Your electric scooter is just the beginning. The right accessories can dramatically improve your riding experience—making it safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable. This guide covers the must-have accessories for new riders and worthwhile upgrades for experienced commuters. I've personally tested dozens of products to bring you practical recommendations that actually work.
Safety Essentials
These accessories aren't optional—they're fundamental to safe riding.
Essential Helmet
A certified helmet is non-negotiable. In most Australian states, it's also legally required. Look for:
- Australian Standards certification: AS/NZS 2063 for bicycle helmets
- Proper fit: Snug without pressure points, no wobbling when you shake your head
- Ventilation: Important for Australian summers
- Visibility features: Reflective elements or light mounts are a bonus
Budget $50-150 for a quality helmet. It's the most important accessory you'll buy.
Essential Lights
Even if your scooter has built-in lights, additional lighting improves safety. Consider:
- Front light: Minimum 300 lumens for road visibility; 500+ for unlit paths
- Rear light: Flashing mode catches drivers' attention
- Helmet light: Moves with your head, helping you see around corners and signalling to drivers
USB rechargeable lights are convenient and cost $30-80 for a quality set.
Essential Bell or Horn
Many scooters come with inadequate bells. A loud, clear warning device is essential for alerting pedestrians and other riders. Electronic horns are louder than bells but can startle people. A quality bell that's audible but not alarming is often the best compromise for shared paths.
Security Accessories
Protecting your investment from theft is crucial, even if you typically take your scooter inside.
Essential Lock
For times when you can't bring your scooter inside, a quality lock is essential. Options include:
- U-locks: Most secure but heavier. Good for locking to fixed objects
- Folding locks: Compromise between security and portability
- Cable locks: Lightweight but less secure. Good as a secondary deterrent
Budget $50-100 for a decent lock. Cheap locks can be defeated in seconds.
Lock through the frame and wheel to a fixed object. Consider using two different lock types—thieves who can defeat one type often can't defeat another.
Comfort and Convenience
These accessories make daily riding more pleasant and practical.
Recommended Phone Mount
Navigation, tracking your route, or monitoring your scooter's app is much easier with a handlebar phone mount. Look for:
- Secure attachment: Vibration can loosen some mounts over time
- Quick release: Easy to attach and remove your phone
- Rotation: Switch between portrait and landscape as needed
- Compatibility: Ensure it fits your phone, especially if you use a case
Budget $20-50. Avoid the cheapest options—a phone falling off at speed is expensive and dangerous.
Recommended Carrying Solution
How do you carry your belongings while riding? Options include:
- Handlebar bag: Easy access but limited capacity and can affect steering
- Stem bag: Smaller but very accessible for phone, wallet, keys
- Backpack: Maximum capacity but can cause sweating and fatigue on longer rides
- Deck bag: Some scooters support bags that attach to the deck or stem
Consider your typical carrying needs and choose accordingly. Many riders use different solutions for different trips.
Recommended Gloves
Gloves protect your hands in a fall and improve grip in cold or wet conditions. Full-finger gloves offer more protection than fingerless ones. Look for padding on the palms and knuckles, and consider touchscreen-compatible fingertips if you need to use your phone.
Weather Protection
Australian weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for changing conditions.
Recommended Waterproof Gear
A compact, breathable rain jacket that packs small is invaluable. Keep one in your bag or at work for unexpected weather. Waterproof shoe covers are another worthwhile investment—they pack tiny and prevent the misery of wet feet all day.
Recommended Sunglasses or Clear Glasses
Eye protection serves multiple purposes: keeping bugs and debris out of your eyes, reducing glare on sunny days, and protecting from wind on cold mornings. Consider photochromic lenses that adjust to light conditions automatically.
Start with safety essentials: helmet, lights, and a bell. Add security and convenience accessories as you identify specific needs from your actual riding experience.
Maintenance Accessories
Basic tools keep your scooter running smoothly and can save you from being stranded.
Recommended Portable Pump
If your scooter has pneumatic tyres, a compact pump is essential. Look for one that's small enough to carry but capable of reaching the higher pressures e-scooter tyres require (typically 40-65 PSI). Mini pumps designed for road bikes work well.
Recommended Puncture Repair Kit
For pneumatic tyres, carry a basic puncture repair kit or spare inner tube. Combined with your pump, this can get you home instead of walking. Consider adding tyre levers specifically sized for your scooter's smaller wheels.
Recommended Multi-tool
A compact multi-tool with hex keys matching your scooter's fasteners allows you to tighten loose bolts on the go. Check which sizes your scooter uses and ensure your multi-tool includes them.
Optional Upgrades
These accessories are nice to have but not essential for most riders.
- Suspension seat: For long commutes on rough roads, adds comfort but increases weight
- Handlebar extender: Provides additional mounting space for accessories
- Mudguards/fenders: If your scooter doesn't have adequate splash protection
- Deck grip tape: Replacement or upgraded grip for better foot traction
- Carrying strap: Makes folded scooter easier to carry over short distances
Building Your Accessory Kit
Don't feel pressured to buy everything at once. Start with the essentials and add items as you identify specific needs. Here's a suggested priority order:
- Week 1: Helmet, basic lock, lights (if not already adequate)
- Month 1: Gloves, phone mount, carrying solution
- Month 2-3: Maintenance tools, weather gear, comfort upgrades
Your specific needs will become clear as you ride. A commuter in a hilly area might prioritise a pump and repair kit, while an inner-city rider might focus on security. Let your experience guide your purchases.