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Discover why I swapped my car for an Unagi Scooter! Dive into my journey from the monotony of traffic to the freedom of city streets, exploring the excitement, eco-friendliness, and simplicity of scooter life. Join the ride towards a more adventurous, sustainable urban lifestyle. Will you join me?
With White Glove Love, we go where you go. All-Access members who are traveling can get an Unagi electric scooter for use during their trip, delivered to their hotel or Airbnb, at no extra charge. Now available in 8 U.S. cities.
Explore our latest feature in the Voyager's smart mobile app: Ride Recording. Now, you can effortlessly track your journeys, monitor stats, and review your ride history to see how far you've traveled, and much more. Discover this and more in the Unagi Voyager’s smart app!
In this article we'll run through a handful of reputable e scooter models simply explaining the important features and spec you should aim for, to ensure you buy the best electric scooter for commuting in 2024.
Stay current with the latest U.S. electric scooter laws in our 2024 guide. Updated annually since our first comprehensive guide, ensuring you have the most recent state and city regulations to ride responsibly”
In this guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know about riding an electric scooter in California, from the electric scooter laws and regulations to preparing for your journey.
TurboAnt X7 MAX is often quoted as a go-to budget scooter, packing a next level performance and a smooth ride, too. Thanks to its swappable battery for doubling range, wider tires and deck, and hill climbing ability, its specs square up to some of the best electric scooters built for urban commuting, but at a much reduced cost.
In this article ... we'll check out two tasty alternatives in the affordable e scooter range - the less well-known Xiaomi 1S (upgraded from the epic, award-winning M365), and the style scooter boss No.1, Unagi Voyager.
Lets kick off with the Turboant...
Source: Turboant Instagram
The TurboAnt X7 MAX could likely be your first scooter. Upgraded from the Turboant X7 Pro in late 2022, new riders, casual riders - and even experienced riders - can all get on-board with its speedy motor power and range. And at an affordable, good value price - currently under 500 bucks.
TurboaAnt X7 Max comes loaded with a:
Source: TurboAnt
Which gives you a satisfying maximum speed of:
X7 MAX also has an increased range on a single battery charge of:
Basically, you gain extra range on long commutes, but at the same speed.
|
Speed Level |
Short press the function button twice to adjust the speed level. |
Low Level: "S" Icon in White |
|
Medium Level: "S" Icon in Orange |
||
|
Sport Level: "S" Icon in Red |
Source: TurboAnt User Manual
As with most electric scooters, TurboAnt lets you take control of capping your speed to suit riding conditions. Whether on your daily commute or going for fun time thrills.
The X7 Max offers 3 riding mode options:
The best electric scooter is one that also doesn't need your thumb permanently on the throttle. When your speed passes 6 km/h (3.7 mph), you simply press throttle for 6 seconds. Press again or use the brake lever to exit.
Source: TurboAnt
TurboAnt claims X7 Max can achieve a fairly steep incline of 15 per cent. Much will depend on rider weight, battery charge and ground surface.
Generally, X7 Max can make a 10 per cent gradient - considered the urban minimum - in around 24 seconds, averaging 9.1 km/h (5.7 mph).
The X7 Max packs a:
Source: TurboAnt
Battery capacity on a 6 hour single charge is:
Source: TurboAnt
It's the reason why the X7 MAX has a super slimline deck. Because a removable battery is installed in the stem instead of underneath the deck. The upgrade from the X7 Pro also includes a stem battery lock.
A removable battery means ...
By simply carrying a second, fully-charged swappable battery you can gain twice the amount of mileage. Ideal for those longer commutes and weekend, fun trips out of town.
Source: TurboAnt
A budget scooter and a comfortable ride - they don't always go together! Ride comfort on an urban commute is often down to the type and size of tire, whether air filled or solid tires.
The X7 Max is pumped up on:
Giving you those extra inches to soak up uneven sidewalks, cracked tarmac, and other bumpy terrain, without the help of added suspension.
Needing to replace a flat tire while out riding can be a hassle. That's why it's important to frequently check your tire pressure, and keep it at 31.9-34.8 psi (220-240 kPa).
Source: TurboAnt
As with many other electric scooters, TurboAnt X7 MAX has a dual braking system, comprising:
Both electronic brake and disc brake are controlled by a large hand lever. When firmly squeezed, it can bring you to a full stop in just under 24 kms (15 feet) while riding at an average 24 km/h 15 mph.
Source: TurboAnt
Your visibility to others is as important as you being able to see the way ahead. Both rely on your scooter's built in lights, especially during early morning or night rides.
X7 Max features:
Strip reflectors are also mounted on both front and rear wheel forks.
Source: TurboAnt
Cockpit control on the X7 Max is simple and easy, with which to interact, steer and navigate.
Almost the entire length of its compact 42 cm (16.5 in) handlebars is covered in a firm, high-grip, pattern rubber.
