Your cart is currently empty.
Micromobility is here to stay, and it’s changing how we experience urban life for the better. With Unagi’s membership program, you can enjoy all the benefits of a top-tier electric scooter without the sky-high price of ownership or the inconvenience of ride-sharing.
We’re excited to celebrate Unagi’s 5th Anniversary, and we want you to join the fun! To thank you for your support, we're hosting an exclusive $10,000 Airbnb giveaway. No purchase necessary—just enter for your chance to win! Hurry, the giveaway ends on 10/4/2024!
In today’s fast-paced world, finding an efficient and cost-effective mode of transportation is crucial. E-scooters offer a convenient and eco-friendly way to navigate urban landscapes. Unagi stands out not only for its superior design and performance but also for its affordability and unmatched rental program.
While e-scooters have been gaining popularity due to their convenience and relatively low cost, they have been getting more attention lately for another reason: battery fires. It's important to understand the potential dangers associated with the battery technology that lies at their core.
In South Carolina, electric scooters exist in a sort of legal gray area. There's no statewide legislation that specifically addresses them.
Understand which personal electric vehicle is best, the choice between an electric bike or electric scooter might already be made for you by some critical factors, including portability and storage capacity.
Nothing stays still for long in electric scooter world.
Manufacturers upgrade their e scooter models all the time - check out the new satin-sleek Voyager from Unagi in this article - as brands compete to make their model the all-rounder of choice.
Many owners consider Mercane Widewheel Pro to be one of the best of the electric scooter all-rounders.
Known for giving reliable daily urban commutes with tricky uphill climbs. And for getting your fix of fast, fun rides at over 40 km/h (25 mph) with its punchy dual motors.
If you're looking for a mid range, all round electric scooter ... this article will detail the latest top notch alternatives to help you decide what's best for your riding needs.
Including, a speed upgrade to the Apollo Explore coming in 2024.
Let's kick off with a new Mercane Widewheel Pro review ...
The current 15aH battery version of the Widewheel Pro (from Korean brand, Mercane Co. Ltd, founded in 2015) is available with either a:
Which will affect its speed and range.
But a widewheel electric scooter like the Mercane Pro - sporting those uber chunky tires - is always going to be an ultra cushion, smooth ride.
If you're looking for a fast urban commute you'll definitely like unlocking the Mercane Widewheel Pro.
That's 50 - 60 per cent faster than many other urban commuter scooters, which often only reach a standard 24 km/h (15 mph), max.
IMPORTANT: Your max. speed will always be affected by the Mercane Widewheel max. rider weight limit of 99.7 kgs (220 lbs), and road surface conditions.
There's a total 1000 watts of motor power at your fingertips in the dual motor version of the Mercane Widewheel electric scooter. Typical speed tests can readily clock up:
But can the Mercane scooter motor also eat up a typical steep hill climb?
When an e scooter like the Mercane Widewheel Pro is packing a dual motor of 1000 watts, you kinda know you've gotten enough grunt to make light work of 15 degree inclines.
A typical hill climb test shows this e scooter easily polishing off 10 per cent gradients in as little as 11 seconds at an average 19 - 21 km/h (12-13 mph).
So no idler in handling both urban and off road gradient hills.
You'll appreciate the added battery capacity for powering up those steeper inclines.
The current Mercane WideWheel Pro packs a serious 720 watt, 48V 15Ah high-efficiency, Lithion-ion batteries. Available in one or two pack version.
Not just giving you a bigger battery but double the size of a standard electric scooter.
The clear advantages for all round electric scooter carrying a 15Ah battery are:
It does mean a single charge can take around 6 hours to complete. But when fully fired-up the Mercane Widewheel Pro offers a greater range of 19-20 miles in regular conditions, including start/stops - and handling more uneven road surfaces.
Sporting those 8in x 3.9in, solid, ultra-wide tires, is of course, a massive riding bonus. It's no surprise the Mercane Widewheel Pro has gained its reputation as a ultra smooth ride - even in off road terrains.
A super comfortable ride is also down to the Mercane Pro's 'solid' tires, as they're often described. In fact, both wide wheel tires on the Mercane Widewheel Pro are actually filled with solid urethane foam.
Which means no worries about flats. And definitely no hassle of changing a fiddly inner tube.
Plus... chunky-feel tires give you all the added cushioning you need to glide over potholes, bumpy sidewalks and cracked tarmac without a problem.
Making sharp left or right hand turns with extra wide wheelsalso needs a different approach from riding other electric scooters. A reduced turning radius, for example, means you need to slow down when cornering or making tight maneuvres.
