Apollo Air Pro Electric Scooter Review

When searching for a nimble urban commuter, Apollo's reputation for quality and performance often leads savvy riders to their doorstep. The Apollo Air Pro has garnered much attention, and I was intrigued to see if this scooter could live up to its promise. After spending some time gliding through cityscapes and tackling the daily grind on it, here's my comprehensive review.

Build Quality and Design

The unboxing experience of the Apollo Air Pro was the first hint at its premium design. Upon laying eyes on this scooter, it's evident that Apollo hasn't skimped on materials. The robust aluminum frame imparts durability without a heavyweight penalty—sitting at just under 40 pounds, this scooter feels solid yet manageable.

The design details resonate with an air of sophistication. Eye-catching yet functional, the grip tape pattern on the deck isn't just for aesthetics; it provides excellent traction that gave me a sense of security—even when navigating through a light drizzle.

Performance and Speed

Powering the Apollo Air Pro is a robust 600-watt rear motor—this little beast can zip you up to a top speed of 18 miles per hour. Now, 18 mph might not sound earth-shattering, but it's the smoothness of the acceleration curve that sold me. Squeezing the throttle results in a responsive yet discernably deliberate ramp-up in speed—a noteworthy feature for safety-conscious riders navigating in traffic.

I was pleasantly surprised by the hill-climbing capability. The manufacturer claims it can tackle gradients of up to 20%. While I didn't encounter any slopes quite that steep, it managed all the inclines on my typical route without a hint of struggle.

Range and Battery

One crucial aspect for daily commuters is range, and here the Apollo Air Pro delivers a respectable spread. Toting a high-efficiency 36V 10.5Ah battery, my real-world experience averaged out to about 22-25 miles per charge. My varied mix of full-throttle runs and energy-saving pacing seemed to align with these numbers fairly well, although rider weight and terrain are, of course, always factors.

Charging times can be a deal-breaker, but I found the roughly 6-hour refill from empty to be reasonable. While it might be a wise practice to plug it in overnight, if you do forget, plugging it in the morning could still leave you with sufficient charge for the evening commute.

Comfort and Ride Quality

A discussion about electric scooters is never complete without addressing ride quality. The Apollo Air Pro is armed with both front and rear suspension—a feature I found went a long way in softening the blows from potholes and uneven sidewalks. The 10-inch pneumatic tires complement the suspension system by absorbing much of the road buzz. Combined, these two features promise a surprisingly plush ride for a compact scooter.

The standing deck width is accommodating, giving ample room to adjust footing—even for someone with larger shoe sizes, this is a subtle yet meaningful boon for ride comfort.

Portability and Convenience

Daily commuters are well aware that a scooter's portability is as crucial as its performance. The Apollo Air Pro has a simple and reliable folding mechanism. With a satisfying click, the stem locks into the deck, and the scooter is ready to be carried. However, at just under 40 pounds, some might find it hefty for prolonged carrying.

The integrated display is a focal point—a quick glance is all you need to check your speed, battery life, and riding mode. I found this incredibly useful, especially during those focused moments in busier parts of town where diverting attention to a display might be unsafe.

Safety Features

Rider safety is a priority for Apollo, and it's obvious in the Air Pro. The dual braking system—lever-activated drum brake coupled with a rear electronic brake—offers plenty of stopping power that handles sudden halts admirably.

For nighttime riding, the bright LED headlight and taillight operate well to alert others of your presence, though I'd always recommend an additional high-mounted light for maximum visibility.

Final Impressions

The Apollo Air Pro stands out as a thoughtfully designed scooter ideal for urban commuters who value reliability, performance, and comfort. It adeptly bridges the gap between entry-level and high-end models, making it a wise choice for someone looking to invest in their daily commute without breaking the bank.

Yes, there are faster scooters out there, and if you're carrying it frequently, the weight might be a slight deterrent. But for virtually everything else, the Apollo Air Pro serves as a testament to what a well-rounded commuter scooter can offer.

Ownership Update: More Than 6 Months Later

After more than six months of regular use, the Apollo Air Pro has firmly established itself as a reliable daily companion. However, like any vehicle, it has experienced some wear and tear.

Positives:

• Reliability: It consistently starts without issue, handling varying weather conditions with aplomb.


• Battery Lifespan: The battery's capacity has moderately diminished, which is common, yet it still delivers sufficient daily range.


• Maintenance: Basic maintenance has been straightforward, with easily accessible parts for routine as well as deeper maintenance tasks.

Negatives:

• Wear on Tires: The tires have worn out faster than anticipated, necessitating replacements to maintain optimal riding comfort and safety.


• Suspension System: While initially impressive, the suspension has become slightly less responsive, hinting at the need for eventual servicing or replacement.

Concluding Thoughts:

The Apollo Air Pro continues to be a splendid choice for anyone seeking a robust, capable commuter scooter. Notwithstanding the expected maintenance associated with regular use, it remains a dependable and joyful means of urban transport. It reflects a wise investment for those who prioritize convenience, efficiency, and enduring design. Whether you're zipping through crowded city streets or enjoying a leisurely ride in your neighborhood, the Apollo Air Pro holds up admirably, affirming its reputation as a top-tier electric scooter.