Hiboy S2 Pro Electric Scooter Review

After spending ample time zipping through the city streets and navigating various landscapes on the Hiboy S2 Pro, I've gathered some substantial insights. As an electric scooter enthusiast, I must say this scooter offers an intriguing mix of performance, convenience, and comfort wrapped in an affordably priced package, which may very well cater to the needs of urban commuters and leisure riders alike.

Performance

With a 350W brushless motor, the S2 Pro has a claimed top speed of around 19 mph (30.5 km/h), and during my test, I found this to be fairly accurate on flat surfaces. The acceleration is smooth, not jarring, making it a friendly scooter for novice riders. Uphill performance is decent, managing moderate inclines without too much strain, which is quite impressive for a scooter at this price point.

The 36V, 11.4Ah battery adds heft to the confidence with a substantial range. Hiboy advertises a maximum range of 30 miles (48 km). Under realistic conditions – meaning a good mix of hills, some starts and stops, and not being shy with throttling – I noted a range closer to 25 miles (40 km) which, in fairness, still exceeds expectations for daily commuting.

Ride Comfort

Comfort is where the S2 Pro starts to show its real value. Equipped with 10-inch solid tires and dual rear shock absorbers, it manages to absorb a significant amount of vibrations from uneven terrains. It's not as smooth as air-filled tires, of course, but it strikes a nice balance by eliminating the concern of punctures. I found the ride to be remarkably stable for a scooter with solid tires, a testament to its well-designed suspension system.

The deck is wide enough for a comfortable stance, which helps on longer rides, and the anti-slip material provides an assurance of safety, especially in damp conditions.

Design and Build Quality

With a sturdy frame and a visually appealing design, the S2 Pro doesn't feel like a budget scooter. It boasts a clean and streamlined aesthetic with its black body and red accents, which makes it quite an eye-catcher on the streets.

When it comes to weight and portability, the S2 Pro tips the scale at around 36.3 lbs (16.5 kg), not the lightest scooter out there, but still manageable for most people to carry it up a flight of stairs or load it into a car trunk. The one-step folding mechanism is intuitive and quick, making it relatively painless to stow away.

The integrated LED display is bright and easy to read, providing real-time information at a glance. The simple interface allows you to adjust speed modes, check battery life, and turn on the headlights, which is a plus for riding after dark.

Unique Features

One standout feature for the technologically inclined is the connectivity to the Hiboy S2 App. This not only allows tracking but also lets you customize the scooter's braking response, acceleration curve, and even check for firmware updates. It's a nice touch that gives a personalized feel to the riding experience.

Another significant design element is the electronic throttle with cruise control, which reduces the strain on your thumb during long rides, a feature not commonly found in this price bracket.

Shortcomings

Despite the many highs, there are a couple of lows that are worth noting. The solid tires, while convenient, don't provide the traction of pneumatic tires, and this is particularly noticeable in wet conditions. Caution is advised during rainy days.

The provided disc brake, coupled with the regenerative braking, offers a respectable stopping power, but it doesn't have the immediacy you'd find in higher-end models. It's functional but requires a bit more planning and distance to come to a complete halt safely.

Final Thoughts

The Hiboy S2 Pro has much to offer for those looking for an affordable, well-rounded electric scooter. Its strong suits in range and ride comfort makes it a very competitive option. While it may not excel in all areas, the overall package represents great value for money and a solid choice for anyone's first foray into electric scooters or a dependable choice for daily commutes.

Update After 6+ Months of Usage

After more than six months of continued use, the Hiboy S2 Pro has shown both its strengths and areas that could use improvement. The longevity of the battery has held up well, consistently delivering close to the marketed range, which is commendable. However, like many battery-powered devices, a slight decrease in maximum range is noticeable as the months roll on, which is expected due to battery degradation over time and use.

The build quality has proven to be robust, handling daily wear and tear without major issues—testament to its sturdy construction. Still, I have experienced occasional creaks and squeaks from the folding mechanism which require regular maintenance to ensure smooth operation.

Customer service experiences have been mixed. While some users report prompt and helpful responses, others have faced slow reply times on warranty and service issues, which can be frustrating when you rely on the scooter for daily commuting.

Lastly, its performance on wet surfaces still presents challenges, notably reduced traction which calls for cautious riding in adverse weather conditions.

Overall, the Hiboy S2 Pro remains a valued electric scooter for its price range, ideal for budget-conscious buyers looking for a reliable urban commuting option. Continuous maintenance and careful handling can help mitigate some of its wear-and-tear issues, making it a sturdy companion on many more rides.