Electric scooters are known for offering a certain level of fun during rides, but some models take the experience to a whole new level. The Niu Kqi3 Max stands out as one of those scooters that not only deliver excitement but also combines speed, range, and comfort seamlessly.
Key Specifications:
- Size (folded): 45.5 x 46.1 x 19.8 inches
- Size (unfolded): 45.5 x 46.1 x 21.3 inches
- Weight: 46.3 pounds
- Motor: 450W, 900W peak
- Wheel size: 9.5 x 2.5-inch, pneumatic
- Max speed: 23.6 mph
- Range: 40 miles
- Max rider weight: 265 pounds
- Battery: 46.8V 608.4Wh Lithium Battery
Pros:
- Fast
- Great brakes
- Powerful for hills
Cons:
- Heavy
Design and Build:
The Niu Kqi3 Max boasts a distinctive design, featuring a large circular LED headlight and a more traditional red LED taillight. The dual mechanical disc brakes, painted in eye-catching red, not only look cool but also provide impressive stopping power. The scooter's deck is spacious and covered in a rubberized material for enhanced grip.
However, weighing 46.3 pounds, the Kqi3 Max is on the heavier side. While its handlebars can be folded down easily, making it more portable, it might not be the ideal choice for those who need to carry their scooter frequently.
Performance:
The joy of riding the Niu Kqi3 Max lies in its powerful performance. With a 450W motor (900W peak), this scooter delivers excellent acceleration and is particularly adept at handling hills. The scooter's peak output of 700W ensures a swift start and impressive performance on inclines.
During testing, the Kqi3 Max maintained a speed of around 10 mph on a 6 percent road grade hill, outperforming comparable scooters. Even on steeper grades, the scooter demonstrated resilience, slowing down to 5-6 mph while still maintaining momentum.
On level terrain, the Kqi3 Max accelerates quickly to its top speed of 23.6 mph, providing a smooth and enjoyable ride. Despite lacking suspension, its large 9.5-inch pneumatic tires contribute to a comfortable journey.
Battery Life:
Niu claims a range of up to 40 miles for the Kqi3 Max, but real-world testing yielded approximately 20 miles on varied terrains. Like many scooters, the actual range may vary based on factors such as rider weight and road conditions. For riders on level roads or with lighter weight, a better range can be expected.
App Integration:
The Niu app enhances the overall experience by allowing riders to customize their scooters. Users can increase the maximum speed of the Kqi3 Max through the app, providing an added sense of thrill. The app also offers features like ride tracking, remote locking/unlocking, and battery status monitoring.
Conclusion:
The Niu Kqi3 Max stands out as an excellent all-around electric scooter, offering a thrilling and powerful riding experience. While its weight may be a drawback for those seeking portability, its performance, design, and feature-rich app make it a top choice for enthusiasts. Priced at $999, it competes in the upper tier of electric scooters, but the joy of riding it justifies the investment. For those considering a more budget-friendly option, the Niu Kqi3 Pro, priced at $799, offers a compelling alternative with slightly reduced specifications.