Ninebot E22E by Segway Electric Scooter Review

As an electric scooter aficionado, the Ninebot E22E by Segway has certainly been on the radar for quite some time. Known for its blend of technology, comfort, and design, Segway's latest contribution to the world of urban mobility deserves an in-depth look. Today I'm diving into the finer details of the Ninebot E22E to help you find out if this is the scooter that can transition your commute from ordinary to extraordinary.

Design & Build Quality

When you first lay eyes on the Ninebot E22E, its sleek, no-frills design immediately stands out. Built out of a sturdy aircraft-grade aluminum alloy and finished with an exquisitely refined touch, this scooter isn't just about looks; it's engineered to withstand the bumps and grinds of daily use.

Sporting a clean and concise cockpit with intuitive thumb controls for throttle and regenerative brake, the E22E captures the essence of user-friendly design. The textured handgrips are firmly fixed, dismissing any annoyance of free-spinning grips under intense rides, while the center-mounted LED display provides essential ride information with simplicity and ease.

Portability

Weighing in at a manageable 29.8 pounds, the E22E offers a fantastic blend of robust build quality and portability. While the handlebars don't fold, their narrow width does not detract from the convenience factor. The folding mechanism of the E22E is quick and straightforward, with a latch-to-rear-fender feature that makes it easy to carry or fit into your car.

Performance Under the Hood

A modest 300-Watt motor powers the Ninebot E22E, offering a relatively gentle acceleration curve. The scooter reaches a top speed of 13.0 mph, which, while not groundbreaking, suits the needs of beginners or those content with a leisurely cruise around the neighborhood.

Where the E22E shines is in its stability. Early iterations of Segway scooters were already steady, but the E22E feels even more planted, largely thanks to next-generation 9-inch non-pneumatic tires. With polyurethane filling, these tires provide a comfortable and grippy ride, even sans traditional suspension systems.

Climbing Ability

If you live in an area with steep inclines, the Ninebot E22E might take a hit in its appeal. It won't shy away from moderate hills, but it's not built specifically for challenging climbs. However, it's worth noting that while it moves slowly uphill, it still chugs along without giving up completely.

Range & Battery

The E22E claims a real-world range of 10.1 miles, which isn't spectacular but can cater to those with shorter commutes. Charging is rather quick, at around 3.5 hours, so topping off the battery during your workday for the ride home is a breeze.

Ride Comfort

Although the scooter's solid tires and omission of suspension could sound alarming to some, the ride quality is surprisingly pleasant. The innovative tire composition absorbs vibrations much better than expected, and the impact of less weight and the absence of air tubes can't be underestimated in the daily grind.

Lighting & Visibility

Equipped with a high-mounted headlight and a fender-based taillight that flashes under braking, the E22E takes your visibility seriously. Side reflectors ensure that you're noticed from multiple angles, though the headlight itself could do with a touch more power for unlit paths.

Features & Extras

The Ninebot app compatibility is a nice touch, allowing you to adjust settings and view scooter statistics on your smartphone. The E22E also features a bell and boasts an IPX4 water-resistance rating. While this doesn't make it immune to water damage, it does provide a layer of protection against general wear from the elements.

Concluding Thoughts

The Ninebot E22E isn't trying to be the loudest in the room; it's content being the most balanced. Segway has crafted a scooter that's welcoming to new riders, convenient for everyday use, and durable enough to stick around for the long haul. It may not turn heads based on performance alone, but as a reliable, enjoyable, and refined means of navigating city streets, the Ninebot E22E excels.

Whether you're after a low-maintenance scooter to introduce you to the world of personal electric transport, or just a dependable secondary means of getting around, the Ninebot E22E stakes a convincing claim. Just remember, if extensive range or speed is your top priority, you may want to continue your search. For everyone else, this scooter ticks a lot of the right boxes.

Update After More Than 6 Months of Ownership

Having owned and used the Ninebot E22E for over six months, my experiences have solidified many of the initial impressions and revealed a few long-term insights.

Positive Aspects:

The E22E continues to impress with its durability and dependable build quality. Even after months of regular use, the scooter handles well and maintains its sturdy feel. Its ease of portability hasn't diminished, and the quick folding mechanism is as reliable as the first day, making it a perpetual favorite for mixed-mode commuting.

Battery life and management have proven efficient. Regular charges, as recommended, have helped sustain the battery health, avoiding any noticeable degradation in range which remains consistent with early use estimates.

Negative Aspects:

Despite its durable design, the solid tires, while low maintenance, could be uncomfortable on longer commutes, especially on rougher surfaces. The lack of suspension starts to become more noticeable over time, particularly on less than ideal urban terrains.

Additionally, the top speed, while sufficient for casual rides or busy urban environments, might not satisfy all users, particularly those used to faster alternatives.

Overall Experience:

The Ninebot E22E has proven to be a reliable, if not revolutionary, companion for city travels. Its design prioritizes functionality and user-friendliness, making it an excellent choice for beginners or those seeking a fuss-free electric scooter experience. While it may not cater to extreme needs like long-range travel or high-speed excitement, it reliably covers basic commuting needs with a style and ease that many will find appealing.