What accessories do you really need?

After purchasing an e-chopper, the next question is: Which accessories make sense and which are just overpriced gimmicks? The industry is happy to sell you everything – from a "premium throttle grip" to a "special battery cooler". You don't need most of it.

In this guide, we'll honestly show you what's worth it, what's optional, and what you can save your money on. Basis: 5 years of experience and over 3,400 e-choppers sold in Germany.

The most important accessories – absolutely mandatory

1. Helmet – legal requirement

A helmet with ECE approval is not an option for an e-chopper, but a legal requirement. Bicycle helmets or construction helmets are not permitted. Without ECE approval, you'll face a €20-30 fine if stopped.

Helmet types compared:

• Jet helmet: Open face, good visibility, comfortable in summer. Ideal for city rides. Price: from approx. €60
• Full-face helmet: Complete face protection, maximum safety, better at higher speeds. Price: from approx. €100
• Flip-up helmet: Combination of both – can be flipped up for talking or putting on the helmet. Practical for glasses wearers. Price: from approx. €120

Our recommendation: For e-choppers with a speed of 45 km/h, a jet helmet is perfectly sufficient. If you want maximum safety, go for a full-face helmet. ECE approval is important for all – recognizable by the "ECE 22.06" sticker inside the helmet.

2. Secure lock – against theft

E-choppers are popular stolen goods. A simple bicycle lock is not enough. If you don't want to lose your e-chopper, you need professional anti-theft protection.

Recommended lock types:

• U-lock: Strong, almost impossible to break, but heavy. Price: €40-80
• Chain lock: Flexible, good for connecting the wheel and a fixed point. Price: €50-100
• Disc brake lock: Small, light, prevents driving away. Ideal as an addition. Price: €20-40

Pro tip: Always combine two different locks. Thieves then need two different tools and usually give up.

3. Insurance plate – mandatory

Not an accessory in the classic sense, but absolutely necessary. You get the insurance plate after taking out your liability insurance – costs between €40 and €80 per year.

The license plate is attached to the rear of the e-chopper. The bracket is usually already mounted. Driving without a license plate = driving without insurance = criminal offense.

Useful accessories – highly recommended

4. Phone holder – for navigation

Google Maps, Komoot or Apple Maps – if you don't know every route by heart, you need a phone holder on the handlebars. Good holders cost €20-40 and hold the phone securely even on bumpy roads.

What to look for:

• Vibration damping (important due to camera damage)
• Quick-release system for easy removal
• Waterproof or splash-proof
• Suitable for your phone size

Known brands: Quad Lock, SP Connect, Peak Design. Cheap alternatives from the hardware store usually work too.

5. Saddlebags or top case – for storage space

The biggest drawback of an e-chopper: No integrated storage space like classic scooters. If you want to transport something more often, you need saddlebags or a top case.

Options:

• Saddlebags: Mounted on the sides of the rear, visually fit perfectly with the chopper style. Price: €80-150
• Top case: Case on the luggage rack, lockable, practical for helmet storage. Price: €60-120
• Handlebar bag: Small, for valuables and phone. Price: €30-60

For most riders, saddlebags are sufficient – they offer enough space for groceries and look visually appealing.

6. Rain gear – if you ride all year round

Riding an e-chopper in the rain is doable, but uncomfortable without suitable clothing. If you don't just want to ride in the sun, you should invest in a waterproof rain suit.

Recommended equipment:

• Rain jacket with hood under the helmet
• Rain pants for dry legs
• Waterproof gloves
• Waterproof covers for normal shoes

Complete rain suits cost between €80 and €250. It's especially worth it if you use the e-chopper for commuting.

7. Gloves – useful all year round

In summer, motorcycle gloves protect against abrasions in a fall. In winter, they keep hands warm and dexterous. Both variants cost €30-80.

Winter gloves often have an extended cuff and heating elements (if battery is present). Summer gloves are lightly ventilated.

Optional accessories – nice extras

8. Heated grips

If you ride in winter, you'll love heated grips. Retrofit kits cost €50-100. Installation takes approx. 1-2 hours, usually better done in a workshop. If you only ride in summer: not necessary.

9. Mirror upgrade

Standard mirrors are usually functional but not beautiful. Chrome mirrors or mini bobber-style mirrors cost €30-80 and enhance the look. Purely a matter of taste.

10. Seat upgrade

Premium seats with better padding