Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter 1S Review

As a seasoned electric scooter enthusiast and someone who loves to dissect the intricacies of urban mobility, I'm here to share my experiences with the Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter 1S, a successor to the critically acclaimed M365 model. Xiaomi's evolution in the electric scooter market has been noteworthy, and the 1S represents a balance between accessibility and performance.

Design & Build Quality

Out of the box, the Xiaomi 1S retains the iconic, minimalist design of its predecessor. Built with aerospace-grade aluminum, the scooter feels sturdy. The ease of folding continues to impress - a simple, secure latch mechanism transforms the 1S into a compact form in seconds, making it perfect for mixed commutes where you might need to carry the scooter.

The handlebar height isn't adjustable, which can be a caveat for taller riders, but the ergonomics are generally well thought out, catering to most users comfortably. The 1S weighs in at a manageable 12.5kg, balancing portability with stability.

Performance & Handling

Powering up the Xiaomi 1S is reminiscent of kickstarting a journey - quite literally. The scooter requires a kick-off before the 250W motor engages, propelling you to speeds up to 15.5mph. Smooth acceleration patterns are evident, thanks to the improved kinetic energy recovery system (KERS), which also aids in battery efficiency.

Ride quality is commendable. The 8.5-inch pneumatic tires handle city landscapes well, despite the absence of a formal suspension system. They absorb most shocks and vibrations, offering a smoother ride than one would expect given the firm standing platform.

Range & Battery Life

The Xiaomi 1S promises a range of up to 19 miles, a benchmark for urban scooters. Real-world usage generally aligns with this estimate, although rider weight, terrain, and riding style can impact the total distance. The regenerative braking system plays its part in conserving and recapturing energy, extending the life between charges.

Speaking of charging, the Xiaomi 1S offers a relatively quick charging period, taking about 4 hours to reach full capacity from empty. It's a practical feature for daily riders who can charge the scooter at work for the commute home.

Safety Features

Safety is where the Xiaomi 1S shines. It's equipped with reliable stopping power, thanks to a front E-ABS regenerative anti-lock braking system paired with a rear disc brake. The combination provides a controlled and secure stop, even at high speeds.

Visibility is paramount, and the 1S includes robust front, side, and rear reflectors alongside a bright headlight and rear brake light. The IP rating for water resistance is adequate for light rain, but caution is advised during adverse weather conditions.

Practicality

The Xiaomi 1S excels in daily practical use. It's agile enough to weave through traffic and capable of handling the routine cut and thrust of the city. The folding mechanism is a game-changer for public transport integration or storage in tight spaces.

However, challenges like non-adjustable handlebars or the unprotected positioning of cables and wires remain. While they don't affect ride quality, they are aspects an owner should be mindful of for long-term durability.

User Interface & Connectivity

The LED display is intuitive, offering at-a-glance information on speed, battery life, and ride mode. Although I found myself preferring the physical ride experience, the Bluetooth connectivity and smartphone app deliver additional functionality like firmware updates and customization of scooter parameters.

Final Verdict

The Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter 1S isn't a dramatic departure from what made its predecessor a hit, but it refines the experience with meaningful upgrades. For the price point of around $500, it's an attractive package for the urban rider. While there's room for improvement, especially for those seeking more advanced features, the Mi Electric Scooter 1S stands out as a reliable, enjoyable companion on city streets.

Pros:

• Effortless riding experience


• Quick folding mechanism


• Informative LED display


• Pneumatic tires enhance comfort


• Respectable range and top speed

Cons:

• Handlebars are not height-adjustable


• External cables could be better protected


• The absence of advanced suspension

Bottom Line:
The Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter 1S builds upon a winning formula with improvements that cater to the urban commuter. It strikes an excellent balance between performance and affordability, making city navigation enjoyable and efficient.

Update After 6+ Months of Usage

Having used the Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter 1S extensively over the past 6 months, I've gained deeper insights into both its charms and its challenges.

Positives:

• Durability: The scooter has maintained its structural integrity impressively well, even after regular use in a bustling urban environment. The build quality really does withstand the test of time and terrain.


• Battery Longevity: The battery performance has remained consistent, with only minimal degradation. It still charges quickly and retains close to its original range, which is a significant plus for any electric mobility device.


• Ease of Use: It continues to be user-friendly. The scooter’s portable design and ease of folding have been endlessly beneficial for daily commutes, especially when involving public transport.

Negatives:

• Comfort on Rough Surfaces: While initially the ride quality felt smooth, over time and with exposure to less-than-ideal road conditions, the lack of a suspension system has become more noticeable, leading to a less comfortable ride on rough surfaces.


• Maintenance: Regular maintenance is a must. Things like tire pressure and brake adjustments need frequent checks to ensure optimal performance, which might not appeal to everyone.


• Portability vs. Weight: Although portable, the 12.5kg weight can start to feel burdensome if you are carrying it for extended periods, such as up flights of stairs or across long walking distances.

In conclusion, the Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter 1S continues to offer solid performance and high usability for urban dwellers, with a few caveats regarding comfort and maintenance. Its lasting appeal in the competitive market of electric scooters is a testament to its robust design and practical features.