Archive

Archive for the ‘Scooter Battery Charger’ Category

Scooter Battery Charger Owners Guide

December 27th, 2011 marina No comments
  • Scooter Battery ChargerPlug the battery charger into scooter or bike before plugging it into the wall outlet. When charging is complete unplug the charger from the wall outlet before unplugging it from scooter or bike.
  • To get the most life out of your scooter’s batteries recharge them after every ride, even small rides. Leaving a scooter battery in a partially discharged state for any amount of time lowers the useful life of the battery.
  • When an electric scooter or bike is in storage recharge the batteries at least every three months.
  • Most of our battery chargers are designed for recharging SLA (Sealed Lead-Acid)batteries. Any brand of SLA battery charger may be used on any electric scooter or bike that uses SLA batteries as long as the VoltageAmperage, Connector, and the connectors Pin Polarities are the same as the vehicles original battery charger.
  • The Amperage of the battery charger may be decreased for longer battery life, or increased for a quicker recharge time. (see charging rate chart below)
  • Automatic SLA battery chargers are designed so that they can and will not charge defective SLA batteries. This is a safety feature. If a defective SLA battery is attempted to be charged it could overheat and melt or damage the equipment that it is located in.
  • Good SLA batteries bounce back above their rated Voltage level within a few minutes after being discharged. If a SLA battery’s Voltage does not bounce back above its rated Voltage level within a few minutes after being discharged then it is usually considered defective or worn out.
  • Sometimes scooter owners and rental stores want to use their electric scooters for more than one battery cycle per day so they use battery chargers with a higher Amp rating than the electric scooters original battery charger. These quick rate battery chargers are typically rated in the 3 Amp through 6 Amp power output range and recharge most electric scooter battery packs in 2-3 hours, however they will slightly lower the longevity of the battery pack when compared to using a slow rate battery charger.
  • To preserve the life of the batteries use a slow rate battery charger whenever possible. If a scooter is driven for more than one battery cycle per day then using a smaller battery charger overnight, and a larger battery charger during the day is the best solution.
  • Do not use automotive or motorcycle battery chargers to charge SLA batteries. These type of battery chargers are designed for charging wet cell lead-acid batteries and if used on SLA batteries may cause permanent damage to the battery and equipment due to overcharging and overheating.

Currie’s EZIP vs. IZIP Electric Bike and Scooter Brands

June 30th, 2011 marina No comments

If you’ve been shopping around for a new electric bike or scooter, you’ve probably noticed the obvious similarities between the EZIP and IZIP brands. Both are owned and operated by Currie Technologies, Inc. and they share many of the same components and design features. At first glance, the EZIP’s may seem like a better deal – but there are some major differences between IZIP and EZIP brand products that you may have overlooked. Here are some things you should know if you’re considering an EZIP vs. IZIP:

Here’s why EZIP bicycles are cheaper than IZIP

You’ll notice a significant difference in price between EZIP and IZIP brand electric
bicycles. An entry level IZIP will cost around $799, while an EZIP can cost $499 or lower. The EZIP models are basic, no-frill electric bikes that are much heavier and use cheaper, lower quality components than the IZIP’s. Currie developed these low cost production models for mass distribution at large retailers and department stores.

Recognizing the importance of providing a top-of-the-line product with higher quality parts and components, Currie also created IZIP. The IZIP brand appeals to experienced bike enthusiasts and consumers looking for the best in quality, function and design. IZIP’s are lighter weight, longer-lasting and are much more flexible than EZIP’s.

* Unlike Currie’s bicycles, IZIP & EZIP electric scooters are virtually identical. Because of this, IZIP was eliminated in 2009 leaving EZIP as the only remaining scooter brand.
Electric Bikes – Cost vs. Quality
The main reason EZIP electric bicycles cost so much less – is the use of lower quality components. Here are the main structural differences between EZIP vs. IZIP.

1.) The Frame – The biggest factor in reducing the cost of an EZIP is the use of a steel frame. While steel is strong, it’s extremely heavy! Typically, a comparable IZIP model (which uses an all aluminum frame) will weigh almost 10 lbs less. This additional weight will reduce the range of an EZIP and put more stress on the motor and other components. Over time, this may shorten the life of an EZIP or cause the need for additional repairs. Plus, it’s much harder to pedal a heavier bike.

2.) The Forks & Suspension – EZIP’s also use lower quality forks and suspensions. Besides the additional weight that they add, the ride on an EZIP will be much less responsive and not as comfortable as an IZIP.

3.) The Handlebars – You’ll have less flexibility when adjusting the handlebars on an EZIP. Most models use a low quality high-rise stem which only allows you to adjust the height (up / down) to get the perfect handlebar position. All IZIP products include an adjustable angle stem which allows you to adjust up / down and front / back. This will improve your ride and overall comfort.

4.) The Seat – While models vary, you’re likely to find a higher quality seat on an IZIP vs. EZIP. Although a seat can easily be replaced, a more comfortable saddle will make longer rides much more enjoyable and easier on the “body”. Plus, unlike the EZIP’s, most IZIP’s have a suspension seat post to help soften your ride.

5.) The Warranty – Because they use lower quality components, EZIP electric bikes are only covered by a 6-month warranty. All IZIP electric bikes are covered by a 1-year warranty. Both have a limited 90-day warranty on batteries. More >

Summary – IZIP vs. EZIP Brand

Although we sell both brands of electric bikes, the only real advantage to an EZIP is the low up front cost. Although you might save money at first, we don’t normally recommend EZIP’s to our customers because they’re heavier and use lower quality components. Not only does this make them less comfortable and more difficult to ride, but they won’t last as long and will require additional repairs to maintain over time.

The IZIP brand offers a wider selection of bikes with higher-end components and features. They’re more comfortable, easier to maintain and operate much more smoothly than the EZIP’s. Plus, with a 1-year warranty (vs. 6-month) you can be sure your bike will hold up and you’ll avoid the added frustration and cost of additional repairs.

Article by eCo Wheelz – Electric Bikes