Design

Handlebars

The INOKIM OxO is pretty much identical to its predecessor – the Ox. In terms of build quality, it’s as you’d expect from an INOKIM scooter – the handlebars measure a wide 23.2 inches with a premium feel and thickness that provides great handling of the steering column. Just like the Ox, they are sturdy, durable, and wobble-free.

The handlebar grips are equally as good. Being the top-end model, the grips are slightly different from the Ox, though. Rather than all black, they have a flash of orange, and while they look fancier, they are, in fact, the same grips.

On the left side, there’s a small bell and a red button. The red button is INOKIM’s version of the motor selection buttons that we see on many other dual-motor models. Simply put, it allows you to engage either just the rear motor or both.

On the right, there’s an ergonomic thumb throttle that is lined with sensors that detect the photographic coefficient (light level) and switch your lights on/off accordingly. Above the throttle is the familiar LCD display, but I must say, compared to the next-gen display on the INOKIM Quick Super 4, it looks outdated.

Frame

The OxO is INOKIM through and through. Sporting the immediately recognizable orange and black colorway, its sleek paint job makes it one of the best-looking scooters. Of all the scooters I recommend, it is one of the most unique thanks to its cleverly designed single-sided swingarms that adorn the left side of the chassis.

However, I can’t help but feel this scooter has a sinister undertone with the motors sporting a design that is reminiscent of the swirling pattern on Jigsaw’s cheeks.

Nevertheless, everything from the slender stem, robust neck, and thick deck screams reliability. As I’ll explore in more detail in the “Build Quality” section of the review, the OxO is one of the few scooters that, well…just flows. Because each component fits seamlessly with the next, there’s no misalignment and unsightly seams.

Deck

Let’s start with the good things: the size and kickplate.

Like the Ox, its oversized platform is large enough for riders of all shapes and sizes to find a stance that feels comfortable. For context, it measures 20 inches in length and 8.5 inches in width (not including the kickplate). It shares these dimensions with the Ox, and by comparison to the scooters that I recommend as alternatives, it goes toe to toe with the VSETT 10+ while the Wolf Warrior adds 0.5 inches to the width. If you’ve seen rental scooters or similar commuter-style models, these tend to have decks that measure around 18 inches in length and 6 inches in width.

As for the kickplate, its tapered design extends the deck by a further 4 inches. While the additional space allows for even more room to find a stance most suited to your riding style, it plays a pivotal role in handling. Placing your back foot on the angled plate allows for a more aggressive riding posture and although the OxO doesn’t exactly burn-rubber off the start line, its 40 mph top speed and ability to tackle off-road terrain make the kickplate a welcome addition to keep you stable. Also, because of its size, it’s easy to shift your weight to the rear of the scooter when braking. This applies more weight over the rear wheel which increases the contact patch with the ground below and ultimately improves braking performance as a result of more traction.

Where the deck is lacking, though, is its material. Considering the OxO’s high price tag and INOKIM’s stellar reputation, you’d expect the deck to be covered in a grippy rubber or tape, but this isn’t the case. Instead, it's a hard, scratchy plastic. The design of it looks great – almost like a stone alleyway in Greece – but it's a simple case of style over substance. If you wear trainers with rubber soles you can keep your feet somewhat gripped to the deck, but as soon as the terrain becomes rough and bumpy, it’s easy to lose your footing. The only plus point is how easy it is to clean – though, I’d choose grip over this any day.

Against the backdrop of scooters that I recommend as alternatives, both the VSETT models and the Wolf Warrior feature anti-slip rubber mattings that provide excellent grip, no matter the weather or riding conditions.

Wheels

Measuring 10 x 2.5 inches apiece, the OxO has two pneumatic, air-filled tyres. Surprisingly, these are fairly narrow for the size of the frame and while this seemed like a disadvantage at first, it proved to be beneficial. Thanks to their slender profile, the OxO’s steering remains nimble.

One thing worth noting, though, is that the narrow profile of the tyres is smaller than similarly-priced competitors — with the majority sporting 10 x 3-inch tyres. Being narrower, they are more primed for street riding than off-roading. Though I tested the OxO on light off-road tracks, and it performed well. However, if you’re using it on more challenging off-road trails, you might want to consider fitting off-road tyres.

As you’d expect from a premium scooter, tyres play a pivotal role in ride quality, and in the case of the OxO, they deliver that much-coveted smooth-sailing sensation on all types of terrain. Even in the wet, the tyres offer good traction (although the deck doesn’t).

Build Quality & Durability

The OxO’s build quality is second to none. There’s no other way to put it other than it's solid. Unlike some of the scooters we’ve reviewed which look like they have been put together like Frankenstein, the OxO has been carefully crafted and the attention to detail is clear to see. The screws and bolts sit flush to the frame, the cables are tucked away, and the smooth edges make each component flow into the next.

Overall, the OxO, like the rest of the INOKIM range, is one of the best-built electric scooters.

So, how do they do it? Well, it’s all down to the manufacturing process. Each part is forged from a single piece of aluminum alloy using precise pre-programmed computer software – otherwise known as CNC manufacturing. There are three key benefits to this:

1. There’s no welding, meaning there are no weak points
2. Each piece is flawless in its design which aids the sleek aesthetic
3. Consistent product quality

What’s more, INOKIM is vertically integrated. In layman’s terms, INOKIM owns all the components used in their scooters, meaning they fit together seamlessly – as opposed to other brands that take components from different manufacturers and join them together.

There is one area that needs improvement, though. None of INOKIM’s scooters come with a water-resistance rating. This is acceptable on scooters lower down the price spectrum, but for the price tag of the OxO, I feel it's a letdown. For instance, both VSETT 10+ models and the Wolf Warrior 11 have official IP ratings.

Weight & Load

The OxO weighs in at a whopping 33.6 kg, so it’s pretty heavy.

Compared to the scooters I recommended as alternatives, it is on the lighter side with the VSETT 10+ models weighing 35.8 kg and the Wolf Warrior coming in at a scale-busting 45.8 kg.

In comparison to its younger brother — the Ox — it is a full 5.9 kg heavier, but it does have dual motors and a bigger battery.

So how about load capacity? Well, it can support 120 kg of rider weight. This has become the standard for scooters of its ilk but it does fall short against some of its competition. It’s important to note that I always recommend opting for a scooter that has a load capacity that is 10-20 kg above your weight. If the OxO won’t be a good fit for you, I suggest taking a look at my guide to the best electric scooters for heavy riders or checking out either of the alternatives I recommend – VSETT 10+R (129 kg), VSETT 10+ (129 kg), and Wolf Warrior (3150 kg).

Folding & Portability

As far as folding mechanisms go, the one on the OxO is faultless. It’s strong, durable, and wobble-free. It uses a red lever to control a claw-like mechanism that secures the stem in place, and a rubber collar that wraps around the stem to lock the lever into place.

You can also use the red dial on the opposite side of the stem to tighten or loosen the mechanism.

Another useful feature is the cut-out in the kickplate. This acts as a latch where the ridge on the back of the handlebars slots into. Once the ridge is hooked in, you can lift the OxO by its stem.

While the folding mechanism is simple in its approach, it delivers where it needs to. Other performance scooters rely on collar clamps which are notorious for not being tight and causing the stem to wobble back and forth. This isn’t an issue on the OxO.

Assembly

Like with most scooters, it doesn’t take much setting up. There are a couple of things you’ll need to do, but nothing strenuous. Set aside 20-30 minutes to get everything done.

Unboxing the scooter is the first thing you’ll need to do. Once you’ve done this, simply lift the stem and lock it into place. And then, using the multi-tool provided, attach the handlebars and rear mud-guard.

That’s pretty much it. You’ll find everything you need to adjust the suspension in the box too, including a socket spanner which you’ll use to higher and lower the suspension arms (there’s a step-by-step guide on how to do this in the manual).

Before you take your scooter for a spin, check that the brakes are working, the tyres are inflated to the required PSI, and that the handlebar accessories are tight and properly fitted. I also recommend charging the battery fully, too.

Ride Quality

Is the INOKIM OxO Comfortable to Ride?

If I was to describe the OxO’s ride quality in one word, it would be luxurious. The OxO is the Rolls Royce of scooters in terms of build and ride quality.

The exceptional ride is largely down to the OxO’s unique suspension set-up, which features both rubber suspension and single-sided swingarms. The two combined do a fantastic job of soaking up bumps and undulations.

In my review of the Ox, I rated it a 7.5 on a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 was extremely stiff and 10 was super soft – the same is true of the OxO. It is, hands down, one of the best scooters I have ridden. There’s just something about its rubber suspension that makes it supremely smoother than other models that rely on springs – I put this down to the fact that rubber is more squishy.

Combined with the solid stem, super-wide handlebars, and extremely powerful brakes, the OxO gives you confidence while riding. However, as with all scooters, there are some hang-ups. Most notable is the non-grippy deck which detracts from the confidence acquired from the other components. I have seen some riders fix this by sticking a layer of grip tape over the plastic.

Performance & Safety

Speed & Acceleration

The OxO has a top speed of 40 mph, but how does that compare to similar scooters? Let’s have a look at how the OxO compares to scooters in its price and weight class.

Speed vs Price Comparison

The OxO’s price class isn’t a busy one. When we take a £500 price range (with the OxO’s £2,199 in the middle) there are 5 comparable models. So how does it perform?

As you can see from the chart, not very well. It's narrowly beaten by the Wolf Warrior X Pro, finishing last.

The OxO’s top speed is by no means slow, but there’s a significant gap between it and the top models in its price bracket. Specifically, there’s 13 mph separating the OxO and the leader — the VSETT 11+ — which has a top speed of 53 mph. However, the 11+ is hard to find in the UK and when you consider that it is built like a tank and weighs 58.1 kg, it doesn't stand out as the best option. Instead, I highly recommend the VSETT 10+R.

The INOKIM's low ranking doesn’t come as a surprise, because while it is powered by dual 1000W motors, the VSETT 10+ models get their rubber-burning abilities from dual 1400W motors. Similarly, the Wolf Warrior X Pro sports larger 1100W motors. As a rule of thumb, the higher the wattage, the higher the top speed.

However, what may come as a surprise is that the VSETT 10+R costs ever-so-slightly less than the OxO. The 10+ (25.6Ah) also costs less, saving you £204, making it the scooter offering the greatest value. Plus, it’s not only the higher top speed of these models that you’ll appreciate but also the rapid acceleration that comes with it – more on this in the “Acceleration” section of the review.

Speed vs Weight Comparison

The OxO moves up the rankings when compared to 6 other scooters that sit within 2.5 kg on either side of its 33.6 kg bulk (31.6 – 36.6 kg).

Here, the OxO shares its top speed with the Speedway 5, securing a middle of the pack ranking.

Like the Speed vs Price comparison, the ferocious VSETT 10+R and 10+ (25.6Ah) take the top spot (50 mph). Both of these have the same setup aside from different battery sizes which affects mileage (the Ah figures depict battery size). The smaller the battery, the lower the price tag.

Below the VSETT scooters is the Wolf Warrior 11’s smaller yet insanely powerful sibling, the Warrior X Pro. This scooter takes everything good about the Wolf Warrior 11 and improves it to deliver a less bulky package that delivers serious top speeds, acceleration, and ride quality that made the former so popular.

Acceleration

Acceleration is where the OxO struggles. But it’s nothing new to INOKIM, as all its performance models including the Ox , struggle in this department too.

As you can see, it’s slow off the mark. Or is it just that the VSETT models are super fast? Whichever way you look at it, it doesn’t look good for the OxO. Even if we compare it to a scooter like the Apollo Ghost – which has smaller dual 800W motors – the OxO’s acceleration is still 52% slower to 15 mph and 25% slower to 25 mph. And it's worth pointing out that the Apollo Ghost is £700 cheaper.

Taking a closer look at the scooters I recommend as alternatives, the OxO is no match for either of the VSETT 10+ models or the Wolf Warrior. Digging into the performance data, the 10+ has, on average, a 48% faster acceleration rate, and the Wolf Warrior is 45% faster.

If you want the power of the 10+R, but don’t need its 74-mile range and want to save some money, the 10+ (25.6Ah) with its 66-mile range and £1,995 price tag is a great choice.

Range

The large 60V 25.6Ah LG battery delivers a supremely long-range clocking in a maximum mileage of 68 miles. Combined with its excellent ride quality, we rate it as one of the best long-range electric scooters.

But how does this stack up against the competition? Let’s find out.

Mileage vs Price Comparison

Unlike the Speed vs Price comparison, the OxO moves up the rankings, securing third place where it is piped to the post by the VSETT 11+ (85 miles) and VSETT 10+R (74 miles).

As previously discussed, the 10+R is the better alternative to the OxO, so I'll use this model to compare it.

While it’s not a win for the OxO, it is only 6 miles behind the VSETT 10+R (74 miles) and when we factor in realistic conditions, the two deliver very similar ranges (averaging 37 miles). Ultimately, then, it comes down to which provides the best overall package.

Given that the OxO’s biggest benefits alongside mileage are its build and ride quality, the 10+R needs to live up to these – so does it? It’s a resounding yes – the 10+R is an exceptional scooter. Reminiscent of Bumblebee from Transformers, it not only stands out from the crowd with its flamboyant stylish robotic, and geometric frame, but it negotiates a delicate balance between power and price to deliver a highly versatile and nimble scooter that’ll leave you with a smile stretching from ear to ear. Plus, it makes up for where the OxO let us down – a grippy, rubber-covered deck and blisteringly fast acceleration rate.

Mileage vs Weight Comparison

Weight can often be a key factor in the decision-making process when it comes to choosing which scooter is right for you, and with that comes further considerations like which model packs the most power. Taking a 5 kg bracket with the OxO’s 33.6 kg in the middle reveals the scooters best suited for long rides.

Out of a comparable 7 models – including the OxO – it confidently takes third place. In first and second, there’s the Speedway 5 (75 miles) and VSETT 10+R (74 miles).

While the Speedway 5 may seem like the best option on paper, it doesn’t paint the full picture. The Speedway’s biggest flaws are its telescopic stem, foldable handlebars, and, most of all, cheap Chinese battery cells.

While telescopic stems are effective on lighter commuter scooters where they enhance portability, they are a weird design choice to have on performance models – hence why you don’t see them on any other models. When you’re riding at speed the stem of your scooter is put under significant amounts of pressure, especially when you pull back on the handlebars as a result of jolts in the road. Telescopic stems simply don’t have the level of reinforcement needed to deliver a reliable ride at high speeds.

As for the foldable handlebars, there’s an exception to this, and that’s if they screw securely into place (like those on the VSETT 10+ models). Unfortunately, the Speedway just uses tension cuffs meaning the grips are only held in place by slotting over the T-bar in the middle of the handlebars. The last thing you want on a long-range is wobbly, unstable handlebars.

Finally, Chinese batteries are chosen by manufacturers to bring the cost of a scooter down, but they deteriorate quicker than high-quality batteries, like LG ones. Just as your phone battery decays the more you charge it, cheaper Chinese cells used in scooter batteries do the same. In brief, this means that higher-quality batteries hold their peak performance for longer.

With all of this in mind, the VSETT 10+R – with its large LG battery – is the true winner.

Hill Climbing

The OxO’s hill-climbing capabilities are pretty good as long as you build momentum.

Thanks to the dual motors, they generate enough torque to scale challenging urban inclines up to 25 degrees. However, if you start the scooter on a hill, it takes a while to pick up the pace because of its sluggish acceleration.

By comparison, both the VSETT 10+R (35 degrees) and Wolf Warrior (30 degrees) are certified hill-eating machines. No matter the incline, these guys will get you up and over it.

Shock Absorption / Suspension

Its suspension is one of its redeeming factors. Like the Ox, it sports the same rubber cartridge suspension and single-sided swingarms that are adjustable to either a High or Low setting. Despite having the two settings to choose from, the OxO comes stock with the Low setting and this is capable of delivering a buttery-smooth ride while gliding city streets and tearing up dirt tracks. The High setting is best suited for rough off-road terrain where you need more clearance and room for the swingarms to pivot allowing for deeper suspension.

Alongside its ability to soak up vibrations like a hot knife cutting through butter, the damping (i.e. the process of controlling the oscillation of the rubber cartridge when it compresses and rebounds) keeps the wheels in contact with the ground below. This is different from scooters that rely on springs since these can have a tendency to bounce the scooter up and down, meaning you lose traction.

Braking

I’ve tested numerous scooters and done many brake tests, and the OxO is up there with the best.

Equipped with Zoom hydraulic brakes, it can come to a stop in 2.7 meters from 15 mph. We consider this to be excellent and to give you more context as to why: the average performance scooter takes around 3.0 – 3.4 meters to stop.

Zoom hydraulic brakes are some of the best you can get and with a light feathering of the grippy brake levers, they kick into action. Unlike scooters such as the Wolf Warrior or Mantis Pro that have anti-locking braking systems, it's important to remember that pulling hard on the levers can cause the wheels to lock up and skid (as with all scooters without ABS enabled) – so it's important to bear this in mind if you are making the transition to the OxO from a scooter like these.

Charge Time

It takes 13.5 hours to fully charge the 60V 25.6Ah battery.

Extra Features

LCD Display & Thumb Throttle

The cockpit is clean and minimalistic.

Its primary role is to provide insights into basic riding stats while you can also dig deeper into the scooter’s settings to control the screen’s brightness, maximum speed, cruise control function (on or off), units of display (km or miles), and photocell settings (which I’ll discuss in more detail further down).

One feature that can make a big difference to your riding enjoyment is the type of throttle and those of the thumb variety are best. You’ll often see scooters with QS-S4 and EY3 displays that have integrated trigger-style throttles that you pull with your finger. Over the past few years, these became the go-to design but with the evolution of the scooter industry, newer models are opting for thumb throttles as a result of their more ergonomic shape and placement. INOKIM was one of the scooter brands to incorporate these into their scooters and it paid off. It’s the cherry on top of the ride quality cake – you won’t get hand cramps as is the case with finger throttles, but, instead, enjoy long rides.

Front Motor On/Off Button

The small red front motor on/off button is on the left of the handlebars. When you press the red button, it puts the scooter in dual motor mode, giving you extra power from the second motor. When the button is disengaged (popped out) you know you’re using one motor (the rear).

LED Lights That Turn on Automatically When Dark

The OxO has low-mounted lights that turn on automatically when it’s dark. There are two lights at the front (one on either side of the deck) and one at the rear.

The front lights do an average job of letting pedestrians know you’re there, but they aren’t bright enough to light the road ahead. Another slight annoyance is the positioning of the rear brake light. Because it’s only on the right side of the deck, not everyone can see if it flashing when the brakes are engaged and so it’s not the best in terms of safety.

I recommend adding extra lights to the front and rear.

While the lights aren’t the greatest, a cool feature is that they turn on automatically when the scooter detects it's dark out. It uses Photocell sensors in the throttle to detect the light level. You can either disable this although (which I don’t recommend) or adjust the light level.

2-Step Adjustable Suspension System

Just like its younger brother, the Ox, it sports the same adjustable swingarms.

If you’re traveling off-road on lots of loose rocks, the High setting will soften the blow of more impactful shocks whilst also providing more clearance so you’re not scraping the underside of the deck.

For street riding, the Low setting hugs the road more, making it better suited to high-speed pursuits.

Adjusting the suspension isn’t a quick job, but all the tools to do it are included in the box. A word of warning: don’t use two different settings, i.e. don’t set the front swingarm to Low, and the rear to High, or vice versa.

Tyre Hugger

As far as tyre huggers go, the one on the OxO is one of the best we’ve seen. It covers a large surface area of the tyre and does a great job of protecting you against water and mud splatter.

What’s more, because of the large kickplate, you get even more protection when it’s wet.

Bell

The bell is basic and cheap.

I’d liked to have seen something a bit more premium, like the motorcycle-grade horn you get on the Wolf Warrior. Instead, the OxO is fitted with a bicycle-grade bell that’s relatively flimsy.

Warranty & Post-Purchase Support

Warranty

I highly recommend making sure you purchase the OxO through a reliable retailer like Soho Scooters who is one of INOKIM’s official retailers. Purchasing through them means you’ll receive a 12-month warranty that begins the date that appears on the purchase invoice.

The warranty covers manufacturing defects, including the battery, controller, LED lights, motors, display, throttle and electrical wiring.

However, as with all warranties, there are a few things that aren’t covered, including:

• Consumables – which include components like brake pads, tyre tubes, and the tyres
• Wear and tear
• Damage as a result of collisions, accidents, or environmental factors like water
• Any attempts to alter the electronic programming
• Neglecting proper care and maintenance

Post-Purchase Support

Soho Scooters not only have a physical location on Carnaby Street in central London (which I've visited several times), but they also provide responsive phone, email, and WhatsApp support.

They also have a Workshop where they repair and service scooters, as well as offer upgrades to customize your ride.

Design

Handlebars

The Touring sports a set of straight, folding handlebars, which – while they haven’t been designed for ergonomic efficiency as curved ones are – do give the scooter plenty of points for portability. They make the Touring super easy to pack down and store or stow away with you on public transport.

