"When you're looking for an affordable alternative to public transport..."

Searching for a mid range scooter with the power and the looks? A world of urban, electric scooters is happening out there, right now!

Fact

• 129 million e scooter global sales expected by 2028 - up from 5 million sold in 2018

(Source: Appinventiv, May 2023)

Many scooters are speedy and durable enough for the daily road commute - and can handle a 10 per cent hill climb. A few can even do riding off-road, too. Some dirt track and green grass rather than rough terrain.

If you're mostly up for only doing the daily urban ride by e scooter - but also an off-road enthusiast for some dope scootering too ...

In this article we look at your best options for:

• A 'commuter' scooter with some off-road riding.
• A 'mid-range' scooter - as 'smooth' in price as it is on urban tarmac and sidewalk.

The Kugoo M4 Pro and the iEnyrid M4 Pro S+ certainly look the business. They could almost be twins, too.

Let's jump on the Kugoo M4 Pro first...

Kugoo M4 Pro

Or you may prefer to take a seat - which the KugooKirin M4 Pro also provides for those long range rides.

But first ...

Kugoo or KugooKirin?

One and the same.

KugooKirin started out as a budget scooter brand in 2015, with its first electric scooter - the “Cool Green”. And continues putting out a range of wallet-friendly scooters under the Kugoo brand.

Both brand names have developed a reputation as the perfect choice for affordable electric scooters, particularly across Europe. In recent times, Kugoo has shipped product to outlets in the US, which is attracting attention from the e scooter community.

Performance

Since the sturdy frame Kugoo M4 Pro was first released in October 2021, it has been given a battery upgrade and bigger tires for off-roading.

Key factors affecting scooter performance - particularly speed and acceleration - will always depend on motor efficiency, battery charge and rider weight.

Speed and Acceleration

The Kugoo M4 Pro packs a powerful single, rear hub, brushless 500 Watt motor. Designed for both speed and holding the road.

• Kugoo M4 Pro's top speed is 50km/h (31 mph) - according to Kugoo's own figures.

Top speeds can often vary under different test conditions. A typical, maximum speed is generally clocked between 42 kmh (26 mph) and 47 kmh (29 mph).

Giving an average top speed reached by the Kugoo M4 Pro as 45 km/h (28 mph).

The M4 Pro - similar to other scooters - also offers a top speed in 3 different modes (according to official Kugoo figures):

• Top Speed Mode 1 - 18km/h (11.2 mph) - A great option for entry-level riders.
• Top Speed Mode 2 - 30km/h (18.6 mph) - Typically selected to match urban speed limits.
• Top Speed Mode 3 - 50km/h (31.0 mph) - For full throttle, speedster scootering.

Hill Climbs

For the average size rider of between 55kg (121 lbs) – 100kg (220 lbs), tackling a climb angle of 10 per cent tends to be the benchmark for the vast majority of electric scooters.

But here, the M4 Pro's single 500 watt motor packs a bigger punch than some other scooters for knocking out those steep inclines.

This time the official Kugoo rating of a 15 degree angle at peak power passes most uphill tests. On this particular scooter, riders above 90 kgs (200lbs) may experience a slower climb above a 10-12 per cent gradient.

Components

Battery Life and Range

"How far does it travel on a single charge?" is often the very next question after "how fast does it go!"

The Kugoo M4 Pro may be a budget electric scooter but it sure doesn't behave as one! Recently, Kugoo have fitted a 48V 18Ah battery - for pumping out a hefty 864 Wh. Budget scooters often have 13Ah batteries, so definitely a power plus for the M4 Pro.

The extra power ideally translates to a travelling distance of 60kms (37 miles) on a single charge. Possibly even squeezing out 70 kms (43 miles) - if you've selected a Mode 1 speed setting.

Tests in everyday urban conditions find the Kugoo M4 Pro is more likely to max out at 40-50 kms (25 - 31 miles) on a single charge of up to 8 hours.

