May 30, 2025 || by TangJaney

How to Make an Electric Scooter Faster: Quick and Easy Updates

Electric scooters have become massively popular for good reasons. They are portable, eco-friendly, and very stylish. Owners of e-scooters (as they are fondly called) constantly find ways to improve their scooters' performance, and one of the most commonly considered metrics is speed.

Speed enthusiasts look to reduce commute times, maintain momentum on inclines, or simply enjoy a more dynamic riding experience. The good news is that you can easily make an electric scooter faster. Here we discuss the easiest ways to do it yourself and more advanced ways to take it up a notch.

Ready for the ride? Then let’s get into how to make electric scooters faster, starting from whether you actually can.

Can You Make an Electric Scooter Go Faster Than It Already Does?

The potential for making your electric scooter faster largely depends on your specific e-scooter model and its built-in limitations. Most manufacturers implement speed restrictions for safety and regulatory compliance, but these can often be modified or bypassed with the right approach.

Before attempting any modifications, examine your scooter for these key features:

A. Presence and Type of Speed Limiter

Many manufacturers consider speed limits in certain countries when producing their e-scooters. In the UK, for example, the speed limit for rental trials is 15.5 mph (25 km/h), which is considerably more than that of Germany at 12.4 mph (20 km/h). Due to this, some manufacturers add speed limiters.

The speed limiter in an electric scooter could be one of the following:

Hard-Wired Speed Limiter: These are built-in parts that limit the maximum speed of the e-scooter.
Firmware Speed Limiter: These are software-based limiters with control switches. More modern models like the iScooter i9 have riding modes with maximum speed limits.

Check the manuals for your electric scooters to confirm if they have speed limiters and what type they have.

B. Accessibility of Electronic Speed Controller (ESC)

The mastermind behind the performance of an electric scooter is the speed controller. E-scooter models with accessible controllers (typically located beneath the deck or near the stem) offer more tuning possibilities.

C. Type of Motor

The motor of your e-scooter will determine the advancements you can make. Hub motors are located in the wheels and can be reached easily, but have limited upgrade options.

Belt-driven/chain-driven motors, on the other hand, are difficult to access but have more possible mechanical adjustments, like the gear ratio, motor size, and torque characteristics.

D. Battery Pack Accessibility

Removable batteries offer the easiest upgrade path, whilst integrated packs may require more technical expertise to modify safely.

E. Wheel type

E-scooters with pneumatic tyres generally provide better grip and speed capabilities compared to solid rubber alternatives, making them ideal for performance upgrades.

How to Make an Electric Scooter Go Faster by Yourself

Several straightforward modifications can boost your e-scooter's performance without requiring expensive parts or extensive technical knowledge. These DIY approaches focus on optimising existing components and removing common performance barriers.

Weight Reduction

It’s not new that weight can slow things down. What some people don’t know is that electric scooters have weight limits. Reaching these limits can drop performance and also cause accidents, particularly on inclines and during acceleration phases.

Weight reduction goes beyond the rider, you can save weight by replacing parts with more lightweight material. Some models allow you to swap heavy steel stems for aluminium versions, or replace chunky plastic fenders with lighter carbon fibre alternatives. You can also get rid of unnecessary weights like cargo, heavy helmets, oversized lights, and bulky phone mounts.

Aerodynamics and Riding Techniques

How you ride can also impact how fast you can go. The more upright you are, the more surface area hits the wind and can slow you down. Maintaining a crouched position by bending your knees can immediately increase your speed.

Other tips that involve riding techniques that promote faster rides include wearing close-fitted clothes and taking routes with tailwinds when possible.

Software Updates

Many modern e-scooters receive firmware updates that can affect performance parameters. The iScooter iX7Pro includes a MiniRobot that provides this information, along with other parameters such as riding statistics and security features.

These software updates can be found on your manufacturer's website or mobile app. Ensure you research all necessary details about each update, including regulatory compliance, performance effects, and terms for the reversibility of any changes.

Increase the Tyre Pressure

Proper tyre pressure significantly affects rolling resistance and overall speed. Under-inflated tyres create more surface contact with the ground, increasing friction and reducing efficiency.

Check your tyre sidewalls for the recommended pressure range, typically measured in PSI or bar. Inflate tyres to the upper end of this range for maximum speed, though avoid exceeding manufacturer specifications as this can compromise safety and tyre longevity.

Regular Maintenance

Sometimes, you may notice that the speed of your electric scooter reduces over time. Maintenance is how to make an electric scooter go faster after a drop in performance.

This maintenance could include:

Regularly clean the e-scooter and its chains.
Properly lubricate and tension the chain or belt drive.
Frequently check the bearings of the wheels.
Use electrical contact cleaner and dielectric grease on electrical components.
Store the e-scooter properly during extended non-use periods.

How to Make an Electric Scooter Go Faster by Replacing Parts

Replacing some parts and upgrading components is how to make electric scooters faster, more significantly. These replacement parts offer better results, but they have financial and warranty implications and will likely involve hiring a technician.

Remove Speed Limiting Cable

If your electric scooter has a speed limiter, you can identify the type and remove the speed limiter. You can do this yourself by locating the speed limiter using the product manual.

However, there are many things to consider, such as the proper electric tools, likely multi-wiring, and connections. Hiring a technician might be the best course of action. For firmware speed limiters, which are commonly found in our electric scooters, controls are usually accessed in-app and are easier to switch off.

After removal, ensure you test the e-scooter in a safe environment. Gradual speed increases help you adapt to the improved performance whilst ensuring all systems function correctly.