To the left, you’ll see a dial-type switch (marked on/off) that controls the headlight. Below that is a yellow button for the horn and above it is the lever that controls the rear drum brake. Over to the right, the Touring’s QS-S4 display and finger throttle take pride of place – here’s where you’ll view your trip distance, battery life, and riding mode, as well as regulate your speed and acceleration.

Speaking of this device, one fun thing the EMOVE Touring allows you to do is to switch out your finger throttle for a couple of different (and, depending on your preference, more ergonomically friendly) variations: either a thumb throttle (£49) or a twist throttle (£49). Both of these still come attached to a QS-S4 display and allow you to ride in the way that’s easiest for you.

Frame

Frame-wise, there’s not a huge amount to distinguish the EMOVE Touring from the likes of other portable scooters such as the Apollo City, Zero 8 & 9, and Horizon 10 & 13. It even holds resemblances to its older brother, the EMOVE Cruiser. Like those scooters, the Touring sports a telescopic stem and foldable handlebars. It also touts the same long-lasting rubber handgrips that offer up enough space to rest your palms on for increased control.

What sets the Touring apart, though, is its aesthetic. Available in a series of vibrant colours, the Touring adds a touch of playfulness to what would otherwise be a relatively simplistic, functional design. Plus, colour varieties are all too rare on scooters – particularly as you move up the spectrum of performance – so it’s great to see so much choice on offer.

As you would expect for the price, each component of the frame – from the stem to the deck, suspension, and fenders – has been well built and feels sturdy as opposed to fragile (which can be the case even on models above the Touring’s price tag – I’m looking at you Kugoo G2 Pro).

Deck

As I’ll unpack in more detail later in the review, the EMOVE Touring is a comfortable ride – and this is in no small part down to its deck.

First of all, it’s long. The Touring’s deck measures 22 inches in length and 7 inches in width. By comparison, this is around 2.5 inches longer than the Apollo City and around 1 inch less in width. Add to that the generous 5 inches of ground clearance – which allows you to clear the curb with ease – and you’ve got yourself a spacious, comfortable platform upon which to ride. The main benefit here is that it affords you the room to strike a stance with a decent gap between both feet – you’d be surprised how much this can affect ride quality. Take a look at my review of the INOKIM Quick 4 to see how a short deck can cause you to almost trip up on your feet.

The second design feature that makes the deck perfect for keeping you glued to it, is that it is slathered in a liberal coat of sandpapery-type grip tape. That said, I’d prefer an all-over coating of silicone or grippy rubber – it’s easier to clean, and gives you more traction at higher speeds.

Wheels

Considering how impressive the EMOVE Touring’s triple front and dual rear suspension system is, it’s hard not to feel let down by its tyre setup…at least until you ride it. Here, EMOVE has opted for a mix-and-match approach, with the Touring sporting a front pneumatic tyre, paired with one of the solid rubber variety at the rear.

Now, while both these types of tyres have their respective pros and cons – solid tyres, for instance, are puncture-proof – having dual pneumatics offers far more dampening and traction. As a result, they form a kind of stoic, shock-absorptive vanguard against the jolting, jarring impact of potholes or cracks in the concrete, whilst also remaining pliable and moulding with the ground below to increase grip for improved braking performance (as we’ll soon see, braking isn’t the Touring’s strong suit). For this reason, I’m reluctant to recommend riding your Touring around in wet conditions.

On further iterations of this scooter, I’d like to see the Touring take a leaf out of Apollo’s book and equip it with two air-filled tyres. Even cheaper models from Turboant – including the X7 Pro and M10 – sport plush 10-inch pneumatic tyres. Both models are highly affordable and ideal for commuters, although neither have suspension and thus can’t measure up to the Touring for overall ride quality.

Ultimately, though, with everything considered, the Touring still manages to deliver a pleasant riding experience that I place between the comfort of riding the Apollo City (with its front single spring, dual rear springs, and 8.5-inch air-filled tyres) and the VSETT 8 (with its rubber, spring, and swingarm suspension alongside an air-filled tyre at the front and a solid one at the rear).

Build Quality & Durability

For a scooter with so many moving parts, it feels solid to ride. There’s little stem wobble and like most scooters, the frame is made up of an aluminium alloy – a precipitation-hardened, stress-tested metal that manages to be both sturdy and lightweight. For the consumables, the deck is covered in grip tape and handlebars in a traction-toting rubber. Reinforced plastic has been used for some of the Touring’s element-facing components, like its front and rear fenders.

Oh, and let’s not forget the water-resistance rating. IP54 is good classification, and – as I’ll discuss later, in the ‘Extra Features’ section – isn’t something all the models in the Touring’s class come equipped with as standard. Plus, as a result of feedback from the Touring’s riders, all the scooter’s cabling is waterproof – so you shouldn’t have any worries about showers interfering with your circuitry.

Weight & Load

The EMOVE Touring weighs in at 17.7 kg, which (just about) places the scooter within the 19 kg upper weight parameter that I set for commuter scooters. That said, the Touring is by no means heavy – in fact, it’s what you’d expect a scooter of its performance and specs.

Of the alternatives I recommend, the Touring weighs the same as the Apollo City, is lighter than the comparatively chubby VSETT 8 (20.9 kg), and heavier than the budget option, the Turboant X7 Pro (15.0 kg).

Heavier riders will love it too because it can support a payload of up to 140 kg, which is the greatest load capacity across all commuter scooters. Here, the Touring comfortably outstrips the scooters I recommend as alternatives, including:

• Turboant X7 Pro (125 kg)
• Apollo City (120 kg)
• VSETT 8 (120 kg)

Heck, the Touring’s load even outshines scooters far beyond its commuter tag and price class: most high-performance models, for instance, can only support up to 120 kg. One scooter the Touring’s payload fails to surpass, though, is its big brother – the EMOVE Cruiser. The Cruiser can support up to a phenomenal 160 kg of rider weight, so it’s a top pick for heavier riders.

Folding & Portability

Make no bones about it – the EMOVE Touring is an ultra-portable scooter. Setting aside for a moment its telescopic stem, the Touring has the slick, intuitive folding mechanisms – and the thin, lightweight frame – to make it a commuter’s dream.

The stem folding mechanism can be best described as a small lever located on the neck of the scooter. Pulling this lever down will disengage the stem from its locked position and allow you to lower it gently down until it’s parallel with the deck where it, again, locks into place. Using the locking lever, at first, can seem difficult but this is because it is tight and there isn’t enough wiggle room to easily release it. Top tip: place one foot on the back of the deck applying downward pressure then push the stem forward. This gives you the tiniest bit of room needed to easily push the lever down and fold the stem.

The key components that make the Touring so portable, though, are its foldable handlebars that each collapse down by the side of the stem and the telescopic stem that shrinks down to just 38 inches.

As a result of its thin stem, locked folded position, and narrow profile, the Touring is one of, if not the, easiest scooter to carry.

Assembly

The EMOVE Touring arrives assembled – though you’ll still want to double-check that all the handlebar accessories are tightened into place.

After unboxing it, you’ll want to make sure that your front tyre is inflated to the right pressure and that its telescopic stem is set at the right height to fit your size and posture.

I also recommend using the included manual to familiarize yourself with the range of P-settings in the QS-S4 display (I’ll cover what these are in greater detail later in the review), as well as ensuring it’s fully charged before hitting the road.

Ride Quality

Is the EMOVE Touring Comfortable to Ride?

The Touring’s suspension is unlike any other I’ve reviewed on a commuter scooter.

It is the only model to forgo the standard single spring at the base of the stem, instead opting to triple down on the shock absorption capabilities of all those that came before it by adding another two springs alongside it. In cahoots with the dual rear springs, the Touring delivers a supremely smooth ride and that’s why we awarded it with the best-in-class suspension (which is quite the accolade considering we have 46 commuter-style scooters in our 100+ strong database).

Taking a close look at the suspension, the dual-pronged set of coil-springs that flank the front wheel for maximum cushioning act as the primary damping force as they take the brunt of the shocks. Any residual compression is then fed into the single spring above and remaining vibrations are softened and smoothed out by the rear springs.

Not only are the front springs large and robust, but they’re also visible – meaning they add as much to the scooter’s aesthetic as they do to its shock absorption. It’s also worth mentioning that the spring rate of each set of springs is different. This gives the suspension a more dynamic, adaptive feel; keeping it responsive and helping stop it from bottoming out.

Ultimately, the Touring is a super comfortable ride. Not only does it offer the best suspension I’ve reviewed on a commuter scooter, but it also has a long deck, offers plenty of clearance, and the handlebars afford great control, letting you enjoy the ride. Oh, and there’s even an optional seat attachment – so you can be comfortable whether you’re standing or sitting down.

If I had to pick one area of the scooter that affects ride quality, it would be the brakes – or should I say brake since it lacks two. By having just a single rear drum brake, its stopping power is weaker than other scooters. However, I think we can let this slide because the brake is reliable and, after all, the Touring only has a 500W motor capable of hitting 24 mph. If the motor was larger and its speed was higher, having dual brakes would be far more important.

Performance & Safety

Speed & Acceleration

The EMOVE Touring’s 500W motor endows it with a healthy top speed of up to 24 mph and a competitive acceleration rate to match. But how do its velocity credentials measure up to its closest rivals when we introduce the metrics of price and weight?

Speed vs Price Comparison

Let’s start with price, applying a £500 range with the EMOVE Touring’s £699 price tag in the middle.

Of the 15 other comparable models in this pricing bracket, the Touring’s 24 mph capacity places the scooter in the middle of the pack, beating out the likes of the INOKIM Light 2, Unagi E500, and Apollo Air Pro. Based on this assessment alone, for the price you pay, the Touring offers slightly above average performance – but which scooter is the best?

That’d be the Dualtron Mini – either the 13Ah or 17.5Ah version.

With a peak output of 1450W delivering a top speed that outstrips the Touring by 33%, the Mini's 32 mph top speed dominates the rankings. That said, despite the Mini having a name that suggests a diminutive size, it is fairly clunky compared to the Touring and not the best scooter if you're searching for a portable option. The same can be said of the Kugoo G2 Pro, which leaves the bonze-snatching VSETT 8 (15.6A) as a stellar option. With this model, you’ll get your hands on a scooter that’s a more well-rounded performer. Not only does the 8 leverage a pair of dual springs and swingarm suspension to deliver a more comfortable ride, but it also flaunts a larger 600W motor and greater stopping power than what the Touring’s single rear drum brake is capable of.

And, when it comes to build quality, the VSETT 8 blows the aforementioned Kugoo G2 Pro out of the water. After all, the VSETT line was built as a vastly improved evolution of the popular Zero range – so this kind of all-around excellence is to be expected.

Speed vs Weight Comparison

Shifting our focus now to weight, let’s take the 9 other models in the EMOVE Touring’s 15.2 to 20.2 kg class for comparison.

Though the Touring performs well, its 24 mph falls short of a first-place ranking as it sinks behind the likes of the slightly pacier Horizon models, Apollo City, and Dualtron Spider.

There is an elephant in the room, though…the Dualtron Spider is unlike any other scooter in this weight class. The reason why? Well, it sports dual motors, hence its superior speed. However, with this comes a vastly bigger frame than the Touring, rendering its portability factor low. With this in mind,  the Apollo City stands out as the best choice. Although it narrowly beats the Touring for top speed, its larger 600W motor generates more torque enabling it to accelerate faster.

Acceleration

Though its performance in our speed rankings above wasn’t standout, the Touring is still a surprisingly sprightly accelerator. Out of the three scooters that I endorse as alternatives, the Touring’s 4.5-second acceleration rate loses out only to the 600W motor of the Apollo City, which can hit 15 mph in just 4.1 seconds – 9% faster than the Touring.

While the Touring’s acceleration rate just pips that of the VSETT 8 (at 0.1 seconds, it’s essentially unobservable in practice). Although, one scooter where the difference is noticeable is the X7 Pro where the Touring easily trumps the comparatively sluggish 7.3-seconds.

Still, that’s no reason to write the X7 Pro off just yet. Thanks to a detachable battery, the X7 Pro is a versatile scooter that can keep the wheels rolling to your heart's content (or when your bank account runs dry from buying so many batteries). Seriously, though, you can pick up an additional battery for the X7 Pro for around £150 to double its 30-mile maximum range. Predictably, though, that range comes at the cost of rapidity. Both the X7 Pro’s acceleration and 20 mph top speed suffer at the hands of its small 350W motor, which pales in comparison to the larger motors of the alternatives I’ve listed.

Range

The EMOVE Touring has a full 25 miles of range in its locker – though its maximum capacity on any given ride will, of course, depend on how hilly the terrain is, your riding mode, and how heavy you’re going on the finger-throttle. Realistically, you’ll get 17 miles.

Let’s take a look at how the Touring’s maximum range measures up against the competition.

Mileage vs Price Comparison

Of the 14 other models in the Touring’s £449 to £949 price range, the scooter hovers around the middle of the pack.

While the Touring fails to make a name for itself as far as mileage is concerned, there’s one scooter with no such trouble – the Dualtron Mini (17.5Ah). Offering a maximum of 34 miles off a single charge, the Mini also flaunts high-quality LG battery cells. The only drawback is that the Mini doesn't have the same qualities that a commuter scooter like the EMOVE Touring has (i.e. a telescopic stem and foldable handlebars).

With this in mind, I'd opt for the VSETT 8 since it has a range that is 20% larger (+5 miles) than the Touring, provides better ride quality, and has a portable folded frame.

Mileage vs Weight Comparison

Moving onto our weight comparison, the Touring – as, by now, seems to be the trend – registers a relatively average performance. Sure, it comes joint third but it shares this accolade with 3 other models which account for almost the majority of all scooters in the rankings. There is a positive to this, though – at least it holds its own against the majority of its competition.

This time, however, it’s the 37-mile range of the Dualtron Spider hogging the plaudits, though if a light weight frame and stacks of portability are at the top of your priority list (and I’m assuming they are, because they’re what the Touring is made for), then I recommend the Apollo City. It’s not only a podium finisher but offers excellent build quality with its Dynavolt battery cells that guarantee long-lasting performance.

Hill Climbing

Despite the EMOVE Touring possessing a smaller motor than the Apollo City and VSETT 8 (both 600W), it still manages to go toe to toe with its more powerful rivals where hill climbing is concerned.

The Touring is capable of handling inclines of up to 15 degrees, meaning it’s certainly no slouch. After all, this level of gradient-guzzling ability easily dwarfs that offered by the Turboant X7 Pro and its weaker 350W motor.

That said, even the relatively large motors (such as those offered by the VSETT 8 and Apollo City) aren’t the biggest – or the most powerful – on the market. In the wider landscape of electric scooters, no model in the EMOVE Touring’s class will offer truly excellent hill-climbing qualities, but they’ll certainly be sufficient to get you up gradual slopes.

Shock Absorption / Suspension

I don’t hand out these accolades willy nilly, so it’s not to be taken lightly when I say that the EMOVE Touring benefits from the best suspension system on any commuter scooter.

In fact, the Touring is the first electric scooter in the world to come with a triple front suspension system. This consists of a spring at the base of the stem and a pair of coil-over-springs adorning either side of the front wheel.

Predictably, this innovative, trail-blazing triple threat – alongside the dual rear springs – provides a good amount of travel and does an excellent job at soaking up the undulations and uncertainties of urban terrain – though I’d still advise against trying your luck on more ambitious off-road surfaces.

For more information about the Touring’s shock-absorbing capabilities, see the ‘Ride Quality’ section of the review.

Braking

The EMOVE Touring’s braking setup comes in the form of a rear mechanical drum brake that provides a stopping distance of 4.9 meters from 15 mph.

Now, while I’d prefer to see a dual braking setup here, this kind of braking performance is what you’d expect from a scooter with a rear-wheel brake alone. Plus, there are mitigating circumstances for the Touring – namely, that less than a third (31%) of scooters in its pricing bracket sport dual mechanical brakes.

Two of these – which also happen to be the top alternatives I recommend over the Touring – are the Apollo City and VSETT 8 (15.6Ah). As you may remember, the VSETT line was originally created as the Pro line of the popular Zero range and this is evidenced in its braking specs. The 8 – thanks to its dual drum brakes – will bring you to a stop in an impressive 3.2 meters from 15 mph – a whole 35% faster than the Touring. Similarly, the Apollo City can bring you to a stop in 3.1 meters with its front disc and rear drum.

Charge Time

The EMOVE Touring takes 8 hours to charge. This is standard for its battery size – for instance, the Apollo City also has a 48V 13Ah battery that takes 6-8 hours to charge.

Extra Features

QS-S4 Throttle Display for Customized Performance Configuration

Mounted on the right side of the handlebars is the QS-S4, which doubles as both a display screen and finger throttle. Like the MiniMotors smart EY3 display, the QS-S4 is a standardized device seen on similar models from the likes of Apollo, Kaabo, VSETT, and Horizon.

So, what does it give you?

First up, it offers insights into your speed, riding mode, and remaining battery life, as well as the distance you’ve travelled on both your current trip and all time. But take a deeper dive, and there’s a whole other layer of more advanced functionality that the QS-S4 is capable of, which comes in the form of ‘P-settings’.

P-settings allow you to engage cruise control, as well as customize the strength of the regenerative brake. Some of its battery-saving features also include an auto-turn-off function, and an ability to tinker with the screen’s brightness.

Cruise Control

As I’d expect for a scooter of its class, the EMOVE Touring comes with a cruise control feature. When activated – which you can do by heading to setting P6 on the scooter’s QS-S4 display, and toggling it on – you’ll surrender manual control of the scooter, allowing you to maintain a constant speed without having to hug the finger-throttle.

To regain control, you just need to squeeze the brakes.

Headlight, Taillight, and Button LEDs

The EMOVE Touring sidesteps the extravagance of the Kugoo G2 Pro and Apollo City (which boast impressive deck and stem strip LEDs, respectively), in favour of a simple, stripped-back approach.

At the front, a low-mounted headlight provides good visibility in low-light conditions. However, for pitch-black scenarios, you’ll want to consider an attachable light for the handlebars – particularly as higher-mounted lights tend to offer better penetration. The button lights embedded into the four corners of the Touring’s deck look good – and will help you be seen by traffic and pedestrians – but won’t do much to help your vision when riding at night.

At the rear, there’s a fender-mounted responsive tail light to let others know when you’re slowing down or coming to a stop.

Telescopic Stem for Adjustable Handlebar Height

With its folding stem, collapsible handlebars, and relatively light 17.7 kg frame, the EMOVE Touring’s portability credentials are well-documented. Yet still, the Touring ups the ante with a telescopic stem, which allows you to adjust the level of the handlebars to fit your height, and ensure a comfortable ride (plus a posture your chiropractor would be proud of). The handlebars can be extended from 38 to 50 inches.

It’s super easy to use, too. Simply loosen the quick release lever on the lower part of the stem, modify the height of the handlebars to your unique preferences (or those of whoever’s going to be riding it), and then securely re-fasten the lever to lock the stem in place.

Refreshingly, the Touring shows little of the stem wobble you see on other scooters with telescopic stems – this is down to upgrades that were made to the folding mechanism in 2020.

Foldable Handlebars for Enhanced Portability

Foldable handlebars can be a double-edged sword. While they offer great aesthetic benefits and bestow a scooter with more portability, they can also be unreliable; wobbling and failing to feel secure during a ride.

Fortunately, though, there’s none of this instability with the EMOVE Touring. They not only fold down in a quick, simple motion but are unwavering in their rigidity and reliability. While you may have to tighten the adjustment screws slightly straight out of the box, it’s unlikely you’ll have to do it on an ongoing basis – as is the case with the folding mechanisms on other (more premium) models.

IP54 Water Resistance Rating

Courtesy of its IP54 water-resistance rating, the EMOVE Touring is certifiably able to withstand water spray from any direction. An IP54 rating offers good mid-range protection from the elements and is a nice upgrade from the more basic IPX4 rating.

A quick word of warning, though – while water resistance ratings offer you a layer of protection against rain, riding in it is never recommended. Not only is it a safety hazard, but you also run the gauntlet of damaging your scooter and voiding its warranty.

Battery Management System

The EMOVE Touring backs up an already impressed LG cell-equipped 48V 13Ah battery with a smart battery management system. This helps safeguard the battery from overcharging, overheating, and short-circuiting to ensure the longevity of its lifespan.

Horn

This feature is about as self-explanatory as it gets, but on the left side of the handlebars is a yellow button. Pushing this sirens its horn, which – while it doesn’t get anywhere near the decibel levels you see on performance-oriented models – is still plenty loud enough to get you heard by pedestrians.

Available in a Range of Colors

In an industry characterized by matte-black paint jobs (with the occasional splash of colour), a scooter like the Touring – which is available in a range of sumptuous colours – is a much-needed breath of fresh air.

