SoFlow SO8 Electric Scooter Review

Introduction

The Swiss-based manufacturer SoFlow has made a significant mark in the electric scooter market with their SO8 model, designed to cater to the needs of both casual commuters and e-scooter enthusiasts. With a blend of performance, design, and utility, the SO8 aims to be more than just a means of transport; it seeks to be a statement in the burgeoning realm of personal electric mobility.

Build Quality and Design

Upon unboxing the SoFlow SO8, you'll notice the attention to detail in its construction. The black and mint green color scheme exudes a sleek and modern vibe that is sure to turn heads. Its build quality resonates with Swiss precision, offering users a solid footboard and a robust yet lightweight frame that can carry riders weighing up to 150 kg (approximately 331 lbs).

The SO8 is compact without compromising on sturdiness. It strikes a great balance between portability and durability, with high-quality materials that can withstand daily use and the occasional bump or scrape.

Performance

Motor

The heart of the SO8 is a brushless 500-watt motor mounted on the rear wheel. It provides ample power to tackle steep inclines with a gradeability of 27-33%, outperforming many in its category. This power is managed through a straightforward control panel which allows riders to shift through eco, standard, and sport modes.

Speed

In adherence to various regional regulations, the SoFlow SO8 caps its speed at 20 km/h (12 mph) within some locations, while in others, it can reach speeds of up to 25 km/h (16 mph). Its acceleration is smooth in eco mode and more assertive in sport mode, providing a flexible riding experience based on the user's confidence and skill levels.

Battery and Range

Encased in the footboard is a 504 Wh battery which requires about five hours for a full charge. This battery is cleverly designed to be removable, making it easier to charge, and it doubles as a large power bank, although this feature did not function as expected during the test. The official range is quoted at 40 km (25 miles), but real-world usage suggests more conservative figures, especially when navigating varied terrain or when riding at full throttle.

Comfort and Ride Quality

Despite lacking physical suspension, the SO8 compensates with 10-inch pneumatic tires that provide significant self-damping characteristics. This configuration helps mitigate the absence of suspension and delivers a reasonably comfortable riding experience, even on rough surfaces.

The deck could benefit from being slightly wider, however, as it doesn't comfortably accommodate side-by-side foot placement for all riders, which may affect comfort during longer rides.

Features

Lighting and Signaling

A standout feature of the SO8 is the LED lighting system with integrated turn signals at the handlebar ends. This greatly improves the visibility of the rider at night, although the turn signals can be difficult to see in bright daylight, particularly from behind.

Smart Connectivity

The scooter pairs with the SoFlow app using NFC, adding a modern touch to security. The app can lock the scooter, rendering it unresponsive to the power button, although the physical wheels remain unsecured. Additionally, the app tracks riding statistics and provides route guidance with clear display instructions that benefit urban navigation.

Safety

The SO8 features double disc brakes that deliver reliable stopping power under varying conditions. Regrettably, it lacks regenerative braking, which could have been an excellent addition for energy efficiency and even stronger braking response.

Portability

With a weight of just over 18.73 kg (41 lbs), the scooter can be folded down quickly for transport. Carrying it by the handlebar is convenient, though it might prove challenging for longer distances or for individuals of smaller stature. The inability to further compact the scooter by folding the handles may be considered a drawback for those seeking ultra-compact storage solutions.

Conclusion

The SoFlow SO8 electric scooter showcases a blend of power, comfort, and style with the right amount of smart technology to justify its place in the competitive market. However, minor shortcomings, such as sporadic app synchronization issues and the non-functional use of the battery as a power bank, keep it from perfection.

The SO8 shines in handling, with a robust braking system and a commanding motor capable of conquering slopes that would challenge lesser scooters. It offers great utility for urban commuters and is proof that so long as you temper your expectations regarding range and app functionality, the SO8 remains a compelling choice for the discerning rider looking for a mix of power, portability, and panache.

Update After Six Months of Usage

After more than half a year of regular use, the SoFlow SO8 has mostly lived up to its initial promise, though it has also revealed some nuances not immediately apparent at first glance. Positively, the SO8 continues to exhibit strong build quality; no significant wear issues have developed, which speaks to its robust construction. The battery retention capacity has remained adequate, maintaining a majority of its range capability, an aspect that often concerns long-term electric scooter users.

On the downside, the aforementioned app issues have persisted. Connectivity can frequently be temperamental, with some users continuing to report occasional failures in synching riding data. Furthermore, the lack of suspension has become more noticeable over time. While the large pneumatic tires effectively absorb smaller inconsistencies on the road, repeated exposure to uneven terrains can make the ride somewhat uncomfortable, highlighting the potential need for an upgraded model with built-in suspension.

Moreover, while the payload capacity is generous, it has become clear that the performance in terms of speed and hill-climbing capability diminishes slightly when nearing its weight limit. This performance drop is normal for most electric scooters but is worth mentioning for riders who are close to the weight threshold.

Overall, the SoFlow SO8 remains a solid performer in urban environments, ideal for the commuter who values reliability and build quality over extensive technological integrations. Its limitations are clear, yet its capacity to deliver a dependable and powerful ride consistently keeps it highly regarded among its user base.

Please note, the information contained in this review is based on availability up to early 2023. Readers should verify the current specifications and legal compliance as per their local regulations before making a purchase.