Beatrice Lang
Electric scooters are a common sight in San Francisco, with the city offering a range of rental and purchase options. The city's hilly terrain and windy conditions near the ocean can make for challenging riding conditions, so choosing the right scooter is important. Electric scooters are not permitted on sidewalks or on the Embarcadero Promenade, and there are other restrictions in place, too. However, with the right scooter, there are many scenic routes to enjoy, from the iconic landmarks near the Ferry Building to the views of the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge from Baker Beach.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Scooter-friendly city | Yes |
| Rental options | Lime, Spin, Cloud of Goods, Electric Tour Company, Bird (until February 17, 2023) |
| Combined fleet of Lime and Spin scooters | 5,500 scooters (2,750 each) |
| Purchase options | Fluidfreeride, Last Mile SF & Marin, MiniMotors, Unagi |
| Models | Lightweight and budget-friendly city scooter, high-performance scooter, X7 Pro E-Scooter, Segway Ninebot MAX, Unagi Model One, e-Twow GT, SE from eWheels |
| Price range | $1,199 to $1,999 |
| Prohibited areas | Sidewalks, system facilities or parking structures of public transportation, vehicular crossings (Golden Gate Bridge, toll roads), Embarcadero Promenade |
| Allowed areas | Road, designated bike paths |
| Detection technology | Sidewalk riding detection technology mandated on shared electric scooters as of September 2023 |
| Notable routes | The Bay Bridge, historic piers (Pier 7, Pier 15, Pier 39), Ferry Building, Baker Beach, Lincoln Boulevard, El Camino Del Mar, Lincoln Highway |
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What You'll Learn
Electric scooter rental companies in San Francisco
San Francisco is a scooter-friendly city, with plenty of rental options. The two biggest e-scooter rental companies in the city are Lime and Spin, with around 2,750 scooters each. Lime has been operating in San Francisco since 2019 and has served over 2.6 million riders in the city. To rent a Lime scooter, you must be 18 or older, and you can download the Lime app to get started.
Bird was also a major e-scooter rental company in San Francisco, but it ceased operations in the city in February 2023 due to compliance and legal issues.
Other e-scooter rental companies in San Francisco include Cloud of Goods, Electric Tour Company, Mr Scooter, San Francisco Scooter Centre, Revel, Scoot, Segway SF Bay, Monkey Moto School, Golden Gate Park Segway, Skip Scooter Rental SF, and PEV Works. Skip provides Razor-type "kick" scooters for $1 + $0.15/mile. Electric Tour Company offers unique scooters and different form factors.
There are also options to buy your own electric scooter in San Francisco. Fluidfreeride, for example, offers both new and refurbished scooters, with discounted open-box pricing. They have a showroom in SoMa where you can test ride any model.
It's important to note that there are several rules and restrictions for riding e-scooters in San Francisco. E-scooters are not allowed on sidewalks, public transportation facilities, parking structures, vehicular crossings like the Golden Gate Bridge, or the Embarcadero Promenade.
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Buying an electric scooter in San Francisco
San Francisco is a scooter-friendly city, and there are several ways to access electric scooters, including rentals, subscriptions, and purchases. If you're looking to buy an electric scooter in the city, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, consider the terrain and weather conditions of San Francisco. The city is known for its hilly landscape, with some famously steep streets. Additionally, the area can be windy, especially near the ocean, so you'll want a scooter that can handle these conditions. Look for a scooter with a powerful motor and good suspension to navigate the hills and uneven surfaces.
Next, think about your budget and specific needs. Electric scooters vary widely in price, ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Consider factors such as battery life, speed, and special features. If you plan to ride long distances or carry heavy items, invest in a scooter with a long-lasting battery and ample storage space. For commuting, a lightweight and budget-friendly city scooter may be a better option. Some popular models to consider include the X7 Pro E-Scooter, Segway Ninebot MAX, Unagi Model One, and e-Twow GT or SE from eWheels.
When purchasing an electric scooter in San Francisco, you can choose from various retailers and showrooms, such as Fluidfreeride and Last Mile SF & Marin. These retailers often offer test rides and provide a range of options, including new, open-box, and refurbished scooters. You can also find deals and promotions by signing up for newsletters or following social media accounts of electric scooter companies.
Lastly, be mindful of the local laws and regulations regarding electric scooters in San Francisco. Sidewalk riding is strictly prohibited, and you may be subject to fines if caught. Electric scooters are also not permitted on the Embarcadero Promenade or in the system facilities or parking structures of public transportation. Always follow the designated bike paths or roads to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
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Electric scooter laws in San Francisco
San Francisco is one of the most scooter-friendly cities in America. The city has embraced lightweight electric scooters as a viable alternative transportation method to promote sustainability and reduce car dependency. Electric scooters are allowed in San Francisco, but there are specific rules and regulations that must be followed to ensure safety and minimize disruptions.
Firstly, in terms of rider age and license requirements, riders must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver's license or learner's permit to operate an electric scooter in public spaces. Most electric scooter-sharing companies set a higher age limit of 18 years old for their services. Riders below the age of 18 are required to wear a certified bicycle helmet, and electric scooter companies are obligated to provide one upon request. While it is not mandatory for adults aged 18 and over, it is highly recommended to wear a helmet for safety reasons.
Secondly, regarding speed limits and where to ride, electric scooters are limited to speeds of no more than 15 mph on city streets. They must be ridden on the road or in designated bike lanes, following the same rules as bicycles. Riding electric scooters on sidewalks is strictly prohibited, except when necessary to enter or leave adjacent property. This rule is enforced with sidewalk riding detection technology on shared electric scooters, which alerts riders of infractions. Electric scooters are also not permitted in the system facilities or parking structures of public transportation on vehicular crossings, such as bridges (e.g., the Golden Gate Bridge) or toll roads, unless a special permit is obtained.