Front and rear spring suspension adds a further extra smooth support to the widewheel experience. Particularly, when riding off road, for example, on dirt and mud track. However, the Mercane Pro is unlikely to be suitable for dealing with really rough terrain.
Scootering at high speeds on a wide wheel scooter will always demand some serious braking power.
Mercane have supplied the Widewheel Pro with powerful dual braking systems:
New, fast lever action at the cockpit instantly delivers a super-controlled and precise stop from 15 mph in only 3.8 meters (12.5 feet).
An extra-bright, flush-fitted LED light is high-mounted in front of the display. Together with a rear, red LED tail light, the front and rear lights of the Mercane Widewheel Pro are powerful enough for safe riding in well-lit, urban neighbourhoods.
However, if you're often travelling before or after dusk, and daily commutes or crosstown routes are in poorly lit areas, you may also need an extra bright, long-throw light.
The Mercane WideWheel provides a full range of handlebar controls, firmly assisted by some tough, ergonomic two-tone grips, brake lever and intuitive hand controls.
The cockpit features a backlit LCD display of mph/kph, total mileage, voltage, and battery status.
And when you need quickly switch speeds you have two modes at your fingertips:
-and-
This latest version of Mercane Widewheel Pro is beefed up with a die-cast, aluminum-alloy frame.
This means the scooter is built from a one piece mold - no breakable welds - which makes this scooter both stronger and lighter. More than capable of carrying a maximum rider weight of 99.7 kgs (220 lbs).
A cool, brooding charcoal grey frame and wide mudguards ( for protecting those wide tires) definitely rocks a designer, sports performance vibe.
A funky, streamlined added trim creates a wider shaped deck - neatly tapering from a roomy 8.6 to a slender 5-inches wide.
It could be one of the neatest, slimline decks on an e scooter. Plus, the deck can also be fitted with a seat if needed for those long range rides beyond city limits or off road exploring.
The stem and handlebars can both fold down from an:
to a portable:
Weighing in at 24.4 kgs (54 lbs) the Mercane Widewheel scooter is no lightweight. But can still be comfortably carried over a short distance. The stem can also be locked in the folded position for an even easier carry.
The Mercane is undoubtedly, a solid sturdy, all-round ride. Those chunky 3.9 inches of wheel width are made for speed in Sports mode. It can definitely give this e scooter that "riding on a cloud" effect.
Weight: 24.4 kgs (54lbs)
Folded dimensions: 106 cm (43.1in) x 22 cm (8.6in) x 41cm (16.1 in)
Motor power (continuous): 1000 watts (2 x dual 500 watts)
Top speed: 20- 25 mph
Travel Distance: 32 kms (22 miles)
Battery capacity: 720 Wh
Battery recharge time: 6 hours
Max rider weight: 99.7 kgs (22 lbs)
Brake type: Dual mechanical disc
Tire type: 8 x 3.9 inch ultra wide urethane foam filled.
Built-in lights: Front LED and Rear Red LED
Water resistance: IP54 ( protected against light rain and puddles)
The Emove Cruiser tends to be up there as a 1000 watt electric scooter alternative to the Mercane Pro Widewheel.
And definitely performs as a steady, reliable urban commuter scooter because of its single rather than dual motor.
The Emove Cruiser - is often a first choice among those who need that reliable, extra travel range rather than a high-speed performance scooter.
2023 saw some sassy upgrades to the Emove Cruiser from its Singapore maker, Voros, including:
The Emove carries a single 1000 watt motor rather than dual motors. So this e scooter is definitely aimed at travel range rather than than thrills on the throttle.
It might be a more mid-range kind of a mover compared to other scooters but it can still pack a poke on the dial, reaching zippy speeds of 48 km/h (30 mph).
How could you not have cruise control on a scooter branded up as the Cruiser? Not only a reliable machine for riding in a steady slipstream on the daily commute. But also a fun weekend cruising scooter.
One touch of the P17 setting on your cockpit QS-S4 display sets a constant speed - which means no keeping your finger on the trigger.
Other mid range electric scooters with comparable spec might shave a few seconds here and there. But on the getaway the Emove is still no slouch. A new, more ergonomic design of thumb throttle helps with giving a faster response.
Typical acceleration times from stationary can be:
For a sturdy, urban commuter scooter, the Emove motor is more than equipped to tackle hill climbs of up to 20 degrees.
Rising to the challenge, it packs a 1600 watt peak output in around 12 seconds at an average speed of nearly 18 km/h (11 mph).
