Watching your toddlers go around on wheels can be both scary and a source of pride. Add to that the ever present fascination of preschoolers for things that run around on wheels, then parents will have something to really think about. This is where the mini micro scooter comes in. It’s simple, relatively cheap, and is safe for your little ones. Here are some of the details you might like to know about this dandy little toy.
Origins
It was initially assumed by consumers that the little aluminum scooters that went on display came from some where in Asia, like Tokyo for example. However, it came as a surprise when people found out that the micro scooter was actually an invention of Swiss banker Wim Ouboter.
Regarding the micro scooter’s invention, Ouboter reveals that he once faced a dilemma that brought about the invention. He was living in Zurich at the time when he was faced with the option of driving to his favorite sausage shop or walking to it. It was too far for a walk yet too close for a drive.
He used the wheels of inline skates and made a “primitive scooter”. He worked on the invention until it was small enough to hide inside a backpack. However, it took ten years before this invention finally hit the road and into the stores. His childlike passion and intent on applied technology, with a few jabs from his wife on the side, rolled him to success.
Dimensions
This type of scooter weighs an average of 1,500 grams or 3.5 pounds. It has a total height of 26.5 inches; it is 8.5 inches wide and 21.6 inches long. The wheels are 24mm wide and use precision bearings. Given these dimensions, a mini micro scooter is recommended for younger children age three to five. These scooters can carry as much as 40 to 70 pounds.
Features
One of the first striking features of a mini micro scooter is that it is light yet sturdy. It doesn’t matter if it gets banged up by your tots, these micro scooters can take a beating. Its compact design allows even a child 20 months of age to go out and learn how to use a scooter.
The wheels of this kind of micro scooter are positioned close to the ground, which makes balancing and pushing forward easier for younger children. Many manufacturers design their mini micro scooters with three wheels so that kids balancing on them won’t be an issue. The turning mechanism on these mini scooters is designed with little toddlers in mind.
Parts of a Mini Micro Scooter
As you get to assemble and play with this new toy you should also become familiar with its parts. The construction is simple yet efficient and the scooter is designed primarily for lighter children.
Handlebars
The handlebars are made with high quality metal and the manufacturing standards for this part are similar for adult sized scooters. The handlebars rise a little above two feet and are a couple of feet away from the kickboard. That having been said, this gives you an idea how tall should your child be before you let your kid ride on micro mini scooters, which is around three feet to be comfortable.
Kickboard
The kickboard is about a couple of feet long and is made out of durable plastic. It is about 4.5 inches wide, which is perfect for toddlers. However, do take note that some manufacturers make kickboards that are wider. Wider kickboards are better suited for older kids and not tots. Kickboards also come in non-slip finishes so you don’t have to worry about your child slipping while on it.
Brake
The brake basically works using friction. It’s the orange piece of plastic curved to form exactly like the shape of the rear wheel. It is about an inch away from the rear wheel. To work the brakes, all your child has to do is to step on and press down on the brake using one foot. The brake rubs against the rear wheel and gives the scooter a gentle stop.
Wheels
Mini micro scooters are designed with two front wheels and one rear wheel. The wheel at the back is smaller than the ones at the front. The two front wheels are around eight inches apart giving better stability. The wheels are designed to wear evenly and can last for several months.
Turning Mechanism
The turning mechanism is a curious part of the mini micro scooter. You don’t have to turn the handle bars to turn the scooter. Al you have to do is turn to either the left or the right and the scooter will go in that direction. A child should at least weigh around 25 pounds in order to make a decent turn.
Cleanup and Maintenance
Cleanup and maintenance is rather easy. Dirt and grime doesn’t stick on the wheels and the whole scooter can be cleaned using a damp cloth. The only part that you really should pay attention to is the turning mechanism. Just make sure to remove any traces of dirt hiding underneath. In case you need to replace any part, you can order them online or purchase them from a store.