Apollo City Electric Scooter Review

After spending several weeks riding the Apollo City electric scooter through a variety of urban landscapes, I've come to appreciate its intricacies and how it fares as a daily commuter companion. In this comprehensive review, I'll delve into everything from the Apollo City's performance to its design, comfort, and any unique features or limitations it might have.

Build Quality and Design

From the moment I unboxed the Apollo City, it was clear that the scooter has been engineered with durability in mind. The scooter boasts a robust frame made of high-quality materials that promise longevity. The folding mechanism, which is a critical point in any portable scooter, felt secure and well-designed, inspiring confidence when carrying the scooter onto public transportation or when storing it.

The design is sleek, with a muted color scheme that doesn't scream for attention yet maintains a modern and professional look. It's an aesthetic that I find appealing for daily commutes, as it fits in well in an urban environment.

Performance and Ride Experience

Hopping onto the Apollo City, the 600W motor packed enough punch to tackle hills with a surprising amount of gusto. The scooter's acceleration is smooth and responsive, which I found immensely satisfying, especially when navigating start-stop city traffic.

One of the standout features is the scooter's top speed. At approximately 25 mph (40 km/h), it strikes a balance between thrill and safety - fast enough to feel exhilarating, but not overwhelmingly so. The range, which hits up to 28 miles (45 km) on a single charge, is generous, allowing for extended trips without the anxiety of constantly searching for the nearest outlet.

Handling is nimble, and the triple braking system (comprising a front mechanical, rear electronic, and a foot brake) provides a reassuring amount of stopping power. I never felt out of control, even when needing to halt unexpectedly.

Comfort and Portability

When it comes to comfort, the Apollo City does not disappoint. The 8.5-inch pneumatic tires effectively absorb shocks from bumpy city roads, and even though it doesn't have a sophisticated suspension system like some higher-end models, the ride is surprisingly comfortable. The deck is spacious enough to stand comfortably, and the handlebars are at a good height, making for an ergonomic riding posture.

In terms of portability, the Apollo City is a mixed bag. Weighing in at about 39 pounds (17 kg), it isn't the lightest scooter on the market. While it's not a problem for short carries, it could pose a challenge if you need to lug it up several flights of stairs daily. The folding mechanism, however, is a breeze to operate, making it a quick process to collapse the scooter when needed.

Practicality and User-Friendliness

The user interface on the Apollo City is clear and intuitive. The display provides essential information at a glance, including speed, battery life, and riding mode. Switching between the three speed modes is as straightforward as a couple of button presses. Furthermore, I appreciated the inclusion of LED lights, which are bright and improve visibility for those early morning rides or late evening commutes.

Maintenance has been relatively hassle-free. Like all scooters, keeping the tires inflated and periodically checking the screws and folding mechanism for tightness goes a long way in extending the Apollo City's lifespan.

Drawbacks

No scooter is perfect, and the Apollo City does have its limitations. While the water resistance rating is sufficient for a light drizzle, I would be cautious about using the scooter in heavy rain. Additionally, for individuals seeking a high-performance scooter designed for off-road adventures, the Apollo City might fall short due to its urban-centric design.

Conclusion

To wrap up, the Apollo City is a solid choice for anyone in the market for a reliable, well-built electric scooter tailored for the urban environment. Its combination of quality build, impressive power, range, and thoughtful design make it a practical choice for the day-to-day commuter. However, its weight could be a deciding factor for those needing something more portable.

While the Apollo City might not have all the bells and whistles of the top-tier scooters, it delivers where it counts. For city dwellers looking for a balance between performance, comfort, and practicality without breaking the bank, the Apollo City is certainly worth considering.

Long-Term Ownership Update

After owning the Apollo City scooter for over half a year, my experiences have deepened, revealing both its enduring charms and a few wrinkles. Durability continues to stand out; the scooter has faced countless rides and even minor mishaps, but remains as reliable as the day it was unboxed. I'm still impressed by its performance in varied urban terrains and its consistent battery life has never left me stranded.

However, long-term use has exposed a few areas of concern. The rubber on the handle grips has begun to wear down, making them less comfortable during longer rides. Additionally, the ride quality has slightly degraded as the suspension system shows signs of strain – a reminder that while sturdy, the Apollo City isn't immune to wear and tear.

On the positive side, part availability and customer service from Apollo have been commendable. I had an issue with the rear light, and after a quick customer service call, a replacement part was shipped promptly, with clear instructions for easy self-repair.

In sum, the Apollo City remains a favorable option for an urban electric scooter, combining practical features with robust performance. Its minor flaws don't overshadow the benefits, making it a worthy companion for any city commuter looking for a reliable, efficient, and enjoyable ride.