Can I make my Bird scooter go faster?
Yes, there are a few modifications you can make to increase the top speed of your Bird electric scooter. However, it’s important to keep in mind that tampering with or modifying your scooter may void the warranty and make the scooter unsafe or illegal to operate. Proceed with caution and at your own risk.
Increase throttle sensitivity
One way to make your Bird scooter go faster is by increasing the throttle sensitivity. The throttle controls how much power is sent to the motor when you twist the handle. On Bird scooters, the throttle is electronic rather than mechanical.
You can increase throttle sensitivity by using a throttle control app or hacking the scooter’s firmware. A throttle control app allows you to customize settings like acceleration, max speed, and braking. Hacking the firmware requires connecting to the scooter’s internal computer and altering the code. This is complicated and could permanently damage your scooter if done incorrectly.
Increasing throttle sensitivity allows you to reach the scooter’s max speed with just a small twist of the handle. Be very careful adjusting this setting as too much sensitivity could cause you to suddenly accelerate or lose control.
Derestrict the speed limiter
Most electric scooters, including Bird, come equipped with a speed limiter. This restricts the top speed to comply with local regulations, usually around 15-20 mph. You can derestrict or remove the speed limiter to allow your scooter to go faster.
This requires locating the speed limiter in the scooter’s internal computer and hacking the firmware to disable it. Depending on the model, the limiter may be a physical part you can remove or an electronic restriction programmed into the firmware. Derestricting is complicated and could void your warranty.
Once derestricted, your Bird scooter’s top speed will depend on the power of the motor. Some can reach up to 25-30 mph without the limiter. Going this fast on a stand-up scooter is very dangerous and likely illegal.
Use throttle overrides
Some scooter hackers have discovered “throttle overrides” that allow exceeding the stock top speeds. For example, holding down the brake while twisting the throttle may override the speed limiter. Or tapping the throttle quickly may temporarily boost speed.
Throttle overrides like these allow short bursts of increased speed. It essentially tricks the scooter into thinking you need full power. These overrides only work on some scooter models and firmware versions. Research specific overrides that apply to your Bird scooter model.
Keep in mind that this is extremely dangerous and could result in loss of control. The scooter may not be designed to handle these speeds. Only attempt at your own risk.
Upgrade the controller
The controller is the scooter’s electronic brain that controls the motor and other components. Upgrading to an aftermarket controller designed for more power allows the motor to spin faster. Controllers meant for higher powered electric scooters can be installed on Bird models.
When shopping for a new controller, pay close attention to the voltage and amperage ratings to ensure compatibility with your scooter’s motor. Improperly matching these can damage the motor. Installing a new controller also requires splicing and soldering wires.
A more advanced controller can unlock more speed potential, but still depends on having a powerful enough motor. High-speed controllers also put more strain on the brakes.
Install a higher voltage battery
Upgrading to a higher voltage battery pack can provide more power to increase speed. For example, switching from a 36V to a 48V battery on the same motor will give a significant speed boost.
You’ll need to get a battery that fits the scooter’s enclosure and power outlet. Keep voltage within 20% of the stock level to avoid frying the controller or motor. Higher voltage requires upgrading the controller and rewiring to handle the extra power.
A higher voltage battery upgrade combined with a controller and derestrict can get a Bird scooter up to 40+ mph. At those extreme speeds, safety should be your top concern.
Is it safe to remove the speed limiter on a Bird scooter?
No, removing the speed limiter or derestricting your Bird scooter is generally not recommended for safety reasons:
- Greatly increases risk of losing control and crashing
- Exceeds safe speed capabilities of small stand-up scooters
- Braking performance may be impacted at higher speeds
- Higher speeds put more strain on components, causing faster wear
- Voids manufacturer warranty due to tampering
- May be illegal to operate a derestricted scooter on public roads
The speed limiter is in place to make scooters reasonably safe for public use and comply with laws. Removing it could make your scooter dangerous to operate. Only attempt derestricting at your own risk.
Even if you’re able to safely handle a derestricted scooter at high speeds, it’s best to avoid pushing the limits on public roads where crashing could injure or kill you or others. Seek alternative legal venues for enjoying high speed riding.
Ride within your abilities
The most important factor in riding any scooter safely is matching speed to your skill level. Start slow and work your way up as your skills improve. No matter what max speed your scooter is capable of, ride at speeds you can properly control.
Pushing beyond your abilities is when accidents happen. A derestricted scooter lets you access higher speeds, but doesn’t automatically make you capable of controlling those speeds. Go as fast as you can safely handle.
Use caution on hills
Higher speeds combined with downhill slopes or inclines further increase your risk of crashing. With the speed limiter removed, a Bird scooter may be capable of dangerous speeds going down hills.
Maintain safe speeds when traveling down inclines. Brake earlier and more gradually. Sudden braking on hills can cause the scooter to slide out. Derestricting gives you more power, but doesn’t improve stability on slopes.
Upgrade brakes
If derestricting for higher speeds, upgrading the brake system is recommended. Faster speeds require more stopping power to slow down safely. Most stock Bird scooter brakes are designed for slower limited speeds.
