Last updated: February 1st, 2023
Ever since Razor scooters hit the market in 2000, they’ve been practically synonymous with childhood fun.
And childhood fun is all those tiny wheels and low handlebars are good for!
But since then, Razor has released several adult-sized models. Whether you’re seeking a quicker commute or just some fun on a sunny day, they probably have something for you.
In short, I believe the best Razor scooter for most adults is the A6 model. It has particularly large, smooth-rolling wheels and it rattles less than others. However, as with all Razors, the weight limit is 220 lbs including shoes, clothing, and gear.
(The A6 is available here on Amazon, but I encourage you to read on for some helpful details and caveats.)
The differences between adult Razor models might not be obvious, so I’ve put together the definitive guide to their whole line. After testing some firsthand and exhaustively researching the others, here’s how you can decide which (if any) is right for you.
This article might contain affiliate links. As a member of programs including Amazon Associates, I earn from qualifying purchases.
How are adult kick scooters different?
Adult and children’s kick scooters are mechanically identical, but the adult versions are scaled up significantly.
Within the Razor line, they all have:
- Hard, zero-maintenance wheels (with one exception)
- A rear fender “stomp brake”
- Quick folding and unfolding
- Adjustable handlebars
- Aluminum bodies
However, adult Razor wheels are 8″ to 10″ in diameter, about twice the size of their smaller siblings’.
The handlebars are much taller, as well. On some models, they still don’t rise high enough for adults over perhaps 5’10” (or less), but we’ll come back to that below.
You’ll also find longer decks in most cases. That’s important for accommodating adult-sized shoes.
By the way, kids can ride adult scooters as well. As long as they can reach the handlebars in the lowest position well enough to stay in control, then they’re good to go!
The Razor adult scooter line
As of writing, there are six models in the line. They’re much more similar than different, besides the pneumatic-tired A5 Air.
I put together this table of specs to make them easier to compare.
A5 Lux | Carbon Lux | A5 DLX | A5 Prime | A5 Air | A6 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Wheel size | 8″ (200mm) | 8″ (200mm) | 8″ (200mm) | 8″ (200mm) | 8” (200mm) | 10” (254 mm) |
Wheel material | Urethane, non-inflatable | Urethane, non-inflatable | Urethane, non-inflatable | Urethane, non-inflatable | Rubber, pneumatic (inflatable) | Urethane, non-inflatable |
Frame material | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum |
Weight | 8.38 lbs | 9.97 lbs | 8.8 lbs | 11.2 lbs | 11.05 lbs | 10.98 lbs |
Brake style | Rear (fender) | Rear (fender) | Rear (fender) | Rear (fender) | Rear (fender) | Rear (fender) |
Folding? | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Kickstand? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Max handlebar height | 38.6″ | 38.6″(?) | 38.6″ | 40.2″ | 38.6″ | 42″ |
Weight limit | 220 lbs | 220 lbs | 220 lbs | 220 lbs | 220 lbs | 220 lbs |
Price | (check) | (check) | (check) | (check) | (check) | (check) |
The difference between Razor A5 vs. A6
The A5 comes in a few flavors. The basic A5 Lux and Carbon Lux are the simplest models, then the A5 DLX and Prime add a few refinements in build quality, and the A5 Air stands out with inflatable tires.
But all of those use 8″ wheels.
The A6, on the other hand, is basically an A5 DLX with handlebars and larger, 10″ wheels. It also offers the most adult-size frame, with handlebars extending a full 3+ inches higher than its smaller counterparts.
Detailed comparison
A5 Lux
Think of the A5 Lux as the standard model in the line, which Razor modified/upgraded to create the others.
It’s their lightest model as of writing, at a hair under 8.4 lbs. That’s ideal for carrying into shops or on transit, for example.
It’s an unremarkable but perfectly decent scooter at a terrific price, making it my top pick under $100.
Just note that the frame doesn’t have any sort of vibration dampening. That means the folding mechanism and handlebar parts will vibrate loudly over anything but fresh, smooth concrete.
Speaking of the frame, it’s not the easiest to fold, either. I always managed, but it usually took a very specific angle and firm pressure to release the catch that locks it in place.
(For more, read my detailed hands-on A5 Lux review.)
You can get one here.
