Segway Ninebot ES2 Electric Scooter Review

Having spent several weeks riding the Segway Ninebot ES2 Electric Scooter, I'm ready to share my experience with this popular urban mobility option. Marketed as a lightweight and foldable scooter designed for the urban commuter, the ES2 has generated a lot of interest—and after thorough testing, it's time to break down what this machine offers.

Assembly and Design

First Impressions:

Straight out of the box, the Segway Ninebot ES2 boasts a sleek design with a classic gray finish. Assembly was reasonably straightforward, requiring minimal effort to attach the handlebars to the stem. The materials used felt high-quality, and the overall build inspired confidence in terms of durability.

Portability:

The scooter’s foldable design is a highlight here, making storage and transportation a breeze. At approximately 27.6 pounds (12.5 kilograms), carrying the ES2 onto public transportation or up a flight of stairs is manageable, although some may wish it were lighter.

Performance and Riding Experience

Acceleration and Speed:

Powered by a 300W motor, the ES2 has a stated top speed of 15.5 mph (25 km/h), which I found to be fairly accurate when riding on flat terrain. The acceleration is smooth, and for city commuting, the scooter has ample power. However, on inclines, the ES2 can struggle, especially if you’re close to the maximum weight capacity of 220 pounds (100 kg).

Range:

Segway advertises a range of 15.5 miles (25 km), but real-world conditions often yield something closer to 13-14 miles, depending on factors like rider weight, terrain, and speed. For short to mid-range commutes, the ES2 is sufficiently capable, although range anxiety may set in if you're pushing the distance boundaries without access to a charger.

Ride Comfort:

Riding comfort is critically important, and the ES2 is something of a mixed bag. The large, solid rubber tires require no maintenance and are immune to punctures, which is a plus. Yet, on the flip side, these tires do not absorb shocks as well as pneumatic options, so rough terrain can lead to a less comfortable ride. The front and rear shock absorbers on the ES2 help mitigate this to some extent, but don't expect the smooth ride of air-filled tires.

The deck is spacious enough to find a comfortable standing position, and the anti-slip surface is effective in keeping feet stable during rides, even in wet conditions.

Braking System:

The ES2 features an electrical front brake and a foot-operated rear brake. I appreciated having dual braking systems for added safety. The electronic brake, while somewhat gentle and not as immediate as I'd like, gets the job done in most scenarios—meanwhile, the rear fender brake provides the mechanical stopping power needed for more urgent halts.

Features and Functionality

Lighting:

The ES2 includes built-in front and rear LED lights, greatly improving visibility during dusk and night rides. The customizable under-scooter ambient lights are not only a neat aesthetic addition but also serve to enhance visibility to others when riding in the dark.

App Integration:

Segway’s companion app adds a layer of functionality including the ability to lock the scooter, monitor statistics like battery life and distance traveled, and manage firmware updates. While the app's interface is user-friendly, I did encounter occasional connectivity issues which were frustrating but not deal-breaking.

Durability and Build Quality:

Throughout my weeks using the ES2, the quality of construction proved solid. I noticed no significant wear and tear beyond the typical cosmetic scratches that come with regular use. All components remained firm and functional, which speaks volumes about the scooter’s build quality.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Stylish and durable design


• Foldable and relatively light for portability


• Front and rear shocks offer a decently smooth ride


• Dual braking system enhances safety


• Built-in LED lights and ambient lighting for better nighttime visibility


• Useful app integration for additional features

Cons:

• Solid rubber tires transmit more road vibration


• Struggles with hills and heavier riders


• Range may be overstated for some real-world conditions


• Occasional app connectivity issues

Final Thoughts

The Segway Ninebot ES2 is a solid, well-built electric scooter that checks many boxes for urban commuters. It's stylish, portable, and features a comfortable standing platform with dual suspension. While it does have some drawbacks, such as the performance on inclines and the solid tires' impact on ride comfort, these issues are often trade-offs with maintenance concerns such as puncture repairs.

Overall, if you're seeking a reliable commuter scooter that delivers good performance with additional safety features and impactful design elements, the Segway Ninebot ES2 is certainly worth considering. It strikes a balance between functionality and style, making it a compelling choice for those cruising through the concrete jungle.

Update After Over 6 Months of Usage

After using the Segway Ninebot ES2 extensively for over 6 months, my appreciation for its conveniences and an awareness of its limitations have both deepened.

Long-term Performance:

The ES2 has shown admirable durability with the electronics and battery still performing up to expectations. The motor has maintained its pep for commuting, although it does demonstrate the same struggles with inclines, particularly as the battery drains.

Maintenance:

One of the strong points of the ES2 is its low maintenance requirement. The solid tires, while not providing the smoothest ride, have completely eliminated the concern of punctures, which is a significant plus for anyone wary of regular upkeep.

Usability:

Over time, the ease of folding and lightweight design have continuously proved invaluable, especially for mixed-mode commuting. It's simple to fold and carry onto public transit as needed or store in limited spaces at home or work.

Battery Life and Management:

Battery life has remained consistent, although it doesn't always reach the advertised range, particularly in colder weather. The battery management through the app has been helpful, though the occasional connectivity issues noted initially have persisted and can be frustrating.

Updated Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Persistent durability and reliable performance


• Low maintenance, especially with puncture-proof tires


• Ease of use in urban commuting scenarios

Cons:

• Persistent underperformance on inclines


• Connectivity issues with the app remain unresolved


• Solid tires continue to trade comfort for convenience

Updated Final Thoughts:

My continued use of the Segway Ninebot ES2 reinforces it as a solid choice for those prioritizing ease of use, durability, and minimal maintenance in an urban scooter. While it still falters with inclines and rough terrains, its consistent performance and practical features make it a worthwhile investment for the typical urban commuter.