Zip, Zoom, or Zonk? Our 2024 Electric Scooter Showdown

A Deep Dive into the Electric Scooter World: A Comprehensive Review of 11 Models

The electric scooter market is booming, offering a diverse range of options for commuters, city dwellers, and weekend adventurers. Choosing the right scooter can be overwhelming, given the variations in price, features, performance, and build quality. This article presents a detailed, in-depth review of eleven electric scooters, based on extensive real-world testing, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you navigate the crowded marketplace.

Methodology: The following reviews are based on extensive field testing in a challenging urban environment (New York City), encompassing various terrains, inclines, and real-world usage scenarios. Factors considered include range, speed, comfort, ease of use, build quality, and overall value.

1. Niu KQi3 Pro ($599): The Budget-Friendly Champion

The Niu KQi3 Pro, priced at $599, was a top contender for a long time due to its excellent value. Its range, while dependent on rider weight and terrain, consistently delivered 15-20 miles in testing, even on steep inclines. Reaching a top speed of 20 mph, it offers a comfortable ride thanks to its 9.5-inch tubeless tires. Reliable disc brakes ensure safe stopping power. Practical features like a bell, lights, and handlebar space for a phone mount add to its appeal. Folding is easy, but its 45-pound weight isn’t ideal for easy portability. The lack of folding handlebars can also prove inconvenient. Note that the KQi3 Pro has been superseded by the Niu KQi 300X and 300P models.

2. MiniMotors USA Dualtron Mini Special ($1,699): Powerhouse with a Learning Curve

The MiniMotors USA Dualtron Mini Special, a high-end offering at $1,699, is not for the faint of heart. Assembly can be challenging, with vague instructions leaving some steps unexplained. The accompanying app is also considered unintuitive, making it less ideal for first-time users. However, the riding experience is rewarding. The scooter boasts a top speed of 35 mph and a claimed range of 40 miles, though testing revealed a more realistic 25-30-mile range. It handles slopes effectively, but its 59-pound weight coupled with a 200-pound weight capacity presents a curious contrast.

3. Segway P100S ($1,297): A Balanced Performer

The Segway P100S, a WIRED Recommends selection (8/10), strikes a balance between performance and practicality. Weighing in at 73 pounds, it achieves a respectable 24 mph top speed, delivering a range of approximately 16-25 miles depending on speed settings. Using the app to limit speed to 20 mph significantly extends its range. However, the loud turn signal is a significant drawback.

4. Fluidfreeride Fluid Mosquito ($899): Ultra-Lightweight Agility

The Fluid Mosquito, another WIRED Recommends choice (7/10), prioritizes portability. At a mere 29 pounds, it’s exceptionally lightweight and easy to carry. Its built-in grab handle enhances portability and its quick-folding design is convenient. Achieves a top speed of 24 mph, the lightweight design impacts its ride quality. The suspension is mediocre, and the narrow wheels transmit bumps effectively to the rider. Limited range (around 9 miles) is a notable concern. Speed mode adjustments must be performed before each ride.

5. Niu KQi Air ($1,249): Lightweight with Quirks

Despite initial excitement, the Niu KQi Air proved to have a few frustrating quirks. While its carbon fiber frame makes it incredibly lightweight at 26 pounds, achieving a top speed of 20 mph, its range is underwhelming (under 10 miles). The lightweight design often made it inconvenient to transport when the battery drained unexpectedly. The necessity of occasional internal power cable disconnection to establish phone connectivity indicated unresolved design issues. Further issues were observed, including temporary power loss and sporadic speed reduction, pointing to potential thermal issues.

6. TurboAnt M10 Lite ($300): A Decent Budget Option

The TurboAnt M10 Lite, at $300, is a functional budget scooter ideal for lighter riders (under 200 pounds). Achieving a modest top speed of 16 mph, its range is limited to around 8 miles. Assembly involves several extra steps. While the folding system is quick and the display is bright, it’s not suited for hilly terrain.

7. Gotrax Apex ($350): Reliable but Basic

The Gotrax Apex is a dependable option with a 32-pound weight making it easy to fold. Includes features such as an integrated bell and a digital display indicating speed and battery life. Its 15 mph top speed, reliable operation was tested by many journeys to various stops, demonstrating its practical nature. However, its 250-watt motor struggles with inclines, and the battery only delivered around 9 miles of range. The scooter may be too small for taller riders. The rear disc brake requires tightening.

8. Gotrax GX2 ($1,399): Powerful but with Concerns

Resembling the Apollo Phantom and Segway P100S in terms of weight (76 pounds) and power, the Gotrax GX2 commands attention. Its dual 800-watt motors give it the potential to reach 35 mph, although testing was frequently conducted at 20 mph. The range is comparable to its heavier counterparts, with around 18 miles reached. However, a notable inconvenience is the automatic "Parking Mode", requiring constant switching. Furthermore, build quality concerns emerged, such as motor noise and a loosely fitted stem latch, indicating areas that may benefit from manufacturer attention.

9. Navee S65 ($960): Powerful and Loud

The Navee S65, a WIRED Recommends choice (7/10), is a strong performer with a geared hub motor that provides excellent acceleration and hill-climbing ability. Achieving a range of about 16 miles at 20 mph, the battery is drained with this approach. This power comes at a cost: the scooter is very loud. Its 53-pound weight adds some bulk. Customer service is a potential consideration, given the brand’s relative newness in the US market.

10. Evolv Terra ($1,212): Powerful but Bumpy Ride

The Evolv Terra, another WIRED Recommends selection (7/10), impressed with a powerful dual 600-watt motor. Testing showed a capacity for up to 31 mph (consider local speed regulations). A second-gear speed setting of 20 mph offered a range of about 15 miles. However, the suspension is only average, resulting in a bumpy ride on rough roads, particularly problematic with the ineffective fenders. The stem angle and absence of a thumb throttle can lead to wrist discomfort during extended rides.

11. Radio Flyer S533 ($599): Surprisingly Good, but Pricy for Its Performance

The Radio Flyer S533 was better than its appearance predicted. Weighing just 30 pounds, the folding process is simplified. It performed well under 220 pounds but below 16 mph top speed, only averaging 14 mph, and the claimed 8-mile range proved accurate. Its simplicity and easy folding make it ideal for short trips though its price seems high compared to its capabilities.

Conclusion:

The optimal electric scooter depends entirely on individual needs and preferences. The Niu KQi3 Pro offers exceptional value for the budget-conscious, while the MiniMotors USA Dualtron Mini Special delivers unparalleled speed and power for experienced riders. Those seeking a balance of performance and portability might consider the Segway P100S, whereas extreme lightweight portability advocates may choose the Fluid Mosquito. High powered models like the Gotrax GX2 and Navee S65 are appealing, but potential build quality, reliability, and maintenance issues need consideration, along with the noisy motor of the Navee S65. Ultimately, careful consideration of range, speed, weight, portability, and budget are essential, coupled with consideration for long-term maintenance and ongoing reliability. This comprehensive review offers a starting point for your research, enabling informed decision-making when selecting your ideal electric scooter.

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