TIRE CARE

At OKAI, rider safety is our utmost priority. We understand that style and design are not just about aesthetics but also about functionality. That's why we are dedicated to creating electric scooters and bikes that look sleek and modern and are also built with advanced safety features.

An overlooked safety aspect is tire pressure: Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for your electric scooter's optimal performance and safety. 

Proper tire pressure:

1. Improves Ride Quality: Proper tire pressure ensures a smoother and more comfortable ride. When inflated correctly, the tires provide better shock absorption, reducing vibrations and jolts felt while riding. This can significantly enhance your overall experience and make riding your scooter more enjoyable.

2. Enhances Battery Life: Electric scooters rely on battery power to propel themselves, and maintaining proper tire pressure can greatly impact the battery life. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, causing the scooter's motor to work harder and drain the battery faster. By maintaining adequate tire pressure, the scooter can roll more effortlessly, improving battery efficiency and extended riding time.

3. Increases Safety: Correct tire pressure ensures optimal riding traction and control. Underinflated tires can reduce grip on the road, particularly during turns or when riding over slippery surfaces. This can lead to skidding or losing control, increasing the risk of accidents. Proper tire pressure helps maintain better grip, improves stability, and reduces the likelihood of accidents caused by tire-related issues.

4. Better Electric Scooter Performance: Maintaining recommended tire pressure allows the scooter to perform at its best. Properly inflated tires facilitate efficient energy transfer, maximizing acceleration and mobility. By reducing rolling resistance, you can achieve higher speeds with less effort, ultimately improving the scooter's overall performance.

5. Prolongs Tire Lifespan: Tire wear can be uneven if the pressure is not adequately maintained. Underinflated tires tend to wear out faster on the edges, while overinflated tires wear more in the center, and completely flat tires can cause permanant damage to the tire. Maintaining proper tire pressure ensures even wear, extending the lifespan of your scooter's tires. This saves you money on frequent tire replacements and improves the overall longevity of your scooter.

To maintain proper tire pressure on your electric scooter, follow these steps:

1. Check the manufacturer's guidelines: Consult your OKAI Electric Scooter’s user manual. Or, use the handy tire pressure chart below.

OKAI ELECTRIC SCOOTER TIRE PRESSURE CHART (PSI)

2. Invest in a reliable tire pressure gauge: Purchase a quality tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure in your scooter's tires accurately. Digital gauges are recommended for precise readings. Although OKAI Electric Scooters come with a valve stem extender, they tend to get misplaced, so investing in valve stem extenders is also recommended.

3. Regularly check tire pressure: Check your scooter's tire pressure at least once a month or before each ride, if possible. It's essential to check tire pressure when the tires are cold, as heat can expand the air inside and give inaccurate readings.

            PRO TIP:To quickly inspect tires before every ride, apply foot pressure on the tire and ensure it feels firm with a slight give. Visually, ensure the tire has a rounded shape with a distinct center line. (Refer to image) If you are experiencing a bumpy ride, it is likely due to a flat tire causing the valve stem to rub against the tire interior.

                GOOD

                 FLAT

4. Inflate or deflate as necessary: Use an air compressor or a tire pump to inflate or deflate the tires according to the recommended pressure. Avoid overinflating or underinflating the tires.

5. Visual inspection: While checking the tire pressure, also inspect the tires for any signs of damage, excessive wear, or punctures. Replace any damaged or excessively worn tires immediately.

6. Monitor tire pressure regularly: It's important to regularly monitor the tire pressure to ensure it remains within the recommended range. Temperature changes and extended periods of non-use can affect tire pressure, so it's good practice to check it periodically.

            PRO TIP: Changing e-scooter tires can be a difficult task. To save time and money, I recommend adding 1 to 2 ounces of Green Slime 2-in-1 or a similar tire sealant. It seals punctures and prevents leaks, reducing the chances of getting a flat tire, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted ride.

By following these guidelines and maintaining proper tire pressure on your OKAI electric scooter, you can Ride in Style by enjoying a smoother ride, maximized battery efficiency, increased safety, enhanced scooter performance, and prolonging the lifespan of the tires, battery, and OKAI Electric Scooter.

Ride in Style!

Ralph C. Clarke

OKAI Technical Support Manager