Table of Contents
This is my method of testing e-bikes, e-scooters, and electric rideables. It is by no means a definitive method, however, consistent methods lead to comparable results.
1. Acceleration
I do a minimum of 4 tests to 100 feet, record the time with video, and average the times. I test throttle only or zero-start mode to eliminate user input. If that his not possible the least possible amount of rider input force is used.
2. Range Testing
Most manufactures, sometimes greatly, exaggerate range claims. Often the range taps into that last 20% of battery that is best to conserve for maximum battery life. Therefore, I conduct multiple range tests in various power levels. I record the display odometer distance, when available, and GPS distance. I also record weather data and measure the motor temperate post ride.
These ranges are not absolute but should give a good barometer of what to expect. After a range test, I fully recharge the battery using a watt meter to arrive at a power consumption so I can calculate the watt hours used per mile (wh/mi).
Range Test #3
I weight 175 lb or 79kg, if you weigh less you should get more range and if you weigh more, you will get less range. I am finalizing range data with riders of differing weight to help make my range test useful for everyone.
3. Braking
Being able to stop is even more important that acceleration or range for rider safety. To that end, I perform a minimum of 4 tests at 15 mph (24 kph) for e-scooters. I then calculate the average stopping distance.
I initially did tests from 20 mph (32 kph) before discovering at these speeds technique and traction are more important than the brakes themselves
4. Hill Climbing
Hill climb claims are very interesting to me with some manufacturers stating that their scooter will climb 30 percent slopes while others say 45 degree slopes. Are you kidding me!! Hill steepness is often misunderstood and can be expressed in percent grade (rise/runx100) or degrees slope. In the very hilly city of San Francisco California (https://www.7×7.com/the-real-top-10-list-of-steepest-streets-in-san-francisco-1786501295.html) there are only two streets that exceed 30% grade.
I perform hill climb tests from a stop at a hill that is 310 feet long with a 30 feet gain in elevation. The slope is variable with a maximum of 14% grade at its steepest point. The slope was measured at various points with an inclinometer at 7 to 8 degrees which calculates to 12 to 14%.
5. Top Speed
Top speed is another metric that manufacturers often exaggerate. This can be done by overly optimistic displays or by using super light “test” subjects. I do top speed testing at a full charge, on flat terrain, and at the maximum performance settings using verification with two GPS speed devices.
**I do NOT test top speeds over 30 mph, that’s dang fast on a personal electric vehicle and in most public places, illegal!**