If you're looking for more distance for your dollars, the Emove is definitely in your travel and wallet range.
This Cruiser has a massive 52V 30Ah LG battery thatjust keeps on going. Covering between 75 - 100 kms (46 - 62 miles) on a single charge, according to riding conditions.
Filling up with all that extra juice does mean that battery charging time can take anywhere between 9 to 12 hours.
When a scooter like Emover is putting in the miles, it will definitely need some solid, chunky tires. The Cruiser doesn't disappoint with:
A width almost matching the Mercane Widewheel Pro.
And no need to carry a spare inner tube. The tire seals directly against the scooter rim. You get a stronger solid, puncture-resistant performance with pneumatic tires all firmed up to handle most urban road surfaces.
The tires are also mostly hidden by huge front and rear fenders, so definitely no road debris will be kicking up and spoiling your ride.
The Emove also sports large dual, front spring and rear suspension, air shock absorbers.
For totally reliable traction and stability - you've gotten yourself a comfortable, long distance ride.
The Emove design team have equipped the Cruiser with some awesome braking to stop this scooter in it's riding tracks when needed:
Hydraulic brakes on e scooters are not only rare but actually easier to use than cable-operated disc brakes.
At a comfortable urban sprint of 24 km/h (15 mph) you come to a complete stop at a wheel turn or two shy of 3.5 metres (10-11 ft).
The Cruiser may not be fitted with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), but any risk of locking up at sudden stops can be prevented by giving the hand-operated brake a gentle squeeze.
The Cruiser has 5 lights in total.
The 4 button lights also act as turn signals, easily operated by a side-deck button and slider. An extra warning alert is also given with an audible beep, not always present on other scooters.
Another big difference here from other scooters is that the brake lights operate independently from the head/tail lights and turn signals.
There's two good reasons why the Cruiser sports wide 25 cm handlebars. First, the width is designed for a natural shoulder position to give firm yet comfortable, long rides. Snugly wrapped in rubber flat-palm, hand grips, too.
Secondly, its stacked with smart cockpit features...
Plus, a hand-operated brake on both left and right hand sides of the handlebar.
It's robust, durable look - capable of carrying a 160kg (352 lbs) rider - straightaway tells you Cruiser was built for the long ride. From the fully-stacked cockpit, and details such as the nylon sheath protected, plug-and-play cables.
Another cool upgrade in 2023 saw a 6th color - blue - added to the previous five of black,white, red, orange, and purple. The lightweight and extremely, durable aluminum alloy frame is firmly and neatly combined with rubber and reinforced plastic in the handgrips and mudguards.
Cruiser is built for long rides, so you definitely would want comfort and ease on the deck. No problem. Here we have 58.7cms (1.9ft) x 19.5cms (0.63ft) of ample deck space, covered in dual-column grip tape, for long but safe scootering.
Your safety is also helped by a deck rounded-off with every edge encased in a hard plastic, acting as a protective bumper.
Both handlebars and folding stem reduce to a very portable 127cms (4.1 ft) (L) x 25cms (0.8 ft) (W) x 41cms (1.3 ft) (H).
A single pin easily locks the stem when folded down for easier carrying, and locks the stem upright again for a new journey. Both folding mechanism and lock are also upgraded to black from previous silver.
Because the Emover is "built for range, and the longer commute", this escooter does weigh in at 27kgs (59.5 lbs). Not every rider may find it an easy carry.
Weight: 27 kg (59.5 lbs)
Folded dimensions: 127cms (4.1 ft) (L) x 25cms (0.8 ft) (W) x 41cms (1.3 ft) (H)
Motor power, continuous: 1000W
Top speed: 48 km/h (30 mph)
Travel distance: 75 - 100 kms (46 - 62 miles)
Battery capacity: 1560Wh
Battery recharge time: 9 to 12 hrs
Max rider weight: 160 kg (352 lbs)
Brake type: 40 mm (5.5 in) semi-hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear
Tire type: 25.4cm (10in) by 8cm (3in) dual, tubeless, air-filled
Built-in lights: LED headlight and button lights, front and rear
Water resistance: IPX6 (protected against heavier more rain for longer periods)
Voyager is the aptly-named 2023 offering from Unagi.
Since 2018, the California-based brand continues to radically transform the look of sustainable, personal transportation. Uber chic, electric scooter design does more than ride the precinct. It remodels the urban commute.
Promoted as "Double the Range & Half the Charge Time", Voyager builds on the success of the Model One.
