have a nominal output of 1200W each. Apollo Phantom electric motor scooter offers the best acceleration with a top speed of 38 mph. The electric motor scooter is built from forged aluminum which makes the scooter durable without unnecessary bulk. Features two specially designed tires that are ultra-wide for provision of more and improved grip and control. These 10-inch tires are air-filled for greater shock absorption. These robust tires provide a more relaxing and comfortable ride.

 

 

Dualtron Thunder

Dualtron electric scooter has removable wheels that make it easier to service and the 11-inch ultra-wide tubeless tires that make fixing flats so simple. The dual motor electric scooter also has a blue-button mood light with illuminated handlebars that you can set to any color of your choice. With the dual 2700W BRUSHLESS DC motors with the combined power of 5400W, the electric motor scooter gives incredible torque when launching from a standstill. On acceleration, Dualtron Thunder electric scooter hits 50 mph in 2.0 seconds. Dualtron Thunder dual motor electric scooter features dual nut-branded 160mm hydraulic actuated disc brakes. It has front and rear cartridge suspension with large pneumatic tires of 27.9cm. This suspension and tires give a ride quality that is good for on-road riding. The suspension can be adjusted by installing stiffer or softer cartridges.

 

 

Unagi Model One E500

Unagi Model One dual motor electric scooter is a stylishly designed scooter that comes with well-equipped solid tires and 500W motors. The airless rubber tires that ensures smooth acceleration on slippery ground giving the rider smooth and comfortable rides at a top speed of 17mph. Unagi Modle One features excellent handle bars, sleek stem and the most amazing part is that customers are allowed to choose any time of paint should be on the scooter. In case of emergency braking, the electronic braking systems ensures that the rider does not lose control by locking the wheels. This makes sure that the scooter moves controllably while the ABS releases the wheels intermittently and applies the brake enabling the rider to move to safety.

 

 

The Comparison Table

 

Part 3. Top 4 Single Motor Electric Scooters 2024

TurboAnt X7 Max

The TurboAnt X7 Max has a solid stem that makes the scooter very durable for long-term use. The TurboAnt X7 Max features a detachable battery and a powerful motor that allows the scooter to reach a top range of 32 miles and a top speed of 20mph. The electric motor scooter features a dual braking system and three-speed modes to cater to riders with different preferences (ECO, Comfort, and Sprot Mode). The ECO mode copes with a speed of 6 mph, Comfort mode at 9 mph, and Sport mode at 20mph. TurboAnt electric scooters ensure that the rider moves through bumpy and hilly roads smoothly thanks to the 10-inch pneumatic tires. These tires are long-lasting and they increase shock absorption ensuring that you have a more comfortable ride.

 

 

 

Swagtron Swagger 5 Elite

Swagtron Swagger 5 Elite electric motor scooter features powder-coated frames and welds with LED lights mounted on the stem and rear fender lights. Swagtron Swagger 5 Elite electric scooter for adults has a 250-watt motor integrated into the front wheel making acceleration zippier and launching quickly at its zero default start. The motor accelerates quickly up to 16 km. The motor scooter for adults has an IPX4 water resistance rating making the scooter able to tolerate splashes from all directions. Swagtron 5 also features a combination of pneumatic front tires and rear airless tires to give a surprisingly smooth ride.

 

 

Apollo City

Apollo City has large pneumatic tires and a front and a rear suspension. The motor scooter for adults has a 600 W brushless electric scooter motor that enables the scooter to get to a top speed of 25mph with a 36lb rider riding on a flat smooth road. The electric motor scooter has a deck size and cushy suspension that gives quality rides on smooth roads and is suitable for challenging urban commutes. The stiff suspension of the Apollo City electric scooter is enough to handle riders of 265 lb upper limit and still be enough to provide meaningful shock absorption.

 

 

TurboAnt M10 Lite

The TurboAnt M10 Lite single motor electric scooter has ribbed rubber covering the grip for good control. The electric scooter has dual modes and a top speed of 16 mph on a single full charge. This electric motor scooter for adults has an anti-slip deck that makes sure both your feet are comfortable. The TurboAnt M10 Lite has a high-performance 350 W motor that responds accordingly to the throttle to release the required amount of power for quick acceleration and to your desired speed.

 

 

The Comparison Table

 

Part 4. FAQs about Dual-Motor Electric Scooters

 

1. What's the top choice for a dual-motor electric scooter?

The Dualtron Thunder stands out as the ultimate option. Featuring dual 160mm hydraulic actuated disc brakes from the renowned Dualtron brand, along with front and rear cartridge suspension and large 27.9cm pneumatic tires, the Thunder delivers exceptional on-road ride quality.

 

2. What defines a dual hub electric scooter?

A dual-hub electric scooter is equipped with a motor in each wheel hub. The hub refers to the central rotating part of the wheel that spins around the axle. In most electric scooters, the motors are housed within these hubs. Therefore, a dual hub setup effectively translates to a dual motor configuration.

 

3. Which motor type is optimal for dual motor electric scooters?

Brushless DC motors (BLDC) emerge as the best choice for electric scooters. In comparison to the competition, they exhibit superior power-to-weight ratios, increased reliability, and reduced susceptibility to overheating.

 

4. Are dual motor electric scooters equipped with brushless motors?

Electric scooters typically feature either brushless DC motors or brushed DC motors. The majority of high-quality electric scooters are equipped with brushless motors.

 

For comprehensive insights, refer to our detailed guide on Electric Scooter Motors.

 

When you do not consider the weight of your electric scooter as an issue then a dual-motor electric scooter is ideal for you. Although they might be heavy due to the two motors, they are the ideal electric motor scooter for adults. The dual-motor electric scooter is best at handling weight distribution, ensuring fast and smooth acceleration, especially when riding on slippery and wet grounds. With dual-motor you are sure of a better surface grip. However, if you like your scooter lightweight then single motors scooters are the way to go. Most of them have high power performance and a better grip too.