Modern Buddy

I just measured my scoot's tires and the gauge said "38 lbs".

As I understand it, lbs. by itself does not mean anything, but the lbs. / sq. inch (same as PSI) is what I need to know.

But the catch is, how can I extrapolate what the PSI is without knowing the surface area (sq. in) of the tires area?

I searched google but can't seem to get this info on scooter tires.

The gauge is PSI. Your pressure is too high.

Be sure you are checking your "cold tire pressure".
It should read ~30 psi when cold but will be higher as the air inside heats up and expands.
Tire gauges read in PSI or KPA.

When the gauge says, "LBS" or "pounds" that short for pounds per square inch.

What bluebuddy and Tocsik said. Unless your tire is hot the pressure is much too high. And what everyone said, your gauge reads in psi if it is showing lbs. 30psi is a good average, but there is also a sticker in the pet carrier (the storage under the seat) which shows the recommended pressure front and rear.