Apollo City Review

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.

Apollo City Unboxing and Spec Overview

With an impressive array of lights, extremely compact folding frame, and comprehensive suspension system, the Apollo City is primed for urban commutes. Find out what else it has to offer.