Minimotors Dualtron Storm Electric Scooter Review

I recently had the opportunity to take the Minimotors Dualtron Storm for a spin, and let me tell you, it was quite an adventure. This powerhouse of an electric scooter is nothing short of impressive when it comes to performance and design. Minimotors is known for pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the e-scooter world, and with the Dualtron Storm, they've certainly lived up to their reputation.

First Impressions

Out of the box, the Storm is a beast. It boasts a robust and sturdy build that immediately signals its high-quality construction. There's a bit of setup required, but it's nothing too daunting for someone familiar with high-performance scooters.

Performance and Speed

As soon as I hit the throttle, the Storm's incredible power was instantly palpable. Equipped with dual 1500W motors, this scooter can rocket up to its impressive top speed of 50 mph (80 km/h) in a heartbeat, which is certainly not for the faint-hearted. The torque is magnificent, allowing for strong acceleration and an exhilarating ride. However, with great power comes great responsibility, so I made sure to gear up with a helmet and protective pads before pushing the scooter to its limits.

Ride Quality

The ride quality didn't disappoint. It sports swingarm suspension — adjustable at both the front and rear — which ate up the bumps and irregularities of the urban landscape with ease. Whether cruising over asphalt or braving less maintained pathways, the cushioning effect of the suspension paired with 11-inch ultra-wide tubeless tires provided a ride that was both comfortable and confident.

Battery Life and Range

One of the most significant features has to be its impressive 72V 31.5Ah LG battery. The range is advertised at a staggering 80 miles (130 km) on a single charge under optimal conditions, and in my testing, while not quite reaching that lofty figure under more aggressive riding, it still delivered an admirable distance worthy of its premium status. It takes roughly 20 hours to fully charge with a standard charger, but you can cut that down considerably by using a fast charger.

Design and Build

The design of the Storm is sleek, with a black and red color scheme that exudes its performance-oriented nature. It's not just a looker, though; it's also practical. It features a removable battery, making it a breeze to swap out for an extended range or to carry it inside for charging. The stem-riser locking mechanism feels secure and solid, something that isn't always a given with other high-performance scooters.

Portability

The Dualtron Storm is on the heavier side, weighing in at 102 pounds (46 kg), so it's not the most portable scooter. While it does fold down for transport, I found it's a bit of an ordeal to lift into a car trunk or carry up a flight of stairs. Consider this factor if you require something that will frequently need lifting or space-saving storage.

User Interface

The EYE throttle controller is an intuitive interface that allows you to control your ride with ease. It displays all the essential information such as speed, distance, and battery life in a clear and concise manner. It also lets you customize settings like acceleration strength and electronic brake intensity, tailoring the ride experience to your preference.

Safety Features

Safety on a high-speed scooter cannot be understated, and Minimotors have equipped the Storm with robust dual disk brakes coupled with an ABS system that brings it to a stop efficiently, even at high speeds. The ample front and rear LED lights provide great visibility, though I'd always recommend additional lighting for those dusk or dawn rides.

Conclusion

The Minimotors Dualtron Storm is undoubtedly a premium scooter with a premium price tag. It's built for speed and range, targeting more experienced riders seeking the thrill of a high-performance ride. While its weight and size might not be for everyone, if you're looking for power, range, and build quality and you can handle the weight and cost, the Dualtron Storm is an exceptional choice.

As I rolled in after my final test ride and the wind had calmed in my ears, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of reluctance at handing back the keys. This scooter isn't just transportation; it's an experience - a statement piece in the world of electric scooters. Whether it's right for you will depend on your individual needs and willingness to invest in top-tier equipment, but for those suited to its abilities, it's a ride that is hard to top.

6-Month Ownership Update

After more than six months of owning the Dualtron Storm, my admiration for this scooter has mostly grown, though I've encountered a few challenges along the way.

Positive Attributes

Long-Term Performance: The Dualtron Storm has continued to impress with its powerful output and robust acceleration. It continues to handle various terrains effortlessly, affirming its status as one of the best in its class for performance-focused riders.

Durability: There have been no issues with the overall durability of the scooter. All of its components, including the swingarm suspension and tubeless tires, have remained in excellent condition despite regular use.

Battery Consistency: The battery has maintained good health, providing close to the original range figures despite frequent fast charges, which speaks volumes about the quality of the build and embedded battery management systems.

Challenges

Weight and Portability: As expected, the weight of the scooter still poses a challenge. It's cumbersome to transport and not ideal if you need to combine your ride with public transportation or carry it frequently.

Maintenance: Keeping the scooter in top condition does require a bit of maintenance. Regular checks and adjustments are necessary, particularly for the brake systems and alignment of the wheels.

Cost of Ownership: High-performance comes at a high cost. Maintaining such a powerful scooter isn’t cheap. Replacement parts and potential repairs can be pricey, reflecting the scooter’s premium build and capabilities.

Ultimately, the Dualtron Storm continues to be a thrilling ride, perfectly suited for someone who values performance over portability and is willing to manage the maintenance commitment. Its reliability and high-speed capabilities make it a formidable player in the electric scooter market, albeit with considerations that need to be acknowledged for a long-term commitment.