Left handlebar - long firm brake lever for applying both front and rear brakes, plus bell alongside.
Right handlebar - large thumb throttle plus power buttons in solid, bright orange.
At handlebar centre sits a solid functional LED display providing clear readouts, including:
Source: TurboAnt
Turboant X7 Max is made with a high strength, lightweight aluminum-magnesium alloy.
The frame is also designed to withstand a maximum weight capacity of 125kgs (275lbs). Ideal for heavier riders who often cannot find a scooter with a carry capacity of beyond 100kgs (220 lbs).
Source: Turboant
The X7 Max deck measures:
Which means greater leg room for the longer ride X7 Max offers. This is because the swappable battery is not stowed underneath the deck.
Which gives you an extra ground clearance of 13.4cms (5.3 in) compared to the average 7.6 cm (3in) on some other budget scooters. So no more deck scrapes when crossing curbs, flagstones or concrete steps.
Source: TurboAnt
Every rider wants a hassle-free, quick fold, instantly portable scooter. The Max 7 has a fast-release folding mechanism that takes a few seconds -
From:
To:
Plus, the deck latch simply slots via a stem hook into the rear fender without securing to the handlebars.
Weighing in at 15.5 kg (34.2 lb), the X7 Max is easier than most other scooters to carry, particularly up a flight of stairs.
Performance upgrades from X7 Pro give X7 Max the all-important extended range.
Among its unique features, a swappable battery placed in a new lockable stem gives you better security, easier carry, and added deck clearance.
Want to check out another similar spec scooter? Here's an alternative budget scooter you might not have heard of...
The 1S is designed by Xiaomi, the same Chinese tech brand that launched 2016's highly-regarded M365.
Xiaomi replaced the M365 in 2020 with the "Essential", and the almost identical "1S" scooter with its improved battery life. The 1S is also manufactured by Ninebot, who make the Segway Ninebot MAX.
Source: Xiaomi Scooters
Xiaomi 1S is equipped (like its forerunner, M365) with:
Its classic motor power at an energy-saving pace for the daily urban ride, gives you:
Source: Xiaomi
To save even more battery charge you also get the essential 3 max speed settings for each type of ride:
The 1S can hit 0-24.1 km/h (0-25 mph) in around 6 seconds, which can be faster than the Turboant X7 (taking around 9 seconds).
Accessed and activated via the Mi Home app. Simply hold the throttle for a few seconds for cruise control to kick in. And enjoy thumb-free 'comfort mode' on your longer rides!
Xiaomi says the 1S can make 14 per cent gradients. Taken at a slower speed. Typical, 10 per cent hill climbs inclines can average more than 20 seconds in Standard D-Mode speed. Read about how to ride an electric scooter uphill?
Xiaomi 1S packs a:
Source: Xiaomi
On a single charge time of 5.5 hours, a range of 30km (18.6 miles) could be achieved. Factors to always consider are the speed mode selected, rider weight, and ground, and weather conditions.
A more typical range in everyday urban conditions can be nearer to 21 km (13 miles).
Source: Xiaomi
A 5th gen BMS is linked to the Mi Home app to monitor battery operating conditions. Typically protecting against:
Source: Xiaomi
Ride quality is mostly down to a scooter's tires, and shock absorption, if fitted.
Xiaomi comes with:
Pneumatic tires are pretty notorious for getting flats, but this is offset by their better ground handling. Not only for a smooth ride on flat roads but also on gravel, dirt roads, and grass.
Air-filled tires flex and grip a surface to soak up the bumps which solid tires can't do.
Source: Xiaomi
Xiaomi 1S comes equipped with a dual braking system:
At 24.1 km/h (15 mph), the 1S can come to a full stop in just under 5.2 meters (17 feet).
Xiaomi calls their regen braking a "kinetic energy recovery system (KERS)". Braking energy is used and stored in the battery for acceleration and extended range.
Potentially, the 1S can hit 15.5 mph and travel up 18.6miles on a single charge.
Source: Xiaomi
Not all commuter scooters come with a bright enough headlight.
The Xiaomi 1S not only has a powerful 2W ultra-bright headlight. The beam angle is set to below the line of sight to avoid headlight dazzle.
The headlight also links to the rear reflector/tail light. It automatically turns on when the headlight is switched on and will flash when the brake lever is squeezed.
For added visibility, reflector flashes are fitted to the scooter front, sides, and tail light.
Source: Xiaomi
At a compact 43 cm (17in), the S1 handlebar is a masterclass in cockpit simplicity.
It's wrapped in evenly-spaced, dimple-textured TPR (thermoplastic rubber) - for a firm but impact-absorbing grip - giving you instant, intuitive control:
Left handlebar
Right handlebar
At-a-glance, real-time display includes:
A one-button press for multiple functions:
Source: Xiaomi
Boasting an "aerospace grade" aluminum body in handsome charcoal grey, 1S offers adult riders smart-looking and sturdy, ride comfort. It also has a load capacity of 100kgs (220 lbs) for heavier riders.
