Segway Ninebot E45 Electric Scooter Review

After spending a considerable amount of time zipping around on the Segway Ninebot E45 electric scooter, it's time to share my detailed observations. From quick city commutes to exploring local bike trails, the E45 has been my reliable companion, and I must say, it's quite an experience.

First Impressions

Out of the box, the Segway Ninebot E45 impresses with its sleek design. The dark grey finish exudes professionalism and its build quality feels solid—a nod to Segway's reputation for durable scooters.

Taking it for the initial spin, what stands out is the scooter's smooth acceleration. It's equipped with a 300W motor that offers a comfortable yet spirited ride. When you push the throttle, the E45 delivers power in a measured fashion, minimizing the jerky response sometimes found in other scooters.

Riding Experience

Performance on Different Terrains

I have tested the E45 on various terrains and conditions. The ride is exceptionally stable on smooth pavement, thanks to the 9-inch non-pneumatic tires and dual-density material that absorb shocks quite decently. Gravel paths and uneven sidewalks can challenge the scooter a bit, but it navigates them competently, albeit with some vibrations.

Hill Climbing and Speed

The Segway Ninebot E45 claims a top speed of about 18.6 mph (30 km/h), and it doesn't disappoint. In my experience, while maintaining a moderate weight load, achieving and maintaining this speed on flat terrain was effortless. Inclines, depending on their steepness, can slow it down some, but it doesn't struggle nearly as much as scooters with less powerful motors.

Battery Life

The E45 is advertised with a range of up to 28 miles (45 km). In my tests, with a mix of riding conditions and frequent stop-and-go scenarios, I achieved close to 22 miles on a single charge. It's worth mentioning that factors like rider weight, terrain, and ride mode will impact the actual range.

Comfort and Safety

Ride Comfort

The E45 doesn't come with a suspension system, so I initially had concerns about comfort over long rides. However, the cushioned tires and the decently wide deck—which allows for a relaxed stance—mitigate that absence. Long commutes are still comfortable, although you'll feel more of the road than on a scooter with full suspension.

Braking System

Safety is paramount, and braking is one area where the E45 shines. The front wheel is equipped with an electronic brake, and the rear wheel has a magnetic brake. There's also an additional foot brake. This triad allows for confident deceleration and quick stops when necessary. The braking system is responsive, and I never found myself drifting due to laggy brakes.

Portability and Storage

The Segway Ninebot E45's folding mechanism is intuitive and reliable. It folds down quickly for storage or transit, locking securely into a compact form that easily fits in the trunk of my car. It weighs approximately 41 pounds (18.6 kg), not the lightest on the market but manageable for short carries, such as up a flight of steps or onto public transportation.

Convenience Features

LED Dashboard

Riders will appreciate the LED dashboard that displays speed, battery life, and riding mode. It's clear and easily visible in various lighting conditions. Cycling through the modes or checking your stats without dismounting contributes to a convenient and safe riding experience.

Lighting

The built-in front, rear, and brake lights on the E45 provide excellent visibility at night. The front light casts a broad, bright beam, ensuring that you see the road ahead clearly, and more importantly, others see you.

Maintenance and Longevity

Maintenance on the E45 is pretty straightforward. The tire design means there's no need to worry about punctures, which are a common concern with pneumatic tires. Regularly check for any loose bolts, and keep it clean—these simple steps should keep the E45 running smoothly for a long time.

Downsides

No scooter is perfect, and the E45 has a few cons. The non-pneumatic tires dampen the shocks quite well, but they're no substitute for an actual suspension system on bumpier rides. The battery is integrated into the stem, so it's not swappable—a factor to consider if you're aiming for uninterrupted long-distance rides.

Final Verdict

The Segway Ninebot E45 is a fantastic mid-range electric scooter. It balances speed, range, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for daily commuting or leisurely weekend rides. While it might not be the most portable option available, nor have the plush ride of a fully suspended scooter, the durability, safety features, and overall build quality make it a worthy consideration.

For those looking for an electric scooter that navigates urban environments with ease while providing a pleasant ride experience, the Segway Ninebot E45 would be a smart pick.

Owner's Update After 6 Months

Now having owned the Segway Ninebot E45 for over half a year, my relationship with this scooter has shown its strengths and presented some subtle nuances which merit mention.

Long-Term Performance and Reliability

Despite rigorous use, the E45 continues to perform robustly. The battery health remains strong, with only a marginal decrease in the range. The durability of its construction ensures that it feels almost as robust as it did when new, with no evident weaknesses having developed over time.

Issues and Annoyances

However, a few issues have come to light. The rigid tires, while eliminating concerns about punctures, manifest their limits on very rough terrain, leading to a less comfortable ride. Additionally, I've noticed under some conditions the fold mechanism can start squeaking, requiring regular lubrication to mitigate the noise.

Continued Customer Support and Community

Segway's customer service has been commendable. Queries regarding maintenance were met with prompt and knowledgeable feedback, which has been very reassuring. The community of E45 users provides a valuable resource for tips and shared experiences, enhancing the ownership experience.

Ultimate Satisfaction

The Segway Ninebot E45 remains a reliable daily commuter tool. It's quick, efficient, and low on maintenance, making it ideal for my urban lifestyle. While it has some downsides, especially in ride comfort on uneven surfaces, it consistently delivers where it promises, which is what I value most.

This scooter continues to be a good investment for those seeking a balance of functionality, performance, and cost within the urban electric scooter market. Reflecting on the overall experience, the pros notably outweigh the cons, affirming my initial endorsement of this model.