Skidee Scooter Parts

Essential Tips for Keeping Your Ride in Top Shape

As fun and convenient as the Skidee Scooter is for quick trips and last-mile transportation, wear and tear will inevitably take its toll. When parts like the wheels, handlebars or deck need replacing, you’ll want to know exactly where to find compatible components and how to install them. This buying guide has all the key information you’ll need to keep your Skidee running smoothly for years of enjoyable riding.

What Replacement Parts Are Available?

The good news is that many standard Skidee Scooter parts are readily available both from the manufacturer and third party suppliers. Here’s an overview of the main components you may need to replace:

• Wheels – The urethane wheels are a common wearing item. Replacements are available in the stock 7.9″ size as well as larger 8.5″ and 10″ upgrades.
• Tires – Inner tire tubes will need occasional replacement if they get punctures. 8″ and 10″ tubes are offered.
• Handlebars – Damaged rubber grips and alloy handlebars can easily be replaced. Choose from stock or adjustable height options.
• Brakes – Mechanical disc brakes may require new pads or calipers over time. Compatible parts are easy to source.
• Decks – Cracks or damage to the aluminum locking decks can be fixed with replacements.
• Folding Mechanism – Springs and lock parts are replaceable if this gets loose over time.
• Batteries – Replacement lithium-ion batteries are available when capacity diminishes.
• Bearings – Wheel hub and steering column bearings will require periodic greasing or replacement.
• Throttle – The variable speed throttle can be swapped out if it becomes faulty.

So in summary, all the commonly replaced components and parts for the Skidee Scooter are offered by reputable brands.

Where to Buy Parts Online and In Store

Genuine Skidee Scooter parts and upgrades can be purchased directly from the manufacturer’s website. They offer international shipping on all components. Resellers such as Amazon and eBay also carry certain common Skidee parts like wheels, handlebars and decks.

For more specialty components like bearings, throttles and brakes, check shops that focus on scooter and skateboard parts. Retailers like Scooter Hut, Pro Scooters and Extreme Scooters all carry compatible items from brands like Phoenix, MGP and AO.

Local skate shops are another good option if you need parts urgently for same-day service. It’s also nice to be able to see components in person rather than judging quality online. Brick and mortar stores can also help with installation or repairs if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself.

Step-by-Step Guide for Replacing Wheels

The wheels on a Skidee Scooter are designed to be easily removed without tools for maintenance or replacement. Here are the steps:

1. Turn scooter over to access the underside of the deck.
2. Locate the plastic wheel cap in the center hub of the wheel. Twist counter-clockwise to loosen.
3. Once loosened, unscrew the cap completely and set aside. This will reveal the axle bolt.
4. Use a 6mm hex wrench to turn the axle bolt counter-clockwise. Completely unscrew and remove.
5. Slide the wheel with bearings off the axle rod.
6. Clean the axle and check for damage before installing the new wheel. Apply a small amount of lubricant.
7. Slide the new wheel onto the axle rod with the bearings in place.
8. Add a dab of thread locker to axle bolt threads. Insert and tighten to secure the wheel.
9. Screw wheel cap back on over the hub to complete the installation.
10. Repeat steps on the opposite wheel if replacing both. Check brakes and alignment before riding.

Following these instructions carefully makes swapping Skidee Scooter wheels a breeze. The process is identical for the front and rear. Larger upgraded wheels can be installed the same way.

Are Parts Manuals Available?

Clear instructions for repairing and replacing components are vital for DIY maintenance of the Skidee Scooter. Fortunately, the manufacturer provides several resources:

• Printed manuals with instructions and exploded diagrams are included with new scooters. This covers basic repairs like wheel and brake replacement.
• PDF manuals can be downloaded for free from the Skidee website. More detailed steps for repairs like replacing the folding mechanism.
• Video tutorials are available on the company’s YouTube channel. These are handy visual guides for many repairs.
• The Skidee blog contains articles with tips for diagnosing issues and completing repairs. These are focused on common problems owners face.
• Skidee customer support can be contacted by phone or email if the manuals don’t address a specific issue. Their technicians can offer advice to troubleshoot almost any problem.

Between the printed guides, online manuals, videos and friendly customer service, there are ample resources for replacing any worn or damaged parts on the Skidee Scooter. Taking advantage of these can help you get back up and running quickly after repairs.

What’s the Price Range for Replacement Parts?

When budgeting for maintaining and upgrading your Skidee Scooter, it’s useful to understand the price range for common components:

• Wheels – $15 to $35 depending on size. Larger upgrades are more expensive.
• Tires – Inner tube replacements cost $5 to $15 each.
• Handlebars – Basic rubber grips start around $10. Complete handlebars run $25 to $60.
• Decks – Expect to pay $80 to $150 for replacement locking decks.
• Brakes – Brake pads are about $10 per set. Calipers run $20 to $40 each.
• Batteries – Replacement batteries start around $100 and go up to $250 for extended range.
• Bearings – A single wheel bearing is $15 to $25. The steering column bearing is around $20.
• Throttle – Basic thumb throttles cost $20 to $50. Upgraded variable ones run up to $100.