Carbon Lux
The Carbon Lux is functionally the same thing as the A5 Lux, but with a stealthier look.
Its partially steel frame is blacked-out and does not fold. Theoretically, that should be both sturdier and less vibration-prone than any of the others, since there are no folding joints to rattle or break. However, that also adds a bit over 1.5 lbs.
Now, let’s be clear. That sturdiness does not mean it’s for stunt riding. I wouldn’t ride it more aggressively than anything else on this list. It’s just a little extra assurance and perhaps longevity.
Additionally, it has a textured deck surface instead of the skateboard-style grip tape on other models. This is less grippy than others, which could be a significant problem when wet, but I haven’t tested that firsthand.
The Carbon Lux is a good choice if you like the regular A5 Lux, and don’t mind sacrificing folding and lighter weight in exchange for (some) strength and quietness.
It’s available here.
A5 DLX
Moving one notch up the line, we get to the A5 DLX.
Functionally, you won’t find much of a difference from the A5 Lux. It weighs only a couple ounces more, and the deck is just over half an inch longer with fuller grip tape coverage.
All those things are pretty small, though.
The real upgrade is the improved folding mechanism. It’s easier to use (less pressure required) and rattles less while you ride.
Those were my chief complaints about the A5 Lux, so fixing them means the A5 DLX is worth its very slightly higher price. Otherwise, you can safely assume that its pros and cons are the same.
They are available here.
A5 Prime
You could say the A5 Prime is the fanciest model in the line. It’s certainly the most “adult” looking by most people’s standards. (And it’s the only model with an actual adult in the promo video, which probably wasn’t by accident!)
The basic riding experience is still in keeping with the other A5 models. Functionally, again, it’s extremely similar.
But a few well-thought-out details make for a nicer package.
Much like the A5 DLX, it has an upgraded folding mechanism that is comfortable to use and minimizes rattling.
It also has a sturdy, two-sided kickstand that I’d expect to be more stable and more durable than the standard one.
The handlebars extend a couple inches higher, which should suit riders up to about 6′, give or take.
My personal favorite design touch is the non-folding handlebars with ergonomic rubber grips.
(To clarify, the scooter’s deck still has a hinge to collapse. Just the handlebar grip areas themselves don’t pull out from the stem.)
That eliminates another source of rattling, looks a little cleaner, and also lets the bars sweep back just a bit for a more natural hand position. Just keep in mind that it won’t be as compact when folded. Watch that you don’t catch things (or people) on the bars when carrying it.
The other two disadvantages are weight–since it’s over 2.5 lbs heavier than the A5 Lux–and a significantly higher price.
But if you care about fit and finish, then you’ll appreciate the A5 Prime over its siblings.
They can be a little hard to find, but are generally available here.
A5 Air
The A5 Air is the only Razor kick scooter with pneumatic (inflatable) tires. That makes all the difference on rough pavement, and even turns dirt and gravel into reasonable possibilities.
The other adult Razor models, and nearly all other brands, use hard urethane wheels. They’re maintenance-free and roll terrifically on smooth concrete, but they’re extremely harsh over cracks and bumps. They also have almost no traction in the rain.
The A5 Air’s inflatable tires create a much smoother ride, especially on rougher surfaces. They also have better traction on wet ground, but remember that the fender brake barely works when wet.
It’s also worth noting that air tires are slower on smooth surfaces, since they create a little bit more resistance than urethane ones.
It also has a low-rattle folding mechanism, much like the A5 DLX and A5 Prime.
Additionally, it has better control thanks to slightly wider handlebars; rubber grips upgraded from the A5 Lux’s foam ones; and full grip tape coverage on the deck.
The main downside is needing to check tire pressure periodically. The valve stem is at a bit of an awkward angle, so some pumps might be hard to use.
Furthermore, flat tires are possible, although you can fend them off by adding some Slime tube sealant.
Another thing to keep in mind is the A5 Air’s low deck height. On one hand, that’s very efficient for kicking. On the other hand, it makes it very easy to scrape or get caught on bumps. Given that the air tires are basically made for bumpy ground, that could be a frequent problem for you.
But all in all, if hard-wheeled scooters are too harsh or dangerous on your path, then the A5 Air is a clear winner. To my knowledge, it’s the best deal around on a kick scooter with air tires.