Typical travelling distances more likely to be achieved, relying on the following speed settings:

• 34 kms (20 miles) - at Mode 1 speed
• 48 kms (30 miles) - at Mode 2 speed
• 29 kms (18 miles) - at Mode 3 speed

How far your scooter will go can definitely depend on speed settings used - and rider weight.

Tires and Suspension

What does a comfortable ride look like? A big set of totally pumped wheels and super strong shock absorbers.

The Kugoo M4 Pro boasts a pair of 25 cm (10 inch) diameter x 10cm (4 inch) wide "high grip" pneumatic (air filled) tires. It's another bonus on a budget scooter rocking a mid-range scooter vibe.

Kugoo have definitely put out the M4 Pro as an off road model, too. And as an off road scooter, it needs the bigger tires for spreading the traction action. Not just for holding flat, wet surfaces and hilly gradients.

The deep treads are also needed for getting to grips with a range of ground surfaces. From same-level, urban concrete and tarmac to riding on more uneven, off-road dirt path and green grass.

Dual suspension

The big wheels also sit below the M4 Pro's robust dual spring suspension system:

• Front - dual spring suspension
• Rear - arm suspension.

Coupled with big air-filled tires and dual suspension shock absorbers you know you've gotten yourself a smoothed out, comfortable ride. Whatever poor, uneven surfaces may come your scootering way.

Braking

The M4 Pro has powerful, cable-driven, mechanical disc brakes both on front and rear wheels, which offer a good range of speed modes and acceleration. Despite no regenerative, rear braking support.

The system is easily activated by a gentle squeeze of two large, full palm-width brake levers, one each side of the handlebars. Bringing the scooter to a full stop in up to 4 meters (13 feet), and an assured, comfortable braking performance from the M4 Pro.

Lights

To see and to be seen on an electric scooter. Visibility and safety go hand in hand. Particularly, if you're riding out early or returning after dark. Once again, a budget urban and off road electric scooter comes packed with a more mid size scooter spec.

The Kugoo Kirin M4 Pro comes with a 6 light system:

• 1 x front LED headlight

Compared to other electric scooter the Kugoo M4 has a particularly bright headlight. A large, wide beam is cast, despite being typically low-mounted on the stem over the front wheel.

• 1 x red tail brake light.

Large, wide reflector securely fixed to the rear fender.

• 2 x side /rear turn lights

Solid, large red indicators feature each side at the rear of the deck, which work in tandem with:

• 2 x side ambient deck lights

A neat and clear RGB lighting strip runs along the left and right side of the deck, indicating which direction the scooter is to turn.

Handlebar Controls

Most electric scooters will load up their cockpit / handlebar controls with all the levers and displays you need to comfortably control your ride.

Here, the Kugoo M4 Pro also includes an adjustable handlebar. For different height riders who may need to make it taller or shorter. And absolutely crucial for ensuring you stand just right to safely pilot your ride.

The handlebars are functional with neat, highly tactile, rubber hand-grips each side accompanied by the brake levers.

The handlebars also include:

• Ignition keyhole
• Index finger throttle
• Light and bell buttons

There are 2 separate display dials:

1. Battery charge voltage meter (between 38v and 54v)

-and-

2. Circular LCD display with:

• Power button
• Speed mode button

The display provides a numerical readout of:

• Selected gear
• Current speed
• Battery level
• Distance travelled

Some riders might be concerned about the open trailing cables from handlebar to stem.

Build quality and load capacity

Frame

You would expect an electric scooter intended for handling urban commutes and riding off road to be built for the job. The M4 Pro doesn't disappoint.

Kugoo have designed a strong, heavy frame produced in aluminum alloy with a durable, black finish. Because it folds at the scooter base, the stem stands rock solid. Reinforcing a rigid construction with no sign of play or hidden weak spots.

The overall heavy-duty build means the M4 Pro can carry a larger than normal rider weight for a budget electric scooter - up to 150 kg (330 lbs).