From upgrading power, speed, and performance to the coolest new hues to ever shimmer and shine on an uptown electric scooter. Subscribing to the Voyager experience always promises to be super-sleek, comfort-travel.
Function meets aesthetics for the e smart generation.
Like the Mercane Widewheel Pro, the Unagi Voyager is driven by TWO motors, one in each wheel hub.
2 x 250 watt motors, combined, give a punchy 500 watt output - and a real zip to the daily commute, typically:
As a mid range performer, Voyager is actually a really nimble scooter. Ideal for cutting through the typical work commute - and saving battery charge.
Like the best electric scooters, you also 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.
An exciting Unagi upgrade for 2023 sees Voyager's dual motors deliver:
The extra heavy-duty torque means Voyager can make light work of those 10-15 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).
Unagi have also boosted travel distance for Voyager with a stepped-up:
Without adding to scooter weight the larger battery gives Voyager:
Custom-built monitoring prevents any risk of overheating for reliable, low maintenance scootering on longer urban commutes or out of town rides.
Unagi Voyager tires are:
Honeycomb tires
Unagi electric scooters are known for their honeycomb (or "air pocket") tires - combining air filled and solid tires. A system of ribbed air pockets ("honeycombs") around the edge of the entire wheel give:
Unlike, most off road electric scooters, suspension is not included on Voyager.
Voyager comes with dual electronic brakes. And Unagi also includea rear fender foot brake for a solid, responsive assist to full stops ( no nasty wheel locks), particularly, on a typical, flat urban route.
Typical on-road test results for Unagi:
Whether you're on an early morning / late evening commute - you need to "always see and be seen". Particularly, riding at night, and in bad weather.
Not all scooters have a bright enough headlight. However, Unagi has fitted Voyager with :
A red LED light, low-mounted on the scooter rear also puts out a powerful beam for safe night riding.
Design elegance and cool is a Unagi trademark. No less with its handlebar 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.
Voyager sports a large display flush-mounted at the centre of the handlebars.
A new Unagi control feature is:
At a glance you can also instantlysee and control:
Smart app
A further performance improvement is the addition of an iOS and Android smart app. This enables you to:
Voyager comes in FOUR head turning color options:
It's impressive high-spec, strength-weight ratio frame is made from carbon fiber, aluminum and magnesium alloy - recognized for both its lightweight property and virtually, unbreakable strength. There's even 'invisible' reinforced, frame support at typical stress points.
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.
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)
This robust dual motor alternative to the Mercane Widewheel Pro is an electric scooter designed for endurance riding. Hence the tag "urban warrior" - and a pretty awesome scooter for racking up some serious sidewalk mileage.
Heading into 2024, Canadian electric scooter manufacturer, Apollo, will be releasing an upgraded version of their dual motor Explore range, offering a thriling new design and improved speed.
Apollo Explore packs a 1000 watt single motor, claiming 86 per cent 'energy conversion rate' for more power. Putting out 1400 watts peak to hit max speed.
Currently, the Explore puts out a max speed of up to 50 km/h ( 31 mph ) at a relatively zippy acceleration:
*Early in 2024, an improved Apollo motor is expected to offer a max speed of up to 54.7 km/h (34mph).
A single rear 1000w motor can easily tackle the slopes and inclines of a typical urban commute.
At an average speed of 18.2 km/h (11.1 mph), the Apollo scooter can make a 10 per cent gradient in 12 seconds - and even take on a more tricky hill climb of up to 20 degrees.
The Explore is powered by a 52V 18.2aH (946.4Wh) Lithium-ion, Dynavolt battery.
A single charge (8 hours) can produce enough juice for a range of 55 km (34 miles) MAX or an average 37 kms (23 miles).
Explore has generous 10in (25 cm) x 3in (8 cm) air-filled, inner tube tires with rounded profiles for that extra-smooth ride and shock absorption. Like the Mercane Widewheel, the extra diameter and tread-width simply glide over uneven tarmac, cracks and nuisance potholes.
Pneumatic, (air-filled) tires also perform better in wet conditions too. By flexing and spreading their tread to gain a larger contact area, and a firmer grip on a slippery surface.
Ride comfort is pumped up again by a well balanced rear dual spring suspension and front spring suspension for firmly holding the road when fast maneuvering.
As a heavy urban speedster Apollo Explore packs mechanical disc brakes - both front and rear -including regenerative braking.* to handle the faster acceleration.
*Regenerative braking gives extra stopping power and a complete stop from 15 mph in just 3.3m (10.8 feet).