Look for one here.
A6
The A6 draws heavily on the design of the A5 DLX.
Even at a glance, you’ll notice a lot of the same features, like the easy-opening and rattle-reducing fold mechanism.
But it stands out in two key ways. First, the handlebars are more than 3″ taller, which gives plenty of room for most adults to stand upright. Riders significantly over 6′ may still feel a bit cramped, however.
The other and bigger difference is the switch to 10″ wheels. That’s 25% larger diameter than the standard of 8″, as used on all the models covered above.
The difference isn’t night and day, but you’ll enjoy somewhat better ride quality on sidewalks, multi-use paths, (good) streets, and so forth.
Check availability here.
Bottom line: which Razor scooter is best for adults?
Get the A6 for riding on good pavement. It’s very similar to most of the others, but the larger wheels create a slightly smoother ride.
It also vibrates and rattles slightly less than some (which is the most annoying thing about other models with hard wheels). However, it weighs an extra ~1.5 lbs and has a slightly larger folded size than the “baseline” A5 Lux.
Understand that even 10″ urethane wheels are still not suitable for rough terrain or wet weather. For those circumstances, you’re better off with the A5 Air.
Speaking of which…
Get the A5 Air for rougher surfaces and/or rain. It’s the only Razor model scooter with inflatable tires, which makes it the default winner for wet, rough, or debris-ridden pavement.
Just keep in mind that it has a particularly low deck, which is easy to high-center on larger sidewalk cracks. You can avoid that by slowing down and boosting yourself with your kicking foot as you roll up to one.
And, as mentioned earlier, its fender brake won’t do much when wet, even if traction is adequate.
FAQs about the Razor A5 & A6
Can adults ride Razor scooters?
Yes, absolutely. There are just two things to keep in mind.
The first is handlebar height. The entire A5 line is suitable up to roughly 5’10” (slightly taller on the Prime), depending on your arm length and preferred posture. At or beyond the higher end of that range, you’ll absolutely want to get the A6.
The other consideration is rider weight. No Razor model is approved for more than 220 lbs, so heavier riders will need to consider other brands altogether.
As mentioned above, all adult Razor models are rated for riders up to 220 lbs. But heavier riders are likely to be taller, too, so I believe the A6 is the best Razor model for heavy adults.
Even if the weight limit is the same as the others, the slightly smoother wheels and higher handlebars are better for altogether bigger riders.
Beyond that weight limit, here are two of my favorite options:
- Xootr, which are similar in size and weight (available here)
- Swifty, which are much larger but more capable, and equipped with air tires (see my detailed review)
Can you ride a Razor scooter in the rain?
It’s possible to ride a kick scooter in the rain, but best avoided if you have urethane tires.
The A5 Air’s pneumatic tires will grip far better, but keep in mind that you’ll still struggle to brake.
(Read this article for more about riding safely in the rain.)
If you do venture out, just keep two things in mind.
First, the fenders on Razor scooters won’t do much to block wheel spray. The front may suffice, but the rear brake-fender may still allow a big, wet stripe up your back! Dress accordingly, even if the rain has stopped falling.
Second, the edges of the smooth metal deck are a bit slippery. It’s not an issue when kicking along, but it can be awkward if you’re trying to switch legs or rest your kick foot on a slick surface. This mostly applies to the A5 Lux and Prime, since their grip tape doesn’t cover the deck as fully. It may also be a concern with the Carbon Lux’s textured deck, as mentioned earlier.
Do Razor scooters have a warranty?
Yes. As of writing, all Razor A5 and A6 models come with a very generous 180-day warranty. That’s subject to change, so make sure to double-check before purchasing if that’s a concern.
Are adult Razor scooters hard to assemble?
All these models are easy to set up out of the box. The A5 Air needs a little extra attention for tire pressure, but should otherwise arrive nearly ready to ride.
Otherwise, just ensure that parts are properly aligned (namely both wheels) and there are no signs of shipping damage.
And it’s always worth checking that all screws are snug. That’s especially important for key stress points like the folding mechanism and the handle height adjustment clamp.
Remember, never tighten things to the point of bending metal pieces or stripping screws!
Here’s an example of what you can expect out of the box: