FIIDO Seated Electric Scooter Review

After spending considerable time with the FIIDO Seated Electric Scooter, I have come to appreciate the unique blend of comfort and convenience it offers. Here's my in-depth review of this scooting novelty.

First Impressions

At first glance, the FIIDO electric scooter strikes you with its robust and minimalist design. Unlike the traditional stand-up scooters, it comes with a seat which is a welcomed feature for those looking for a more comfortable ride during longer commutes. The frame is made from aviation-grade aluminum alloy, which promises durability while keeping the weight relatively low.

Assembly & Setup

The assembly of this scooter is rather straightforward. It came partially assembled, and the remaining parts, such as the seat and handlebars, were easy to set up following the clear instructions provided. It was a relief that all the necessary tools were included in the package, saving me a trip to the hardware store.

Comfort & Ride Quality

Riding the FIIDO is truly a comfortable experience. The seat is well-cushioned, and the scooter's overall ergonomics are favorable, even for someone of my height (6’1”). The 12-inch pneumatic tires contribute effectively to shock absorption on uneven surfaces, although it can struggle a bit with more pronounced bumps.

The seated nature of the FIIDO means you can relax more into your ride. It’s a feature that's especially beneficial for longer journeys where rider fatigue can be an issue with standing scooters. That said, the lack of a suspension system is a drawback, particularly on rough urban terrains.

Performance

Powered by a 250W brushless motor, the FIIDO doesn't boast the most powerful specs on the market, but it does the job for moderate daily use. It offers three modes: pedal-assisted, pure electric, and manual, giving it versatility and extending its utility beyond just being an e-scooter. The acceleration feels smooth and controlled, which is great for urban riding where quick bursts of speed are often unnecessary and potentially unsafe.

The scooter has a top speed of around 15.5 mph, which is standard for many electric scooters within safety regulations. Its range is where the FIIDO shines – on a full charge, it can travel up to 40-55 miles depending on the mode used, which is impressive and allows for considerable distance travel without the worry of a mid-trip charge.

Battery & Charging

The battery is a high-capacity 36V 11.6Ah Li-ion affair, neatly integrated into the scooter's frame for a sleek look. Charging takes about 7 hours for a full charge from empty, which is reasonable given the range provided. The charger is compact and can easily be carried with you if needed.

Portability

Weighing in at approximately 19kg (42 lbs), the FIIDO is not the lightest scooter out there, especially considering that it's a foldable, seated scooter. The folding mechanism is relatively simple to use but could be slightly smoother. Once folded, it can fit into a car trunk, but it's not something you'd want to carry around on public transport.

Build Quality & Durability

The build quality of the FIIDO Scooter feels premium, possibly justifying its price point. The welding is well-done, the paint job is excellent, and there are nice touches with the branding that don’t seem to wear off easily. The scooter feels stable when riding, and I haven't noticed any annoying squeaks or rattles even after several rides.

User Interface & Controls

The display on the handlebar provides all the information you need: speed, mode, and battery level. It's fairly intuitive and easy to read in most lighting conditions. The controls are straightforward, with an accelerator and brake on the handlebar, much like any other electric scooter.

Safety

I appreciate the inclusion of both a headlight and a tail light on the FIIDO, which is essential for evening rides. The disc brakes provide adequate stopping power, but I’d recommend cautious braking during wet conditions due to the scooter's smaller wheel size and lack of ABS.

Final Thoughts

The FIIDO Seated Electric Scooter is a robust, comfortable, and practical option for those looking for a more laid-back commute. Although it falls short on suspension and is a bit on the heavy side, its impressive range, ease of use, and quality build more than compensate for its limitations. It's well-suited for anyone looking for a reliable e-scooter with the added comfort of a seat, particularly for longer distances or those with physical constraints that make standing for prolonged periods challenging.

Update After 6 Months of Usage

After over half a year of consistent use, my experiences with the FIIDO Seated Electric Scooter have largely reinforced my initial impressions. The durability of its construction has held up well against daily wear and tear, making it a reliable choice in that regard.

Positive Updates:

• Battery Longevity: Even after frequent charges, the battery performance has not degraded noticeably, still providing close to its maximum range.


• User Comfort: Continuous appreciation for the seated design, making longer commutes just as manageable and comfortable as short rides.

Areas for Improvement:

• Weight Concerns: The heavy nature of the scooter becomes more noticeable, especially when needing to transport it manually over steps or into buildings.


• Ride Smoothness: While initially satisfactory, the absence of a more effective suspension system is felt, as the comfort level decreases on less maintained roads. Regular maintenance is needed to keep the tires and seat in top condition to counteract some roughness in the ride.

Overall, the FIIDO stands out for its battery life and comfort, proving to be a wise investment for those prioritizing these aspects in an electric scooter. Its limitations, while notable, don't overwhelmingly detract from its overall utility and performance.