While most models of eScooter share a number of core similarities, there are plenty of details that can be different, including tire style. Electric scooter tires come in two main styles: solid and pneumatic. There are advantages and disadvantages to each tire type, so today, we’ll be going over the areas in which solid and pneumatic tires either struggle or excel to help you determine which is right for you.
Traction
Traction, or the ability of a tire to grip the road, is arguably the most important factor to consider when choosing tires for your electric scooter. Having greater traction gives you more control when steering and stopping, making it easier to maneuver your scooter. In general, pneumatic tires flatten with the weight of a rider on the scooter, thereby giving them a greater surface area and providing better traction overall.
In addition, if you're planning on riding off-road at all, pneumatic tires have been tried and tested as the superior option. You can adjust the amount of air in your pneumatic tires depending on where you want to ride, letting them adapt to any terrain. While solid tires provide enough control for journeys on paved roads, they don't offer enough traction or suspension for journeys on tough terrain, so we don’t recommend them for any off-road riders.
Winner: Pneumatic
Comfort
Comfort is a key factor in improving any riding experience. Solid tires have minimal give when riding, which means that they’ll transfer the impact from every bump, crack, and pothole into your legs and arms. While riding on a solid tire, it’s possible that you’ll notice vibrating, unstable, and sometimes shaky rides, especially on rougher roads. A suspension system can help mitigate this, but your ride still won’t be as smooth as it would be with pneumatic tires.
Air-filled or pneumatic tires, meanwhile, are able to provide some amount of suspension. Pneumatic tires offer some flexibility when riding, often flattening in response to increased weight. This works to absorb some of the impact from rougher roads, giving them the advantage over solid tires.
Winner: Pneumatic
Cost
For riders on a budget, the cost of each tire type is just as important as its performance. Right off the bat, pneumatic tires typically come with a greater cost, since you’ll often need to purchase both a tire and a tire tube. On top of that, air-filled tires are susceptible to an electric scooter rider's most common and most frustrating problem: flat tires. There are ways to avoid flat tires, but even with good preparation and cautious riding, it’s likely that your pneumatic tires will run over something too sharp, leaving you without an eScooter until you fix your flat tire.
Solid tires, meanwhile, tend to cost less up front. In addition, they can ride over just about anything without issue, helping them outlast pneumatic tires and saving you money in repair costs. While eScooters of any tire type are a big money saver when compared to a car, solid tires offer the most cost-effective option. Just be careful where you ride and examine your tires after each and every journey to avoid any unnecessary damage and preserve your tires for as long as possible.
Winner: Solid
Durability
There are a number of factors that impact a tire’s durability, including where, how long, and how often you’re riding, but tire material can also have a noticeable impact on your tire’s lifespan. Like we’ve stated previously, solid tires will handle the brunt of every impact with relatively little issue. They have minimal to no give in their rubber, which prevents them from going flat. While you could lose a pneumatic tire to a puncture or flat at almost any time, it takes a significant amount of wear and tear to render a solid tire unusable.
Winner: Solid
Conclusion
Both solid and pneumatic tires have plenty of advantages and disadvantages, making them a good fit for different types of riders. The right style for you, then, will depend on your own preferences and riding habits. We usually recommend riders try a pneumatic tire due to their comfort and ability to handle varied terrain, but solid tires are a great choice for budget-conscious riders who plan to stick to smooth and paved roads. If you still need help choosing your next eScooter, be sure to check out our Definitive eScooter Buyer's Guide, and if you want some solid advice for first time riders, be sure to read our list of First Time Rider Tips and Tricks, as well as our list of Common Mistakes for First Time Riders to Avoid. Whichever tire you end up choosing, just remember to stay safe, follow the rules of the road, and always wear a helmet!