Source: Xiaomi
A slimline deck gives you 45cm (17.7in) x 15cm (5.8in) of standing space, just an inch less than the Turboant. Plus, a standard 3.5in of ground clearance.
Source: Xiaomi
Weighing in at a lightweight 12.5kgs (27.5lbs), the Xiaomi 1S is an easy carry and stow. It's 3-second folding mechanism folds your scooter down:
From:
L 108cm (42.5 in) x W 43 cm (17in) x H 114cm (45 in)
To:
L 108cm (42.5 in) x W 43 cm (17in) x H 49cm (19in)
Source: Xiaomi
Source: Xiaomi
Almost identical in spec and performance to the much praised M365, its added range makes Xiaomi 1S a serious contender in your choice of affordable budget scooter. It's smart, good looks are an urban commuting plus.
But can it beat out the smooth, sleek charms and zippy scoots of Unagi Voyager?
Let's find out...
If you're looking for scooter style and commuting performance in one smart, affordable package...
Unagi Voyager has to be your transportation of choice. Built for the hustle and bustle of the city. And rocking a cool, head-turning vibe...
Voyager is powered by:
Packing dual motors and beating out Turboant's single 350w motor, Voyager gives you:
And just like many of the best electric scooters out there, you get to "customize your ride for the speed you need".
Voyager gives you 4 speed-capped, riding modes:
Voyager's dual motors can punch out 1000 watts at a max torque of 32Nm to eat up 15-degree hill climbs. Matching both Turboant X7 and Xiaomi S1 scooters.
Voyager averages typical urban gradients (10 per cent) in around 12 seconds at nearly 17.7 km/h (11 mph).
Voyager comes equipped with:
A single, fast 3 hour charging time (half the time of both Turboant X7 and Xiaomi S1) can produce:
Voyager's built-in monitoring system - designed for low maintenance scootering - prevents:
Unagi scooters are known for their honeycomb tires - a unique hybrid of solid tires and pneumatic tires, measuring:
Honeycomb tires refer to the system of air pockets around the edge of the entire wheel. This gives you:
Voyager is fitted with:
Plus, a rear fender brake for a firm assist to full stops. With no jarring wheel locks when braking on flat ground.
Typical on-road test results for Unagi:
Lights are not only for night rides. They should always be turned on early morning, after dusk, in bad weather, and in reduced daylight.
Unagi has given Voyager :
plus
The headlight is also mounted at the highest point on the stem, in front of the handlebars, for:
Is there a more elegantly fashioned handlebar in urban scooter design? Voyager's control center is seamlessly formed from a single casting of magnesium alloy, one third lighter than aluminum.
Here you do enjoy ergonomic design - crafted to minimalist perfection! Not only looking good but feeling good to touch, too.
Handlebar center: Flush-mounted LED display
At a glance, you can also instantly see:
Unagi's smart app (iOS and Android) enables you to:
Its high-spec frame is made from carbon fiber, aluminum, and magnesium alloy, which gives an impressive strength-to-weight ratio.
Voyager is both exceptionally light, yet capable of a typical commuter load capacity of up to 100kgs (220 lbs). 'Invisible' frame supports reinforce typical stress points.
Unagi continues to lead the way in smart color makeovers. Voyager has FOUR new cool hues to choose from:
Voyager sports a slimline deck, ideal for short commutes and trips around the block:
The standing room is generally larger than a typical scooter deck. And subtly tapered with a tough, rubber grip embedded across its entire surface.
Ground clearance is 8.3 cm (3.3 ins) with left-hand side kickstand, neatly folding away when not in use.
Voyager weighs in at an easy, carry in your hand 13.4kgs (29.6 lbs), lighter than Turboant X7 (15.5 kg (34.2 lb).
It's also lighter than many other commuter scooters. Offering max portability for fast commutes on foot and by subway.
The Unagi scooter also has a fast-action folding mechanism.
In a one-flick thumb slide - combined with a 90 degree stem angle - Voyager instantly folds down to:
An easy comfortable size for carrying up stairs, escalator, and storing neatly away in your car trunk, at the office, or in your home.
Voyager's upgraded dual 500 watt motors and 360Wh battery deliver even more urban power riding when needed.
Unagi's inbuilt, ergonomic design also gives you satisfying handlebar control. A micromobility freedom with double the range at half the energy-charging time.
Where every ride is an uber-style urban performance.
Join the Unagi community for "Effortless personal transportation". And exclusive scootering taking you to another level.
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So, you're thinking about joining the electric scooter revolution, huh? You've seen those sleek and stylish scooters zipping around town, effortlessly gliding through traffic, and you can't help but wonder: Are electric scooters easy to ride?
In this guide, we'll break down what defines a lightweight electric scooter, why you should choose one, and the top features you should look for.
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