Deck

Kugoo have definitely thought about rider comfort by installing a huge 22cm (8.5 in) wide deck with a super, high grip rubber surface running the entire deck length.

It's far wider than most other budget electric scooters, and offers lots more standing space for cool, relaxed riding.

Seat - a great extra feature - especially for those longer range commutes, can be securely installed at the deck rear.

Portability

Its sturdy build for urban commutes and off road scootering does mean the M4 Pro does seem to have one disadvantage - it weighs in at around 23 kgs (50 lbs). And possibly near the weight limit of portability.

Not every rider may feel like carrying upstairs or too far between rides. Even though this Kugoo scooter is heavier than some other budget scooters its still more portable than most.

That's because both the handlebars and the stem fold down on this scooter. Reducing to a neat 114cm (44ins) x 39cm (15 ins) x 60cm (23 ins). Small enough for passing through elevator doors or storing in the trunk of an auto.

Specifications

Weight: 23 kgs (50 lbs)

Folded dimensions: 114cm (44ins) x 39cm (15 ins) x 60cm (23 ins)

Motor power (continuous): 500W

Top speed: 50km/h (31 mph)

Travel Distance: 50 km (31 miles) max.

Battery capacity: 864Wh

Battery recharge time: 8 hrs

Max rider weight: 150 kg (330 lbs)

Brake type: Mechanical disc, front and rear

Tire type: 25 cm (10 inch) diameter x 10cm (4 inch), air filled.

Built-in lights: 6 light system, front, rear and side deck.

Water resistance: IPX4 (light rain only)

iEnyrid M4 Pro S+

The iEnyrid brand has been around since 2016, producing a select handful of "future design" electric scooters. And building keen interest across the US. as well as in UK and Europe.

Not hard to see why.

Performance

It's not just the name of the scooter model.

As an alternative to the Kugoo M4 Pro, the similarity of the iEnyrid M4 Pro S+ is striking. In all its robust looks, smart specifications and performance.

The M4 Pro S+ is more than an affordable, mid range electric scooter. It packs a versatile capability to give you both smooth, urban commuting and some rugged off road riding.

Speed and Acceleration

The M4 Pro S+ comes loaded with a powerful, brushless, rear wheel-hub 800W motor and:

3-Max speed modes*

Mode ONE - 12.5 - 15 km/h (7.75 - 9.3 mph): entry-level riding

Mode TWO - 20-25km/h (12.5 - 15.5 mph): urban commuting

Mode THREE - 45-50Km/h (28 - 31 mph): for 'speed plus' ( S+) performance

You always need to select a speed limit to match riding conditions - typically, to slow down through built-up areas or crowded streets - you simply toggle the right-hand side acceleration lever.

*IMPORTANT: Reaching maximum speed in any of the 3 modes will always depend on battery charge, riding surface and rider weight.

Hill Climbs

Whether dealing with steep hill climbs - town or countryside - the iEnyrid M4 Pro S+ has more than enough power to tackle gradients of up to around 35 degrees.

That's well over the 10 per cent for the average electric scooter. And matching most off road scooters too. Both urban commuters and off road warriors can definitely scale the heights with the M4 Pro S+.

Components

Battery Life and Range

M4 Pro S+ also carries a large, high-capacity 48V 16Ah | 768Wh lithium ion battery. This translates to a potential range of up to:

• 40 kms (25 miles) – 50 kms (35 miles) on a single charge.

IMPORTANT: Full battery charging time is 5-6 hours.

Whether you have a long distance commute to work and back. Or planning to explore off road, beyond your local park - you won't need to worry about running out of juice. As long as you ensure you have a fully charged battery.

Ultimately, your range will always depend on:

• Speed mode selected
• Riding style
• Total carry weight
• How much charge used

Tires and Suspension

Like the Kugoo scooter, this M4 also comes equipped with an impressive pair of 25 cm (10 inch) diameter pneumatic (air filled), anti skid tires.

