Segway Ninebot ES4 Electric Scooter: A Comprehensive Review

After spending numerous hours zipping around town on the Segway Ninebot ES4 Electric Scooter, I feel well-equipped to share an in-depth look at what riders can expect from this urban commuting buddy.

Design and Build

The ES4 boasts a sleek, no-frills design that Segway has become renowned for. Its dark, iconic color scheme with the electric blue accents is not just aesthetically pleasing; it gives off that futuristic vibe that's become synonymous with Segway products.

The scooter's frame is constructed from a durable aerospace-grade aluminum alloy, lending it both strength and a modest degree of lightness. When folded, it becomes quite compact, making it reasonably easy to carry onto public transport or slide under a coffee table. However, at 31 pounds (14 kg), it can be somewhat unwieldy for those who need to lug it up a flight of stairs.

Performance and Range

Powered by a combination of a primary 300-watt and secondary 150-watt motor, the ES4 is not your average scooter. It capably reaches a top speed of 19 miles per hour (30 km/h) and can handle inclines with a 15% gradient without breaking a sweat – quite impressive for its class.

The standout feature here is the scooter's extended battery life. With a total battery capacity of 374Wh, the ES4 offers an extended range of up to 28 miles (45km), well above what many competitors offer. This makes the scooter a formidable option for those with lengthier commutes or for those who like taking leisurely rides around town without the anxiety of constant recharging.

Comfort and Handling

Riding the ES4 for the first time, I immediately appreciated the extra-thick rubber handlebar grips, which provide a comfortable hold even on longer journeys. The control mechanisms are intuitive, with a throttle on the right and a handbrake on the left, supplemented by a rear fender brake for additional stopping power.

The large, solid 8-inch (front) and 7.5-inch (rear) tires mitigate small bumps and cracks on well-paved roads but can transmit some jolts on uneven pavement due to the lack of pneumatic cushioning. Although it lacks a traditional suspension, the front and rear shock absorbers do a respectable job smoothing out the ride.

Safety Features

The ES4 comes with a dual braking system, combining an electrical anti-lock front brake and a mechanical rear brake, which provides a safe stopping distance and peace of mind in various conditions.

Visibility is handled competently with the built-in LED headlights and rear brake lights, ensuring you are seen during evening rides. Reflective stickers included in the package are a welcome bonus for added visibility.

Technology and Extras

Pairing the scooter with the Ninebot mobile app opens up a variety of smart functions, like locking the scooter, firmware updates, and checking your ride stats. The LED dashboard is crisp and makes it easy to keep tabs on your speed, battery life, and riding mode even under direct sunlight.

One minor inconvenience I found was the length of time the ES4 takes to charge fully. Expect about 7 hours for a full charge – an overnight job, essentially.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Extended range up to 28 miles (45 km)


• Sturdy build quality and compact, foldable design


• High top speed for an electric scooter (19 mph / 30 km/h)


• Efficient shock absorption system


• Connects to a feature-rich smartphone app

Cons:

• Heavier than some portable alternatives (31 pounds / 14 kg)


• Longer charge time (7 hours)


• Solid tires may transmit shock from uneven terrain


• Higher price point compared to entry-level models

Final Thoughts

The Segway Ninebot ES4 is a formidable contender in the electric scooter market, particularly for those seeking a combination of extended range and solid performance. It's suited for urban commuters looking for reliability, easy storage, and the capacity for longer trips without worrying about daily charging.

While it may not offer the smoothest ride on poorly maintained roads and could be cumbersome for portability-focused users, it strikes an impressive balance for city dwellers who prioritize distance and dependability. If these features align with what you're seeking in an electric scooter, the ES4 could very well be your next purchase.

Whether it's for the daily commute or simply enjoying a leisurely ride through the neighborhood, the Segway Ninebot ES4 Electric Scooter stands out as a robust, enjoyable, and technologically savvy choice. It's definitely worth considering for those who can look past the relatively higher price tag and are in the market for a durable and reliable personal transportation solution.

Update: Long-Term Ownership Experience

After having owned the Segway Ninebot ES4 for over six months, I've gathered more insights into its long-term performance and utility.

Positive Highlights:

• Reliability: The ES4 continues to be a reliable commuter tool. Mechanical breakdowns have been minimal, and it still performs as expected every day.


• Battery Longevity: Even after regular usage, the battery maintains a strong charge, rarely deviating from the original range estimations.


• Ease of Use: It has become an integral part of my daily routine, thanks to its user-friendly design and robust build.

Drawbacks Noted:

• Ride Comfort on Rough Surfaces: As anticipated, the solid tires and moderate shock absorption system make it less comfortable on uneven or damaged road surfaces.


• Portability Challenges: The scooter’s weight remains a challenge, particularly when carrying it over long distances or up several flights of stairs.


• Maintenance and Customer Service: Some users have reported difficulties with customer service responsiveness and obtaining parts for repairs.

This extended usage period has reinforced the ES4's standing as a staple for efficient urban transport, albeit with some caveats regarding ride comfort on less-than-ideal streets and ongoing maintenance support. For anyone considering the ES4, it remains a solid choice, though it's wise to weigh these factors based on personal commuting environments and usage patterns.