The Touring comes in five colours:

• Orange
• White
• Purple
• Red
• Stealth Black

Optional Seat Attachment

The Touring can be fitted with an optional seat that affixes to the rear of the deck via a base plate. While it resembles a bicycle seat in shape and size, it’s worth pointing out that its hydraulic post gives you extra suspension and comfort alongside its plush saddle.

Warranty & Post-Purchase Support

Warranty

Buy your EMOVE Touring through Beyond PEV, and it’ll come with a one-year limited warranty.

So how about the small print? Well, as with all electric scooter warranties, the Touring’s policy comes with its fair share. Things the policy won’t cover include:

• Environmental damage, such as rain, sea breeze, or submersion
• Unauthorized modifications to the scooter, or any additions to it you make (such as batteries or tyres) that aren’t sold by Beyond PEV
• Wear and tear, which includes any superficial or surface defects, cosmetic damage such as rips or tears, and product ageing
• Improper maintenance, abuse, or neglect
• The application of harmful chemicals, such as solvents
• Corrosion of your the nuts and bolts

Post-Purchase Support

Seeking help from Beyond PEV is easy. You can either get in touch with the support team via the contact form on their website – from which they promise to get back to you within 48 hours. Or, you can give the team a call on 01604 962022 for a more personal level of assistance – they’re a friendly bunch.

They also have a responsive live chat. As I'm writing this, I wanted to see how quick they are to respond so I fired a question over and I was given a helpful answer in under a minute.

The last piece of the post-purchase support puzzle is Beyond PEV's service and repair centre which is located in Northampton. They offer a range of services stretching from tyre changes and puncture repairs to electronic testing and replacement.

Design

Handlebars

The Zero 11X’s handlebars measure up at a colossal 28 inches wide, with a curving, ergonomic shape that’s been custom-built to prioritize ride experience.

Similarly, its handgrips have been designed for comfort. Made from a traction-toting rubber, they boast a unique style, with a triangular portion missing from the centre offering a more stable, supple experience on longer rides.

All too often, I see scooter manufacturers going cheap on the handlebars, with crappy grips – so it’s refreshing to see the Zero 11X bucking that trend. Its handlebars don’t fold, but this is unlikely to be an issue. At 59.4 kg, the 11X is never going to be a portable number, and – when speeds of up to 60 mph are a possibility – I prefer there to be as few ‘moving parts’ as possible.

Attached to the handlebars you’ll find the buttons to control how many motors you want to engage, key-lock ignition, QS-S4 display, and two brake levers that need the lightest of touch to engage the powerful hydraulic discs.

Frame

While the 11X keeps faith with the red and black colour scheme of the Zero line, the design of the frame itself shares more DNA with the likes of the Wolf King.

Sporting dual piston-like tubular stems, aggressive brake cable bunching, and a full 59.4 kg of solid aluminium alloy, the Zero 11X projects an image to match the spectacular speed, strength, and specifications it’s capable of.

Don’t be fooled by the pictures, it is much larger in person. I like to call it the tank of the electric scooter world.

Deck

This thing is an absolute beast. It’s around a third larger than the Zero 10X – the model that came before it – so it’s no surprise that its deck is wide, long, and built like a dinner table.

The only problem is it’s not massively grippy. Rather than being slathered in a full coat of rubber (like the Wolf models), the 11X sports columns of grip tape on either side of the deck, leaving the middle bare. The deck houses a ginormous kickplate at the rear, though, that allows you to shift your body weight for more control.

Wheels

The plush-sized 11-inch tyres are built not only to keep you on the road but give you a truly comfortable experience – even at breakneck speeds.

Plus, because they are tubeless, they give you an added layer of insulation from the vibrations caused by rugged urban terrain – such as potholes – or the stone-scattered, treacherous paths that await you in the forest or on hard-packed dirt trails. However, the tyres are a lot firmer than the ones you’ll find on the 11X’s younger sibling, the 10X because of their tubeless design. There’s a benefit to this though, and this is that they are thicker and less susceptible to punctures.

Tread-wise, the 11X’s road-grade tyres are well suited to concrete and tarmac roads, while the off-road pair are knobby numbers with a three-dimensional pattern that is perfect for maintaining traction on loose terrain.

It is worth noting, though, that because of their large profile and the stiffness of the steering column, the 11X isn’t as nimble as the majority of performance scooters that sport smaller 10 inch tyres that are also thinner. This isn’t necessarily bad and helps to keep the scooter straight and stable while accelerating and hitting top speeds. It also forces you to ride in a way that isn’t too dissimilar to riding a motorcycle. To turn, you need to lean towards the direction that you want to go, as opposed to over-rotating the handlebars.

Build Quality & Durability

Build-wise, the Zero 11X isn’t only tank-like in size but also nature. While its beastly frame handles the wear and tear of everyday life, there are some areas for improvement.

Before we take a look at the bad, I’ll give you a rundown of the key components that make it good.

Firstly, there’s the kickplate. In the case of the 11X, it’s larger than normal and extends the length of the deck by about 5 inches. Without it, riding the 11X would be very difficult since the power thrumming through its frame requires you to position yourself in an aggressive stance leaning into the ride. Frustratingly, some scooters don’t have dedicated kickplates – only a fender (although these are typically made of plastic, and are too flimsy to put weight on). Thankfully, the Zero 11X has both – so you can feel confident at wind-whipping speeds not having to worry about mud and water splashing up and onto your freshly laundered clothes.

Secondly, there is zero stem wobble which inspires confidence while riding.

Thirdly, the battery – which is encased in the deck – is protected from collisions by two reinforced metal rods that run either side of it.

Now, it's time for the bad.

Like the rest of the models in the Zero line – there’s no formal water-resistance (IP) rating. This is somewhat sloppy work by Zero for two reasons. The first is that the 11X is an expensive scooter and for the price you pay you should absolutely have one. The second reason is that water-resistance ratings also house certifications for how well protected a scooter is against dust and considering the 11X has been built to tear up off-road routes where dirt and dust are likely to surround the deck – where the battery and electronic wiring resides – it’s fair to say this brings build quality down a notch.

The other let-down is the lack of a horn. All the alternatives I recommend come with 105dB motorcycle-grade horns. If you’re going to be travelling at the top 60 mph speed – which rivals traffic – a loud horn is a must.

Weight & Load

Weighing in at a sumo-sized 59.4 kg, the Zero 11X comprehensively tips the scales. Bar the Dualtron X (and its evolution, the X II), the 11X is heavier than pretty much all the competition. Essentially, it wins the unwanted prize of boasting one of the heftiest bulks on the market – and by a pretty considerable margin, too.

Here’s how it compares to the competition:

In terms of load, it can support up to 150 kg of rider weight, which is on a par with alternatives such as the NAMI Burn-e Viper and Wolf King GT. The only scooter in the 11X’s class capable of handling more weight is the Wolf King’s 181 kg capacity. As it turns out, ‘King’ isn’t just its moniker – it also refers to this model’s status as the best load-bearing scooter in the industry.

Folding & Portability

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again – the Zero 11X is not portable. It weighs 59.4 kg, which makes it almost a full 40.4 kg heavier than the maximum weight I recommend for commuters. One comment I found about the 11X that I think sums up it up quite nicely was:

“It’s not a last-mile solution… it’s a full mile solution!”

Portability is out of the question. The Zero 11X does fold, though. At the base of the stem, you’ll find two collar clamps – one on each of the scooter’s thick stem tubes. On each clamp, there are two quick-release levers and on the opposite side are small, nut-shaped dials. To unfold the scooter, simply unfasten the levers, then gently twist the two dials until the whole mechanism feels loose. After that, you need to slide the mechanism up, revealing the creases along which the 11X collapses in on itself. From there, it’s just a matter of gently folding the stem down to a horizontal position, though I’d take care – this thing can be a little too heavy to handle.

The only frustrating part here is that, when folded, there’s no way of locking the scooter’s stem to its deck or kickplate which makes it even more difficult to carry. You can, however, grab onto the bar between the two headlights, and use your other hand to grasp the kickplate.

Assembly

The Zero 11X requires minimal assembly.

You have to attach the handlebars and tighten up the few nuts and bolts that hold the QS-S4, key-ignition, motor buttons, and brake levers in place.

Ride Quality

Is the Zero 11X Comfortable to Ride?

With large springs at the front and rear and huge tyres, the Zero 11X delivers a fairly smooth ride. Although the springs are quite stiff and are ideal for fast-paced rides on urban terrain, they fall short of the shock-absorption qualities of similar scooters on rougher terrain. For example, the NAMI Burn-e’s hydraulic coil-shocks hog the plaudits when it comes to comfort. This is because they use a type of suspension that was originally a motocross invention and has been designed to deliver varying levels of comfort while traversing a variety of terrain. In brief, you can dial in the exact amount of damping you want with extreme ease.

You can also adjust the 11X’s rear spring to be more firm or soft, but this requires a tool called a c-spanner and even with the adjustments, it doesn’t come close to the level of comfort that the NAMI Burn-e, and even the Wolf King can provide.

It’s also worth noting that because of its super-sized weight, the 11X carries a lot of momentum and although it has powerful hydraulic brakes, lighter models like those mentioned above deliver better results when it comes to stopping distance.

Shoutouts do need to go to its extremely wide, ergonomically shaped handlebars, behemoth deck, and kickplate, though – all of which help you to maintain control over its handling.

Performance & Safety

Speed & Acceleration

The Zero 11X can hit top speeds of up to a pulse-quickening, blood-curdling, 60 mph – which is just about the fastest speed you’ll see on any electric scooter.

But how does the top speed compare to its closest equivalents?

Speed vs Price Comparison

Taking a price range of £1,000, with the Zero 11X’s £2895 asking price in the middle, gives us 9 other models with which to compare the 11X to.

Unsurprisingly, it’s the Wolf King GT and Dualtron Ultra 2 that dominates the first place rankings with their 62 mph speed piping the Zero 11X to the mark. However, the Ultra 2 has been designed specifically to be an off-road savage. Taking into account how difficult it is to hit speeds of over 40 mph on notoriously unpredictable off-road terrain, I’ve always felt that the specs and power of this scooter are overkill. On the other hand, the King GT – and original King, for that matter – are terrain-agnostic meaning they are at home wherever you put them.

While the King GT takes the glory thanks to its versatile build and super-fast acceleration rate as a result of its whopping dual 2000W motors, its predecessor, the Wolf King, is still a top-rate scooter that delivers scorching speeds. The original King also costs a few quid less than the Zero 11X which makes it a desirable option.

Alternatively, if you want a ride that delivers a similar long-range to the 11X, as well as insane levels of torque, acceleration, and speed – the VSETT 11+ is a great option. It’s cheaper, retailing for £2,430, too. You may also be interested to know that the VSETT line is effectively the successor to the Zero range and as such, the VSETT 11+ was initially earmarked to be the Pro version of the 11X. However, the 11+ is hard to get your hands on in the UK and you need to get it shipped over from Europe.

Speed vs Weight Comparison

Applying a weight range of 39.4 – 79.4 kg (with the Zero 11X’s 59.4 kg bulk at the centre) gives us a list of 10 similar scooters. Typically, I keep these comparisons to a much smaller 5 kg range as opposed to 40 kg. The reason why I’ve expanded this is because the Zero 11X is one of the heaviest electric scooters and if I was to keep the weight bracket small I’d only be able to compare it to one other scooter, the VSETT 11+. Since ultra-performance scooters are never going to be portable or easy to carry, it’s better to cast the net out wider to give you a greater view of which scooter is best.

Of the comparable models, the Zero 11X claims joint-third, tied with both the Wolf King and the NAMI Burn-e Viper. Unsurprisingly, the insane 68 mph top speed and impressive torque of the Dualtron X 2 make it the quickest mover in the 11X’s weight class – although its jumbo £4950 price tag will likely prove too much for most riders.

With this in mind, its powerful sibling, the Dualtron Storm (62 mph), is a scooter you should seriously consider if you want to get your hands on a Dualtron model.

Ultimately though, I would choose either the NAMI Burn-e or Wolf King GT. Both scooters have superior build and ride quality, and are extremely powerful thanks to the 8400W peak output of their dual motors. This is larger than that of the Dualtron X II which has 8300W. The result? Brutal acceleration rates that, quite frankly, make the 11X look slow. But more on this in the ‘Acceleration’ section next.

Acceleration

The Zero 11X’s acceleration rate is a bit of a paradox. Because, despite sporting the bigger motors than some of the models that I recommend as alternatives, the 11X is the “slowest” of the bunch. That’s because acceleration isn’t solely dependent on motor size, but also on factors such as:

• The controllers that pull power to the motors
• The voltage of the motors
• The scooter’s total weight

Against this backdrop, the 11X’s hefty 59.4 kg of weight is partly to blame here – particularly because it weighs more than all of its closest competitors. Here’s how its acceleration rate stacks up:

While the Zero 11X is the weakest accelerator of the bunch, 3.7 seconds to 25 mph certainly isn’t anything to be sniffed at – so you can see why I put “slow” in quotation marks above.

If you’re a self-confessed adrenaline junkie searching for a scooter with a blistering acceleration rate (and the features and other specs to boot) the NAMI Burn-e is your guy. It’ll hit 15 mph 32% faster than the Zero 11X, and is also 19% quicker to reach 25 mph. For those unwilling to meet the Burn-e’s £3,950 price point, the Wolf King offers the next best overall package.

Range

The Zero 11X lays claim to a simply staggering range of up to 90 miles off a single charge – though, as always, how hard you’re pulling the throttle (and how much you weigh) will affect results in practice. Expect to hit 45-50 miles with both motors engaged.

So how much mileage are you getting for your money? And, are there better deals out there? Let’s dive a little deeper.

Mileage vs Price Comparison

When we again apply a £1,000 price range – leaving us with 9 of the models most analogous to the Zero 11X – the 11X comes out swinging, emerging at the summit of the rankings. The 11X’s Herculean 90 mile range is enough to just beat out the Dualtron Ultra 2 (87 miles) and the VSETT 11+ (85 miles). That said, I’m a fan of looking at things holistically, and – when we take a step back from the metric of mileage alone – the Wolf King GT stands out as the most preferable option in terms of its overall package.

Not only does it boast gigantic dual 72V 2000W motors and 50Ah Sine Wave controllers, but it has superior build quality, advanced technology that regulates the power pulled to the motors to prevent overheating, and amped-up features that take comfort up a few notches, including an ergonomic thumb throttle and suspension system that is in a completely different league. And most important of all, it has a huge 72V 35Ah LG battery that delivers 70 miles of range.

This may be less than the 11X but ask yourself how important it is to have those extra miles. Ultimately, the way I see it is that the 11X is vastly outdated compared to the GT, meaning you'll throw away all of the good stuff the GT has to offer in exchange for a few more miles.

Mileage vs Weight Comparison

Though the Zero 11X dominates our mileage rankings as far as price is concerned, it struggles a little when analyzed alongside the most comparable scooters in its weight class (20 kg on either side of 59.4 kg).

Of the 10 total models in this category, it’s the NAMI Burn-e Viper that slithers into pole position. The Viper’s 100 mile maximum range is 11% more than what the Zero 11X is capable of and even trumps the mileage capacity of the more expensive Dualtron X II.

If this statistic alone isn’t enough to convince you of the Burn-e’s superiority to the Zero 11X, one look at its suspension system should be. The Viper’s adjustable KKE hydraulic coil-over-shock suspension system is straight out of the world of motocross and has the advantage of being simple to adjust by hand. No tools are needed.

Because of its highly customizable shock absorption and features like its ergonomic thumb throttle, the Viper is the clear choice over the Zero 11X when it comes to ride comfort. Considering how important this factor is for enjoying long rides, the Viper is my top choice.

Hill Climbing

30 degrees – that’s the maximum incline rate the Zero 11X is capable of climbing.

Along with the rest of the scooters that I recommend as alternatives, the 11X is a certified hill-eating machine.

The only real insight I can offer here is that, if you want to fly up inclines with a little more pace than the 11X, then the NAMI Burn-e Viper – with its enormous 8400W peak power output – is the scooter for you.

Shock Absorption / Suspension

The Zero 11X sports long-travel swingarm suspension, courtesy of a pair of thick, high-quality coil springs catering to both the front and rear tyres. The rear spring also happens to be adjustable, which can be useful if you plan on riding over rough terrain.

Durable and dependable, the large beefy tyres are in charge of soaking up the initial impact caused by imperfections while the springs absorb the brunt of the vibrations.

However, as mentioned earlier, the springs aren’t the most dynamic. By comparison, the NAMI Burn-e gives you the ability to fine-tune the amount of damping you need, and other scooters like the Wolf King have superior hydraulic fork suspension at the front, coupled with springs in the rear. Taking this into consideration, and the fact that the two latter models are cheaper than the 11X, the suspension system starts to seem average.

Braking

Anyone shelling out more than £2,500 on a scooter is entitled to expect a full-hydraulic braking system. Luckily, the 11X has one.

These are some of the finest types of brakes money can buy, so it’s no surprise that the vast majority of the scooters competing in the Zero 11X’s class of price and calibre also come equipped with dual hydraulic brakes. In fact, the only scooter in this category not to flaunt a hydraulic braking setup is the off-road-oriented Dualtron Ultra, which sports standard front and rear discs. Luckily, the Ultra’s successor – perhaps unimaginatively titled the Dualtron Ultra II – does have hydraulics.

Shifting the focus to the scooters I recommend as alternatives, the Burn-e Viper, Wolf King GT, and Wolf King all boast hydraulic braking systems with 160mm discs. That means that the braking performance of each of these is excellent, and renders them all safe, reliable options. That said, it’s worth pointing out that – since the heavier frame of the 11X naturally lends it more momentum when in motion – the Burn-e and the Wolf King both tend to outperform it when it comes to stopping quickly.

For context, the Burn-e and Wolf King come to a stop from 15 mph in 3.0 meters – which we consider to be excellent.

Charge Time

The Zero 11X’s powerful 72V 32Ah Li-on LG battery was never going to go hand in hand with a rapid charge time. And so it proves because the scooter takes a whopping 20 hours to reach full charge.

That’s the bad news.

The good news, however, is that you can cut that time in half by purchasing a second charger. Plugging them both in will have your 11X rejuvenated in around 10 hours.

That’s not astronomically fast, but you can take solace in the fact that the scooter’s impressive 90 mile range means that you shouldn’t have to be charging it too often.

Extra Features

QS-S4 Throttle Display for Customized Performance Configuration

Despite the Zero 11X boasting the same top-tier specs and capabilities as the upper echelons of the Dualtron range, you won’t see MiniMotors’ famed EY3 display atop the handlebars. Instead, the 11X relies on the more basic – yet still intuitive – QS-S4.

This device serves as both a finger throttle and LCD screen, from which you can keep tabs on your 11X’s:

• Current speed
• Total ride time (odometer)
• The ride time of your current trip
• Battery life
• Riding mode

From the QS-S4’s screen, you can customize its range of more advanced capabilities. These are called ‘P-settings’, and – in addition to enabling you to adjust your max output and torque – allow you to leverage the full spectrum of the 11X’s features, such as:

• Cruise control
• Auto turn-off
• Display brightness
• Regenerative braking strength

There’s even a USB port hidden away behind the screen, which (as a last resort) can be used to charge your devices. I wouldn’t recommend this, though – it’ll take its toll on your scooter’s remaining battery life, and potentially do damage to the electrical circuits within the QS-S4 itself.

Motor & Turbo Control Buttons

Fastened to the left of the handlebars is a pair of buttons – one marked ‘Eco/Tubo’, and the other ‘Single/Dual’.

The first of these controls your top speed and acceleration strength. Intuitively, ‘Eco’ helps preserve the health and longevity of your battery by capping your top speed, and limiting the amount of torque available. Riding in ‘Eco’ mode will afford you longer rides, and a higher chance of hitting the astounding 90 miles of maximum range.

The second of these buttons, predictably, refers to the dual motors and enables you to toggle between the use of both of them, or just the rear hub. As is the case with the Eco mode, engaging just one motor will extend the range while using both will unleash the full force of its 60 mph speed and tarmac-scorching acceleration rate.

As a rule, don’t ever switch to single motor mode when riding fast because it will forcibly eject you off the scooter as well as destroy the rear motor. Instead, keep the scooter in dual motor mode to slow down, and then when you are riding below 20 mph, you can safely switch to just the rear motor.

Battery Voltage Display

While the QS-S4 is a super versatile addition to the scooter, it doesn’t always offer the most accurate readings when it comes to understanding how much battery life your scooter has left.

But that’s what the battery voltage display is for.

Located to the left of the QS-S4, this small screen uses nixie tubes to visualize your scooter’s remaining voltage. Though this may seem like a throwaway feature, it’s a crucial one. I recommend getting to grips with how the voltage figures translate into battery percentage so you can take full advantage of it.

Key-Start Ignition (Anti-Theft Function)

While some of the Zero 11X’s competitors rely on digital passcodes (the NAMI Burn-e) and NFC card readers (the VSETT 11+), the 11X sticks to the basics with a retro key-ignition.