Look into more powerful brake discs, calipers, pads, and rotors designed for high-speed electric scooters and motorcycles. Proper brakes are critical for maintaining control when derestricted. Don’t exceed the brakes’ capabilities.
Check local laws
In many areas, electric scooters are legally limited to 20-25 mph on public roads. Some places may restrict scooters to lower neighborhood speed limits. Derestricting may violate these laws if you exceed regulated speeds.
Before riding a derestricted scooter, check your local regulations. In areas banning fast electric scooters, you may be ticketed or have your scooter impounded for exceeding the limits. Ride legal speeds to avoid issues.
Conclusion
While derestricting your Bird scooter may allow higher top speeds, doing so is risky and likely voids the warranty. If choosing to derestrict, take precautions like upgrading brakes, limiting public road riding, and wearing safety gear.
Alternatively, taller gearing can increase top speeds about 10 mph with less risk and while staying within legal limits. Or trade up to a more powerful scooter designed for high speeds. Ride safely and stay within your abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to derestrict a Bird scooter?
It’s not directly illegal to derestrict a Bird scooter in most places. However, riding a derestricted scooter that exceeds local speed limits likely is illegal. Derestricting also voids the warranty which may have legal implications in some areas.
Can Bird tell if I derestricted my scooter?
Probably. Bird scooters have internal computers that track data like speeds, acceleration, crashes, etc. If Bird detects unnatural patterns, like consistently high speeds, they may be able to tell the scooter was modified. You risk having your account banned.
Do I need any special tools to derestrict a Bird?
You’ll typically need tools like hex keys to open the scooter, screwdrivers to access the internal computer, soldering tools to alter wiring, and diagnostic apps/cables to rewrite firmware. Specialized scooter tools like speed unlock cables may also help derestrict certain models.
What speed can I expect after derestricting a Bird?
It depends on the model, but derestricted Birds generally reach 30-40 mph tops. The Xiaomi M365 peaks around 25 mph. High-powered Segway Birds may hit 40 mph. Top speed also depends on motor wattage, voltage, inclines, rider weight and other factors.
Can I get in trouble for riding a derestricted Bird?
Yes, you risk fines, scooter impoundment, license suspension, or even criminal charges in some cases for exceeding local speed limits or performing illegal modifications. Laws vary regionally, so check your local regulations before derestricting.
Other Ways to Increase Bird Scooter Speed
Aside from derestricting, here are a few legal ways to boost your Bird’s speed within regulated limits:
Firmware hacks
Some custom firmware, when sideloaded onto your Bird’s computer, can slightly loosen the speed limiter for a couple mph increase while still staying street legal. This bypasses the limiter without fully removing it.
Adjust gearing
Bigger gearing ratios can make each motor rotation spin the wheel farther for higher top speeds. Adjusting sprockets and the wheel/motor size can achieve a 10 mph increase typically.
Reduce weight
Carrying less weight on the scooter allows it to accelerate faster and reach higher speeds. Remove unnecessary accessories and keep your body weight low by bending knees.
Inflate tires
Check your tire pressure regularly. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance allowing faster speeds with the same power. Don’t exceed the tire’s PSI rating.
Stay in top gear
Some electric scooters have a multi-gear transmission. Use the highest gear to maintain higher speeds when the speed limiter is activated.
Ride downhills
You can exceed the limited top speed by riding downhill without needing to alter the scooter. Gravity gives an extra push. Just be careful of too much speed.
Preserve battery
Limiting acceleration and avoiding full throttle will reduce battery drain. More juice in the battery means more sustained top speeds during a single ride.
| Bird Scooter Model | Top Speed (Limited) | Top Speed (Derestricted) |
|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi M365 | 15.5 mph | 25 mph |
| Segway ES1 | 15.5 mph | 27 mph |
| Segway ES2 | 15.5 mph | 28 mph |
| Segway ES3 | 15.5 mph | 32 mph |
| Segway ES4 | 15.5 mph | 37 mph |
Safety Precautions for Faster Birds
If you do manage to make your Bird scooter go faster, here are some key safety tips:
Wear a helmet
Always wear a proper helmet when riding any scooter. A helmet can save your life in a crash, especially at higher speeds. Look for ones that meet safety standards.
Use protective gear
Proper gloves, elbow/knee pads, and sturdy clothing help protect against scrapes and impact injuries during a crash. Prioritize safety over looks.
Install headlight/taillight
Extra lighting makes you much more visible to other vehicles at night. LED headlights and red tail lights are cheap scooter upgrades that improve safety.
Check brakes frequently
Make sure the brakes are functioning properly and pads are not overly worn down. Do a check before each ride when going fast. Don’t exceed braking capabilities.
Limit high speed riding
Only ride at top speeds in controlled environments, not public streets. Be cautious of pedestrians, terrain, weather, and other hazards when riding fast.
Take expert lessons
If new to fast electric scooters, take a safety course from a professional to properly handle speed. Develop skills before pushing limits.
Don’t disable safety features
While derestricting, avoid tampering with essential safety settings like automatic braking, lighting, or steering. Only modify non-essential speed settings.
Riding electric scooters at their top speed can be thrilling, but poses serious risks if safety is neglected. Prioritize proper gear, caution, and developing riding skills over pushing for maximum speeds at all costs. Stay safe out there!