Explore offers a single LED headlight low on the stem. And there's two brake lights and a reflector on the rear fender.
Electric-blue LED lights run across both sides of the deck and stem. Enough to keep you visible and safe during your after-dark scootering. Although, an extra headlight would help for illuminating the road ahead.
For riding fast, Apollo Explore gives you all the lightning response you need - two brake levers and the standard QS-S4 trigger-style scooter throttle.
A total visibility readout on a color LCD display includes:
You can also control:
The Explore rocks a sturdy but neat, good-looking design. Its aluminum alloy frame is finished in sleek black with steel grey highlights, and hard-wearing plastic and rubber.
The riding deck - covered in a geometrically shaped, anti-slip grip tape throughout - is a generous 21 x 9 inches - large enough to attach a seat for those longer rides. Plus, there's a huge 5 inches of ground clearance.
A folding stem and handlebar means in just 20 secs the Explore is reduced to a handy 117cm (46in) x 25cm (10in) x 43cm (17in) to an instant, ultra portable scooter, and for easy storage.
The stem also folds parallel with the scooter deck and locks into place for carrying with just one hand.
Explore weighs in at a fairly hefty 24 kgs (53 lbs), designed for supporting up to 120kgs and sturdy enough for heavier riders.
Weight: 24 kg (53 pounds).
Folded dimensions: 46in (117cm) x 10in (25cm) x 17in (43cm)
Motor power (continuous): 1000 W
Top speed: 50 km/h (31 mph)
Range: 55 km (34 miles)
Battery capacity: 946 Wh
Battery recharge time: 8 hrs
Max rider weight: 120 kg
Brake type: Front and Rear mechanical Disc
Tire type: 10in (25 cm) x 3in (8 cm) air-filled, inner tube tires
Built-in lights: Single, front LED headlight, two rear and reflector
Water resistance: IP54 (water spray from all directions, dust and small particles)SU
Whether you have a favorite budget scooter, or considering a mid-range urban to off-road scooter such as the Mercane Wideweel Pro. There are always great alternative electric scooters.
Which offer the essential dual motors to give you the power, range, and excellent ride quality you need to suit your riding needs and pocket. From a more heavy duty Apollo Explore to the designer elegance and performance of Unagi Voyager.
In the U.S., most states don't require a license. For those that do, they usually just ask for a regular driver's license or a learner's permit.
Yes, you can bring an electric scooter on a plane, but it needs to have a lithium battery smaller than 100 watt-hours, which most don't.
Manufacturers advise against riding electric scooters in the rain. The main reasons are: water can fry the electronics, make the ride dangerous, and void your warranty.
“Is my scooter legal?” is a question many are increasingly asking. The micromobility industry is one of the fastest-growing and most exciting in the world—with promises for...in addition to abundances of the basics of time and money savings. And with this pace of innovation comes a struggle for regulation to keep up.
So, you're thinking about joining the electric scooter revolution, huh? You've seen those sleek and stylish scooters zipping around town, effortlessly gliding through traffic, and you can't help but wonder: Are electric scooters easy to ride?
In this guide, we'll break down what defines a lightweight electric scooter, why you should choose one, and the top features you should look for.
Want to get the most out of your electric scooter battery and extend your riding adventures? We've got you covered with our comprehensive guide full of maintenance tips and best practices.
*Disclaimer: Unagi, INC. has used best efforts, but does not in any manner guarantee the accuracy of the below findings regarding electric scooter laws in the United States or internationally. Electric scooter riders or those considering to purchase or begin…
The basis and the premise of my work is that we either operate out of love or we operate out of fear...Time is currency. The coolest thing about the scooters is that it's really quick, and it goes uphill. From there, traveling more efficiently and having a good time doing it--I think that's the most important thing.
Cynthia Leu has a full plate. A tech worker by day, Cynthia spends her off time balancing the parallel lives of a powerlifter, entrepreneur, mental health advocate, and more. Riding Unagi helps this USMC veteran cut down on everyday…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7m2hVBE62LY Rasheed Muhammad is sick of Los Angeles traffic. In order to preserve his sanity, Rasheed has traded his everyday driving habit for the portable and beautiful Unagi Model One. It’s an essential accessory for navigating LA streets -- and…
Rich Lee, Co-Founder of San Francisco’s SPRO Coffee Lab, wants to share his love for coffee with the world. He depends on riding Unagi to avoid the hassle of navigating the parking crunch in the booming Mission Bay neighborhood.…