While it's not the most advanced anti-theft mechanism it’ll at least give you some reassurance to deter sticky fingers. Remember, this scooter weighs a massive 59.4 kg so it’s unlikely anyone will be picking it up and walking off with it.

Cruise Control

All QS-S4 displays come equipped with a built-in cruise control feature as standard. To toggle it on or off, simply head to setting P6 on the screen, and change the ‘0’ to ‘1’.

Enabling this feature will allow you to maintain a constant speed when you’re out on the road – without having to risk hand cramps by keeping the finger throttle pulled down the whole time. Once you’ve finished cruising, you can revert to manual control over your scooter by lightly squeezing the brakes.

Adjustable Suspension

The Zero 11X’s rear coil spring is adjustable. Just above the spring at the back of the scooter, you’ll find a small, wheel-like dial. You can tighten or loosen this to provide less or more give.

You need a c-spanner to adjust it.

Bright Dual Headlights and a Quartet of Taillights

The 11X keeps its LED setup fairly simple, consisting of two bright headlights, accompanied by a quartet of responsive rear tail lights.

There’s not a huge amount of the swagger as we saw with earlier models in the Zero series – such as the 9 and 10, which sport deck and stem-embedded strips of LED mood lighting – but that’s not a deal-breaker.

Essentially, the 11X swaps the style of the range’s earlier models for substance, flaunting super-bright headlights, and taillights that flash when you apply the brakes. You’ll have no issues seeing (and being seen) at night. Unlike the majority of other scooters, you won’t have to shell out for an extra headlight.

Design

Handlebars

The handlebars sport a curved ergonomic shape while the large grips are coated in rubber. Combined with the wide 26.7-inch profile, they afford ultimate control of the steering column. However, the trigger throttle brings the comfort level down a factor since your right hand is forced into a claw-like position.

Below the throttle and QS-S4 display, you’ll find the battery voltage meter and key-ignition, and on the left, you have the motor controls. Adorning each side of the handlebars are the brake levers which are well-calibrated but you still need to feather them since the hydraulic discs are fairly powerful and can catch you off-guard if you slam on the brakes.

Unlike its gaggle of younger siblings – including the Zero 9 and the 10 – the 10X handlebars don’t fold. If this is a deal-breaker for you (which it shouldn’t be – folding handlebars on faster scooters like the 10X aren’t the most advisable), keep an eye out as some online stores sell interchangeable pairs of folding handlebars.

Frame

The Zero 10X 52V cuts a bulky, brawny figure. The precipitation-hardened structure of its frame is covered in a jet black coat of paint, with splashes of red adorning its swingarms and collar clamp, as well as the trim of its deck and handlebars.

All in all, it’s undeniably a nice-looking scooter – even if it is somewhat lacking in originality.

Look closer, and you’ll see it looks the same as the Varla Eagle One (thanks to the manufacturer that they share). While the Eagle One makes some pretty wild design choices – such as its deck grip tape variations, which depict flaming skulls and Apache attack helicopters – the 10X 52V plays it safe, and is unlikely to alienate anyone with the look and feel of its branding.

Deck

Wide, long, comfortable, and slathered in a grippy material, the deck is a pleasure to stand on.

Yet what I love most is its kickplate – the raised, angular platform of metal at the scooter’s rear. This is great for placing your back foot on when hitting the 10X’s top speeds since it provides extra traction by striking a more stable stance.

Wheels

The wheels are the same kind we see on the Zero 10 – 10 inches in size and pneumatic.

In addition to being terrain-agnostic, they work in cahoots with the front and rear springs to soak up most of the vibrations the road can throw at you. And, thanks to their size profile (i.e. height and width), the 10X remains nimble to ride while maintaining traction with the ground below.

The combination of the plush, pliable rubber ties and spring suspension system delivers a smooth, comfortable riding experience on urban terrain and affords enough shock absorption to confidently navigate dirt paths and trails. However, where this scooter doesn’t perform well is on rock-strewn terrain, for this, I suggest opting for a scooter that has been designed for off-roading, like the Wolf Warrior or King.

Build Quality & Durability

With a frame made of a tough aluminium alloy and a thick, durable set of parts, the Zero 10X is battle-hardened and ready to ride.

Design-wise, it beefs up on its predecessor – the Zero 10 – with the inclusion of a larger, more durable frame and a strong kickplate.

The only real issues in terms of build quality are the lack of a formal water-resistance rating, the cheaper Chinese battery cells, and the stem wobble that the scooter’s lacklustre folding clamp can cause.

Fortunately, the irritating stem wobble issue – which, out of the three issues above is the primary one – can be fixed, but it comes at a cost. For £45, you can purchase Zero’s ‘Rugged Folding Clamp’.

This clamp stiffens up the stem to eliminate wobble and I recommend shelling out for it. That said, it’s hard not to have mixed feelings about the way the stem wobble effectively holds you to ransom, essentially forcing you to buy the clamp if you don’t want compromised ride quality.

Weight & Load

The Zero 10X weighs 36.3 kg and is capable of supporting up to 150 kg of rider weight. Load-wise, that puts the 10X’s capacity above the Mantis Pro and VSETT 10+, which – funnily enough – are also the two scooters that most closely parallel the 10X on the metrics of speed and range.

A load of 150 kg isn’t to be sniffed at, either – in fact, only two scooters in our 100-strong database outstrip it. One is the EMOVE Cruiser – a model similar to the 10X 52V’s little bro, the Zero 10 – which can support up to 160 kg. The other is the granddaddy of load-bearing – the Wolf King – which can support up to 181 kg, the heaviest load of all the scooters on our books.

Folding & Portability

The 10X doesn’t come stock with folding handlebars, however, the folding stem does lend it a peppering of portability.

My only gripe about the Zero 10X’s portability is that, when folded, the stem doesn’t lock into place, or fasten to the deck. This makes the scooter difficult to pick up and move around, and – on top of the model’s already hefty 36.3 kg bulk – means I don’t recommend it as a portable solution.

Assembly

The Zero 10X 52V requires minimal assembly out of the box – you’ll just need to attach the handlebars and tighten up the accessories (QS-S4 display, key-lock ignition, etc) with the included bank of Allen wrenches.

Tip: When fastening the brake levers into place, angle them down. This makes them easier to use while riding.

Ride Quality

Is the Zero 10X Comfortable to Ride?

With the addition of adjustable suspension, the Zero 10X upgrades on the already comfortable ride experience provided by its predecessor, the Zero 10. However, a defining difference is the addition of swingarm suspension that enables the 10X to effectively soak up more harsh terrain as the arms pivot up and down in accordance with the tyre and spring position. In brief, this allows for a greater amount of travel that delivers an overall smoother ride.

On top of that, it retains many of the aspects that made the Zero 10 such an enjoyable ride – such as its optional seat attachment, large comfortable deck, and plush shock absorptive pneumatic tyres.

The only disappointing aspect of the 10X’s ride quality is the stem wobble. At best, this is an irritating distraction – at worst, it’s a dangerously egregious design flaw. If you’re set on the 10X 52V, purchasing the aforementioned rugged stem locking mechanism is a must.

Performance & Safety

Speed & Acceleration

The Zero 10X 52V is capable of hitting a top speed of 38 mph, improving on the maximum capacity of its predecessor – the Zero 10 – by a full 7 mph. But how does the Zero 10X’s speed match its closest rivals as far as price and range are concerned? Let’s take a look.

Speed vs Price Comparison

Ranked against the 14 other models in its price class (£1,130 to £1,630), the Zero 10X 52V emerges in second place.

Topping the chart – which you can dive deeper into below – are the Mantis Pro, Mantis Base, Dualtron Eagle Pro, and Speedway 5, all of which beat the 10X by 2 mph.

Of these top contenders, the Mantis Pro is my top pick. This is as a result of its powerful 60V 1000W dual motors and high-quality LG battery that increase power, torque, and acceleration.

If you can stretch your budget to get the Mantis Pro, I highly recommend doing so – not only does it have superior build quality but it is consistently voted by the electric scooter community as being the best electric scooter.

Speed vs Weight Comparison

When compared alongside the scooters in its weight class of 33.8 to 38.3 kg (with a total of 10 models) the Zero 10X places dead last. This data indicates that the Zero 10X doesn’t offer much pace considering its weight and that its speed-to-weight ratio – which usually follows the rule that the more a scooter weighs, the faster it goes – is a little out of whack.

At the opposite end of the rankings, the scooters in the VSETT 10+ lineup share the glory. And it’s hardly surprising – with their huge 60V 1400W motors, dual 35Ah controllers, and ‘Sport’ (a.k.a. ‘Turbo Boost’) mode for injecting 5Ah more power, these scooters outstrip everything similar on the market.

In fact, the VSETT 10+’s top speed is a whopping 32% greater than that offered by the Zero 10X. So, if the adrenaline-pumping thrill of a fast ride is what you seek, I advise upgrading to the VSETT 10+. That said, your bank account may not agree with me – the 10+R will set you back an extra £815. However, the beauty of the VSETT range lies in the fact that you can pick up varying models with different-sized batteries (hence the Ah values). In this case, you can still benefit from the blistering performance of the VSETT 10+ but instead, opt for the less expensive 25.6Ah version that costs £1,995. It’s also worth noting that while the 25.6Ah model has a smaller battery than the 10+R (28Ah), it still delivers a maximum mileage (66 miles) that outstrips the Zero 10X by 74% (equivalent to 28 more miles).

Acceleration

Compared to the other scooters of its ilk, the Zero 10X 52V doesn’t exactly scorch the road when it comes to acceleration. Take a look at how it stacks up in the table below:

As you can see, it’s the VSETT 10+ and Mantis Pro hogging the limelight here, courtesy of their 60V motors. However, the 10+ edges the Pro because of its larger motors (1400W vs 1000W), and the fizzing 1.7 seconds it takes to reach 15 mph constitutes one of the fastest acceleration rates in our database of over 100 scooters.

But again, the VSETT 10+’s drawback is its price – so, I’d opt for the Pro if your budget is tight.

Range

If you’re careful with it – that is, not pushing the motors up steep hills or caning that thumb throttle – the Zero 10X 52V should be able to hit up to 38 miles off a single charge. But who am I kidding, you’re going to want to run this thing ragged, and based on this riding style you’ll get 23 miles from it.

Just as we did in our speed comparisons above, let’s take a look at how the maximum mileage stacks up against the industry’s most similar scooters.

Mileage vs Price Comparison

Taking the 15 models in the Zero 10X’s price class, the scooter performs below average, falling short of the middle of the rankings. So what’s the best choice here?

The logical answer would be the Speedway 5. However, its low-quality Chinese battery tells a different story. While the 75 miles looks impressive on paper, there are better scooters that are more comfortable to ride and that have batteries that will outperform the Speedway 5 where longevity is concerned. For clarity, cheap Chinese battery cells deteriorate faster than higher-quality batteries, like those from LG. Ultimately, this means that the peak performance (75 miles) of the Speedway 5's battery won't last as long as the performance of another scooter that has a higher quality battery.

Next, we have the EMOVE Cruiser, and while this model has a high-quality LG battery, it only has one 1000W motor and is much slower than the Zero 10X. The same goes for the INOKIM Ox with its small 800W motor. As a result, these two aren't good alternatives since they don't belong to the same dual motor performance category as the Zero 10X.

This leaves us with the upgraded Zero 10X with Hydraulic Brake, Dualtron Eagle Pro, and Mantis Pro. Out of these, I would go for the Mantis. Not only is it nicer to ride but it also delivers better build quality since the Zero 10X and Dualtron Eagle Pro both suffer from considerable stem wobble which inhibits the riding experience.

Mileage vs Weight Comparison

Just as it did in our Speed vs Weight rankings, the Zero 10X turns in a miserable showing for mileage, again placing at the bottom of the pile vs the 9 other models in its weight bracket (33.8 to 38.3 kg).

This time, it’s Dualtron scooters that lead the pack, although a quick heads up – if you want a scooter with better build quality, I’d look past both the Ultra and the 3, and pivot instead towards either of the VSETT 10+ scooters. There are primed for long-range rides and have a huge array of features to boot. If you have the funds, it’s worth shelling out the big bucks for the VSETT 10+R. It costs £2,195 but offers almost double the range (74 miles). Food for thought.

Hill Climbing

The Zero 10X 52V can tackle hills of up to a 30-degree incline rate, which means it can handle most urban slopes comfortably.

However, if you want to zip up hills faster, and take on more challenging gradients, I’d recommend the VSETT 10+ (25.6Ah). It has a mouth-watering incline rate of 35-degrees, so can easily cope with anything you can throw at it.

Shock Absorption / Suspension

The 10X is fitted with dual spring suspension, which – on top of its 10-inch pneumatic tyres – helps to soak up most of the vibrations you’d otherwise feel on rough terrain.

Plus, the 10X 52V’s front and rear shocks – in addition to being seriously robust – are adjustable. While the mechanism here doesn’t have a patch on something like the NAMI Burn-e, where you can dial in the exact amount of damping, it still comes in handy when you need to tighten or loosen the strength of your scooter’s shock absorption to fit different types of terrain.

The swingarms play a key role in the scooter’s ability to react to the compression and rebounding of the springs, too. They essentially ensure that you aren’t bouncing up and down but instead keep you planted to the deck as they pivot up and down in relation to the movement of the springs.

Braking

While the 38 mph top speed isn’t quite as fast as many similar scooters on the market, it’s still certainly not slow – and to control your speed the 10X comes with dual disc brakes.

Together, these brakes allow the 10X to come to a stop in 4.9 meters from a speed of 15 mph. Generally, I consider a good braking distance to be between 3 and 3.4 meters – so the 10X does fall short here.

For reference, the upgraded version of the Zero 10X that comes with hydraulic brakes comes to a stop in 3.7 meters.

This is also born out in our analysis of similar scooters. Several models in the Zero 10X’s pricing bracket – including the Mantis Pro, Mantis Base, and Mantis 8 Pro – all have hydraulic braking setups. These hydraulic brakes help this group of 10X competitors to outstrip it when it comes to braking performance. For instance, the Mantis Pro can come to a stop in just 3 meters, while the Base and 8 Pro take 3.4.

Similarly, the VSETT 10+ (25.6Ah) delivers superior stopping power to the 10X, coming to a halt in 3 meters.

Charge Time

The battery takes around 10 to 12 hours to reach full charge.

However, purchasing an extra 52V charger – which you can do for just £65 – will cut this time in half, meaning you can get back on the road quicker.

Extra Features

QS-S4 Throttle Display for Customized Performance Configuration

The QS-S4 display – which is located just to the right of the handlebars – doubles as both a finger throttle and screen. That means it’s not only your go-to for regulating your scooter’s speed and acceleration, but also for quick-look insights into your ride time, distance travelled (current trip, and all-time), battery life, riding mode, and current speed.

Cooler still, this device has a clandestine USB port tucked away just behind the screen. You can use this to charge your accessories if you’re desperate, but I wouldn’t endorse it – current-craving iPhones and GoPros won’t just drain your 10X’s battery, but potentially cook its circuits, too.

Dig deeper into what the QS-S4 device is capable of and you’ll come across its P-settings. These provide you with a range of customizable functions, including:

• The strength of your scooter’s regenerative braking system and acceleration
• The brightness of its display
• Auto turn-off settings
• Cruise control

The QS-S4 isn’t the most customizable display on the market, but it's reliable, user-friendly, and popular enough to feature on scooters from the esteemed Kaabo, Apollo, VSETT, and Varla brands – so it’s worth getting the hang of to take advantage of its capabilities.

Motor & Turbo Control Buttons

To the left-hand side of the handlebars is a pair of buttons.

The one marked Eco/Turbo refers to your riding mode, and allows you to toggle between the two. Staying in ‘Eco’ will help conserve your battery and access the 10X’s maximum range but at the expense of your pace and acceleration. Ramping things up to ‘Turbo’ mode will do the opposite – you’ll forgo your chances of a longer ride, but benefit from increased torque.

Similarly, the button reading ‘Single/Dual’ controls whether you’re riding with both motors engaged, or just one. Riding with dual motors will help you get the most power out of the 10X but at the expense of battery life.

Battery Voltage Display

The Zero 10X 52V comes with a battery voltage display. This is situated just west of the scooter’s QS-S4 screen, on the right side of the handlebars.

This voltage display appears in the form of a number that you can use to decode your scooter’s remaining battery life. We’ve put together a rough guide that you can use to understand how much juice you have left in the tank:

Your QS-S4 will also provide a basic battery bar visualization of your remaining battery life. Using the voltmeter is preferable, though, because of how granular the level of detail is. This allows for a more accurate estimation of the amount of ride time you have remaining.

Cruise Control

The built-in cruise control feature is accessible via the QS-S4’s P-settings. Simply navigate to setting P6 on the screen to activate it, and – when you’re out on the road and have reached the set cruising speed – it’ll engage automatically. This allows you to relax your grip on the throttle and take it easy.

When you’re done, gently squeeze the brakes to regain manual control over your speed.

Adjustable Suspension

As mentioned earlier, the spring suspension is adjustable, meaning you can customize it to fit the profile of a range of different riding surfaces.

The process is a little technical – and will take some getting used to the first couple of times you do it – but ultimately, it’s relatively quick and headache-free.

You do need to have your c-spanner at the ready, though.

LED Lights

Compared to the sensational mood deck lighting of the Zero 10, the 10X’s LED display keeps it surprisingly muted and subtle. The scooter relies solely on deck-embedded button lights at the front and rear. Predictably, their poor placement and lack of brightness mean that, while perfectly adequate for getting you spotted by other vehicles on the road, they aren’t sufficient to provide you with good visibility for riding at night.

If you are planning on taking to the streets after dark, you’ll need to invest in an extra attachable light – ideally, one that’s bright enough to serve as a headlight. Strap this high up on the stem or handlebars for the best results.

Key-Start Ignition (Anti-Theft Function)

Just as cars have ignitions to stop random people hopping in and taking them for a spin, so too does the Zero 10X.

Essentially, this means the scooter will be immobilized – that is, prevented from turning on – unless you unlock it with your key. Helpfully, this will allow you to leave it alone for short periods – say, popping into the local grocery store for a carton of milk – and not have to worry about someone riding off on it. Sure, it could still be rolled away without the key – but at 36.3 kg, I don’t envision that being a particularly quick process.

Heat Sinks to Expel Unwanted Heat and Protect Controllers

Controlling the impressive nominal total power output of 2000W from the dual hub motors is a pair of 25Ah speed controllers. As you can imagine, with all that power and kinetic energy fizzing around, these controllers tend to get pretty hot.

Fortunately, the controllers are protected with heat sinks. These devices pull cool air in and across all the vital components to regulate the temperature of the controllers and motors. This is essential for the longevity of the scooter.

Optional Seat Attachment

For £95.99 you can purchase a seat attachment. It’s comfortable, fully adjustable, and comes with in-built hydraulic suspension – so it’s ideal for longer journeys.

The seat is super easy to install, too – there are a few screws you’ll have to tighten, but no drilling or technical stuff is required.

Design

Handlebars

Okay, so the handlebars aren’t particularly wide or built in a curved shape for comfort. However, they do offer one of the most intuitive, reliable folding mechanisms I’ve seen.

The Zero 10’s handlebars collapse inward easily – making the scooter easier to store and move around – and, although they require tightening now and then, when they are locked into place they aren’t prone to wobble or instability.

Mounted on the handlebars, you’ll find the QS-S4. This is a device that doubles as both your finger throttle and a screen for displaying your riding mode and stats and even has a hidden USB port tucked away behind its dial. There are precious few other contraptions you’ll have to get to grips with on the Zero 10’s handlebars – just its pair of hand-operated mechanical disc brakes.

Coating the ends of the Zero 10’s handlebars are rubber grips. These are ergonomically shaped to provide comfort on long rides and are far superior to the cheaper grips we see on some similar scooters, like the Kugoo G2 Pro.

Frame

Though the specs, features, and power of the different models in the Zero line differ, one constant is the colours that they’re all decked out with. Like the 8 and 9 before it – and the 10X and 11X after it – the Zero 10 keeps things simple with fringes of red complimenting a predominantly midnight black colour scheme.

The frame – while it doesn’t quite match the 11x’s dual tubular stems for badassery – does still channel a strong vibe. With exposed, bunched cabling popping from the top and bottom of the stem, and a set of chubby tyres, the Zero 10 means business. Thankfully, the branding – which is limited pretty much solely to a set of small logos on the stem and deck – is kept to a minimum, so it’s not as in-your-face as that of others.

Oh, and no discussion of the Zero 10’s frame would be complete without at least paying lip service to the stunning set of LED strips lining the underside of its deck and front of its stem – but more on that later.

Deck

As explained earlier, the Zero 10 is essentially a souped-up version of the Zero 9 – so it’s only fitting that, at 21 x 9 inches, the 10’s deck expands on its predecessor by 1.5 inches in length and 1.3 inches in width. That makes it plenty large enough for you to stand comfortably, although the lack of a kickplate at the rear of the deck does restrict your full range of movement.

