Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter 1S Review

In the rapidly evolving world of electric scooters, the Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter 1S strikes an impressive balance between the needs of a casual user and the demands of a serious commuter. As the successor to Xiaomi's widely celebrated M365, the 1S maintains much of what made its predecessor a market leader while incorporating a series of thoughtful upgrades aimed at enhancing user experience. Without further ado, let's dive into the mix of the Xiaomi 1S's commendable features and areas where there’s room for improvement.

Performance and Ease of Use

The 1S inherits its predecessor's easy handling and intuitive controls, but packs a more informative display, showing speed, battery level, and riding mode at a glance. The acceleration feels comfortable, devoid of sudden jerks, making it suitable even for beginners. The scooter's braking system, a blend of regenerative and disc brakes, delivers a secure and responsive stopping experience that inspires confidence on your rides.

Speed and Range

Boasting a 250W motor (with a peak power of 500W), the 1S reaches a top speed of 25 km/h (15.5 mph), aligning with urban speed requirements and ensuring a swift commute. Its 30 km (18 miles) range makes it more than adequate for short daily trips or the last mile of your journey. And when the battery does run low, a five-hour charge time quickly puts you back on the road.

Ride Quality

Despite lacking a dedicated suspension system, the 1S manages to provide a smooth ride thanks to its 8.5-inch inflatable tires that absorb shocks reasonably well. However, users will notice the impact of rough road patches or cobblestones more than they would on scooters with advanced suspension setups.

Comfort and Portability

With its easily foldable design and a manageable weight of 12.5 kg, the Xiaomi 1S electric scooter appeals to those who value portability. Ideal for urban living where space-saving is key, this scooter can be carried onto public transport or tucked away at home or the office without hassle.

Durability and Build

The build quality, underlined by an aerospace-grade aluminum frame, is robust - a feature Xiaomi scooters are known for. The neat cable routing and solid folding mechanism indicate the attention to durability. The IP54 splash-resistance rating also ensures peace of mind during light drizzles, but caution is advised in heavy downpours.

App Integration and Features

The Xiaomi 1S integrates with a dedicated app that adds a layer of interaction by offering ride statistics and additional settings like cruise control adjustment. While this isn't a game-changer, it's a nice complement to the physical controls and adds a modern touch to the ride experience.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Effortless and confident riding experience


• Multi-mode riding suitable for various conditions


• Thorough display offering essential ride information


• Improved "next-generation" tires for better puncture resistance


• Quick and compact folding mechanism


• Sturdy construction with solid materials


• Comprehensive app integration

Cons

• Lack of an adjustable handlebar might deter riders seeking customization


• Absence of a suspension system could be felt on uneven terrain


• Risk of scraping when transitioning from road to pavement due to low ground clearance

The Verdict

The Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter 1S is not seeking to reinvent the wheel but instead aims to refine the already successful formula of its predecessors. Offering the essential features that made the original a hit, coupled with new enhancements like the informative display and improved tires, the 1S positions itself as a reliable companion for both beginners and seasoned riders alike. While it won't outshine the high-performance models in raw power or advanced features, its competitive price point makes it an attractive option for those seeking a solid, no-nonsense scooter from a reputable brand.

For city-dwellers and last-mile commuters, the Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter 1S is an excellent, budget-friendly choice that doesn't skimp on the essentials. With a strong focus on the aspects that matter most to daily riders, the 1S rolls ahead with the momentum of Xiaomi's tradition, offering yet another appealing chapter in their storied lineup of electric scooters.

Update After 6 Months of Use

Long-Term Experience and Reliability

Having owned and ridden the Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter 1S for over six months, I've accumulated significant insight into its day-to-day performance and dependability. The battery performance has remained consistent, without noticeable degradation, ensuring the claimed range is maintained in real-world usage. The folding mechanism has continued to function smoothly, reinforcing the scooter’s practicality in everyday scenarios.

Structural Insights

The scooter's structure has proved resilient. Continuous usage has revealed that while the frame retains its sturdiness, the ride quality can degrade slightly on rough surfaces, making it important to keep tires properly inflated to mitigate this. Moreover, the rear fender has shown some vulnerability, occasionally cracking under stress, a common issue noted by several users.

Maintenance and Service

I’ve found that regular maintenance, especially around the scooter's brakes and tires, is crucial for safe riding. Accessibility to customer service and parts has varied, depending largely on the region. Some users have reported swift responses and easy access to spare parts, while others have encountered longer wait times and scarcity of specific components.

Summary

These aspects underscore the necessity of considering usage habits and local Xiaomi support infrastructure when opting for the 1S. My long-term relationship with the Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter 1S reaffirms its standing as a reliable electric scooter for urban commuting, provided that users maintain it well and use it within its operational limits. Overall, it continues to deliver a value-rich riding experience, emphasized by ease of use, moderate maintenance needs, and robust build quality.