SoFlow SO4 Pro Gen 2 Electric Scooter Review

Introduction

When it comes to choosing an electric scooter, potential buyers seek a blend of performance, comfort, and convenience, alongside thoughtful features that cater to an urban lifestyle. The SoFlow SO4 Pro Gen 2 promises to deliver on many of these aspects, with its Swiss design and array of integrated functionalities aimed at the modern commuter. In this review, we dissect the features, ride quality, and overall value proposition of the SoFlow SO4 Pro Gen 2 to help you determine if this is the right electric scooter for your city travels.

Design and Build Quality

Hailing from Switzerland, the SoFlow SO4 Pro Gen 2 possesses a sleek black and mint green color scheme that exudes a sporty vibe. The design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with the scooter's robust build hinting at its promise of durability. A solid aluminum alloy frame supports a weight limit of 150 kg, ensuring it can accommodate riders of various sizes.

The scooter's deck is spacious enough for comfort, though some may find it slightly narrow when attempting to place their feet side by side. Despite this, the thoughtful placement of components and overall ergonomics are noteworthy.

Performance and Handling

Central to the SoFlow SO4 Pro Gen 2's appeal is its 500-watt brushless motor situated in the rear wheel. This powerhouse enables the scooter to tackle steep inclines of up to 27-33%, outperforming many competitors in its class. With a 504 Wh battery, the manufacturer claims a range of 40 km under ideal conditions, which in real-world usage translates to around 27 km when pushing the scooter to its limits with full throttle and hill climbing.

Acceleration is responsive, with a small delay when engaging the thumb throttle—a minor setback that users can adjust to over time. Riders have the option to cycle between three driving modes: eco, standard, and sport. While eco mode moderates velocity for an extended range, sport mode unleashes the scooter’s full potential for those craving speed.

Braking and Safety

The SoFlow SO4 Pro Gen 2 is equipped with mechanical disc brakes on both wheels, offering impressive stopping power in various conditions, including wet terrain. The brakes do not have an electric (regenerative) braking system, which could be seen as a missed opportunity for energy recapture and potentially smoother braking.

Safety is bolstered by a bright LED headlight and integrated turn signals at the handlebar ends—innovations that are more commonly found in higher-tier models. The inclusion of a bell and rear light without a brake light function is standard fare, but functional for improved visibility.

Portability and Convenience

Weighing in at approximately 18.73 kg, the SoFlow SO4 Pro Gen 2 is not the lightest scooter on the market. However, it remains portable thanks to a folding mechanism that enables quick stowage for public transportation or trunk storage. Its heft does provide a sense of stability and contributes positively to the riding experience where portability isn't the primary concern.

Technology Integration

The SoFlow SO4 Pro Gen 2 shines with its smart features, including app connectivity that allows you to adjust riding modes—albeit, not directly from the scooter but via a smartphone application. Another modern convenience is the NFC lock and unlock functionality, streamlining the security process, though the feature may not deter a determined thief due to the lack of a drive lock.

Conclusion

Overall, the SoFlow SO4 Pro Gen 2 is a robust and dynamic electric scooter that caters well to the urban commuter. It combines performance with modern features and solid build quality. While there are minor drawbacks, such as the lack of onboard mode adjustments and the latency in throttle response, these are overshadowed by the scooter's strengths. Should you desire a reliable and sporty e-scooter to navigate the cityscape, the SO4 Pro Gen 2 certainly deserves consideration. With an RRP of 899 Euros, it holds its own in a competitive market segment, offering a well-rounded package for the discerning rider.

Pros:

• Sturdy and stylish design


• Potent 500-watt motor with satisfactory torque


• Impressive climb capability for steep inclines


• Practical app-based features, including NFC lock/unlock


• Good braking performance with mechanical disc brakes

Cons:

• Lacks direct onboard control for ride mode adjustments


• Noticeable latency in throttle response


• Absence of regenerative braking system


• Slightly narrow deck for foot placement


• Limited visibility of turn signals in daylight conditions

Specifications:

• Motor Power: 500 W


• Range: Up to 40 km (approx. 27 km real-world)


• Max Load: 150 kg


• Battery: 504 Wh Lithium-Ion (48 V, 10.5 Ah)


• Charging Time: Approx. 5 hours


• Brakes: Front and rear mechanical disc


• Tires: 10" pneumatic


• Frame: Aluminum alloy


• Weight: 18.73 kg

Update: Six Months Later

After six months of consistent use, the SoFlow SO4 Pro Gen 2 has proven itself as both reliable and resilient. It has smoothly navigated urban settings, proving particularly adept at handling varying inclines and urban terrains, reinforcing the benefits highlighted at purchase.

Longevity and Durability

Despite daily use, the SoFlow SO4 Pro Gen 2’s build quality remains commendable. The durability of the aluminum frame and the resistant materials used are evident, with minimal signs of wear and tear. This underscores the scooter's capability for regular commuting.

Battery Life and Performance

However, it’s worth noting that after extended use, the battery performance has slightly degraded, a common issue in many electric scooters. Where initially the scooter comfortably supported lengthy rides up to 27 km, it now shows a slight decrease in range, particularly noticed in sport mode. Despite this, for routine commutes, the battery capacity remains sufficient.

User Experience Enhancements and Challenges

User experience has been enriched by frequent updates to the connected app, which have slightly improved interface usability and stability. However, the lack of an integrated solution for real-time ride mode adjustments still stands as an irritant, as does the initial throttle response delay which, although manageable, is occasionally frustrating during busy commutes.

Maintenance and Support

Kit maintenance has been straightforward, mainly requiring regular checks and the occasional tightening of bolts and screws. Customer support from SoFlow has been helpful, with responsive assistance for queries and efficient handling of a minor warranty issue concerning the rear brake alignment.

Final Thoughts

Continuous use of the SoFlow SO4 Pro Gen 2 underlines its merits as a solid commuter scooter but also illuminates its shortfalls, primarily related to battery longevity and software interaction. While it performs robustly for its price bracket in routine urban conditions, prospective users should weigh these aspects based on personal usage intensity and commuting needs. The SoFlow SO4 Pro Gen 2 remains a strong contender in the market, especially for those prioritizing durable design and robust handling characteristics over cutting-edge tech integrations.