Kickbike / scooter selection guide
On this page, you can compare the features of different kickbike/scooter models. If you’re still unsure after reading, we’re happy to help.
Kickbike, footbike, scooter: what exactly is this thing?
Unlike stunt scooters, usually small scooters seen under children’s feet, a large-wheeled scooter looks and is sized much like a normal bicycle – but without a saddle and pedals. There are different models, varying in frame size and wheel size and width.
In Finland, many know so-called adult scooters/kickbikes by the name Kickbike, since Kickbike brand scooters are designed in Finland and naturally are the most common here. In Europe, there are also other companies specializing in these vehicles. Such brands include the Czech Kostka and Yedoo. In the Czech Republic, scooting is almost a national sport, but scooters are also increasingly seen in other countries, both in everyday life and on outdoor trails.
A scooter is suitable for everyday exercise, as a replacement for a commuter bike, as a training tool for active athletes, for walking the dog, and even for sleddog team or pulling sports. The most enthusiastic can also participate in competitions, even at the World Championship level. With or without a dog!
Why choose a scooter as your mode of transport?
- Excellent fitness exercise
Scooting works your whole body and makes you sweat easily. The movement is quite similar to cross-country skiing, and scooting is great exercise especially for the lower back, glutes, thighs, and calves. Compared to running, scooting is much gentler on the joints – and of course, you cover distance much faster on a scooter. Compared to cycling, scooting is generally a more comprehensive form of exercise for the body.
While scooting can easily raise your heart rate, you can also go at a more relaxed pace if you want – and walk uphill. As your new scooting muscles develop and strengthen, the ride becomes easier. Scooting is also a technical sport, and with practice, it becomes more efficient. Scooting often suits those who, for example, experience back pain with a regular bicycle. - More maintenance-free than a bicycle
Although bicycles and scooters mostly use the same components, scooters usually lack the parts that require the most maintenance, such as the drivetrain – pedals, chains, gears, etc. Scooters are, in their simplicity, very low-maintenance and durable recreational equipment. - Easy and safe
Many consider the sport easier and safer than biking. It’s easy to step onto the scooter, and while riding, the center of gravity stays lower than on a bike. It’s also quick to step off the scooter if needed. Compared to small-wheeled scooters, or "scoots," kickbikes are much more stable to ride. As with biking, it’s always advisable to wear a helmet when riding a scooter! - Enables brisk dog walking and/or participation in pulling sports
With a scooter, it’s possible to offer your dog brisk exercise even when the dog can’t be walked off-leash. The dog can trot alongside the scooter, or if the dog has pulling instincts, it can be trained to run ahead pulling the scooter. In that case, the dog should have properly sized pulling harnesses, and the bike should have a flexible pull line and a bike antenna that prevents the line from tangling in the front wheel. You can read more about the equipment on our dog biking page.
What size user is the scooter suitable for?
Scooters are not made in different frame sizes for different user heights like bicycles are; practically all people of average height can ride the same models. Of course, there are some size differences between models, so if the rider is very tall, it’s not advisable to get the smallest model for fitness or hobby use—although even that can be fun for shorter rides. Conversely, the largest off-road models may feel too bulky for a very small person, especially if the scooter is not used for dog sports, where the stability provided by size is usually desirable.
It is often possible to adjust the riding position to better suit your preferences. For example, the handlebar height can be changed with an adjustable stem, by changing the stem’s position, or by rotating the stem or handlebar. The parts are the same as on bicycles, so the selection of spare parts is almost endless.
In what kind of conditions do you ride?
The most important thing when choosing the right model is to consider the intended use and riding environment. Are you riding alone or with a dog? Think about where and on what kind of surface you will most often be riding. When riding in the city and on hard surfaces, a model with narrow and smooth tires rolls lightly. On sand, terrain, or slushy winter conditions, wider knobby tires provide stability and grip. If you often ride on very uneven routes, a front-suspended or wide-tired fatbike model might be the right choice.
When walking with a dog, asphalt should be avoided, and rides usually take place on softer surfaces. In addition to the tires, factors such as braking power should also be considered when choosing the right model. If a strong, large dog is pulling in front, effective brakes will definitely be needed. In that case, it’s best to look for models equipped with disc brakes.
How much braking power do you need?
Traditional rim brakes are often found on so-called city and touring models, and are quite sufficient for such use. Disc brakes are mainly used on off-road models. Compared to rim brakes, disc brakes are more effective, reliable, and maintenance-free. Especially if you plan to practice dog-powered sports, you will likely want the braking power of disc brakes (rim brake models can also work well with small sled dogs).
Disc brake so-called off-road or all-round models:
- Kostka Mushing Racer Max
- Hydraulic disc brakes and grippy off-road tires. Wheels 27.5" / 24". Includes a frame-integrated dog bike antenna and elastic leash. - Kostka Mushing Max (G6)
- Disc brakes, suspension fork. Wheels 26"/20". Includes a frame-integrated dog bike antenna and elastic leash. - Kostka Monster Max
- Hydraulic disc brakes and wide so-called fat bike tires. Wheels 26" / 20". Includes a frame-integrated detachable bike antenna and elastic leash. - Kostka Trip Max Dog
- Hydraulic disc brakes and large wheels 29" / 27.5". Especially popular among those actively training and competing with sled dogs. Includes a frame-integrated detachable bike antenna and elastic leash.
Rim brake models, so-called city or sport models:
- Kickbike City G4
- Upright riding position and front basket ready. For relaxed scooting and even shopping trips. - Kostka Tour Fun
- A good choice for beginners and hobbyists for city and gravel roads. - Kickbike Sport G4
- A sporty choice for fitness enthusiasts. Steel frame. Popular for commuting. - Kickbike Sport MAX
- A lightweight sport model with an aluminum frame, similar to the Sport G4, for active fitness. - Kickbike Race MAX 28
- Asphalt racer, a road bike-style fast model with large wheels and narrow tires. - Kickbike Freeride
- Agile small model. Also suitable for children. Wheels 20" / 12". - Kostka Hill Fun
- A fun and handy small model that still rolls nicely. Easy to take along on the train, for example. Also suitable for children. Wheels 20" / 16".
Rolling ease and versatility
Rolling ease depends on the size of the wheels and the tread and width of the tires. Larger wheels roll more easily, also over uneven surfaces. Scooters with smaller wheels, such as the Kickbike Freeride and Kostka Hill Fun, offer agility and ease of transport. Even if you choose an off-road model, you can later switch to smoother tires if you mainly ride on asphalt. If you want to use your scooter through the winter, studded tires are available for most wheel sizes.
Help choosing a scooter
If you're still unsure about your choice, we're happy to help. Feel free to get in touch!