People have always sought fast and efficient means of travel as an alternative to walking. Horses and bicycles once flooded our streets but have since given way to modern technology and machines. It seems like compact stand-up scooters are the latest craze, but they have a history that is likely longer than you think. A patent for the Autoped dates back as far as 1916, and these gas-powered devices were at one time going to be the wave of the future of mobility. Judging by the number of Auropeds roaming the streets today, anyone can see that this wave of scooters never came. However, a new wave has set in and it appears to be shaping up into a more durable trend.
Perhaps the most visible examples of modern scooters are the various rental scooters that have popped up around cities all over the globe. While these can be convenient ways to navigate a downtown area, companies such as Bird have encountered problems regarding regulations, public sentiment, and profitability. However, for those who want a more regular option, many companies now sell electric scooters, and they come with a surprising array of standard features and options. With the latest ion battery technology, the range of these machines can be rather impressive. To take a closer look at this subject, SlashGear was provided an eKickScooter E2 Pro by Segway-Ninebot for review.
You may be familiar with the brand Segway, best known for launching a unique two-wheeled vehicle that stayed upright while its driver leaned forward. It has gone through many changes over the years, including ownership, and is now owned by the brand Ninebot, which makes a range of electric personal mobility vehicles. While it continues to produce models derived from the original Segway, it also produces a range of electric scooters, electric mopeds, electric bikes, and go-karts.
The model they provided to us is the eKickScooter E2 Pro. It is listed within its range of adult scooters, boasting a (battery) range of 16.8 miles at 15.5 mph. This places the scooter at a bit more capable than the lowest tier in the range but falling short of the 40.4-mile range and 25 mph top speed of the brand’s top-tier model.
All of these are made in the style of the traditional kick scooter, perfect for cruising large public parks or downtown areas but not well suited to mingle with regular street traffic. They blend the qualities of a vehicle for recreation and one for transportation. They could be used to commute but for short distances, while riding for fun is always an option.
The Segway-Ninebot eKickScooter E2 Pro, which will be referred to as the E2 going forward, is a relatively lightweight machine in a compact package. The rear wheel drives it using a hub-mounted 750-watt electric motor powered by a 275 Wh IPX6 waterproof battery pack. Braking is handled by a drum on the front wheel aided by electric braking using the rear hub motor. The 10-inch wheels are wrapped in pneumatic tires, which Segway lists as “leakproof,” contributing to its total payload capacity of 265 pounds.
The stated range is 16.8 miles with a top speed of 15.5 mph, and the E2 is capable of climbing up to an 18% grade. A traction control system helps with hazardous surfaces while indicator lights on the ends of the handlebars help alert others of turns. A flashing brake light on the rear alerts those behind of impending stops while a bright LED headlight allows for operation at night.
The handlebars also include a bright display with crisp graphics indicating speed, battery life, and a few other functions, such as driving mode. Below the footboard are LED lights illuminating the ground in a range of colors that can be set for solid color lighting or a fluctuating display. Finally, to warn others of your presence, Segway has included a thumb-actuated bell of the old-school and low-tech variety, which is an archaic but charming little feature.
Read More: https://www.slashgear.com/1555193/segway-ninebot-ekickscooter-e2-pro-review-commute-led-lights-electric-scooter/