Kickplates are small panels – usually positioned over the rear wheel, towards the tail end of the deck – that serve as rests for your back foot. These platforms allow you to lean into the ride, and afford more traction and control when travelling at higher speeds. While the Zero 10 has a rear fender, this is geared more towards stopping mud splashes, rather than as a place for your foot. It’s also made from plastic, so I don’t recommend putting any weight on it.

Talking traction, the Zero 10’s deck relies on three thin strips of grip tape. While this means that less surface area is covered, they’re perfectly adequate. By comparison, the Apollo Explore sports a geometrical cutout grip tape design that covers the entirety of the deck.

Inside the Zero 10’s deck is where you’ll find its battery, and on either side, you’ll find two strips of stylish LEDs. But more on that in the ‘Extra Features’ section of the review.

Wheels

The Zero 10 sports a pair of 10 inch pneumatic tyres. Made with a design that prioritizes comfort, these – along with the front and rear spring suspension – help safeguard your joints from vibrations caused by tricky terrain.

Sure, the pneumatic tyres are more prone to punctures than their solid counterparts, but you can always add a licking of tyre slime to their interior to protect against this. For the extra comfort they provide, they are irreplaceable.

Another benefit the tyres offer is in their size. Larger tyres provide you with a greater contact patch with the road, giving you better handling and control over the scooter. At 10 inches, they are the second-biggest in the Zero line – and have the most common size profile among scooters of the 10’s ilk. Take a look at how they stack up against the rest of the Zero range below:

For a deeper dive into how the Zero 10’s wheels work to provide a decently comfortable ride, jump to the ‘Shock Absorption & Suspension’ section of the review.

Build Quality & Durability

The frame is composed of a precipitation-hardened aluminium called 6061 T1 – an alloy known for its light weight and heavy durability.

And the rest of the frame follows suit, with a pair of hard-wearing, high-quality tyres, robust spring suspension at the scooter’s front and rear, and a silently purring single motor.

The battery is could be better and this would make the scooter more reliable. It would have been nice to see the Zero 10 take a leaf out of Apollo Explore’s book, and fit its battery with Dynavolt (or LG) cells, rather than the cheaper Chinese variety. I’d also like the Zero 10 to have a water-resistance certification – like the EMOVE Cruiser’s IPX6 or the Explore’s IP54 – so you could ride it in the rain.

Overall, the Zero 10 is a well-built scooter, but not great by any stretch.

Weight & Load

The Zero 10 weighs 23.6 kg, which is about what you’d expect for a scooter of its size and specs.

For context, that’s the same weight as the EMOVE Cruiser and Apollo Explore, but a whole 5.9 kg heavier than its little bro, the Zero 9 – although the 9 is considerably slower, and has a much more limited range.

Unfortunately, though, by my standards, the bulk also makes it 4.6 kg too heavy to be considered a commuter scooter, and it’s not particularly fit for life being dragged on and off buses or trains, or up and down flights of stairs.

Load-wise, the Zero 10 supports 120 kg of rider weight – also pretty standard for scooters in its niche. If you need more support, the similarly-priced EMOVE Cruiser can handle up to 160 kg of rider weight and ranks second for load-bearing in our database of over 100 scooters. The only ride to support more is the 181 kg of the £2,899-priced Wolf King.

Folding & Portability

As I just mentioned, the Zero 10 is no commuter scooter – but that doesn’t mean it isn’t portable. It sports several nifty features to help you tuck it away into the boot of a car or in the corner of a room.

For one, its handlebars fold. Twisting the pair of locking sleeves – then sliding them outward – will release the grips, and allow the handlebars to collapse inward.

Plus, the sleeves are superior to those we see on popular Zero 10 alternatives, such as the EMOVE Cruiser. Because of its combined tension and screw design, there’s little of the unnerving wiggle you get with other foldable handlebars, like the Cruiser’s spring-loaded tension cuffs. You’ll still have to tighten the Zero 10’s handlebars’ locking sleeves (they’ll tend to loosen up over time due to the vibrations from riding), but this is no big deal.

Folding the Zero 10 in half is just as easy. There’s a small anodized tab at the base of the stem, which – when you push it down – unlocks the scooter’s steering column from the neck. Then, it’s simply a case of folding the stem down until it clicks into place.

Finally, the telescopic stem helps when it comes to portability. This feature is oriented chiefly towards giving you more control over how high your handlebars are, but the semi-retractable stem – which shrinks down to a minimum height of 29 inches – comes in handy when it comes to packing this scooter away, or preparing it for transit.

Assembly

The Zero 10 doesn’t require a huge amount of assembly. It arrives pretty much fully assembled, with the only task coming in the form of tightening the brake levers and QS-S4 display into place. Tip: we recommend positioning the brake levers at a downward angle to make them easier to use.

Before you hit the road, I’d recommend ensuring your new ride is fully charged, and double-checking the pressure in the tyres. If you’re going to be riding at night, you’ll need to strap on an extra headlight, too. It’s also worth taking the time to check the settings in the QS-S4 display.

Ride Quality

Is the Zero 10 Comfortable to Ride?

In short, yes – the Zero 10 is a pleasure to ride. By taking one of the best features of the Zero 9 – its pneumatic tyres – and super-sizing them to the 10 inch rubber monstrosities we see on the likes of higher performance models like the Mantis or the superb VSETT 10+R, the Zero 10 makes its commitment to ride experience crystal clear.

Supporting the chunky tyres – that are well-equipped as the first shield of defence against jarring vibrations – are both front and rear spring suspension. With the front shock absorber handling the initial impact and the rear dual springs smoothing out the ricocheting vibrations, the suspension is fairly good. However, this is only true for urban terrain. The suspension system doesn’t have enough travel for it to cope with environments that present challenges, like potholes and for that matter, off-road routes.

In terms of how this compares to the Zero 10’s alternatives, the Mantis Base and VSETT 9+R both offer better ride quality due to their superior swingarm suspension systems. Swingarms up the ante in terms of both compression and damping to provide smoother transitions. Because of this, both scooters can handle light off-road terrain.

The EMOVE Cruiser, on the other hand, has a better riding setup than the Zero 10 with its larger dual springs in the front but it too can only truly cope with urban environments.

Performance & Safety

Speed & Acceleration

The Zero 10 sports a top speed of 31 mph.

That’s a full 7 mph faster than its little brother, the Zero 9, although – with an extra £450 bloating the 10’s price tag – that superiority is to be expected. Instead, the real question is not how the Zero 10’s top speed stacks up against its fellow Zero models, but how it measures up to the most analogous scooters in its price and weight classes. So let’s take a look.

Speed vs Price Comparison

Applying a £500 price range centring around the Zero 10’s £1,145 price tag provides 14 similarly-priced alternatives. Among these, the Zero 10 sits just below the podium pack alongside the Apollo Explore.

This indicates that the Zero 10 doesn’t offer as much speed as its competitors for the money you’re paying, and there’s one major culprit – the scooter’s lack of dual motors. Dual-motor equipped models dominate the higher rankings, and the Zero 10’s single 1000W motor – while still a pretty powerful engine – simply can’t match the pace and acceleration offered by the likes of the Mantis Base, Zero 10X, and the VSETT 9+R.

Holding the summit of these rankings is the 40 mph speed of the Mantis Base  If you’re after a scooter with a high-speed pedigree, this is the model for you.

This popular scooter – which you can read about in more detail in my Mantis review – doubles up on the Zero 10’s 1000W motor, which endows it with more speed and superior hill-climbing capabilities. Better still, it operates at 60V, upping the ante of the 10’s 52V to pull more power to the motors and offer increased torque and acceleration accordingly. This allows the Mantis Base to hit a top speed that’s almost a third (29%) faster than what the Zero 10 is capable of. It also accelerates to 25 mph 46% quicker (5.2 vs 9.6 seconds).

Alternatively, if you’re happy to stick with a top speed that’s around the same mark as the Zero 10 – but enjoy a much faster acceleration rate – the Apollo Ghost is a super option. It’s only 3 mph faster than the 10 but can hit 25 mph in 5.3 seconds. That’s just a split second slower than the aforementioned Mantis Base, but a whopping 4.3 seconds quicker than the Zero 10’s 9.6 seconds.

Perhaps the only caveat to these speedy alternatives is their price tags. Compared to the 10, you’ll have to pay £354 more for the Apollo Ghost and £230 extra for the Mantis Base. But if these are beyond your means, don’t fret – the VSETT 9+ (15.6Ah) is a great option. As well as providing a superior acceleration thanks to its dual 650W motors, the 9+ (15.6Ah) is available for £1,250.

Speed vs Weight Comparison

Taking a similar formula as we did with the pricing bracket above, let’s compare the Zero 10 to the 19 comparable models in its weight class of 21.1 to 26.1 kg (that’s 2.5 kg either side of its 23.6 kg bulk).

This time, the Zero 10 performs a little better. The scooter snatches a podium position with a joint third place, tying with the Apollo Explore, EVOLV Tour XL-R, and Kugoo G2 Pro.

Edging towards the upper tier of our rankings is the Dualtron Mini in second place, with the entire VSETT 9+ lineup laying claim to gold. By and large, this is down to their dual 650W motors, which give them a top speed of 33 mph – 2 mph quicker than the Zero 10.

If your budget can stretch, these popular VSETT models are worth the extra outlay. Sure, that 33 mph of speed may not seem like a big jump compared to the Zero 10’s 31 mph. But the VSETT models’ greatest strengths lie not necessarily in their top speeds, but in how fast they’re able to accelerate. The VSETT 9+R, for instance, is capable of reaching 25 mph in just 5.4 seconds – a whole 4.2 seconds (or 44%) quicker than the Zero 10. It’s also worth noting that the VSETT range was originally intended to be the Pro line of the Zero scooters.

If you’re not so much of a speed freak, though – and aren’t intent on harnessing the adrenaline-pumping action that only dual-motor scooters can provide – I recommend the EMOVE Cruiser over the Zero 10. Speed-wise, it pretty much matches the Zero 10 pace-for-pace, but – courtesy of its superior build quality and larger battery – it outperforms the Zero in every other way.

Acceleration

Scooters lacking dual motors tend not to be the greatest accelerators, and while the Zero 10 is no slouch it fails to compete with the rapid acceleration rates of the scooters I recommend as alternatives. Dive into the table below to compare.

As you can see, the Zero 10’s acceleration rate to 15 mph pales to all three of its closest competitors, while – to 25 mph – it beats out only the EMOVE Cruiser. Again, this comes down to the issue of the Zero 10’s single motor, which isn’t able to compete with the rapid acceleration rates of dual-motor aficionados, like the Mantis Base (which, at 5.2 seconds, is 46% quicker to 25 mph than the Zero 10).

If you can stretch your budget by an extra £230, I recommend doing so to get your hands on the Mantis Base. It boasts one of the fastest acceleration rates in our database of over 100 scooters, with the Base’s only drawback coming in the form of its weight – which, at 27.7 kg, is a whole 4.1 kg heavier than the Zero 10. The Mantis Base also lacks all of the portability benefits of the Zero 10, including its telescopic stem and foldable handlebars.

Ultimately, the best package has to be the VSETT 9+R. With dual motors and one of the quickest acceleration rates – not to mention foldable handlebars – it offers the best of both worlds. Plus, it’s only 1.3 kg heavier than the Zero 10 (though it costs more).

Alternatively, the EMOVE Cruiser is a great option if you want all the portability and speed of the Zero 10, but with a colossal 62 mile range. The Cruiser is a game-changer if distance – rather than dizzying pace – is more important to you. Considering it’s available for a similar price as the Zero 10, it’s an absolute steal.

Range

The Zero 10 is capable of hitting a manufacturer-stated range of 33 miles off a single charge – though that will, of course, depend on how hard you’re pushing it, as well as factors such as your weight, and the riding mode you’ve selected.

Realistically, you can expect 22 miles.

Mileage vs Price Comparison

Of the 21 other models in the Zero 10’s price range (£895 to £1,395), the 10 emerges in almost the dead centre of the pack. That means that, while the 33 mile range aligns with the overall average mileage of the bunch, it’s certainly not winning any awards. And once more, its ranking indicates that – if range is your top priority – there are similarly-priced alternatives to the Zero 10 that offer far better value.

The scooter that provides the most value for money in terms of range is, predictably, the EMOVE Cruiser. There are many parallels between the Zero 10 and the Cruiser – they share an almost identical speed, sport the same single 52V 1000W motor, and cost the same. With all that in mind, you could be forgiven for guessing that their ranges were similar, too – but there, you’d be wrong.

The Cruiser delivers an insane 88% more range (29 more miles of it, to be exact) than the Zero 10. It also flaunts superior semi-hydraulic disc brakes, turn signals, and a brighter headlight. It’s better equipped to deliver a comfortable ride, too, and comes with an IPX6 water-resistance rating – plus your choice of five groovy colours.

It’s also worth adding that the EMOVE Cruiser come equipped with a better quality LG battery than the Zero 10’s cheaper Chinese one. The latter deteriorates quicker than the LG counterpart, which affects the longevity of your ride. With all this in mind, both the Cruiser and the 8R present themselves as superior selections.

Mileage vs Weight Comparison

Just as it did in our mileage vs price comparison, the Zero 10’s range sits close to the overall average when compared to the 15 other scooters in its weight division (21.6 to 26.1 kg). And the Zero 10 offers an underwhelming mid-table placing, with the EMOVE Cruiser’s epic 62-mile range comprehensively stealing the show.

The InMotion L9 follows closely with 59 miles, as does the INOKIM Quick 4 Super with 43 miles. However, both of these have smaller motors (500W and 600W, respectively) that saddle them with slower top speeds and sluggish acceleration rates, meaning that I can’t recommend them as good all-rounders. That makes the next best option the VSETT 9+R. This scooter combines a fast acceleration rate with a mileage that’s almost one-third (31%) greater than that offered by the Zero 10, and its superior build quality make it the more reliable option across the board.

Hill Climbing

The Zero 10’s single 52V 1000W motor means it can handle most of the urban slopes that you’re able to throw at it. However, you can expect any gradients towards the upper limit of the 20-degree incline rate to force the scooter into a crawl.

For a pair of excellent hill-climbing scooters that are (more or less) in the Zero 10’s pricing range, I’d recommend casting your eye over the Mantis Base (which is capable of handling hills of up to a 30-degrees), or the VSETT 9+R (25-degrees). The dual-motor setups of these scooters make them superior when it comes to taking on inclines compared to the single motor-equipped models (including the Zero 10 and EMOVE Cruiser, which sport equal hill-climbing capabilities).

Shock Absorption / Suspension

A vertically-aligned shock absorber in the front steering column helps dampen the brunt of the impact of harsher riding surfaces, while the rear, horizontally-aligned, dual springs mop up the remaining unwanted vibrations.

Ultimately, the Zero 10 doesn’t make any seismic improvements to the suspension we see on the Zero 9. Just like the front and rear spring shock absorption on that scooter, the suspension isn’t adjustable, so you won’t be able to tinker with it to fit the nature of the terrain you’ll be tackling.

One way in which the shock absorptive capabilities of the Zero 10 do improve on the Zero 9, however, is in its tyres. At 10 inches they are 1.5 inches larger than those on the 9 (which, in turn, are an upgrade of the Zero 8, which has a solid rear tyre). As we know from our extensive testing of scooters, larger tyres offer much more comfort and stability than smaller ones thanks to their enhanced ability to mould with the ground.

Similarly, the Zero 10’s tyres are of the pneumatic (air-filled) variety, rather than the solid kind – which are typically filled with a foam or rubber material. This allows them to soak up the initial impact of the road, and assist the scooter’s front and rear spring suspension in providing a smooth ride experience.

It must be noted, though, that because the Zero 10 relies solely on springs, the up and down motion (i.e. compression and rebound) is limited meaning there isn’t as much travel as that of swingarm suspension. Swingarms, when used in conjunction with springs, allow the scooter to pivot up and down as the tyres roll over obstacles. This creates a smoother riding experience.

Braking

Any scooter that’s able to surpass a speed of 25 mph needs good brakes – and, fortunately, the Zero 10 delivers. Thanks to a pair of mechanical disc brakes, the Zero 10 can bring you to a stop within just 3.4 meters from a speed of 15 mph. Put simply, it delivers a good level of stopping power – and it certainly ups the ante from the drum and disc brake combo its predecessor, the Zero 9, relied on.

Of course, there is a hierarchy in the world of electric scooter brakes, and – while disc brakes are a solid addition to any scooter – they still pale to the power and efficacy of their hydraulic counterparts. So, if you’re set on bagging a scooter with the finest brakes in the Zero 10’s price class, you’re better off opting for either the Mantis Base or the EMOVE Cruiser.

That said, despite the Mantis and the Cruiser both coming decked out with semi-hydraulic disc brakes, it’s only the latter that beats the Zero 10 for stopping distance. Able to come to a stop in just 3.0 meters from 15 mph, the EMOVE Cruiser’s semi-hydraulic setup offers the best performance.

Plus, it’s worth mentioning that – like most scooters of its ilk – the Zero 10 sports a regenerative braking system. This augments the scooter’s dual mechanical disc brakes by feeding kinetic energy from the brakes (which would otherwise be wasted) back into the battery to help extend your battery life. You can customize the strength of this (or turn it off altogether) by tinkering with the P-settings on your scooter’s QS-S4 display.

Charge Time

The amount of time the Zero 10 takes to reach full charge can vary, but it’s typically around 8 hours, which – thanks to the larger capacity of its battery – is a little more than the charge time of the Zero 9.

You can cut this time in half by purchasing a fast charger, which will get you juiced up and back on the road in as little as 4 hours. However, I wouldn’t recommend relying on the fast charger all the time – it can have long-term implications for the health of your battery if overused.

Extra Features

QS-S4 Throttle Display for Customized Performance Configuration

Like many other scooters, the Zero 10 utilizes the standardized QS-S4 device to serve as both a display screen and finger throttle. This straightforward, user-friendly panel isn’t the most customizable on the market, but there’s a reason it’s used by brands like Kaabo, Apollo, Varla, and VSETT – it’s simple, intuitive, and pretty darn powerful to boot.

The QS-S4 has a small, backlit screen where you’ll be able to view your current speed, miles travelled (on your current ride, and all time), as well as its battery life and riding mode. All this info helps you keep tabs on your riding stats, and regulate your speed and acceleration to enjoy the maximum threshold of the 33 mile range.

Beyond these basics, the QS-S4 offers another, more advanced level of features, in the form of ‘P-settings’. More casual riders can usually get by without fiddling with these, but – for those with the time, effort, and inclination to do so – getting to grips with these settings offers customizability benefits.

With the P-settings, you can adjust the strength of your regenerative braking system and acceleration, tinker with the auto turn-off function, and configure the brightness of the display. Each of these features helps to conserve your battery.

Ultimately, the QS-S4 will never be as slick as Dualtron’s EY3 display, or as striking as a custom-made display, such as the one you’ll see gracing the handlebars of the Apollo Phantom or NAMI Burn-e. But, the QS-S4 is user-friendly, a cinch to get the hang of, and – in the end – an ideal match for the Zero 10’s specs and capabilities.

Secret Feature: Hidden USB Port to Charge Your Mobile /Other Devices

It’s easy to miss this feature, but tucked away behind your QS-S4 display is a ‘hidden’ USB port. It’s tough to know exactly what this is meant for, because – while it is super handy for charging your electronic devices on the go – I wouldn’t recommend doing so if you’re invested in the long-term health of your scooter.

That’s because relying too much on this hidden USB port to juice up your smartphone or GoPro will take a toll on the health of your battery. This has implications not only on the number of miles you’ll be able to get out of your Zero 10 on the current ride but the longevity of the scooter’s battery over time. Plus, when you plug electronic accessories into your QS-S4, you risk overloading its circuits and causing permanent damage to the device.

My advice? Use it only in times of desperation.

Cruise Control

As we’re entitled to expect from a scooter of the Zero 10’s calibre, a cruise control function is included as standard. This allows you to maintain a constant speed while you’re out on the road, and avoid the strain on your finger that comes with keeping the throttle pressed down the whole time.

To activate cruise control, navigate to setting P6 on its QS-S4 display and switch the ‘0’ on the screen to a ‘1’. Then, once you’ve reached the speed you’re keen to maintain, the cruise control will kick in, and allow you to release your hold on the throttle while staying at a safe, relaxed cruising speed. To regain manual control of the scooter, simply give the brakes a little squeeze.

LED Lights (Featuring a Stem Strip and Mood Deck LEDs)

Sure – the Zero 10 may not sport the speed of the Mantis Base, the range of the EMOVE Cruiser, or the water-resistance of the Apollo Explore. There is one area, though, in which it outstrips this whole trio of rivals – in the glitz and glamour of its LED setup.

With a headlight, two front button lights, and responsive tail lights bookending the dual strips of deck-embedded LEDs, the Zero 10 stands out from the crowd. It also sports stem strip lighting which is exclusive to the Zero 9 and 10 models – you won’t see these lights on the more advanced 10X and 11X scooters in the line.