You'll make light work of uneven pavements, cracked tarmac and nuisance potholes.

These size tires are clearly designed to give you added off road capabilities of "high grip" flex and tread to make light work of a more rugged terrain. From dirt track and gravel paths to woodland trails, uneven grass and scrub.

The M4 Pro S+ also sports a pair of very cool-looking gold, spring-loaded shock absorbers - for both front and rear wheel hubs. Added suspension is essential to soak up those bumps, shudders and jolts on whatever uneven surface you're riding.

Braking

Double safety too - for riding on urban pavement and road or rough country trail. The iEnyrid M4 Pro S+ provides a powerful set of cable-driven, mechanical disc brakes, front and rear.

A further safety feature is E-ABS locking. This uses "regenerative" braking to capture energy from rear wheel braking, which is supplied to the front wheel brake.

Lights

Max visibility for safe riding, day or night, is no problem for this electric scooter.

Headlight: The Pro S+ comes with a large and powerful LED headlight. It's also repositioned much higher up the stem than the M4 Pro version. This means you'll have a clearer view of the road much further ahead than before.

Tail light and indicators: A red tail light (with brake light) is mounted on the rear fender, and large red "arrow head" side indicators, left and right, at the deck rear.

A colored LED smart strip also runs the left and right hand side of the deck edge. One side is automatically activated, along with the selected left or right indicator.

Night Lighting: When the headlight is turned on, both running lights and tail-lights are also automatically illuminated with a range of brightness options.

Handlebar Controls

Total cockpit control is under your fingertips at all times. The M4 Pro S+ features a large, clear LCD display alongside the throttle. For both instant power - and a readout you can see even in strong sunlight.

Entire riding data is displayed in real time, including:

• Speed - km/h or mph
• Speed mode - gears toggle from 1-3
• Distance - travelled on a single trip
• Odometer - total mileage
• Battery level indicator - charge remaining.

At the same time you have two firm-grip, responsive brake levers, left and right hand side.

Build quality and load capacity

Frame

The entire frame and stem of the M4 Pro S+ is made with aluminum alloy. A metal composite - lightweight yet also strong and durable - to handle the daily, urban commute, and off road terrains.

And also gives you a carry weight limit extended to 150 kgs (330.6 lbs)

Deck

The M4 has a wide, sturdy deck covered throughout in a chunky, square grid of "high grip" rubber. A design for "leg room and comfort" you definitely would look for on those longer work commutes and off road adventures.

There's also the optional seat post and a large saddle. If you prefer a chilled option to standing.

Portability

Weighing in at 29.2 kgs (64.3 lbs), the iEnyrid M4 Pro S+ is one of the most portable of mid range scooters. For carrying up a subway stairs or elevator - and storing at home, auto trunk and workplace.

Both scooter stem and handlebars fold down - in around 5 seconds - to a 'comfortable to carry' 116cm (45.6 ins) length x 35 cm (13.7 ins) height.

Specifications

Weight: 29.2 kgs (64.3 lbs)

Folded dimensions: 116cm (45.6 ins) L x 35 cm (13.7 ins) H x 61 cms x (24ins) W

Motor power: 800W

Top speed: 50km/h (31 mph)

Travel Distance: 50 km (31 miles) max

Battery capacity: 48V 16Ah | 768Wh

Battery recharge time: 6 hrs

Max rider weight: 150 kg (330 lbs)

Brake type: Mechanical disc, front and rear

Tire type: 25 cm (10 inch) diameter, pneumatic (air filled)

Built-in lights: Headlight front, tail light/ brake light, indicators front and rear deck w/LED strip

Water resistance: IP54 (water spray from all directions, dust and small particles)

Unagi Voyager

"Double the Range & Half the Charge Time"

Voyager is the latest electric scooter from the Unagi brand. Launched in April 2023, in four colors -

• Deep Cobalt (blue)
• Cool Mist (green)
• Latte (tan)
• Matt Black

Since 2018, the California-based Unagi has firmly established it's reputation for designing a new generation of alternative, personal transportation. Where "function meets aesthetics" .

