I’ve examined a ton of scooters. Not all of them deserve a spot above, however some are nonetheless value a point out. These are a number of different good scooters I like:
Navee S65 for $1,099: Navee is a comparatively new model rising its presence within the US, and I had a good time utilizing the S65 (7/10, WIRED Recommends). I used to be capable of often full 16-mile spherical journeys at 20 mph, however that just about depleted the battery. It has nice acceleration, because of its geared hub motor, and it climbs slopes with ease, however this additionally makes it very loud. The motor’s sound disappears for those who’re in a loud metropolis like New York City, however it might make you self-conscious on quiet streets. It’s 53 kilos, so it is heavier than the Niu regardless of having an analogous vary, and its customer support is slightly questionable since it is so new. Still, I had enjoyable using it.
Apollo Ghost for $1,549: At 64 kilos, the Apollo Ghost (8/10, WIRED Recommends) isn’t the scooter for walkups, but it surely’s super enjoyable. I examined the 2021 mannequin, however the 2022 model has some upgrades. The twin 1,000-watt motors can vault you to 34 miles per hour (if that is authorized the place you reside), however I largely relied on the only motor and cruised at round 20 to 25 mph—there is a button to modify between the 2, and modes to additional restrict your velocity. Anyone in a hilly metropolis will profit from the facility and prolonged vary of the Ghost. I hit round 20 miles on a single cost (Apollo claims a beneficiant 37). There are entrance and visibility LEDs constructed beneath and across the deck, together with a taillight. As for the brakes, you will get wire-controlled discs or improve to hydraulic ones. The former delivered sufficient stopping energy for me, however the latter is extra responsive and dependable.
Evolv Terra for $1,242: I loved my time with the Evolv Terra (7/10, WIRED Recommends). If you are contemplating the Apollo Ghost above, take into account this primary as a result of it is barely cheaper, slightly lighter at 53 kilos, and simpler to hold. It’s simply as highly effective, with the potential to go as quick as 31 miles per hour whenever you interact each 600-watt motors (test your native velocity legal guidelines first!). Otherwise, you may cruise alongside at 20 mph as I did on the second gear velocity setting (there are three in whole) with the only motor. Range is not dissimilar both; I often had two bars left after 15 miles on the Terra so it might doubtlessly final greater than 20 miles, particularly for those who’re conservative with its speeds. The suspension is OK however the stable tires on rougher roads can really feel fairly bumpy. The fenders additionally appear fairly ineffective to me as, after a moist trip post-rain, my again was lined in specks of grime kicked up from the rear tire. The stem’s angle can also be slightly too near my physique, and the dearth of a thumb throttle meant my wrist damage after lengthy rides. You can tweak the angle of the throttle and brakes to enhance this although. These are comparatively minor quibbles contemplating the worth.
Radio Flyer S533 for $599: Honestly, I’m shocked at how effectively this scooter did in my checks. The folding mechanism is only a latch and a sleeve you pull all the way down to preserve the latch from coming undone whilst you trip. It’s tremendous simple to fold and unfold, and light-weight at 30 kilos. It’s not a commuter scooter by any means—my vary hovered beneath 8 miles on a single cost—and regardless of exceeding its 220-pound load capability, I averaged round 14 mph of its 16 mph prime velocity. It’s a pleasant little scooter for going to the submit workplace, to the grocery retailer, or to Cinnabon when my spouse asks for a cinnamon roll. However, its value would not match its energy and efficiency; it actually needs to be cheaper. It’s additionally value noting that the primary mannequin the corporate despatched me did not activate and the second mannequin had a deflated entrance tire. (*6*) it was a fast affair and I have never had issues since.
Segway Ninebot F30 for $400: This was once my prime advice for most individuals, however after an extended testing interval, I’ve discovered that the vary has dramatically diminished at a a lot quicker tempo in comparison with different electrical scooters I’ve tried. It used to final round 10 miles or so, however these days, I’ve solely managed round 6. I nonetheless suppose it is a terrific scooter. It goes 15 mph, is cozy to trip, and also you get set of necessities, comparable to dependable lights, brakes, and an intuitively designed bell. It’s pretty light-weight, too, at 33 kilos. If your finances can stretch, I’d go for the Ninebot F40 ($800), which may go a bit quicker and has higher vary, however I nonetheless want the Niu KQi3 Pro at that value.
Apollo Air Pro for $799: The Apollo Air Pro (2022) is a superbly fantastic scooter (6/10, WIRED Review), I simply do not suppose it is well worth the excessive value. It goes as much as 21 mph, and I used to be capable of trip it for about 13 to fifteen miles earlier than it died. You get all of the accouterments, like a entrance gentle and bell, and there is app connectivity to tweak settings to your liking. However, the app is required to unlock the Air Pro’s true velocity—in any other case, you are restricted to 12 mph. I’m extra miffed on the folding mechanism, which is extra work than it needs to be. It additionally would not speed up too quick and, regardless of its 39-pound weight, is uncomfortable to hold resulting from its thick stem. I’ve not examined the brand new 2023 mannequin.