Upgrade the Speed Controller

The speed controller manages power delivery from the battery to the motor. Upgrading to a higher-capacity controller can significantly improve both speed and acceleration. You can get replacement controllers for your iScooter to increase its potential.

Compatible controllers must match your motor's voltage and current requirements whilst fitting within the existing mounting space. Research controllers specifically designed for your scooter model or similar specifications to ensure proper compatibility.

Reprogramming new controllers often requires specific software or mobile applications. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and start with conservative settings before gradually increasing performance parameters. Or better still, hire someone to do it.

Optimise the Motor

Motor optimisation can involve several approaches, from simple adjustments to complete replacements. The approach to take depends on the motor type of your electric scooter.

For hub motors, the most common route to upgrading involves motor swaps, and this involves replacing the entire wheel. Our motor replacements provide enhanced speed and reliability to your e-scooter.

For belt-driven scooters, changing pulley sizes alters the effective gear ratio, and this could contribute to increased top speed, sometimes at the expense of acceleration and hill-climbing ability.

Motor replacement offers the greatest performance potential but requires significant technical expertise. Upgraded motors must match the voltage system and physical mounting requirements whilst staying within the controller's power handling capabilities.

Brushless motors generally provide better efficiency and longevity compared to brushed alternatives. Consequently, most modern-day e-scooters are brushless.

Upgrade to a Higher-Capacity Battery

Battery upgrades offer one of the most effective methods for increasing e-scooter speed and range. Higher-voltage batteries directly increase motor speed, whilst higher-capacity batteries maintain peak performance for longer periods.

Some e-scooters also drop in speed due to low or faulty batteries. You might notice the battery depleting quickly, even between short trips. Getting a battery replacement will not only improve speed and efficiency but also help avoid inconvenience.

Top Accessories to Upgrade Your E-Scooter Experience

Performance modifications work best when combined with quality accessories that enhance the overall riding experience. That is why upgrading parts like batteries, controllers, and motors has a significant effect on performance.

Here are some top accessories that would further improve the experience:

Electric Scooter Accelerator: Sometimes, all it takes is restoring an optimal accelerator to your e-scooter, and it returns to peak performance.
Throttle Boosters: Improve speed transmission with quality throttle boosters to enhance acceleration.
High-performance tyres: Inflatable tyres with better grip and stability push the electric scooter further during smooth journeys.
Adjustable shock absorbers: E-scooters that tend to slow down when passing through rough surfaces will benefit from improved suspension provided by rear shock absorbers.
Safety helmet: With all that speed, you will need to equip yourself with protective helmets with LED lights.

Safety and Legal Considerations to Make Electric Scooters Faster

Speed modifications bring increased responsibilities and potential risks that require careful consideration before implementation. Understanding these factors helps ensure the safe and legal operation of your enhanced e-scooter.

Selecting a Compatible Higher-Voltage or Higher-Discharge-Rate Battery

Battery upgrades require matching multiple technical specifications to ensure safe operation. Voltage compatibility affects all electrical components, whilst discharge rates determine the system's ability to deliver peak power safely.

Verify that your controller, motor, and charging system can handle increased voltage before making battery upgrades. Incompatible voltage levels can damage expensive components or create fire hazards. Consult manufacturer specifications and, when in doubt, seek professional advice.

Discharge rate (C-rating) determines how quickly the battery can safely deliver stored energy. Higher-performance applications require batteries with appropriate discharge ratings to prevent overheating or voltage sag under load. Calculate your system's current requirements and select batteries with adequate safety margins.

Reduced Stability and Control at Higher Speeds

Increased speed fundamentally changes your scooter's handling characteristics and requires adjusted riding techniques. Higher speeds reduce available reaction time and increase the consequences of errors or mechanical failures.

The following sectors could become affected:

Steering: Steering becomes more sensitive at speed, with small handlebar inputs creating larger directional changes. Practice gradual speed increases in safe environments to develop a feel for the modified handling characteristics before riding in traffic or crowded areas.
Braking distance: You would have to press your brakes significantly earlier once you increase the speed. Test your braking performance at various speeds in controlled conditions to understand the new limitations and plan accordingly.
Environmental factors: Wind, road surface irregularities, and weather conditions have amplified effects at higher speeds. Develop awareness of conditions that require speed reduction for safe operation.

Ensuring Modifications Are Performed Safely and Reliably

Technical modifications require proper tools, knowledge, and attention to detail to ensure safe operation. Poorly executed modifications can create hazards that far exceed the original equipment's risk profile.

Avoid modifications that weaken critical components or create stress concentrations that could lead to failure. When in doubt, consult with qualified technicians or engineers.

It is essential to test every function in a safe environment, progress gradually, and document all steps taken. You could also take pictures of the before and after of your changes, in case you need to reverse the process. Maintain records of part numbers, wiring diagrams, and configuration settings for future reference.

Legal compliance varies significantly by location, but generally becomes more restrictive as vehicle performance increases. Research local regulations regarding e-scooter modifications, speed limits, and registration requirements. Some jurisdictions classify modified e-scooters as motorcycles, requiring different licensing and insurance.

A Quick Summary

How to make an electric scooter faster depends on its model and parts. There are different parts of an e-scooter that can be upgraded, such as the speed controller, motor system, and batteries. Some Electric scooters also have speed limiters that can be removed to increase their speed.

There are a couple of activities that you can do to make your electric scooter faster, at no cost. Basic methods like weight reduction, proper maintenance, and riding technique adjustments provide immediate benefits without major investment or technical challenges.

Safety considerations become paramount as speeds increase, requiring enhanced protective equipment, modified riding techniques, and awareness of legal implications. Most successful speed modifications balance performance gains with safety and reliability.

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