The Voyager builds on the concept of creating an urban electric scooter that puts the 'glide into your ride' - with a zippy upgrade to power, speed, and performance.

Rocking an Apple-style ergonomic chic, subscribing to the Voyager experience always promises to be super-sleek, comfort-travel.

Voyager is not designed as a rough terrain, off road electric scooter.

But improved battery charge, plus 'smart' app features means Voyager gives you an extended range for adventure rides.

Performance

Speed and Acceleration

Unagi Voyager packs a punchy 500 watt dual motor. That's 2 x 250 watts, one in each wheel hub. Like it's predecessor, the Model One, this gives this slinky electric scooter more power, and a real zip to the daily commute, typically:

• Maximum speed of 32 km/h (20 mph).
• Accelerating to 24 km/h (15 mph) in around 4 seconds.

Not the fastest performer but ideal for typical urban conditions, and saving battery charge.

As with many of the best electric scooters, you get to "customize your ride for the speed you need". Choosing from 3 speed mode settings:

Speed Mode 1 - 14 km/h (9 mph): Nice and easy, light acceleration for first-time riders to build confidence and master rider control.

Speed Mode 2 - 19 km/h (12 mph): Ideal for the urban daily commute and the longer rides. A "balanced" throttle is on-board for maintaining a steady-pace.

Speed Mode 3 - 27 km/h (17 mph): A top speed for amping up a fun ride rather than a manic throttle.

Hill Climbs

Voyager's dual motors can deliver a pumped-up 1000 watts max - up from the Model One's 800 watts max. Plus, an improved max torque of 32Nm compared to 26 Nm (Model One).

The extra heavy-duty torque means Voyager eats up 15-degree hill climbs. Beating out the average urban scooter hill climb of 10 per cent in around 12 seconds at nearly 17.7 km/h (11 mph).

Components

Battery Charge and Travel Distance

Unagi have boosted travel distance for Voyager with a stepped-up:

• 42V, 3A charge output lithium-ion battery of 360Wh / 10 Ah - compared to 33.6V, 2A 259Wh / 9Ah (Model One).

Without adding to scooter weight the larger battery gives Voyager:

• 12 to 25 mile range on a single charge - nearly double the 7 to 12-mile range of Model One.
• 3 hours charging time - almost half the 5 hours for Model One.

Custom-built monitoring prevents any risk of overheating for reliable, low maintenance scootering on longer urban commutes or out of town rides.

Tires and shock absorption

Unagi Voyager tires are:

• 7.5 inch (19 cm) (Diameter) x 1.6 in ( 4.0 cms) (Width)
• Honeycomb, puncture-proof, solid rubber.

Honeycomb tires

Unagi electric scooters are known for their honeycomb tires.

Honeycomb (or air pocket) tires are a combination of air filled and solid tires. They're formed with a system of ribbed air pockets or honeycombs around the edge of the entire wheel.

The air pockets offer:

• Greater structural integrity (less tire distortion during tight maneuvres) and slightly better suspension than solid tires.

Their increased air cushioning also means:

• Lower rolling resistance because of reduced battery energy needed to move the tire. And extended travel distance.
• Helping to reduce catching a flat. Who needs the hassle of swapping out a fiddly inner tube during a hectic commute?

Unlike, most off road electric scooters, suspension is not included on Voyager.

Brakes

The most powerful electric scooters will always demand high performance brakes. Commuter scooters, too, also need powerful enough brakes to give you safe stops, wherever you ride.

Voyager comes with dual electronic brakes. And Unagi also includea rear fender foot brake (like he Model One).

This gives a solid, responsive assist to full stops, particularly, on a typical, flat urban route.

Typical on-road test results for Unagi:

• 5.5 m (16.9 feet) - for both electronic and foot brake.
• 7.7 m (25 feet) - electronic brakes only.

