Hiboy NEX5 Electric Scooter Review

After spending considerable time with the Hiboy NEX5 Electric Scooter, I've accumulated substantial experience to share a detailed review of its performance, design, and utility.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the Hiboy NEX5 impresses with its sleek and sturdy design. The black matte finish is not only pleasing to the eye but also hides scuffs and dirt well. The scooter's frame is made of quality aluminum, which suggests durability while still light enough (around 31 lbs) for portability.

The folding mechanism deserves praise for its ease of use and robust feel, reducing any worries about wear over time. However, the latch can be a bit stiff initially but loosens up after repeated usage. Carrying the scooter after folding is straightforward, thanks to the well-designed frame that avoids any awkward gripping points.

Performance and Speed

Equipped with a 350W brushless motor, the NEX5 delivers solid acceleration and a top speed of approximately 19 mph, which feels quite zippy in urban environments. Climbing gradients of up to 15% does slow it down, yet it still manages to trudge up without stalling, showcasing its torque capabilities.

One standout feature is the three speed modes (Beginner, Normal, and Sport), allowing riders to match the scooter's performance to their comfort level or situational needs. Transitioning between these modes is smooth and intuitive.

Ride Comfort

Hiboy has equipped the scooter with 8.5-inch solid tires coupled with a front shock absorber. The ride quality is generally good; however, the solid tires, while eliminating the concern of punctures, do mean you feel more vibrations and bumps compared to air-filled tires. The shock absorber does alleviate this to some degree, but don't expect a glide-over-potholes kind of ride.

The deck is spacious enough for a comfortable stance, and the rubberized mat provides ample grip, which boosts confidence during rides.

Battery and Range

The scooter is armed with a 36V lithium-ion battery, which claims to offer a range of up to 22 miles on a single charge. In practice, the range is slightly lower, particularly if you're using the top speed extensively or if you're a heavier rider. Average users can expect approximately 17-19 miles, which is still commendable for daily commutes.

Charging time is around 6 hours, which isn't exceptionally quick but is pretty standard for scooters of this class. Planning your charging schedule can avoid any inconvenience.

Safety and Features

Safety-wise, the NEX5 has a dual braking system consisting of an electric front brake and a rear disc brake, providing responsive and steady stopping power. I found the braking to be reliable even whilst descending steep hills, which is critical for rider safety.

Lighting is sufficient with a bright LED headlight and taillight for visibility in low-light conditions. Though the headlight positions well, an additional bar-mounted light wouldn't hurt for extra safety.

Additionally, the NEX5 comes with an IPX4 rating, meaning it can withstand splashes and light rain, but it's not designed for heavy downpours.

User Interface

The LCD display is clear and informative, offering insights into speed, battery life, and riding mode. The throttle and mode buttons are ergonomically positioned, making them easy to access without needing to shift grip.

Update: Long-Term Ownership Experience

Having now used the Hiboy NEX5 for over six months, I've gained deeper insights into its long-term usability and durability. Here are some additional observations:

Positive Long-term Attributes:

1. Durability: The aluminum frame continues to hold up exceptionally well against daily wear and tear. No significant cosmetic damages or functional failures have arisen, reinforcing its build quality.


2. Battery Lifespan: Surprisingly, the battery performance has remained robust. I’ve not noticed a significant decrease in battery life or range, which speaks well of the battery management system.


3. Reliability: The scooter has consistently performed up to expectations on various terrains and weather conditions, making it a reliable companion for commutes.

Areas of Concern:

1. Stiff Folding Mechanism: While initially, a bit of stiffness in folding was expected, it has not eased over time, which can sometimes be slightly cumbersome during rapid transitions.


2. Solid Tires: Riding on solid tires means a trade-off with comfort. Over time, the ride can feel increasingly rough on poor road surfaces, causing some discomfort on longer rides.


3. Charger Port Issues: Some minor issues with the charger port developing looseness have been noticed, possibly due to regular plugging and unplugging.

Conclusion

The Hiboy NEX5 Electric Scooter remains a top choice for those seeking a balance between performance, comfort, and utility. While not flawless in every aspect, particularly in terms of ride comfort on rough surfaces, its advantages in terms of design, reliability, and user-friendly features continue to make it a commendable choice for urban commuting. The experience of owning this scooter in the long term largely reaffirms its initial promise, offering sustained performance and dependability.