🚴 Have an e-bike? Here’s one thing that ruins the battery: Letting it drain completely before you recharge. Lithium-ion batteries perform best when kept charged between 20% to 80%. Keep your e-bike inside, too, once the temps drop for winter. Anything below 32 degrees is no bueno for your battery life.
Read this before you hop on a rental scooter this summer
Like millions of Americans, you’re probably planning your summer vacation. Don’t forget to take some precautions before you leave town. Tap or click here for five travel tips to keep you safe.
Once you visit an unfamiliar city, you might decide to rent a scooter to get around. Technically known as shared mobility devices, they have become a common sight around tourist areas. Like how bicycle rentals work, you simply swipe your bank card, and a scooter is made available.
But what happens when you have an accident? Read on to see how e-scooter rentals work and what you need to know.
Here’s the backstory
The concept of e-bikes and scooters is relatively straightforward. Lined up in a row and locked for security, you pay to access a ride. Of course, there might be a sales representative in the vicinity if you have any questions or need guidance, but for the most part, it’s a self-service environment.
It’s also not uncommon to sign some documentation before getting on your e-scooter and whizzing away. But how often do you actually read through the indemnity forms or go over the contract with a fine-tooth comb? Next time, you might want to do that, as you are liable for almost anything that happens to you or the scooter.
As Kim explains in a recent Daily Tech Update podcast episode, “With spring here and summer vacations on the way, more people than ever will give in to the temptation to ride an e-scooter. But, you’ll be taking all the legal risks.”
Use the link below to hear Kim’s entire thoughts on the subject in just one minute.
Waiver of liability
First off, we need to be clear that the terms and conditions for renting an e-scooter are different depending on the rental company. So always check with the company before using their scooters or e-bikes to see what you are liable for.
With that said, Kim’s correct that you take all the responsibility. A popular rental company in New York City offers a subscription service to rent scooters monthly. But, according to its waiver of liability, you “agree to indemnify and hold harmless” the rental company from all claims.
Looking for an e-bike or scooter? The BBB says avoid this company
A few years ago, scooters seemed to be everywhere. You couldn’t walk down the sidewalk without seeing a kid whizzing by. Since then, they have fallen out of favor, with many turning their attention to e-bikes. Tap or click here for our review on a popular ebike.
How to check if your e-bike battery is legit
E-bike batteries have been lighting up more than just the road — they’re sparking fires. I share tips on how to make sure yours is safe.
Review: RadRover 6 Plus electric bike takes your adventures to the next level
Depending on what part of the country you call home, you might not associate cold weather months with jumping on your bicycle for a joyride around the neighborhood. But in places like Phoenix where it still hovers around 80 degrees, it’s the most wonderful time of the year.
FBI beta app warning, robotaxi rendezvous & realistic city simulation
Plus, some states are offering incentives for e-bike owners. We chat with Alex Fitzpatrick from Axios about the benefits available. Want to clear phone clutter? We’ve got an easy method. Learn how to track your subscriptions, and don’t miss Allie’s review of her new Pixel Tablet.
Electric bike's hidden deadly danger
Sure, your e-bike is fast. But is it worth your life? I give you the scoop in 60 seconds.