The Unagi electronic braking system also reliably delivers a safe, stable response - without those troublesome wheel locks.

Lights

Being seen on your electric scooter is a big safety issue. Whether on an early morning / late evening commute. During bad weather, but particularly, riding at night.

Some electric scooters may only have a single headlight which may not be bright enough. Like the Model One, Unagi has fitted Voyager with :

• Dual forward-facing, flush-mounted 1.8 watt LED headlights.

A red LED light, low-mounted on the scooter rear also puts out a powerful beam for safe night riding.

Handlebar control

Design elegance and cool is a Unagi trademark. No less with its handlebars and top bar control centre. It's formed from a single casting of magnesium alloy, one third lighter than aluminum, and seamlessly joined.

Not only looking good but feeling good to touch, too. Unagi scooter design is always about rider comfort and practical efficiency at your fingertips.

Voyager sports a large display flush-mounted at the center of the handlebars.

A new Unagi control feature is:

• Dual motor mode - a two-wheel icon on the screen (not a single icon).

At a glance you can also instantly see and control:

• Current speed
• Motor status
• Distance travelled - see Smart App below
• Battery level

Smart app

A further performance improvements is the addition of an iOS and Android smart app. This enables you to:

• Lock and unlock scooter wheels
• Precisely calculate remaining battery life - by rider weight and 'ride' mode ("Distance to Empty" feature).

A perfectly-positioned thumb throttle sits below an instantly-switchable speed and distance control buttons.

Completing the ergonomic experience are:

• Touch response brake paddles
• Horn
• LED headlight

Build quality and load capacity

Frame

As you would expect from Unagi, Voyager has an impressive high-spec, strength-weight ratio.

The Voyager frame is made by TORAY - for over 5 decades a world leading producer of carbon fiber - a material recognized for both its lightweight property and virtually, unbreakable strength.

Carbon fiber, aluminum and magnesium alloy are subtly blended into a safe and durable urban commuting scooter. There's even 'invisible' reinforced, frame support at potential stress points.

Deck

The Voyager deck is slimline with wide standing room - 47 cms (18.5 in) x 13.5 cms (5.5 in) - much larger than a typical scooter deck. Elegantly tapered for riding comfort with a tough, rubber-grip embedded across its entire surface. And a ground clearance of 8.3 cms (3.3 ins).

The in-built kickstand on the left-hand side, neatly vanishes from view when retracted.

Portability

Voyager weighs in at a super-lightweight 13.4 kgs (29.6 lbs).

The Unagi scooter also boasts a real easy folding mechanism.

Its fast thumb slide action, combined with a 90 degree stem angle, folds Voyager down to 91 cm (37 in) x 40 cm (16in) x 38 cm (15 in).

The one urban commuter scooter that you can carry anywhere in the palm of one hand.

Specifications

Weight: 13.4 kgs (29.6 lbs)

Folded dimensions: 96 cm (37.8 in) x 42 cm (16.4in) x 38 cm (15 in)

Motor power: 1000 W (max).500 W (continuous)

Top speed: 32 km/h (20 mph)

Travel distance: 19.3 - 40.2 kms (12 to 25 miles)

Battery capacity: 768Wh

Battery recharge time: 3 hours

Max rider weight: 100 kgs (220 lbs)

Brake type: Dual electronic + rear, foot brake assist.

Tire type: 7.5 inch solid rubber

On-board lights: Dual front LED and Rear light red LED

Water resistance: IP54 (water spray from all directions, dust and small particles)

Summary

A mid range budget scooter like the Kugoo M4Pro offers a performance you might expect of a more powerful, all-terrain scooter.

Increasingly, there are almost identical alternatives like the iEnyrid M4 Pro S+, which also offer some hardy off-road capabilities.

Even a stylish head-turner like Unagi Voyager - a premium, urban-commuter scooter - can take you further down the road on your daily and fun time journeys.

Find out more about electric scooters for urban and off road riding