So in general, replacing small wear items like bearings and tires is quite affordable. But major components like the battery, deck and brakes represent a more significant investment. Comparing prices from multiple vendors can help find the best deals.

Step-by-Step: Replacing Skidee Handlebars

The handlebars on the Skidee Scooter are designed for fairly straightforward removal and installation when replacement is needed:

1. Use a 4mm hex wrench to remove the two bolts from the crossbar clamp near the base of the handlebars.
2. With the clamp loosened, slide it upwards to remove it from the handlebars.
3. Use a 6mm hex wrench to loosen and remove the top triple clamp bolt.
4. The handlebars can now be slid out of the top clamp. Remove any grip tape at this point.
5. Insert new handlebars through the top clamp, aligning the holes. Insert and tighten the top clamp bolt.
6. Apply grip tape to the new handlebars as needed for optimal comfort and control.
7. Slide the crossbar clamp back over the handlebars and align it with the holes. Insert and tighten bolts.
8. Check alignment and test for proper steering function before riding. Adjust as needed.

With the right tools, swapping the grips, crossbar and height of your Skidee Scooter handlebars can be done in less than 30 minutes. Take a test ride and make small adjustments until the fit feels perfect.

Must-Have Tools for Skidee Scooter Repairs

Completing repairs and upgrades on your own Skidee Scooter requires some basic tools:

• Hex wrench set – Covers bolts and clamp fasteners of varying metric sizes. Look for ball-end wrenches for hard to reach spots.
• Screwdrivers – A small Philips-head screwdriver tackles the throttle clamp and misc. screws.
• Pliers – Needle-nose and standard pliers help grip fittings and remove cotter pins.
• **Socket set ** – A socket wrench with hex bits is needed for wheel axle bolts and misc. nuts.
• Lubricants – WD-40 helps free stuck bolts and bearings. Lithium grease lubes components.
• Clean rags – For wiping down and cleaning components during repair and maintenance.
• Safety gear – Gloves, eye protection and possible a mask when sanding or cutting.
• Bike stand – Makes repairs easier if you can get the wheels off the ground. A scooter lift works too.
• Replacement parts – Have needed components on hand so repairs can be completed promptly.

Investing in quality tools and taking proper safety precautions makes DIY Skidee Scooter repairs far more accessible for the average owner. You’ll also save money by not needing to pay for shop labor.

Larger and Off-Road Wheels for Customization

One popular upgrade many Skidee Scooter owners make is replacing the standard 7.9″ wheels with larger pneumatic tires. This enhances both the appearance and performance:

• 8.5″ Wheels – The most common size replacement. Offers a smoother ride without majorly impacting range. Great for frequent sidewalk use.
• 10″ Wheels – Provides maximum shock absorption and ability to handle rougher terrain. The range impact is more significant. Best for off-road use.
• Pneumatic Tires – Air-filled tires like those used on mountain bikes provide cushioning when riding off curbs or bumpy trails.
• Tread Patterns – Larger wheels allow fitting chunky off-road tread for grip on loose dirt, mud and grass.
• Suspension – Some owners add basic front suspension forks for improved comfort with large wheels. These dampen vibrations.
• Upgraded Brakes – Larger rotors and calipers are recommended if installing significantly heavier wheels. Maintains safe braking capacity.

With the right tires, suspension and brakes, a customized Skidee Scooter handles like a miniature dirt bike perfect for adventures off the beaten path!

Cleaning and Lubricating Parts

To keep your Skidee Scooter running smoothly for a long time, basic cleaning and lubrication of components is essential:

• Wipe the deck with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris which can damage the folding mechanism and underside.
• Clean wheels and bearings with a brush and cloth. Lubricate bearings periodically with lithium grease.
• Use compressed air to spray out dust and grit from electronics like the throttle and brakes. Be careful not to damage internals with moisture.
• Check and tighten bolts and fasteners regularly as vibrations can loosen them over time.
• Sand and repaint any components with damaged finish to prevent further corrosion. Match the original colors.
• Lubricate folding joints and latches with a light oil like WD-40 to prevent sticking and wear.
• Use a plastic-safe cleaner for handlebar grips to restore tackiness if worn smooth.

Proper cleaning and lube jobs only take a few minutes but make a big difference in extending the service life of Skidee parts. It’s easy DIY maintenance anyone can handle.