Lastly, regarding passenger and rental regulations, only one rider is allowed per scooter, and tandem riding is prohibited. Electric scooters are available for rent from companies like Lime and Spin, as well as local rental shops like Cloud of Goods and Electric Tour Company. Additionally, scooters can be purchased from showrooms or online, with options for new, open-box, or refurbished models.
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Electric scooter scenic routes in San Francisco
San Francisco is a scooter-friendly city, with several electric scooter-sharing services available, including big names like Lime and Spin, as well as local shops like Cloud of Goods and Electric Tour Company. The city has implemented regulations to manage their use, primarily based on California electric scooter laws and local regulations set by the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA).
The Embarcadero
Starting from the Ferry Building, with its iconic clock tower and views of the Bay, you can cruise along The Embarcadero, taking in the historic piers, including Pier 7, Pier 15, and Pier 39. Along the way, you'll encounter public art installations and sculptures. Remember that electric scooters aren't allowed on the Embarcadero Promenade, so stick to the adjacent road or designated bike paths. From there, you can continue to Fisherman's Wharf and then head onto the Bay Trail towards Marina Boulevard, passing through Fort Mason and the Marina Green.
Golden Gate Bridge and Marin Headlands
For a challenging but rewarding route, make your way to the Golden Gate Bridge, one of San Francisco's most iconic landmarks. As you approach the bridge, switch to the Battery East Trail, which offers beautiful views of the bridge and the bay. The section leading to the bridge includes some inclines, so be prepared for a workout if you have a low-powered scooter. Once you've crossed the bridge, you can explore the Marin Headlands, located on the Sausalito side, which offers unique geology, natural attractions, and historic structures.
Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)
If you're an adventurous rider looking for a longer tour, consider the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). While the PCH caters mainly to vehicular traffic, there are numerous designated bike lanes and routes that run parallel to the highway, offering a safer and equally scenic experience. The California portion of the Pacific Coast Bicycle Route (PCBR) is about 1,000 miles long, starting at the Oregon border and ending at the Mexico border. You can plan a section of this route or the entire journey, depending on your time and range.
Crissy Field to Sausalito
This popular and scenic route takes you from Crissy Field to Sausalito, offering stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the San Francisco skyline. The approximate 8-mile one-way trip features paved pedestrian and bicycle paths, such as the Battery E Trail and the San Francisco Bay Trail. Be prepared for steep inclines, heavy traffic, and potentially strong winds and fog along the way.
Fort Mason and the Palace of Fine Arts
Before reaching Crissy Field, you can take a detour to the Palace of Fine Arts, known for its classical architecture, tranquil lagoon, and scenic gardens. This peaceful stop offers a break from the busy city streets. Then, continue on to Fort Mason, located along the waterfront, and take in the historic military fortifications and stunning views of the bay.
Remember to always follow local regulations, stick to bike lanes or designated streets, and avoid riding on sidewalks, which is prohibited in San Francisco. Enjoy your electric scooter adventures in San Francisco!
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Electric scooter riding tips in San Francisco
San Francisco is a scooter-friendly city with plenty of rental options, from big names like Lime and Spin to local shops like Cloud of Goods and Electric Tour Company. The city has embraced lightweight electric scooters as a viable alternative transportation method to reduce car dependency.
Know the Rules
Riding electric scooters on sidewalks is prohibited in San Francisco, and doing so can result in a fine. Electric scooters are also not allowed in the system facilities or parking structures of public transportation, on vehicular crossings such as the Golden Gate Bridge, or on the Embarcadero Promenade. To reinforce this, the city mandated that shared electric scooters have some form of sidewalk riding detection technology as of September 2023. You can ride electric scooters on roads with a speed limit of 25 mph or less. If the road has a higher speed limit, you can only ride on it if there is an adjacent Class II or Class IV bikeway where you can stay away from car traffic.
Safety First
Always wear a helmet when riding an electric scooter, and follow all traffic laws, including those related to riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you are under 18, wearing a helmet is mandatory. Obey the speed limit, and do not double ride. Ensure your scooter has good brakes, especially for downhill stretches, and keep your eyes open for pedestrians and other vehicles.
Choose the Right Scooter
San Francisco is a hilly city, so you'll need a powerful scooter with good traction and an ample battery capacity to handle the inclines. Look for a dual-motor scooter with strong motors and good brakes. The Unagi Voyager, for example, weighs only 29.6 lbs (13.4 kg) and can tackle most hills with its dual motors and 1000W peak power. It also has a 20 mph top speed, which can be reduced for safer riding, especially in crowded areas.
Plan Your Route
Some areas in San Francisco can be challenging for less experienced riders, especially near the ocean due to windy conditions and crowded paths. Consider using alternative roads like El Camino Del Mar and Lincoln Highway, which offer easier riding conditions while still providing beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge. You can also explore scenic routes along the Embarcadero, where you can take in public art installations and historic landmarks like the Ferry Building with its iconic clock tower.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, San Francisco is a scooter-friendly city with plenty of rental options. You can also buy your own electric scooter.
There are several companies that offer electric scooter rentals in San Francisco, including big names like Lime and Spin, as well as local rental shops like Cloud of Goods and Electric Tour Company.
No, there are some areas where electric scooters are not allowed, including sidewalks, vehicular crossings such as the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Embarcadero Promenade.
Some recommended electric scooters for San Francisco include the e-Twow GT or SE from eWheels, the X7 Pro E-Scooter, Segway Ninebot MAX, and the Unagi Model One.