With all that swag lighting, you’ll have no problem being seen (and admired) by other traffic and pedestrians. The only visibility issue you might have, though, is your own – and for that, we can blame the Zero 10’s lacklustre headlight. Poor headlights are, sadly, one of the most common design flaws on scooters and this one falls into much the same trap.

In part, that’s down to a lack of lumens, which means the headlight isn’t quite bright enough for night riding. However, the headlight’s poor performance is also a result of its placement, which – being located on the front fender, rather than higher up on the stem – limits its efficacy. With that said, you’ll need to shell out for an extra attachable headlight.

For a scooter with a brighter headlight, the EMOVE Cruiser is a great alternative and is available for just £104 more than the Zero 10.

Telescopic Stem for Adjustable Handlebar Height

As we saw earlier in our speed comparisons, the Zero 10 isn’t the fastest scooter on the market. But this isn’t always a drawback. There are some fantastic features – such as a telescopic stem, and foldable handlebars – that are impractical on speedier scooters, but just the ticket for scooters in the Zero 10’s ballpark.

A telescopic stem – so-called because of the way it contracts and extends in the manner of an old-fashioned telescope – allows you to customize the height of your scooter’s stem to fit your height, or fit the size of any of your friends or family members that may be taking it for a spin. A quick-release collar clamp lever helps secure the stem, and keep the height where you want it – so always make sure this mechanism is firmly fastened before you set out on a ride.

In the Zero 10’s case, the height of your handlebars can be anywhere between 29 and 39 inches – giving you a long, 10-inch range within which to operate. What’s more, the telescopic stem’s usefulness isn’t just restricted to catering to your comfort and posture while riding, but also comes in handy when it’s time to pack the scooter away into a small space.

That said, this feature isn’t without its issues. Like any scooters with moving parts (foldable handlebars, which I’ll unpack next, also fall into this category), the 10’s telescopic stem can make your scooter’s handlebars vulnerable to stem wobble. Though this shouldn’t be too much of an issue or safety hazard (especially considering the 10’s relatively limited top speed), it’s still a little irritating.

If you’d rather trade in the telescopic stem and foldable handlebars – and benefit from more speed and range while you’re at it – you should upgrade to the Mantis. This scooter cranks up all the 10’s specs but sacrifices the convenience of its portability-oriented features. It also weighs much more than the 10 – so if any kind of commuting is on your mind, you’re better off staying put.

Foldable Handlebars for Enhanced Portability

Much like the Zero 9 before it, the Zero 10’s handlebars fold – a neat value add that helps the scooter collapse down to fit the boot of a car, or tuck away in a small space at home. Moreover, these folding handlebars aren’t something that we see on the Zero line’s more premium models, such as the 10X and 11X – so if portability is a prime pain point for you, the 10 is the perfect pick.

The Zero 10’s handlebars utilize a relatively basic folding screw mechanism, which has the benefit of being easy to use.

The flipside of this, though, is that the locking rings tend to loosen up over time, meaning you may experience a small amount of wobble in the handgrips. To avoid the chances of this compromising your ride quality, it’s best to tighten them before and after each ride.

Optional Seat Attachment

Not many scooters offer the option to sit down while riding, so the fact that the Zero 10 does is a huge plus. For just £95.99, you can bag an attachable seat, which is fully adjustable, so you can customize it to fit the height and posture of the rider.

Better still, hydraulic suspension is built into the seat post to buffer any residual vibrations from the scooter’s main suspension.

Installing the seat is simple, too. There are a few screws to take care of, but no drilling or DIY expertise is necessary whatsoever.

To browse similar scooters that also sport the option of a seat attachment, check out my reviews of the Apollo Explore and the EMOVE Cruiser for more info.

Design

Handlebars

With a wide profile and sturdy build, the handlebars afford a comfortable stance. Like its younger brother — the Ox Hero — they’re made from the same cast aluminium as the stem. The result? A durable and wobble-free set of handlebars that instil confidence when riding.

The handgrips are equally as good, which is pleasing as they play a key role in the amount of control you have over the steering column. Thanks to a rubber casing and a bigger-than-average tapered design, they fit flush in your palm, feel premium, and are seriously grippy.

On the right side of the handlebars is the LCD display. Unlike the common Q4-S4 display, which you’ll find on scooters like the VSETT 10+, Mantis Base, and EMOVE Cruiser, the console used by the Super is fairly stripped back and basic in its design. Nevertheless, it does a good job of monitoring your battery life, speed, riding mode, and distance travelled.

Frame

If you’ve read my review of the Hero, you’ll have seen me rave about INOKIM’s styling. The Super and the Hero are identical to look at, both with a matte black frame with orange accents that highlight the logos, brake wires, and front and rear swingarms.

While it’s not as extravagant as the likes of the gold Wolf King, it still has a striking impact and will suit anyone looking for a smart, modern scooter that’s not too over the top. Of all its similarly-priced competitors, the Ox Super is by far the best looking.

Deck

The Super’s deck is wide, long, and large enough to strike a stance that feels comfortable and natural.

There are a few annoyances with the deck, though. Like the Hero, the Super coats the entirety of the deck with the same non-grippy plastic. There’s not an ounce of rubber insight — not even a column of grip tape. However, there is one positive, cleaning the deck is extremely easy.

While its lack of grip doesn’t pose any issues when riding on smooth surfaces, rough terrain can cause problems since it’s hard to keep your feet planted in position whilst tackling challenging terrain.

One positive feature of the deck is the kickplate. As well as being handy for positioning yourself in a more aggressive riding style and shifting your weight to the rear of the scooter when braking, it has a large cutout to lock the handlebars in place when it’s folded.

Wheels

Boasting nimble 10-inch tyres, the Super is well-equipped to tear up the tarmac and sail over light off-road trails. The key word here is light. Because, unlike the more adept off-road scooters, like the Wolf Warrior and King, the Ox Super sports narrower tyres that are primed for smoother riding conditions thanks to their slick tread.

However, if you plan on tearing up some serious off-road tracks, you can fit the Ox with special off-road tyres. These sport a thicker tread with a three-dimensional pattern that delivers superior grip on loose terrain. What’s more, thanks to the adjustable suspension, you can increase your ground clearance to soak up undulations and soften the riding experience.

Both sets of tyres are air-filled, rather than solid. This helps them to be pliable meaning they mould to the ground below. The best way to think about this is to imagine a water balloon being dropped on the floor in slow motion, the balloon moulds to the surface below. Pneumatic tyres share the same moldability and this is what makes them the best tyre type for maintaining traction and soaking up undulations. Plus, the increased surface area of the tyre that comes into contact with the ground delivers reliable stopping power despite the Super not having the most advanced braking technology. More on this in the ‘Braking’ section of the review.

Build Quality & Durability

No matter which one you pick, INOKIM scooters are built to last. And they’re built in a unique way that gives them exceptional build quality.

All INOKIM scooters are vertically integrated and use CNC manufacturing. This means that INOKIM owns all the components used, and parts like the stem and base are forged from a single piece of aluminium alloy. The result? A high precision finish and zero weldings, which mean zero weak points. Ultimately, it means they’re durable and longer-lasting which is perfect for everyday use.

This type of premium build quality does come at a price, though (you’ll see what I mean later on when we compare the scooter’s performance). But, if build quality is top of your must-have attributes list, the INOKIM Ox should be at the top of your list.

There is one flaw with the Ox Super, though. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have a water-resistance rating, which is surprising given the attention to detail elsewhere. In fact, none of INOKIM’s scooters has official IP ratings.

The kickstand is also too short out of the box, meaning the Ox topples over easily (as you’ll see in our unboxing video). However, it does extend – just remember to do this before you try to stand it up and watch it ungraciously fall.

Weight & Load

The Ox Super weighs 27.7 kg, which is 1.8 kg heavier than the Ox Hero. Given its bigger battery, this is hardly surprising. Even at 27.7 kg, the Super is far from light. And because acceleration is its weak point it’s not the best scooter for zipping from A to B, so I’d avoid using it for commuting.

Against the backdrop of the scooters that I recommend as alternatives, the Ox Super is on the lighter side when compared to the Mantis Pro (29.5 kg), aligns somewhat with the Mantis 8 Pro (27.2 kg), and is bulkier than the EMOVE Cruiser (23.6 kg).

As for load capacity, you can flip the lineup on its head. Here, the EMOVE Cruiser tops the chart with a max load capacity of 160 kg. The Mantis Pro, 8 Pro, and Ox Super are all joint with 120 kg. Comparing the Ox Hero to the Super, there’s nothing in it, with both scooters supporting the same max load capacity.

Folding & Portability

When folding the Super, its build quality shines. The claw-like mechanism locks the stem into place with minimal effort and, once in place, there’s not a millimetre of wobble. It’s simple to fold/unfold, too — everything slots into place like Tetris pieces.

First, you’ll need to lift the stem until the bottom of it sits flush against the platform of the base of the folding mechanism. Then, lift the locking lever up so the claw fastens the stem to the folding joint, and finally, wrap the rubber band around the locking lever to hold everything in place.

Like the Ox Hero, the Super, when folded, has a large profile. For this reason, and because the handlebars don’t fold, it’s not practical public transport, so I don’t recommend it as a portable option.

Assembly

Assembling the Super is a breeze. Like most scooters — including the Hero — it comes pretty much ready to go. However, there are a few small DIY tasks.

First, you’ll want to unbox the scooter and place it on the floor. Then, lift the stem and lock it into place. Next, you’ll need to attach the handlebars and rear mud-guard using the multi-tool provided.

Also in the box, you’ll find the suspension adapters and a socket spanner, which you’ll use to adjust the suspension. Before you set off, check the tyre pressure and ensure the battery is fully charged.

You’ll also want to adjust the maximum speed settings since it comes capped at 25 kmh (15 mph). To do this, follow the steps below:

1. Turn on the Ox.
2. Access the sub-menu by pressing and holding the + and – buttons together.
3. Press the power button to navigate to setting number 5.
4. Press and hold the power, +, and – buttons together until you see setting 7.
5. Repeat step 4 until you see setting 8.
6. Here, you will see the max speed flashing on the left of the screen.
7. Press the + button to increase the max speed from 25 km/h to 45 km/h.
8. To confirm the new max speed, press and hold the power button until the screen reverts to the stat dashboard.
9. Go back to the sub-menu by pressing and holding the + and – buttons together.
10. Press the power button to navigate to setting number 2.
11. Press the + button to set the exact speed you want. You can select any number from 25 to 45.
12. To confirm the new speed setting, press and hold the power button until the screen reverts to the stat dashboard.
13. You’re done.

Ride Quality

Is the INOKIM Ox Super Comfortable to Ride?

Yes. The Ox Super offers one of the most comfortable scooters we’ve tested.

The Ox Super and Hero sport a unique suspension setup that comprises both front and rear rubber suspension combined with single-sided swingarms. Together they make light work of bumps and undulations while offering a stable, comfy ride. And then there are the 10-inch tyres. Being pneumatic, they are the cherry on top of the cake when it comes to adding an extra layer of shock absorption.

There aren’t many scooters that feel this good to ride. This stems back to the superior build quality, and the fact that each part is designed to fit seamlessly with the next. Just like its younger brother, the Ox Hero, the Super is as smooth to ride as it is to control. There’s nothing to fault with the ride quality.

Performance & Safety

Speed & Acceleration

The Super can reach speeds of up to 28 mph. But how does it fare against similar scooters in its price and weight class? Let’s take a look.

Speed vs Price Comparison

Taking the Ox Super’s £1,399 price tag and slapping a £250 price range on either side, there are 13 comparable scooters. And where speed is concerned, the Ox Super is towards the bottom of the pile.

Like the Ox Hero, speed isn’t the Super’s strong suit.

The slow 28 mph top speed is down to its single, 800W motor. And here’s the reason why it fares so poorly for speed vs price. You see, while the Super sports a single motor, all of its competitors have dual motors. And dual motors equal more power, which equals a higher top speed and a higher ranking.

The Mantis Pro, Mantis Base, Dualtron Eagle Pro, and Speedway 5 share the gold with their 40 mph top speed. However, it's the Mantis Pro that rules the pack thanks to its blisteringly quick acceleration rate. The reason for this is its dual 60V 1000W motors and large 24.5Ah LG battery. The large motors also make the Ox Super’s teeny 800W motor look cute.

Speed vs Weight Comparison

Like in the speed vs price comparison, the Ox Super performs poorly when compared to 8 other scooters in its weight class (25.2 – 30.2 kg).

Because of their low top speeds, both INOKIM scooters are at the bottom of the pile along with the VSETT 8+. However, it is worth noting that the 8+ has dual 600W motors that deliver a fast acceleration to its top speed of 28 mph.

At the top are the Manti models and the Dualtron Eagle Pro.

Digging deeper into performance, the real winner of the clustered 40 mph bunch is the Mantis Pro with their rapid acceleration rate (0-15 mph in 2.0 seconds). The Mantis Base isn’t far behind, reaching 15 mph in 2.5 seconds, and the Dualtron Eagle is slightly slower taking 2.7 seconds.

If these scooters seem like they may be too quick for you, the Mantis 8 Pro is worth considering. It’s quicker than the Ox Super with a top speed of 33 mph and has a rapid acceleration rate thanks to its dual 800W motors.

Acceleration

If you thought the other two comparisons were harsh on the Ox Super, wait until you see the acceleration figures.

So, how does it compare to the scooters I recommended as alternatives:

As you can see, not great. The Super seriously lags behind the pack to 15 mph with the gap stretching even further when accelerating to 25 mph.

The Mantis Pro, with its dual 1000W motors, clocks in with a spine-tingling acceleration rate that is unmatched. The increased power makes it 62% faster to 15 mph, 68% quicker to 25 mph, and delivers a top speed that is 43% faster than the Ox Super. The crazy thing, though, is that it only costs around £100 more than the Super. So, if you’re searching for the best value (and zoom) for your money, the Mantis Pro is by far the best option.

Behind the Pro, there’s the Mantis 8 Pro which doubles up the motor power of the Ox Super, and the EMOVE Cruiser with its larger 1000W motor.

If you are finding it hard to choose between all three, consider this:

• The Mantis Pro is a performance scooter that is best suited to those with riding experience.
• The Mantis 8 Pro is a toned-down version of the original Pro and is better suited for first-time riders. This is why we rate it as one of the best entry-level performance scooters.
• The EMOVE Cruiser isn't a speed demon but it is a long-range hero that is well-suited to all riders.

Range

INOKIM states that the Ox Super has a 56 mile maximum range (33 miles under our realistic testing conditions). But how does that stack up against its stiffest competition? Let’s find out.

Mileage vs Price Comparison

Thankfully for INOKIM fans, the Super moves up the rankings to take 4th place.

Of all the Super’s competitors, the Speedway 5, with its 75 mile range, takes the top spot by a considerable distance. However, I have a major gripe with this scooter – I don’t like its telescopic stem and foldable handlebars.

On commuter or single motored scooters, these come in handy. But on performance models, for safety and comfort sake, I prefer everything to be solid. There is one exception, though, and that’s if the foldable handlebars securely lock into place and are wobble-free. However, the Speedway 5 uses spring-loaded handlebar cuffs which means they aren’t as secure as those that screw into place. For a scooter that can hit 40 mph and travel 75 miles, you need a model that you can rely on for stability since this plays a pivotal role in ride quality.

Based on this assessment, the EMOVE Cruiser is the best option. While it has the same collapsable handlebars and telescopic stem as the Speedway 5, it's not a dual-motor scooter and therefore, doesn't have as much power under the hood. As a result, its folding features are less integral to ride quality. There is one factor of the EMOVE Cruiser's ride quality that you may want to consider though – it doesn't have swingarm suspension. This type of suspension plays a vital role in comfort since it allows the deck to pivot up and down to help soak up undulations and keep the ride smooth.

With all things considered, the Ox Super is the best of the bunch if you are searching for a long-range, terrain-agnostic, scooter. Alternatively, if you are going to be sticking to the confines of the city, the Cruiser is fantastic.

Mileage vs Weight Comparison

To further our comparisons, let’s have a look at how the Ox Super’s range compares with 8 models in its weight class (25.2 – 30.2 kg).

So there it is, finally a win for the Ox Super. Its long 56 mile range is quite a way ahead of its competitors.

However, if you want the luxury of range, speed, and ride quality, the Mantis Pro is an excellent option with its respectable 45 mile range, rapid 40 mph top speed,  and dual spring swingarm suspension. (The reason why I haven’t recommended the Dualtron Eagle Pro here is because it doesn’t have as good build or ride quality as the Mantis Pro).

Hill Climbing

When it comes to climbing hills, the Ox Super is neither poor nor great. Capable of tackling hills up to 20 degrees (36% incline grade), it has the same figures as its younger brother, the Ox Hero. And like the Hero, because of its sluggish acceleration, the Super lacks any real bite, so hill-climbing is slow. Even slower if you’re starting on a hill. Having said that, for most urban environments, the Super is well equipped.

If you’re looking for a scooter that’ll glide up steep inclines without breaking a sweat, the Mantis Pro is the scooter for you. It can climb up 30 degree inclines thanks to its powerful dual motors that generate the torque needed to scale inclines effectively.

Shock Absorption / Suspension

The Ox Super features the same adjustable suspension as its younger brother, the Ox Hero. There are two swingarms, one in the front and rear. Each swingarm has two settings: “High” and “Low”. “High” provides more clearance and allows for a greater amount of travel while off-roading, while “Low” delivers a riding profile that is best suited to urban terrain. Because of this, and the fact that it uses a rubber torsion suspension system, the Super delivers a supremely soft riding experience that is hard to beat.

The only scooter to deliver a softer ride is that of the vastly more expensive Nami Burn-e Viper. The Burn-e lets you dial in the exact amount of damping you want from cushy to firm.

Braking

As far as braking goes, INOKIM scooters always perform well. Like the Ox Hero, the Super sports dual mechanical brakes, as do all the other scooters in the Super’s price bracket.

However, only 38% are equipped with hydraulics, including the Mantis Pro, Mantis 8 Pro, and EMOVE Cruiser (all of the scooters I recommend as alternatives). Given this lineup, you’d think the Super — with its rather simple drum and disc setup — would have a much longer braking distance than its competition. But despite its apparent weaker setup, it performs very well against its competition, either matching them or coming very close when it comes to braking distance.

The Super comes to a stop from 15 mph in just 3.4 meters. On average, the typical performance scooter takes around 3.0 – 3.4 meters to stop.

If you want to come to a stop even faster, the Mantis Pro can bring you to a halt from 15 mph in just 3.0 meters.

Charge Time

The Ox Super’s battery takes 12.5 hours to charge. This is 4.5 hours longer than the Ox Hero, and there’s a good reason why.

Because the Ox Hero is the entry-level scooter in the Ox range, it uses a smaller 13Ah battery that is made up of lower-quality Chinese battery cells, as opposed to the Super’s much larger 21Ah LG battery.

There’s a crucial difference in the performance of Chinese and LG batteries, too.

While Chinese batteries are often chosen by manufacturers to bring the cost of a scooter down, they deteriorate quicker than high-quality batteries, like the LG ones.

Just as your phone battery decays the more you charge it, the cheaper Chinese cells used in scooter batteries do the same. So, if you have your sights set on an INOKIM Ox, the Super has a much better battery that’ll give you peak performance for many more charge cycles than the Hero. All of a sudden, the extra 4.5 hours to charge doesn’t seem all that long, does it?

Extra Features

LCD Display & Thumb Throttle For Customized Performance Configuration

The Ox Super sports the same minimalistic cockpit as the Ox Hero. It features a small LCD display and an easy-to-use thumb throttle. Because of its simplicity, it’s super easy to use and get to grips with.

You can use the display for customizing the screen’s brightness, controlling the maximum speed, turning cruise control on and off, changing the units of display (km or miles), and controlling when the scooter automatically turns its lights on by adjusting the light level that you want the sensors to detect.

The thumb throttle is, without a doubt, a key feature that makes Ox a joy to ride. Unlike other performance scooters that use finger throttles – that can, after long rides, lead to cramp because of the claw-like position required to hold them down – riding the Ox is effortless. Over the years that we’ve been testing scooters, we have been screaming out for more models to ditch the finger throttles for the thumb variety and we’ve seen brands like Apollo take consumer feedback on board and release new scooters like the Phantom that feature ergonomic thumb throttles. Hopefully, we will see more of these on more models in the future.

2-Step Adjustable Suspension System

The Ox Super has a unique suspension setup that features two adjustable swingarms, one at the front and one at the rear. Depending on the type of ground you’re riding on, you can adjust the suspension to give you more (or less) clearance.

If you’re someone who likes to control their scooter’s setup, you’ll love the Super’s suspension. It must be said though, that it’s not a quick job and it can’t be done on the go, but all of the tools required to make the adjustments are included in the box. As a word of warning, we recommend that you stick to one setting (i.e. don’t use the High setting at the front, and Low at the rear, and vice versa).

LED Lights That Turn on Automatically When Dark

Before we get into how the Ox knows when to turn your lights on, let’s take a look at the setup.