The Scoop on Skidee Scooter Wheel Types

One key advantage of the Skidee Scooter is the ability to customize it with different wheel types to match your riding needs:

• The standard wheels are 7.9” polyurethane with ABEC-7 bearings. Light and quick butoptimized for smooth pavement.
• Off-road wheels have chunky pneumatic tires and treads for traction on loose terrain. The 10” size works best.
• Rain wheels use a harder durometer urethane that won’t get slick when wet. Ideal for commuting in urban areas.
• Larger pneumatic wheels like the 8.5” provide more cushioning on uneven sidewalks.
• Light-up wheels contain bright LEDs embedded in clear urethane. These really stand out at night!
• Street wheels use softer urethane for grip when riding rails and ramps at the skatepark.

So whether you need to shred trails, commute in the rain, ride after dark or hit the skatepark, the perfect wheels for your Skidee Scooter are out there! Mix and match for the ultimate customization.

Adjusting Skidee Handlebar Height

Dialing in the perfect riding posture is crucial for comfort and control. The handlebars on the Skidee Scooter can be raised or lowered like this:

1. Use a 4mm hex wrench to loosen and remove the two bolts from the crossbar clamp. Set aside.
2. With the clamp loosened, slide it upwards off the handlebars. This will reveal the height adjustment bolt.
3. Use a 6mm hex wrench to loosen the height adjustment bolt by a few turns. Do not remove completely.
4. Raise or lower the handlebars to the desired position. Align the height adjustment hole as needed.
5. Tighten the height adjustment bolt securely to lock the handlebars at the chosen height.
6. Replace the crossbar clamp, aligning the holes. Insert and tighten the two clamp bolts.
7. Take a test ride and make small tweaks until the comfort and steering are optimized.

With a few simple tools and adjustments, you can customize the handlebar position on your Skidee Scooter to match your height and riding style. This dramatically improves overall comfort and control while riding.

Materials Used in Skidee Scooter Construction

The Skidee Scooter manages to strike an ideal balance of durability, lightweight handling and affordable cost through its choice of materials:

• The deck uses aircraft-grade aluminum for its rigid strength and corrosion resistance without excessive weight.
• Steel components like the axles and handlebar clamp bolts offer maximum tensile strength. Stainless steel resists corrosion.
• Polyurethane wheels with steel bearings provide a smooth, quiet ride. This durable plastic withstands wear well.
• The grips use thermoplastic rubber that combines comfort, shock absorption and all-weather performance.
• ABS plastic keeps the cost down on components like the fenders, wheel caps and battery housing. It stands up to bumps and vibration.
• The lithium-ion battery packs maximum range into a compact, lightweight package thanks to modern materials.

By utilizing the ideal material for each part of the scooter, Skidee manages to keep the weight low at just 26 lbs while still delivering a robust construction that can withstand real-world punishment. This goes a long way toward providing a fun and reliable riding experience.

Replacing a Damaged Skidee Scooter Deck

The aluminum deck plays a crucial role in providing stability and facilitating folding on the Skidee Scooter. If cracks or damage occur, replacing it is the best option:

1. Use a 4mm hex wrench to remove the four bolts attaching the deck to the steering column and rear fender.
2. Lift the deck upward to detach it from the folding mechanism pivot points. Disconnect all wires.
3. Transfer useful parts like the grip tape, lights and kickstand to the new replacement deck if needed.
4. Carefully lower the new deck onto the folding pivot points and reconnect all wires as removed in step 2.
5. Insert and tighten the four deck attachment bolts using the 4mm hex wrench.
6. Test the folding mechanism and adjust if needed until the motion is smooth but firm.
7. Take a test ride to ensure proper steering and stability with the fresh deck installed. Enjoy!

With some basic mechanical skills, replacing a damaged Skidee Scooter deck can be accomplished in an hour or two. Take care to note wire routing and recreate the original assembly for optimal function.

Helpful Tutorials for DIY Repairs

For owners less confident about performing major surgery on their Skidee Scooter, there are some handy tutorials available:

• Skidee’s official YouTube channel contains short videos demonstrating repairs like replacing the throttle, tires and various bearings.
• The unofficial “SkideeModders” channel features torque specs and tips for upgrading parts like the motor and battery.
• iFixit provides illustrated, step-by-step teardown guides for general scooter repairs that also apply to the Skidee.
• Scooter forums like ScooterHut and eScooterNerds have user-submitted repair tutorials covering mods, upgrades and troubleshooting.
• Reddit’s r/SkideeScooters group often has members willing to create custom video tutorials showing how they fixed a specific issue.
• Local scooter shops may offer hands-on maintenance classes that teach repair skills through guided practice on real scooters.

Even without advanced technical skills, there are ample resources online to help provide the confidence needed to properly service and upgrade your Skidee. Taking it slow while following video tutorials is key.

