Xiaomi Mi M365 Electric Scooter Review: Long-Term Update

Build and Design

The Xiaomi M365 showcases a sleek, efficient design, a testament to its popularity since its launch. Crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum, it strikes a balance between lightweight (26.9 lbs) and sturdy construction. This makes it easy to maneuver and carry, whether it's up a flight of stairs or onto public transport. The design is simple yet effective, with a non-slip deck and well-routed cables adding to its neat appearance​​​​.

Performance and Speed

Powered by a 250-watt brushless DC motor, peaking at 500 watts, the M365 delivers a top speed of 16.7 mph. I found its acceleration impressive, reaching 15 mph in just 6.3 seconds. This is notably quicker than other scooters in its category, like the TurboAnt X7 Pro and Hiboy Max V2. The scooter's hill-climbing ability is decent, but it struggles on steeper inclines, requiring some manual assistance at times​​.

Battery Life and Range

One of the M365's standout features is its battery life. With a 280-watt-hour battery, it offers a real-world range of approximately 14.6 miles. This is quite substantial, especially considering its price bracket, where most scooters with a longer range tend to be significantly more expensive​​.

Ride Comfort and Tires

The ride comfort is another high point. The M365's 8.5-inch pneumatic tires provide excellent shock absorption, compensating for the lack of suspension. These tires effectively smooth out urban surfaces, making for a pleasant riding experience. However, they are susceptible to flats, though this can be mitigated with regular maintenance and tire slime​​.

Portability

Weighing just 27 pounds, the M365 is remarkably portable. Its folding mechanism is quick and efficient, collapsing to a compact size that easily fits in most car trunks. The scooter feels solid once folded, with no issues during my extensive use. However, there have been reports of the aluminum tab in the mechanism failing, particularly when pushing forward on the handlebars, though this has been addressed in newer models​​.

Braking System

The braking system comprises a rear disc brake and a front regenerative brake, providing reliable stopping power. In tests, the M365 came to a stop from 15 mph in 16.8 feet, which is about average for its class. The braking is smooth, contributing to the overall safety and control of the scooter​​.

Cockpit and Controls

The cockpit is efficiently designed with ergonomic controls. The right handlebar features a thumb throttle, which I found very comfortable for prolonged rides. The left handlebar houses a hand brake controlling both brakes and a bell that doubles as a latch for carrying. The simplicity of the display, showing only battery life, is a smart design choice for this entry-level scooter. For more detailed information like speed and distance, you can rely on Xiaomi's Bluetooth-enabled apps​​.

Lighting

The M365 is equipped with integrated LED headlights and taillights. The headlight's high mount effectively illuminates the path ahead, while the rear light, although small, responds to braking. I would recommend additional lighting for night rides to enhance visibility and safety​​.

Price and Value

Priced between $350 and $400, the M365 offers excellent value for money. It encompasses all the essential features you'd want in an electric scooter without breaking the bank. When priced closer to $600, however, its value proposition diminishes somewhat, especially when compared to newer models with more features​​​​.

Conclusion

Overall, the Xiaomi M365 electric scooter stands out as a solid, reliable option for those new to electric scooters or seeking a dependable daily commuter. Its combination of design, performance, and portability makes it an attractive choice, particularly at the lower end of its price range. While it may lack some advanced features of more expensive models, it delivers where it counts, offering a well-rounded, enjoyable riding experience.

Long-Term Update After 6+ Months

After more than half a year of regular use, the Xiaomi Mi M365 continues to impress, though it's not without its quirks. Positive long-term aspects include the scooter's consistent battery performance and reliable motor power. The robust build quality has stood the test of frequent commuting, though the lightweight nature of the scooter means that one must be cautious in rougher, less maintained urban areas where the road surface can challenge the vehicle's stability.

On the negative side, the susceptibility of the tires to flats remains a concern. Despite preventive maintenance, flat tires have occurred more than once, highlighting the need for either better quality stock tires or immediate upgrades. Additionally, some wear and tear on the folding mechanism have developed, leading to a slight wobble at the hinge over time.

The ease of use, combined with cost-effectiveness, continues to make the M365 a prime choice for daily short to medium range commuting. However, those considering this model should be prepared for ongoing maintenance and possibly some minor repairs to keep the scooter in top form. Overall, the M365 remains a commendable scooter but may demand more attention as it ages compared to some newer models on the market.