There are three lights in total – two at the front (one on either side of the deck) and one at the back. As with most scooters, the rear light also doubles up as a brake light.

But here’s the interesting part. The thumb throttle is lined with sensors that detect the photographic coefficient (light level). Once a certain light level is detected, the lights automatically turn on. The setting to enable this can be disabled, or if you want greater control over when they turn on you can adjust the light level.

Overall, the Ox Super’s lights are good but not great. While they’re good at alerting people of your whereabouts, they’re not powerful enough to light up the road ahead. And for this reason, you should avoid riding the scooter at night unless you have a rechargeable headlight attached to the handlebars.

Another slight annoyance is that the rear light is only on the right side of the deck, meaning anyone to your left won’t see the brake light flashing.

Tyre Hugger

The Ox Super has one of the best tyre huggers.

And by that, I mean it does its job of protecting you from water and mud splatter.

More often than not, the scooters we review are equipped with mudguards that don’t cover enough of the tyre, leaving your back open to look like a Jackson Pollock painting.

Bell

One thing's for sure, the Ox Super won’t win any awards for its bell. The bicycle-like bell has a decent tone but is only loud enough to be heard by those who are close to you.

Compared to the motorcycle-grade horn you get on scooters like the Wolf Warrior, Wolf King, and VSETT 11+, it’s pretty poxy.

Warranty & Post-Purchase Support

Warranty

When you purchase the Ox Super through INOKIM’s official UK retailer, Soho Scooters, the scooter comes with a 12-month warranty.

As with most warranties, this covers manufacturing defects, including problems with the scooter’s battery. 

There is some small print in the warranty, though. Most notably, consumables aren’t covered (i.e. tyres, tyre tubes, and brake pads), and neither is general wear and tear. Nor is damage as a result of collisions, accidents, or environmental factors. As a result, I recommend not riding in the rain.

Post-Purchase Support

Soho Scooters, based in the heart of London,  is one of the few reputable electric scooter retailers in the UK. I've been to the shop and met Charlie, the Co-Founder, where I saw their range of scooters and the service repair shop. 

As well as providing phone and email support, you can also get in contact with them on WhatsApp where they are quick to respond.

Design

The Apollo Explore has recently undergone a makeover. The upgraded design for 2021 sees improvements made to three of the scooter’s key features:

1. Improved fender stability – The Explore’s new fenders are twice as secure as the fenders of the 2020 model and deliver much-improved coverage meaning less water and dirt splatters on your back.
2. A more rigid kickstand – Secured by a custom-designed bracket, the new kickstand ensures long-term stability even through the scooter’s vibrations.
3. Better deck design – Sharing a new and improved deck design with the Ghost, the Explore couples seamless design elements with improved lighting.

Handlebars

Although the handlebars fold, their width and general sturdiness offer good control over the steering column. This makes the Explore a pleasure to ride and is something that shouldn’t be overlooked – everything from the weight of handlebars and stem, to the shape of the handgrips can affect your riding experience for better or worse. Take the Kugoo G2 Pro, for example. This scooter shares similar specs to the Explore but suffers from narrow handlebars and thin handgrips that make it feel rickety – especially when accelerating and hitting top speeds. The Explore, on the other hand, inspires confidence.

Using a screw-type mechanism, the foldable handlebars feel safer than spring-loaded ones (like those on the EMOVE Cruiser), because they are tightened into place with no wiggle room. That being said, on longer rides, they do have a slight tendency to loosen up. This is, however, fairly standard across the board for this particular type of mechanism, and whilst it’s not ideal, it’s the trade-off you pay for the added peace of mind that comes with the screw-type mechanism. Overall, the slight loosening of the handlebars doesn’t pose a safety issue, but it may cause a bit of annoyance.

Aside from the colourful folding sleeves that hold either side of the handlebars into place, there isn’t too much more to shout about – the handlebars have a clean finish and feature only the necessities of what you need to ride.

While riding, the ergonomically shaped handgrips that we’ve come to see on other Apollo models, like the City, facilitate a sturdy hold, giving you a firm, reassuring grip. The handlebars are also home to the QS-S4 display/throttle. This device is where you’ll keep track of your speed, distance covered, battery level, and riding mode, as well as make adjustments to the Explore’s settings such as turning the dial-up or down on its acceleration strength.

Located on either side of the handlebars are the brake levers which control both the front and rear mechanical brakes, as well as activate the electronic regenerative braking system – the strength of which can be adjusted via the QS-S4 display.

Frame

Once upon a time, Apollo was known for its eye-catching colour scheme that saw scooters in a rainbow of white, black, and electric blue. However, a trend set by the Ghost (and continued by the Phantom and Air models) moves away from the colourful exterior and opts for a more stealthy black design trimmed with steely grey accents. Apollo had originally announced that it would be updating the colour palette of the Explore to match its new direction and branding but this has not yet come to fruition.

Luckily, the Explore still boasts a sleek design that sets it apart from the more uniformly finished scooters. It’s got substance, too. It doesn’t just look good but it’s finished to a high standard with the frame being forged from a widely-used aluminium alloy and the rest of the scooter benefiting from hard-wearing plastic and rubber.

Deck

The 9 inches wide and 21 inches long anti-slip deck is perfect for finding a stance that suits you (rather than twisting yourself into a contorted position to keep your feet on the deck). The deck is also big enough to attach a seat, should you wish to buy one as a separate accessory.

Just like on the Apollo City – the Explore’s predecessor – the deck is covered in a geometrically shaped grip tape. This differentiates it from scooters that use strips of tape, like the EMOVE Cruiser and Zero 10, or in some cases, cover the entire deck making it look like a skateboard. Its unique design delivers grip no matter where you place your feet.

Dimensions-wise, there is just over 5 inches of ground clearance. While the Explore is said to be terrain-agnostic, there isn’t enough clearance to safely manoeuvre rough terrain. For this, scooters with a higher elevation and swingarm suspension are best. Nevertheless, for urban terrain and compacted dirt paths, the clearance is ideal.

Wheels

The plush 10 inch pneumatic tyres mean that it’s able to soak up irregularities from the terrain underfoot much better than the smaller tyres on portable commuter scooters like the Apollo City. For what it's worth, my preferred tyre size is 10 inches simply because it delivers the best of both worlds: comfort and control.

Because of the decently sized tyres, their tall profile can effectively roll over obstacles, while their respectable 3 inch width maintains traction when accelerating, braking, and leaning into turns. This combination is one of the many reasons why the Explore can keep you comfortable throughout rides.

Pneumatic tyres are also far better at handling slippery and wet conditions. In comparison to solid rubber tyres, air-filled ones can get a better grip on a wider variety of surfaces because they mould to what they are rolling over. As they mould to the surface below, a greater contact patch with the ground is formed and this increases traction.

However, being supple can prove problematic when it comes to flats. The fact that the Explore sports inner tubes make it more prone to punctures, but you run this gauntlet with most scooters.

Build Quality & Durability

On the whole, and as you might expect from an Apollo model, the build quality of the Explore is of a high standard. For a scooter of its size and power, it’s relatively quiet and the adjustable elements are easy to manoeuvre. As with most models that feature folding handlebars, these do tend to work themselves loose on longer journeys, however, it’s not a hassle to retighten them.

There’s a big reason why the Explore is a top-selling model: Apollo has a reputation for building durable and long-lasting scooters able to tackle the highs and lows of riding.

You just have to look at the steps taken to maintain the health of your scooter’s innards via the Smart Power Management system, as well as the reliable Dynavolt battery cells to get a sense of its quality.

Often, the marketing material of electric scooters claims specs that are based on best-case scenarios that aren’t always the case. Even some of Dualtron’s scooters lay claim to having a huge mileage, but when you dig a deeper under the hood of the exterior it's clear to see that cheap parts have been used – like Chinese battery cells which have an inferior lifespan than the Dynavolt batteries used in Apollo’s scooters. Similarly, it's not just the inside of the scooter that upholds build quality, the outside is protected by an IP54 water resistance rating, keeping the Explore protected from the elements.

The attention to detail that goes into the carefully selected components that make up the Explore explains why it is such a popular scooter.

Weight & Load

A good option for heavier riders, this sturdy scooter can support up to 120 kg. But its sturdy capabilities come with a weighty bulk as the Explore weighs in at 23.6 kg, making it too heavy for me to regard it as “truly portable”.

If your journey is likely to involve a lot of lifting and carrying, then I’d go for a lighter model. That being said, the point of owning an electric scooter is to ride it, not carry it.

If you like the Explore, but think that it may not be the right fit for you because of its load capacity – I typically suggest making sure you are at least 20 kg from its maximum load to get the best performance – then, the EMOVE Cruiser is a great alternative. It can support 160 kg. Alternatively, if you want to graduate to the world of dual motor scooters, the Apollo Ghost’s 136 kg capacity should suffice.

Folding & Portability

Despite being a little heavier than your typical commuter scooter, the Explore makes up for it in foldability. A standout feature of this model is how neatly it folds down, with its collapsible handlebars and telescopic stem, the Explore can be more easily stored than scooters like the Mantis Pro SE that don’t have these space-saving features.

The mechanisms are super simple to use and folding the scooter takes no more than 20 seconds. Plus, because the stem locks into place to sit parallel with the deck when folded, you can get a one or two-hand grip on the scooter should you need to lift it.

Assembly

Apollo is famed for making the assembly of its scooters as quick and easy as possible. The Explore comes more or less ready to go, and there’s even a handy multitool that comes with it to help make adjustments as easy as ABC.

It’s simply a case of unfolding the scooter and tightening the QS-S4 and brake levers into place.

It’s also worth double-checking that your tyres are at the correct pressure (50 PSI), and testing the brakes. Apollo has plenty of online resources and video tutorials if you need extra support.

Ride Quality

Is the Apollo Explore Comfortable to Ride?

When we consider the scooters that are most similar to the Explore – including the Zero 10, EMOVE Cruiser, and EVOLV Tour XL-R – it delivers the same level of rider comfort. In fact, the Zero 10 and Explore are replicas of each other – as far as their frame, tyres, and suspension system are concerned. This is because they are made by the same manufacturer, after which Apollo and Zero kit them out with their own choice of batteries and branding.

However, if we look beyond these near-identical models, there are more comfortable rides available. But before we get to those, let's take a look at what the Explore has to offer.

With double spring suspension at the rear and a single spring at the front, the well-suspended scooter reduces the feeling of surface lumps and bumps, even on the rough urban terrain. Plus, the 10 inch pneumatic tyres go the extra mile to ensure your ride is as smooth and wobble-free as possible. Coupled with its high-performance disc brakes and electric regenerative brake, the Explore delivers on both safety and efficiency.

These strong, functional elements mean that the Explore has a refined performance that is at its peak when gliding through urban environments.

While the overall ride quality of the Explore is good, the very nature of the components that deliver its absorption qualities also hinders it. Here, I am specifically referring to the suspension. To achieve a truly buttery-smooth ride across a variety of terrain, swingarm suspension is key. This is because it allows the scooter to pivot vertically. As the springs compress and depress, swingarms pivot allowing the deck to move up and down to help manage undulations.

Scooters that boast swingarms are typically more expensive but if you like the Apollo brand, the next scooter up from the Explore, the Ghost is available for £354 more and boasts a superior ride quality thanks to its vertically-aligned spring and swingarm combination. Similarly, the Mantis Pro SE, another of my recommended alternatives, delivers an exceptionally comfortable ride. I even prefer this model to the quadruple spring and swingarm suspension of Apollo’s most advanced model, the Phantom.

Performance & Safety

Speed & Acceleration

Considering its weight, and the fact that it’s running on a single motor, the Explore packs quite a punch in the speed department.

It can reach speeds of up to 31 mph, but how does this compare to scooters in its price and weight class?

Speed vs Price Comparison

Compared to other scooters within a £500 price range, the Explore lands firmly in the middle, making it a safe bet when it comes to value.

It narrowly beats the EMOVE Cruiser (30 mph) and falls just short of the VSETT 9+R. However, it’s worth considering that the VSETT 9+R has a much faster acceleration rate (34% faster, to be precise) than the Explore thanks to its dual 650W motors.

However, the chart-topping scooters that leave the Explore in the dust are the Mantis Pro SE and Mantis Base. Both of these double up on the Explore’s 1000W motor but the Pro SE's takes the crown with its faster acceleration rate.

Ultimately, if you are a speed fiend, the Mantis Pro SE is the scooter for you.

Speed vs Weight Comparison

Sometimes cost isn’t everything and there are other factors to consider, like how the scooter balances weight and power. That’s why I’ve drawn up a speed-to-weight comparison, so you can see how the Explore compares.

This comparison takes into consideration all of the models that sit within 2.5 kg on either side of the Explore’s 23.6 kg (21.1 – 26.1 kg).

The VSETT 9+R rises to the top spot with a top speed of 33 mph, closely followed by both Dualtron Mini models coming in with 32 mph. The Apollo Explore closes the podium positions with 31 mph.

On the flip side, the slowest of the bunch is the WideWheel Dual at 25 mph. However, a redeeming factor for the WideWheel is its dual 500W motors that deliver a faster acceleration up to 15 mph (it’s 17% faster than the Explore). But, the Explore pulls it back by a considerable amount when accelerating up to 25 mph, making it 21% faster than its slower counterpart.

What does all this mean for you? If you want a scooter that has a rapid acceleration rate, the VSETT 9+R will satisfy your need for speed.

Acceleration

Generally speaking (and, by “generally” I mean: in the world of all electric scooters), the Explore has a relatively quick acceleration rate, but it’s by no means extreme.

Compared to our recommended alternatives, the Explore goes toe-to-toe with the EMOVE Cruiser taking 3.5 and 3.4 seconds to reach up to 15 mph, respectively. But, the Explore takes the crown when hitting 25 mph, getting there in 9.6 seconds, nearly 13% faster than the Cruiser.

Unsurprisingly, the Mantis Pro SE comeS out on top as a result of its dual 60V 1000W motors. It outpaces the Explore, hitting 25 mph 57% faster.

Range

When it comes to range, the 18.2Ah Dynavolt battery can keep the wheels rolling for up to a maximum of 34 miles per charge. Under realistic conditions, however, it’s more like 23 miles.

Mileage vs Price Comparison

Speed isn’t always king of the hill, it’s important to consider how much value you’ll get for your money in terms of mileage. Will it be able to get you to your destination without running out of juice? And will you have to charge it before making a homeward trip? I’ve done the heavy lifting and compared mileage to price so you can figure out which model is best for you.

Within a £500 range around the Explore’s £1,145 price tag, it lands square in the middle of 14 comparable models.

However, I wouldn’t be doing my job right if I failed to point out that the EMOVE Cruiser comes out on top with a whopping 62 mile range. This is 82% greater than the Explore and the cherry on top of the cake is that the Cruiser’s price tag is identical to the Explore’s. Plus, with like-for-like ride quality and an almost identical top speed, the Cruiser should seriously be considered when it comes to choosing which scooter is best for you.

Mileage vs Weight Comparison

In our mileage to weight comparison, we were able to assess the performance of similar models to identify which packed the most punch for its size. With 2.5 kg on either side of the Explore’s 23.6 kg (so, that’s looking at models weighing between 21.2 – 26.1 kg), there are 11 models to choose from.

The Explore misses out on a podium finish coming in fourth joint with the Dualtron Mini. And, again, the EMOVE Cruiser tops the charts with 62 miles, making it the best option when it comes to weight and mileage.

Hill Climbing

Despite the Explore only being equipped with a single rear motor, it does well to take on inclines. For most urban rides, it can scale what can be considered as ‘mild’ inclines with relative ease.

Much like its top speed and acceleration, it’s not the best in its class when it comes to climbing hills. It is by no means the worst and has enough power to tackle the vast majority of inclines that you’ll come up against but if you need to scale steep hills regularly, you’ll need a dual-motor scooter.

The Mantis Pro SE and Mantis Base both have a maximum manufacturer quoted incline rate of 30 degrees and from our in-house tests, we can confirm that they can both scale steep inclines. Sitting one notch down on the incline ladder are the Apollo Ghost and VSETT 9+R, which can tackle inclines of up to 25 degrees.

The Explore’s arch-rival, the EMOVE Cruiser, matches it for its hill-climbing ability.

Shock Absorption / Suspension

Equipped with three springs – one in the front and two in the rear – the Explore has the pedigree to soak up impacts from uneven roads without jostling or bouncing you up and down.

Spring suspension can differ from model to model with some being stiffer than others, and in some cases, they can creak while being compressed (like on the VSETT 9+R). The good news is that the Explore’s springs come preloaded with a tension that makes for the perfect balance between soft and hard.

As previously stated, this scooter performs best when it’s in an urban setting since the suspension doesn’t have enough travel to facilitate a smooth riding experience on off-road terrain.

Braking

When you have a scooter that’s capable of the speeds that the Apollo Explore can climb to, you must have got a good braking system. Fortunately, the Explore comes to a stop as efficiently as it accelerates via its dual mechanical disc brakes and regenerative electric brake. The braking response time is immediate, and as soon as you put pressure on the brake levers, you’ll feel your speed begin to drop.

In brief, the brakes bring you to a complete stop from 15 mph in just 3.3 meters, which we rate as being good. For context, we consider a braking distance of 3 meters as being very good.

As with 79% of all other similarly-priced scooters, the Explore sports dual brakes. However, there are a handful of models that are equipped with superior hydraulic brakes, including the Mantis Pro SE, Mantis Base, and EMOVE Cruiser.

Even though these models have “better brakes”, the Explore goes toe-to-toe with the Base and Cruiser. For stronger stopping power, the Pro SE should be your go-to (3 meters from 15 mph).

Charge Time

The battery takes 9 hours to fully charge using the standard charger and drops to 5 with the fast charger that can be purchased for an extra cost.

Extra Features

Apollo Display & Throttle For Customized Performance Configuration

For visibility over your riding statistics, the nifty LCD trigger throttle display facilitates a dashboard of need-to-know information including your speed, distance travelled, and battery level. It also allows you to view what riding mode you are in and customize your braking and acceleration strength among other settings.

Cruise Control

Cruise control is a scooter owner’s best friend. For anyone familiar with riding while using a finger throttle, you’ll also be familiar with the pain of applying constant pressure to the trigger. This is where cruise control becomes a blessing.

Keeping you at constant speed whilst removing the need for the throttle to be pulled down, this feature comes into its own on longer stretches of riding.

Fast & Furious Inspired Lights

I jovially refer to the Apollo Explore as belonging to the Fast & Furious franchise by virtue of its electric-blue lights. The scooter stylishly illuminates itself, making it a statement to ride after dark. This isn’t just an aesthetic thing either, the bright lights will keep you visible, making the Explore a safer ride.

A single low-mounted front headlight, two rear brake lights, and blue LED strip lights running the length of both sides of the deck and stem keep you glowing.

It’s not all bells and whistles, though. The low placement of the headlight means it can only cast light so far, making it a little tricky to see far ahead when riding at night. For this reason, I recommend purchasing an additional headlight to mount on the handlebars.

Telescopic Stem For Adjustable Handlebar Height

As mentioned early in the review, the Explore is compact when fully collapsed – courtesy of the telescopic stem. But, there’s more to it than just making the scooter’s folded profile more slender.

The position of the handlebars can be adjusted to suit the height of each rider.

Folding Handlebars For Enhanced Portability

Reducing the width of the scooter to a narrow 7.7 inches, its compact capability is a redeeming feature. Although it sits on the heavier end of the scale (23.6 kg), the fact that you can fold it into a more portable and manageable shape makes storage far easier, especially if you want to transport it from place to place.

Unlike scooters that have one-piece handlebars, you don’t have to wrangle a cumbersome shape into the boot of your car.

Optional Seat Attachment

One thing to note here is that Apollo no longer sells self-branded seats for the Explore. But, fear not, there’s a shining hero in the distance and it comes in the form of the Zero 10X.

The seat for the Zero 10X also fits the Apollo Explore.

For a reasonable £95.99, this gadget will save you some serious leg ache, allowing you to kick back and enjoy the ride.

And, do you want to know the best bit? It’s super easy to install. It just requires you to clip it over the top of the deck and tighten the screws at the side to properly fix it into place. It’s also cushioned, adjustable, and sports hydraulic suspension to further smooth the ride in addition to the already well-equipped suspension and plush tyres.

IP54 Water-Resistance Rating

With a factory-certified IP water resistance rating of IP54, the Explore can tolerate light rain.

Don’t take this for granted and leave it in the rain or purposefully ride through deep puddles, though, because the warranty doesn’t cover water damage.

Smart Power Management

The battery is the beating heart of any electric scooter. Without it, I’m afraid to say, your shiny electric scooter is simply a traditional push scooter, and a heavy one at that. That’s why it’s fantastic that the Explore includes Smart Power Management.

It keeps your battery in top condition by helping to maintain its health so it can deliver peak riding performance for thousands of charge cycles. More precisely, it prevents overcharging and short-circuiting, as well as over-discharging and keeps your battery from overheating. Ultimately, the Smart Power Management system keeps your battery in its happy place.