Assessing the Longevity of Replacement Parts

When replacing worn components on a Skidee Scooter, it’s helpful to understand the general lifespan you can expect:

• Wheels: Polyurethane wheels will last 500-1,000 miles before needing replacement depending on riding conditions.
• Tires: Inner tube tires last 1-2 years before leaks become common. Replace as needed.
• Decks: Aluminum decks should last 3-5 years unless subjected to major crashes or abuse.
• Handlebars: Grips need replacing every 6-12 months. Alloy bars last for many years.
• Brake Pads: Expect to swap brake pads every 250-500 miles depending on riding style.
• Batteries: Lithium-ion batteries maintain peak performance for 300-800 charge cycles before declining.
• Bearings: Wheel bearings and other pivot bearings typically last 1-2 years before needing grease or replacement.

Knowing when to swap certain wear items like wheels and brake pads comes with experience. Inspecting parts regularly makes it easy to identify issues before they lead to failures.

Manufacturer Warranty Policies on Parts

Skidee provides warranties on both complete scooters and replacement parts to protect owners against defects:

• The main 1-year scooter warranty covers the frame, electronics, and components against manufacturing flaws. Normal wear items excluded.
• 45-day coverage on replacement parts like batteries, motors, wheels and tires when purchased from Skidee. Register the part online!
• Warranty covers free ground shipping of repair parts to the customer when needed.
• Coverage is transferable if the scooter or parts are sold to a new owner.
• Warranty only applies when parts are installed and used correctly per Skidee guidelines.
• Any modifications or disassembly of components will void the warranty.

While Skidee can’t prevent wear from normal riding, their warranties provide decent protection against defective parts. Just be sure to register new components and follow proper repair procedures.

Diagnosing and Fixing Folding Problems

If the folding mechanism on your Skidee Scooter starts sticking or feeling loose, here are some tips:

• Apply a light lubricant like WD-40 to the pivot pins and latch springs. This can free up a sticky mechanism.
• Tighten the set screws on the folding latches if they become loose.
• Replace worn or stretched latch springs so the mechanism snaps firmly into place when folded.
• Check the alignment where the folding latch tongue enters the receptacle. Adjust if needed to create a smooth motion.
• Ensure any cracks or damage to the folding joints on the deck are repaired to restore proper functionality.
• When completely disassembled, consider adding thread lockers to bolts when reassembling to help prevent loosening over time.

DIY repairs can successfully bring a balky Skidee folding mechanism back up to proper working order. But if issues persist after adjustments, replacement parts or expert service may be needed. A smooth, snappy fold makes transportation and storage much easier.

Customizing Your Ride With Fun Upgrades

One of the most enjoyable aspects of owning a Skidee Scooter is customizing it to match your style and riding needs:

• Pick eye-catching colored wheels like bright green or orange to stand out from the crowd.
• Add custom grip tape with unique designs and logos for personal flair.
• Install under-deck neon lights that amp up the cool factor when riding at night.
• Attach a Bluetooth speaker to play music while cruising neighborhood streets.
• For a tough look, add aluminum side panels along the rear deck.
• Carry a drink holder that fits into the handlebars for refreshing beverages on the go.
• Use vinyl decals and stickers to decorate the deck, wheels or handlebars.

With the right mix of colors, lights, tunes and other accessories, you can make your Skidee Scooter as unique as your personality. Let your creativity run wild!

Are Skidee Parts Compatible With Other Brands?

Due to variations in scooter designs, most Skidee parts are only compatible with the same brand:

• The wheels use a special urethane formulation only made for Skidee.
• Decks are machined to precise specs to fit Skidee folding and steering components.
• Handlebars match the clamp of the steering column which differs by manufacturer.
• The battery, motor and electronics only work as a matched system.
• Brakes, tires, bearings and hardware are often standard items used by multiple brands. But confirm specifications match first.

That said, some owners have modified parts like decks and handlebars to make them cross-compatible. This requires fabrication skills and risks impacting performance or safety.

Unless you have experience with custom mods, it’s wise to stick with OEM parts from Skidee or aftermarket companies that specifically advertise compatibility. This ensures proper fit and retains the warranty.

Maintaining Peak Performance With Regular Part Replacement

To keep your Skidee Scooter running like new for years, plan on replacing certain parts at regular intervals:

• Tires: Inspect tread and sidewalls monthly, replace as needed based on wear/damage. Every 1-2 years expected.
• Wheels: Check for cracks and excessive play. Replace every 500-1000 miles.
• Brake Pads: Visually inspect thickness every 2-3 months. Replace every 250-500 miles.
• Belts: Check for cracking and tension monthly. Plan on replacing every 1-2 years.
• Bearings: Listen for grinding or roughness every few rides. Re-grease or replace annually.
• Grips: Replace if worn out or slippery every 6-12 months.
• Batteries: Follow charging guidelines to maximize life. Replace every 300-800 charges.

Don’t wait until parts actually fail. Schedule proactive replacement based on age and mileage, even if they still function. This prevents unpredictable breakdowns so you can ride with confidence.