Bomb Proof Scooter for Chicago Roads and Sidewalks

Rmfitch

There is possibly one category that could be added to your wonderful database: Bomb Proof!

Yes, I’m seeking advice after trolling your reviews and database for the last month. Based on your reviews, it seems to me that any Kaabi Mantis would likely do best in rough conditions, jumping pot holes or riding through the ones you can’t jump. But, before I get too far on this, let me share some of my requirements.

I’m a 175 pounder who commutes up to Chicago from St Louis on Amtrak. The scooter goes on the over head compartment above the seats and while I can lift 65lbs over head and extend forward a bit, that’s about maximum…on a good day.

I’m in Chicago and do about 10-15 miles a day in 2 mile stints. I ride a Ninebot ES3(?) and it is being shaken apart by these roads. Oh, did I mention rain? On my first trip out, a massive storm was hitting with heavy down pour, lighting, an tornado warning. In my rush to beat the rain, leaving the train station at midnight (need to be well lit), I rode 15 feet before landing in a crater in the sidewalk. Yes, I went over, landing on my 35lb backpack and broke (only) my big toe. Thank goodness, I had a scooter, because walking was going to be painful. Made it to the hotel crossing train tracks in pouring rain on this Ninebot with hard tires. I had already read your reviews wishing I had Pneumatic tires.

Based on this little story, my requirement are:

Sturdy enough to take a pounding in Chicago streets
Handle an occasional down pour. I would think dual motor would add traction and stability going over wet, bumpy train tracks.
Not too heavy to put overhead compartment on Amtrak (~50-60lb Max)
Combined weight 210lbs.
Lights for riding in the dark
Have fun. I enjoy riding.

I have been leaning toward the following scooters

Emove Cruiser - All around hits the marks. Water resistant, 10 in Pneumatic tires. Is it bomb proof though? I’m afraid the headlight will just shake off at some point.

Apollo Explore - Alternative to Emove cruiser. Water resitant, 10 in Pneumatic tires. Possible hydraulic brakes (my preference)

Kabbi Mantis - Bomb proof?! The 8 in wheels are probably out of the question. I love the idea of the dual motor of the 8 Pro. Will a 10 in wheel really make a difference on a 3 in deep pot hole? Also, there is no indication that is water resistant. At some point, the scooter will get wet!

Others?

Thanks for your suggestions.

Rick

justin

Rmfitch

The Mantis is a really good scooter and sounds like it could almost suit your purpose, except (points you’ve noted I agree with):

Overhead lifting would be pretty difficult and not ideal. Likely would get old.
Rain. You can do some waterproofing yourself, but not ideal.

Dual motor base Mantis does have 10 inch wheels. On a 3 inch pothole, I think you’re getting seriously rattled with. any size wheel, but larger tires are less likely to. get stuck in them and cause you to go over the handlebars.

Cruiser and Explore are good options. If you are worried about the scooter shaking apart, it’s reasonable to go through and apply thread locker. Screws can loosen up on any scooter that is getting vigorously shaken.

Only issue I would think about against these two scooters are weight for overhead lifting … both are around 52 lbs. If the weight isn’t an issue I’d choose between the two.

However, for some variety (and reduced weight), I would throw two other more weight-friendly options into the mix:

Ninebot Max - über reliable, ~43 lbs, waterproof, cheaper; no suspension is disadvantage but the tires are 10 inches and pneumatic and do provide some cushioning
UScooters / E-TWOW Booster GT - 29 lb, extremely portable, extremely durable; no official IP rating, but it’s pretty well sealed and could probably tolerate incidental water; smaller tires, but has suspension to make up for it.