Warranty & Post-Purchase Support

Warranty

There’s no denying it, the 24 month warranty from Ride and Glide, Apollo’s official UK retailer of the Explore, is excellent.

Not only does it cover defects as a result of manufacturing issues (including the battery), but labour costs are fully covered too.

It's worth pointing out that all of the scooter's components aren't covered for the entire 24 months.

During the first year, the frame, lights, motors, controllers, battery, display, throttle, and electrical wiring is covered. After this, it's only the frame that is covered for another 12 months.

Nevertheless, this is still a generous warranty.

It’s important to note, though, that wear and tear isn’t covered under warranty and neither is damage that’s a result of collisions, accidents, or water.

Post-Purchase Support

With responsive live chat on their website, Ride and Glide are one of the few retailers to provide quick-access support.

Alternatively, if you prefer to email you can do just that, or call them directly to speak to one of their friendly customer support executives.

The only area for improvement would be for Ride and Glide to build out a hub of guides explaining how to use and maintain the Apollo Explore. However, you're in luck, becuase Fluid Free Ride, Apollo's official retailer for the U.S., go the extra mile to assist riders with a comprehensive support hub that is jam-packed full of self-help resources. For example, there are detailed guides on how to adjust the Explore’s brakes, use its P-settings, and even change a flat tyre. I would use this library of content as your first port of call before getting in touch with Ride and Glide.

Design

Handlebars

Sporting two folding sleeves that are spring-loaded and with threaded insides, either side of the handlebars can be easily screwed and tightened into place. Although, these handlebars do come with a word of warning: the screw mechanism tends to loosen itself on longer rides, meaning you have to re-tighten the handlebars before and after each ride. This isn’t a safety issue but more an annoyance.

However, where the handlebars come into their own is their adjustability. The height of them can be customized to suit a variety of postures, so you don’t need to worry about being stuck with a one size fits all approach. The only point I’ll emphasize here, though, is that if you are over 6 ft tall, the stem can only stretch to a maximum of 39 inches from the deck meaning it runs a little short causing you to hunch over.

Despite this, if you are under 6 ft, you can look forward to a comfortable riding stance. Not only do the wide handlebars afford good control over the steering column, the texturized rubber grips mean you’ll affix a firm hold.

Also home to the important controls, the handlebars are where you’ll find your all-important QS-S4 console. This displays your speed, distance travelled, and battery level, as well as allowing you to flit between the 3 different riding modes. You can also alter some settings like instant acceleration or kick-and-go functionality to tailor the City to your riding preferences.

Frame

More petite than other Apollo rides, the City is designed for a sleeker city ride, rather than hefty off-road trails, which is why it’s more slender and elegant. However, true to Apollo form, it still sports those touches of colour and flourishes of blue, white, and black that keep it in check with Apollo’s original brand styling (before they stripped out the blue to reveal a stealthier range of scooters including the Ghost and Phantom).

Retaining the vibrant, yet classy appearance, the City glimmers with a pop of colour that lets you know it’s arrived, and with a compact folding design its frame sits in the pool of the elites when it comes to portability.

Deck

Black with blue accents and a touch of white for good measure, the deck is as pretty as it is roomy, with enough space for one foot to take the foremost position and the other at the rear almost perpendicular.

It’s not as wide as the decks on higher performance models, but it's on par with the majority of commuter scooters in its class. One thing that makes it stand out, though, is that, unlike other models such as the Turboant X7 Pro which sports a uniformly patterned rubber matting, the deck is covered in geometrically cutout grip tape. Plus, if we circle back to the City’s long-lost twin, the Zero 9, this scooter has a trio of grip tape columns that adorn the edges and centre of the deck. The City’s design is far superior since a larger surface area is covered with sandpaper-like material.

What’s more, under-deck lighting gives this ride a futuristic underside that we don’t often see on scooters of its ilk.

Wheels

One of the most important features on any scooter is the wheels – they're what get you from A to B after all. The City sports a pair of 8.5 inch pneumatic (air-filled) tyres that do a great job for urban dwellers. Not only are they pliable, meaning they maintain traction with the irregularities of roads, but their relatively small profile keeps the scooter compact whilst also remaining nimble.

Both of the wheels are equipped with mechanical brakes – a drum in the rear and a disc in the front. They do a great job at delivering reliable stopping power alongside the grippy rubber tread that minimizes unwanted slip and slide.

Despite being filled with air and boasting shock absorption qualities, the tyres are only able to soak up so much of the impact from rough roads, and while the suspension smoothes out the brunt of the vibrations, they don’t fair as well as scooters with larger, more plush tyres. However, if you stick to well-maintained roads and pavements, the City delivers a level of ride quality that is among the best in its commuter class.

Build Quality & Durability

A small but mighty scooter, don’t let the small frame fool you – it’s a scooter that proves big isn’t always best, because this compact ride still packs a real punch.

Sitting within the Apollo family, it comes as no surprise that this scooter is of top-tier build quality. Its body is forged from durable aluminium and can support riders up to 120 kg. Plus, the IP54 water-resistant rating, which is all too rare on electric scooters, means that it’s protected from water spray in any direction.

Able to travel speeds of up to 25 mph, it’s essential that this scooter inspires trust and confidence, and it does just that. From the hard-wearing metal alloy of the frame to the robust plastic and rubber used elsewhere, it can endure the wear and tear of everyday life.

Plus, when it comes to durability, Apollo backs up its scooters with one of the longest warranties in the industry. It provides 12 months warranty cover for manufacturing defects and a further 12 months for repair costs, meaning you only pay what it costs Apollo to fix your scooter (i.e. they don't add any service fees on top). Typically, retailers will only cover you for 12 months, after which your warranty will be void, leaving you potentially having to either buy a brand new scooter or pay inflated costs for repairs.

The only area that would benefit from refinement would be the foldable handlebars which can loosen as you ride. This isn’t unique to the Apollo City and is why other scooters, like the EMOVE Cruiser, just use tension cuffs to lock the handlebars into place (i.e. they don’t screw into place).

Weight & Load

The City has been built with commuters in mind. Performing at its best in an urban setting, it is one of the lightest, yet most robust, scooters on the market. And, while it may only weigh in at 17.7 kg, it’s able to carry riders who weigh up to 120 kg, which is 20 kg more than average entry-level scooters.

However, if you are looking for a heavy-duty scooter that can support a heavier load, you’ll want to consider the EMOVE Cruiser or Touring, which can support 160 kg and 140 kg respectively.

Folding & Portability

The Apollo City is one of the most compact scooters you can buy. The foldable handlebars, folding lever, and telescopic stem all help to collapse this scooter down to an easily portable 41.3 (l) x 7.7 (w) x 13.9 (h) inches. By comparison, other commuter scooters that don’t benefit from the City’s clever folding mechanisms, measure up at 42.6 (l) × 16.5 (w) × 18.1 (h) inches.

The fact that the City folds down to a neatly portable 17.7 kg means that it’s easily suited to rides that involve a lot of lifting and carrying, and is more than up to the task of withstanding whatever your everyday ride might throw at it. Compact and light enough to carry into the office, or onto public transport, it’s the ideal candidate for any savvy commuter.

All-in-all, the City won’t take you longer than 20 seconds to fold/unfold it. First, you simply unscrew either side of the handlebars and then pull them outward before positioning them parallel to the stem. Then, you loosen the quick-release lever in the middle of the steering column and follow this by pushing the telescopic stem down and tightening the lever back up. Last, but by no means least, you step down on the folding latch located on the neck of the scooter to release the pin holding it into place and pull the handlebars down to the deck making sure that the pin clicks into the second opening. Once these steps are complete, the City will be firmly locked into its folding position, making it easy to carry with one hand wrapped around the stem.

Assembly

Famed for making easy-to-use, box-ready scooters, most of Apollo’s models (those with foldable handlebars, at least) come ready to ride, and the City is no different.

When your scooter arrives, you’ll find the scooter, a manual, multitool, charging box, and charging cable. If you bought any accessories, they’ll come packaged separately.

One last thing, before scooting out the door, is to check that all the scooter controls on the handlebars (i.e. the QS-S4 display, brake levers, etc) are secured. It’s also worth checking that your tyres are the correct pressure and that you test your brake levers/callipers to make sure they’re operating correctly. Apollo has some great online resources if you need support with this.

Ride Quality

Is the Apollo City Comfortable to Ride?

The City’s ride quality is above average commuter scooter. The plush pneumatic tyres mould to the inconsistencies of urban terrain, while the responsive suspension system dampens the vibrations that would otherwise cause your wrists, knees, and brain to rattle.

Plus, with the telescopic stem, the handlebar height is adjustable, meaning you can position it to maximize comfort. If you are taller than 6 ft, though, you may find that the maximum height of the handlebars runs a little short causing you to hunch over slightly.

There’s even a lot to say for the ergonomically shaped handgrips that allow you to rest your palms on them for increased comfort and control. Small design details like this can make a big difference in rider comfort, especially because control over the steering column can either make or break your riding experience. Take the Kugoo G2 Pro, for instance, it has cheap, small handgrips and narrow handlebars that make it feel rickety to ride.

Overall, you get the best ride quality and performance when gliding through urban scenery. If you need to travel off-road at any point – even if it's just across a compacted dirt path – you’ll notice that the City can’t effectively soak up this type of terrain meaning you’re in for a bumpy ride. Moral of the story? If you are looking for a comfortable, portable ride for urban terrain, the Apollo City is a fantastic option. But, if you want a more versatile scooter that can handle light off-road and urban terrain with ease, then the VSETT 9+R is the one for you.

Performance & Safety

Speed & Acceleration

The City’s 600W motor – which has a peak 800W output – means that it’s able to reach top speeds of 25 mph and deliver a zippy acceleration (perfect for urban riding). Able to climb to an impressive 15 mph in a little over 4 seconds it’ll have no problem getting you to your destination in good time. And, with its air-filled tyres and suspension system, ride quality remains consistent even when hitting top speeds – which is more than what can be said for scooters that lack suspension.

Speed vs Price Comparison

Within a £500 range of the City’s reasonable £894 price tag, it lands in the middle of of 21 comparable scooters.

Sitting at the top of the spectrum is the Dualtron Mini 17.5Ah and 13Ah versions. Thanks to their peak output of 1540W, they can both hit up to 32 mph. However, while their name ”Mini' suggests that they are compact and portable, they are far from it. This is a result of their 21.8 kg weight and lack of foldable handlebars.

With this in mind, the Kugoo G2 Pro looks to be a good option but the ride quality is subpar, making for an unenjoyable experience when hitting its top speed.

This leaves us with the VSETT 8+, which is one of few models in this lineup to sport dual motors. Ultimately, if you have your heart set on the VSETT 8 but want to turn the dial up on top speed, acceleration, and hill-climbing, the 8+ is a fantastic alternative.

Taking a step back from the rankings and looking at the bigger picture beyond the £500 range that we applied, the scooter of choice would be the VSETT 9+R. It costs £356 more than the Apollo City, but if you want a zippy scooter that is the perfect entry into the dual-motor world, its combined 1300W motors deliver more than double the power of the Apollo City, enabling it to climb to a top speed of 33 mph. The dual motors also mean that it accelerates far faster than the City, but more on that in the ‘Acceleration’ section of the review.

It’s also worth noting that although the City isn't a Kingpin when it comes to speed in its price class, it outperforms a lot of scooters in its bracket. Take the slowest of the bunch, the Apollo Air Pro. This scooter has a small 350W motor that can reach just 18 mph. The City is 39% more powerful than this model.

Speed vs Weight Comparison

To figure out how the City performs in a Speed vs Weight test, I ran a comparison of all the models that sit within 2.5 kg on either side of the City’s 17.7 kg (a 15.2 – 20.2 kg weight bracket). There were a total of 18 comparable models.

The City’s maximum speed sits in the top 22%, where it comes in joint second place with the Horizon 13 and 10.4. It is beaten only by the Dualtron Spider, which can reach an impressive 37 mph.

However, the Dualtron Spider is 2.2 times more expensive than the City (£1950 vs £894). So, if you can’t afford to stretch that far, the Apollo City will be your best bet. Alternatively, you could save some money by opting for the Horizon 13 (£690) or the 10.4 version (£599)

The slowest scooter in the weight bracket is Apollo’s entry-level scooter, the Apollo Air. The Air can climb to a baby-step speed of 15 mph, meaning that the City is 67% faster than its little cousin.

Acceleration

For a single motor scooter, the City’s acceleration is pretty good.

In comparison to the two other single motor scooters that I recommend as alternatives (the VSETT 8 and Horizon 13), the City beats both for acceleration. However, the difference between all three models is marginal.

If it’s rapid acceleration you’re after, the dual-motor VSETT 9+R is the best choice. This speedy scooter has an acceleration rate that’s 34% faster 0-15 mph and a whopping 52% faster at climbing to 25 mph, setting it firmly at the top of the charts for this category.

Range

Equipped with a 48V 13.2Ah Dynavolt battery, the City sports a maximum range of 28 miles. Realistically, though, it can put out around 18 miles when used in its full power mode.

So, how does this compare against its closest competitors? Let’s take a look.

Mileage vs Price Comparison

Having applied a £500 range around the City’s £894, our 100+ strong electric scooter database reveals 21 comparable models.

Against this backdrop, the City’s maximum mileage sits in the middle of the pack.

The Ninebot Max takes first place with 40 miles. However, it must be noted that the Max lacks suspension and relies solely on 10 inch air-filled tyres for shock absorption, which delivers a subpar riding experience compared to the second podium finisher, the VSETT 8 (19.2Ah). With this in mind, the VSETT 8 (19.2Ah), with its 38 miles and swingarm spring suspension takes the crown as the best long-range alternative in the Apollo City’s price class.

Mileage vs Weight Comparison

In a mileage to weight comparison of all the models that sit within 2.5 kg on either side of the City’s 17.7 kg (15.2 – 20.2 kg), we found 18 comparable models with the City’s maximum range belonging in the top 22%.

As with the Mileage vs Price comparison, the Ninebot Max comes out on top, weighing in at 18.7 kg and able to cover 40 miles. This is followed by the Dualtron Spider, weighing 20 kg and delivering 37 miles. However, as previously noted, the Max falls short where ride quality is concerned and the Spider is far more expensive than the City.

This leaves the Apollo City and INOKIM Quick 3 to close up the podium positions, covering 28 miles apiece. Which is the better choice? The Apollo City takes the crown here thanks to its better ride quality.

Hill Climbing

The City can comfortably manage gradual urban inclines, but because it only has a single motor, its hill-climbing prowess is severely limited. Ultimately, it hasn’t been built to chew up hills but rather glide through the smooth streets of the city.

If you live in a particularly hilly area, you’ll need some serious hill-climbing power, and for this, a dual-motor model will be best. Luckily, you can get your hands on the popular VSETT 9+R for not too much more money than the City. Doing so will benefit you with dual 650W motors that can generate enough torque to scale hills up 25 degree inclines.

Shock Absorption / Suspension

Equipped with a vertically aligned spring at the front, and two horizontally-aligned springs at the rear, the City is in the upper echelon of scooters in the commuter bracket (i.e. scooters under 19 kg) that sport full suspension systems.

As the air-filled tyre at the front rolls over uneven terrain, the front spring compresses to absorb the majority of the impact while the rear tyre and dual springs smooth out the vibrations that ricochet down the scooter.

It must be noted though, that the City has been designed for smooth terrain and doesn’t have the pedigree to handle rough roads. Also, because of its compact design, it doesn’t have swingarms to support the springs. Swingarms allow for more travel since they facilitate the deck to move up and down as the suspension compresses and depresses. To take advantage of swingarm suspension, check out the VSETT 8.

Braking

When it comes to braking, the City has an effective dual mechanical braking system that outperforms many of its competitors.

Compared to other scooters that are similarly priced to the City, only 43% (including the City) are equipped with dual mechanical brakes. The remaining 57% rely on either a single rear mechanical brake, electronic brake, or stamp-on foot brake.

In the case of the City, it takes an unconventional approach to its braking setup with a drum at the rear and disc at the front. Typically, scooters rely on one type of braking mechanism (i.e. discs at the front and rear) but don’t let this mix and match approach throw you off. The City’s controlled stopping power equates to a braking distance of 3.1 meters from 15 mph, which is very good.

It also sports a regenerative electric brake that repurposes the energy lost from braking and transforms it into battery power.

Charge Time

There are two charging options available.

The first is to use the standard charger. This will allow you to reach full battery power within 6 hours.

On the other hand, a fast charger will allow you to charge in just 3 hours, and is a worthy consideration if you’re like me and forget to put your scooter on charge overnight.

Extra Features

QS-S4 Throttle Display for Customized Performance Configuration

Bringing a premium edge to this budget-friendly scooter is the QS-S4 display which makes all of your riding stats easy to understand and monitor, and allows you to readily access the scooter’s P-settings.

Within the P-settings, you can alter acceleration strength, switch smart modes, and choose different units of measurement (ie: kmh / mph).

Cruise Control

Cruise control is a commuter’s best friend – especially on scooters that use finger throttles.

Unlike thumb throttles, which are comfortable and easy to use thanks to their ergonomic design, finger throttles – which are shaped like a trigger – can cause strain and cramp when held for long periods. Unfortunately, the City’s drivetrain is controlled via a finger throttle.

Don’t stress, though, cruise control has got you (and your finger) covered. You can wave goodbye to the pain of applying constant pressure to the throttle and let the scooter maintain a constant speed.

LED Lights

There’s no question about it, the City’s lights outshine all of its competitors (except for the Zero 9 which is practically the same scooter).

With dual headlights, strip lighting down the stem, blue deck lights, and dual red button lights at the rear, the City looks like a souped-up car from the Fast and Furious franchise.

But, before you get too excited, I still recommend buying an additional headlight to attach to the handlebars to give you an extra stretch of visibility over the road ahead.

Telescopic Stem For Adjustable Handlebar Height

Whether you’re a tall, short, or average height rider, the City can cater to most handlebar height needs. (If you’re over 6 ft tall, it’ll run a little short for you).

The telescopic stem allows the handlebar height to be adjusted in a matter of seconds, which is great if you’re not the only rider of this scooter because it can be changed to suit anyone who happens to be riding it.

Folding Handlebars For Enhanced Portability

Weighing in at 17.7 kg, the City already presents itself as a lightweight, portable scooter. But this is taken up a notch with the collapsible handlebars.

Fastened by threaded tension cuffs that screw into place, Apollo has gone to great lengths to ensure that the City lives up to its name as the go-to scooter for inner-city portability.

These folding handlebars stay locked upright once positioned into place with the tension cuffs but, be warned – on longer journeys they can work themselves a little loose, requiring you to tighten them.

Optional Seat Attachment

Do you want to know a little secret about Apollo? They used to make a seat just for the City but in 2020 they stopped the production of it.

Why am I telling you this? Well, the brand behind Apollo City’s long-lost twin, the Zero 9, sells the seat you need. Because the City and Zero 9 share the same frame, the seat accessory for the Zero model also fits the City.

The seat is cushioned and benefits from an adjustable post with hydraulic suspension for an extra layer of comfort.

IP54 Water-Resistance Rating

The City benefits from an official IP54 water-resistance rating, meaning that it can tolerate light rain.

But don’t leave it outside in a storm, or see if it can take a dip because water damage isn’t covered under warranty.

Smart Power Management

An electric scooter is only as powerful as its battery, which is why battery health is such a key consideration for prospective scooter owners. It’s easy to overlook this with the sleek design and top-of-the-line performance specs but without a good battery, your scooter can turn into a heap of junk.

The good news is that the Apollo City comes complete with a Smart Power Management system that keeps the battery in peak condition, helping to maintain battery life so that it reaches the promised 6 years of performance that Apollo says it’s capable of.

In brief, it controls the flow of electricity in and out of the battery to prevent overcharging, over-discharging, and short-circuiting, as well as overheating – which is important because temperature regulation keeps batteries working as they should.

Warranty & Post-Purchase Support

Warranty

I recommend purchasing the City directly from Ride and Glide to take advantage of their 24 month warranty.

On a more granular level: during the first year, any defects with the frame, controllers, LED Lights, motors, battery, display, throttle, and electrical wiring are fully covered. Should the scooter need to be returned for replacement or repairs, Ride and Glide will cover the shipping and labour costs involved too.

During the second year, manufacturing defects are limited solely to the frame. Despite this, the extended warranty is very good since most retailers typically offer a basic 12 months cover.

It's also worth bearing in mind that, like all warranties, it doesn’t cover wear and tear, nor does it cover any damage that arises as a result of your abuse or neglect of the scooter. Similarly, accidents or collisions aren’t covered and neither is water damage.

Post-Purchase Support

Available between 9 am and 5 pm Monday to Friday, the (very friendly) Ride and Glide team are on hand to help you with anything you need – whether that's sales or technical advice. You can either call or email them.

For simple questions (i.e. nothing too technical), their live chat is a great place to start. I've been impressed with their quick response times.