Balanced Review of the Kugoo Kirin S1 Electric Scooter

As electric scooters continue to pave their way into the world of urban mobility, the Kugoo Kirin S1 stands out as a noteworthy and budget-friendly option for those on the lookout for a reliable last-mile transportation solution or simply craving the joys of a breezy commute. Let's delve into the details of this electric scooter and weigh its highlights and downsides.

Design and Build Quality

The Kugoo Kirin S1 presents a sleek, modern aesthetic with its black or white frame accented by eye-catching orange highlights. The scooter bears a robust folding mechanism, allowing for quick and secure folding or unfolding—a feature beneficial for portability and storage. The S1 doesn't sacrifice stability for its lightweight design; coming in at just under 12kg, it is comfortable to carry for most individuals.

Portability

The Kirin S1 scores high marks on portability. It folds down to a compact form, making it convenient to stow away in the boot of a car or to carry on public transport. However, one minor inconvenience is that even when folded, the handlebars can still pivot, which may lead to slight awkwardness when lifting or moving the scooter.

Tires and Suspension

Equipped with 8-inch 'honeycomb' solid rubber tires, the Kirin S1 promises a puncture-free riding experience. While airless tires mean maintenance is virtually non-existent, riders must be prepared for a firmer ride—less forgiving on rough or uneven surfaces. Nevertheless, the inclusion of a front spring suspension adds a level of shock absorption, resulting in moderate comfort on city streets.

Performance and Battery Life

Under the hood, the Kirin S1 is powered by a 350W rear-wheel motor, which is a delightful change from the common front-wheel drive setups. This configuration offers improved traction and lessens the risk of wheelspin on challenging inclines or loose surfaces. The battery, non-detachable and nested within the deck to aid balance, claims a maximum range of up to 25km. In practice, the real-world riding experience suggests slightly reduced range. Expect around 15km per charge, depending on weight, terrain, and environmental factors.

Speed Modes

The Kugoo Kirin S1 boasts three speed modes for varied riding preferences:

• Blue Mode: Capped at 10km/h, perfect for battery conservation and leisurely rides.


• Orange Mode: A moderate 20km/h for a brisk yet controlled pace.


• Red Mode: The full 25km/h experience for those seeking speed and efficiency.

Brakes and Safety

The scooter employs an electronic regenerative brake on the rear wheel, complemented by a traditional manual foot brake. The e-brake, when first engaged, may feel abrupt, but with use, it eases into a reliably responsive state. The absence of a rear disc brake does raise eyebrows, but the current setup provides adequate stopping power for routine use.

Lighting and Display

In terms of visibility, the Kirin S1 comes with a bright front LED light and a flashing rear brake light, adequate for night-time jaunts. However, the central display is where the S1 could improve; it's notably difficult to read in daylight, impeding the rider's ability to keep track of speed and battery life on-the-go.

App Integration

For those inclined towards tech, Kugoo offers an accompanying app, connecting via Bluetooth for additional control and metrics. Customization options include disabling cruise control or opting for 'Zero-Start', which allows instant motor engagement without the need for a kick-off.

Price and Availability

The Kugoo Kirin S1 is an attractively priced option, often found for just over £300 or $369.99, with potential discounts dropping that price even further. It's worth noting, particularly for European customers, that availability from EU warehouses circumvents additional import costs and reduces shipping time significantly.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordably priced and offers good value


• Rear-wheel drive provides better traction


• Light and easily portable


• Puncture-proof honeycomb tires


• Decent speed options for varied use cases

Cons:

• Hard-to-read display in daylight conditions


• Firmer ride due to solid rubber tires


• No rear disc brake for additional stopping prowess


• Range may fall short of official claims

Final Verdict

Weighing the pros against the cons, the Kugoo Kirin S1 electric scooter emerges as an appealing choice, particularly for cost-conscious buyers or first-time scooter owners. It ticks the essential boxes of portability, ease of use, and sufficient urban performance. While it isn't without its shortcomings, such as a tough-to-see display and the absence of pneumatic comfort, the S1's strengths make it a worthy consideration in the bustling market of electric scooters.

Ownership Update After 6+ Months

Over six months into owning the Kugoo Kirin S1, the scooter has proven to be a steadfast companion for urban commuting. Here is an expanded insight into the long-term ownership experience.

Durability and Maintenance

After extensive use, the scooter's build quality has held up commendably. Apart from routine cleaning and the occasional tightening of screws, the Kirin S1 has demanded minimal maintenance. The solid rubber tires, while still firmer than air-filled alternatives, have endured well with no signs of significant wear or damage.

Battery Performance Longevity

Initially, the battery performance was near the advertised range, but over time, it has shown a slight decrease in efficiency—a common trait among lithium-ion batteries. The range has subtly diminished to about 12-13km on a full charge under similar conditions as before, which is something potential buyers should consider for their commute needs.

Comfort and Practicality

With time, the initial firmness of the ride becomes more noticeable, especially during longer rides. Adding additional soft grips on the handle or considering after-market modifications could enhance comfort. Moreover, the portability factor has been a consistent advantage, proving its worth during mixed commutes involving public transport.

Ongoing Support and Customer Service

Reflecting on customer support, there have been mixed experiences. Some users online have reported prompt and helpful responses, while others have faced slower reaction times. Availability of replacement parts is decent, ensuring that maintenance and repairs are not a hassle.

Closing Thoughts

Continuing with the Kirin S1, the scooter has mostly met expectations set during its initial months. It remains a solid option for those seeking a cost-effective, reliable commuter scooter. Prospective buyers should, however, weigh the long-term battery performance and comfort against their specific needs and perhaps consider potential customizations to enhance their riding experience.