Fluid Free Ride CityRider Electric Scooter Review

The Fluid Free Ride CityRider is an electric scooter that promises a balance between functionality, style, and convenience for the urban commuter. Weighing a mere 31 pounds, this scooter is designed for those in need of a lightweight and portable solution for their daily city travels. But does it truly deliver on its promises? Let's dive in.

First Impressions

Out of the box, the CityRider impresses with its sleek, matte black design complemented by a stylish wooden deck which adds a touch of uniqueness in a market where plastic decks are the norm. It's an aesthetically pleasing scooter that doesn't scream "look at me," but rather whispers sophistication.

Performance and Ride

Powered by a 36V 350W motor, the CityRider reaches a top speed of 18 mph with a sense of confidence. It doesn't have the most aggressive acceleration curve, taking a leisurely 11.4 seconds to hit 15 mph, but this can be seen as a positive for newer riders or those who prefer a less aggressive ride.

The scooter handles small inclines with ease, although it does show limitations on steeper hills, which is not uncommon in this class of scooter. The 10Ah battery affords a realistic range of around 15 miles, although your experience will vary based on riding style and conditions. For eco-conscious riders looking to shrink their carbon footprint, this sort of range is quite adequate for most urban journeys.

Construction Quality

Boasting a sturdy steel-tubular frame, the CityRider feels solid and stable even when ridden by a near-the-limit 220-pound user. The ride quality over smooth surfaces is pleasant thanks to honeycomb tires that provide some shock absorption. However, riders will feel each bump and crack on rougher terrain. This is where the lack of suspension can be felt, but considering the trade-off in weight and complexity, it's a forgivable omission.

Braking

The CityRider comes equipped with a rear drum brake and an additional rear step-on brake. This dual system provides ample stopping power for city conditions. The brake feel is smooth and progressive, ensuring a controlled deceleration even when reacting to unexpected traffic situations.

Portability

At just 28 pounds and with a folding mechanism that reduces its profile significantly, the CityRider is highly portable. It can be easily carried onto a bus or train, stowed away under an office desk, or placed in the trunk of a car without any struggle. This is a critical feature for a scooter designed for multi-modal commuters, and Fluid Free Ride gets it spot-on.

Lighting

Both front and rear LED lights are included, with the rear light doubling as a brake light to increase safety during night rides. Additionally, it comes with integrated turn signals, a rare feature in this price segment, boosting safety when maneuvering through traffic. However, one must remember to re-enable the light manually after using the turn signal to maintain visibility.

Tires

The 8.5" honeycomb tires negate the fear of flats, a huge plus for any commuter who has experienced the misfortune of changing a tire roadside. While they reduce maintenance and induce some suspension, they are not a substitute for a true suspension system. The ride can feel jarring on less forgiving surfaces, but on city streets, these tires strike a practical balance between comfort and durability.

User Interface

The centered display is bright and clear, providing all the ride information you need. Through the Android and iOS app, one can customize ride settings, switch between mph and kph, and enable or disable the cruise control––a welcomed addition for those looking for customized riding experiences.

Should You Buy the CityRider?

The CityRider is a fantastic option if you prioritize style, portability, and quality. Its understated design, coupled with solid build quality and thoughtful features like app control and turn signals, make it a standout offering in its price range. The CityRider won't win any races, but for the average city dweller, it's not about speed—it's about the freedom to navigate the urban landscape efficiently and with ease. It's a budget-friendly commuter that doesn't feel budget, offering just the right mix of performance and practicality for everyday use.

Six-Month Update: Pros and Cons of Long-Term Ownership

After more than six months of regular use, the CityRider has revealed both its strengths and some areas that could be improved.

Positives:

• Reliability: The scooter has proven to be reliable for daily commuting, showing consistent performance without any significant mechanical failures.


• Battery Life: The battery capacity has held up well, with only a slight decrease in range which is typical of lithium-ion batteries.


• Ease of Maintenance: Owing to its tire design and solid build, maintenance has been minimal, a significant plus for those not technically inclined.

Negatives:

• Comfort on Rough Terrains: As previously noted, the lack of suspension is felt more prominently over time, especially when traveling on poorly maintained roads.


• Weight Consideration for Some Users: While the scooter is light, some users might still find the 28-pound weight slightly cumbersome for frequent lifting or when integrating with public transportation.

In conclusion, the CityRider continues to be a solid, dependable choice for urban electric scooter users, combining ease of use with an elegant design. For those aware of its limitations in suspension and looking for a scooter primarily for smooth, city commuting, it remains an excellent choice.