STACK #202 Aug 2021

FEATURE LIFE TECH

ROLLING THUNDER So, you’re ready to make the plunge, eh? Well, we’ve done the leg work (literally) for you and hand-picked some e-scooters that will get you off on the right foot.

W hen it comes to experience in the e-scooter world, Segway- Ninebot are at the front of the pack and renowned for producing reliable micro-mobility vehicles that won’t break the bank. The company has recently announced an updated fleet of e-scooters including the F-30 and F-40A. There are minor differences between the two, but the features remain largely unchanged across both models. A stronger, redesigned frame is complemented by ten-inch wheels with pneumatic tyres (you get a free tyre in the box – nice touch). The battery, previously housed in the bar on older models, is now fitted neatly into the deck. Three riding modes offer an eco setting for beginners, a standard mode, and a sport setting for top end speeds. Braking is activated by a disc brake at the rear and regenerative braking at the front, which, as the name suggests, generates electricity that is transferred to the battery. On the handlebars is a thumb throttle, a bell, the display for speed and battery life, and a brake lever. The e-scooter folds down for easy transportation and there’s an LED light in the front and a braking light on the rear mudflap. Think of the F-30 as an entry point e-scooter for beginners, with a smaller motor and reduced speed limit. The F-40A has a larger motor, faster top end and further range, but remember, range will differ considerably depending on the terrain and mode setting used. Both models are splashproof to IPX5 rating. The comparison chart below highlights the differences.

Segway Ninebot Max We call the Segway-Ninebot Max the ‘workhorse’; a reliable performer that just keeps on moving. It’s built tough, will chew up just about every riding condition thrown at it, and eats hills for breakfast thanks to the rear wheel drive. The battery is in the deck, which will feel like a surfboard when compared to the dimensions of the others. This is one sturdy ride. One of the STACK writers regularly uses the Max with his four-year-old son onboard, too, such is the power in the motor and the size of the deck. Tubeless 10” pneumatic tyres allow the Max to traverse off-road conditions with aplomb, and suspension provides a comfortable ride. Four riding modes offer complete versatility, and a dual brake system includes a regenerative back heel brake that will help recharge some of the battery. On the handlebars is a brake lever, display for the vitals with the 2.5W LED light positioned on the other side, a built-in bell, and thumb accelerator. At 19kg the Max is certainly on the heavier side for an e-scooter, so it won’t work for every commuter looking to fold it down to take on public transport, but for an overall dependable ride with an excellent build quality and consistent performance, this is a serious ride for serious riders.

Segway MAX

Segway F-30

Max Speed: 25km/h Advertised Range: 40km Net Weight: 15.8kg Rider Weight Limit: 120kg Motor: 350 Watt Hill incline limit: 20% Charge Time: 6.5 hours IPX Rating: 5 Segway F-40A

Max Speed: 25km/h Advertised Range: 65km Net Weight: 18.7kg Rider Weight Limit: 100kg Motor: 350 Watt Hill incline limit: 20% Charge Time: 6 hours IPX Rating: 5

Max Speed: 25km/h Advertised Range: 30km Net Weight: 15.1kg Rider Weight Limit: 120kg Motor: 300 Watt Hill incline limit: 15% Charge Time: 5 hours IPX Rating: 5

APP The Segway-Ninebot scooters all come with

access to a Bluetooth app. From here you can monitor all your riding data, keep track of your vital stats and adjust settings.You can also lock the scooter via the app to help deter any would-be thieves.

Please Note: Each state and territory in Australia has a different set of rules and regulations pertaining to the usage of e-scooters and e-boards (including where e-scooters and e-boards can legally be used and whether e-scooters and e-boards need to be registered with the relevant road traffic authority). Any user of this product must ensure that they check and abide by their local by-laws and use responsibly. Ride with caution and always wear a helmet and protective gear when riding your e-scooter and e-board.

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