In-Depth Review: Inokim Quick 4 Super Electric Scooter

Design and Build Quality

Upon unboxing the Inokim Quick 4, its superior build quality is immediately apparent. The scooter's frame is forged from a single piece of aluminum alloy, using CNC technology to eliminate weak points typically caused by welding. This design choice not only adds to the durability but also ensures a high-precision finish, reminiscent of the quality seen in high-end products like Porsche cars. The scooter's overall design, with its sleek LED display and automatic lights, exudes a premium feel that stands out in the crowded scooter market.

Performance and Riding Experience

Speed and Acceleration

The Quick 4 is powered by a 600W continuous-rated rear hub motor, allowing it to reach a top speed of 25 mph. However, when compared to similarly priced scooters, the Quick 4's speed and acceleration fall slightly behind, especially against models with dual motors. While it's not the fastest in its class, the Quick 4 is adequately powered for urban commuting and maintains a good balance between speed and stability.

Range and Battery

Boasting a 52V 16Ah Samsung battery, the Quick 4 offers a real-world range of about 25 miles on a single charge, more if riding at slower speeds. This range is quite impressive for its class, ensuring reliability for daily commutes. The use of Samsung cells contributes to the scooter's longevity and consistent performance.

Ride Comfort

The scooter is equipped with front and rear swingarm spring damper suspension, contributing significantly to its comfortable ride. The dual suspension system, combined with 10" x 2.5" pneumatic tires, effectively absorbs bumps and provides a smooth ride over various urban terrains. The tires also offer excellent traction, enhancing the overall stability and handling of the scooter.

Braking System

For braking, the Quick 4 employs maintenance-free front and rear drum brakes. These enclosed drum brakes offer several advantages, including consistent performance in wet conditions and minimal maintenance requirements. The braking system feels reliable and provides good stopping power, although it's noted that the scooter's short wheelbase can affect optimal weight distribution during braking.

Practicality and Portability

Folding Mechanism and Portability

The Quick 4 stands out for its portability features. It has a telescoping stem, folding handlebars, and a locking fold design, making it easy to carry and store. Despite its relatively heavy weight of 47 lbs, the quick-folding mechanism (taking about 15 seconds to fold and unfold) adds to its practicality for urban commuters who may need to carry the scooter over short distances.

Deck Size

One notable drawback is the Quick 4's deck size. Measuring only 15.5 inches, it's one of the smallest decks I've tested, impacting the comfort of the ride, especially for taller riders or those with larger feet. The limited space can lead to an uncomfortable riding stance, particularly at higher speeds.

Safety Features

The Quick 4 has a robust safety design, with features such as a non-tubular stem to reduce stem wobble and a reinforced folding mechanism with a safety lock to prevent accidental folding. These features, along with the larger wheels and pneumatic tires, contribute to a safer and more stable ride, particularly at the scooter's top speed of 25 mph.

Pricing and Value

Priced at around $1,499, the Quick 4 is positioned in the mid-range market segment. While it's more expensive than budget scooters, it's also more affordable than high-end models. The price tag reflects its superior build quality and durability, but it's important to note that some users may find similarly-priced scooters offering better performance in terms of speed and acceleration.

Conclusion

The Inokim Quick 4 Super is a well-crafted, durable scooter with a strong focus on build quality and safety. It offers a comfortable ride with good suspension and tire quality, making it suitable for urban commuting. However, its short deck size and slightly slower speed compared to similarly priced scooters might be limiting factors for some users. Overall, the Quick 4 Super is a reliable, mid-range scooter that excels in build quality and design, making it a solid choice for those prioritizing durability and safety over top-end speed.

Update After Six Months of Use

After more than half a year of regular usage, my experience with the Inokim Quick 4 Super has provided deeper insights into its long-term value and performance. Here’s an updated take based on extended use:

Durability and Maintenance

The build quality has held up remarkably well. Despite regular commutes and exposure to various city environments, the scooter's aluminum frame and components show minimal wear, underscoring its robust construction. However, the rear brake needed adjustment after a few months, which was relatively straightforward but essential for maintaining optimal performance.

Battery Longevity

The battery continues to perform close to its initial capacity, with only a slight decrease in maximum range. This is impressive, given the frequency of use and suggests that the battery could comfortably last for several years before a replacement is needed.

Comfort and Handling Improvements

Over time, I’ve become more accustomed to the smaller deck size, although it remains a drawback for longer rides. I’ve added an aftermarket handlebar grip for a more ergonomic setup, significantly improving handling comfort during longer commutes.

Portability and Practicality

The folding mechanism’s simplicity and reliability continue to stand out. It facilitates quick transitions, such as moving from riding to carrying the scooter on public transport. However, the scooter’s weight can still be a challenge for anyone needing to carry it up flights of stairs regularly.

Conclusion

The Inokim Quick 4 Super remains a top recommendation for those looking for a reliable, well-built urban electric scooter. Its continued performance, coupled with durable construction and effective design features, ensure it stands out as an excellent investment for regular commuters. Notwithstanding some minor issues, such as the deck size and an occasional need for maintenance, it offers substantial long-term value and utility.