Hiboy S2 Electric Scooter Review

When I first laid eyes on the Hiboy S2 Electric Scooter, I knew I was in for a treat. Its sleek, matte black finish and sturdy build made an impression right out of the box. After weeks of riding, here's my in-depth review of this urban commuter's ally.

Assembly and Build Quality

Assembly was a breeze; with just a few screws, the Hiboy S2 was up and ready to hit the pavement. Holding the handlebars, I could feel the solid construction, giving the sense of reliability and durability. The frame is robust with an intuitive folding mechanism that clicks reassuringly into place. The scooter feels sturdy but at around 29.5 lbs (13.4 kg), it's still manageable for carrying up stairs or onto public transport.

Performance and Ride

Speed and Acceleration

The Hiboy S2 doesn't disappoint when it comes to pace. With a top speed of approximately 18.6 mph (30 km/h), it's more than capable for most urban environments. The acceleration is smooth, with the 350W motor delivering decent torque. However, it's worth noting that speed can drop on inclines, and heavier riders might find the top speed harder to maintain.

Range

Equipped with a 36V, 7.5Ah battery, the S2 claims a maximum range of 17 miles (27 km) on a single charge. In practice, this depends on riding conditions and rider weight. For me, averaging about 170 lbs and facing a mixture of inclines and flat surfaces, the range was closer to 12 miles. An important detail for daily commuters to consider.

Brakes and Safety

Safety is where the S2 shines. Featuring a dual braking system with both a disc brake and an electronic anti-lock brake, stopping feels controlled and secure. The electronic brake can be a little abrupt, so I found myself primarily using the disc brake for smoother deceleration.

Suspension and Ride Comfort

The solid tires of the S2 meant that I felt every bump and crack on the street. Without the cushioning of pneumatic tires, the ride can be quite rattly on less than perfect roads. However, the convenience of not dealing with flat tires is a significant plus.

Features

LED Display

Hiboy definitely got it right with the LED display. It's crisp and easy to read, showing speed, battery life, and riding mode. It's minimalistic but fully functional, and you can control headlight use and speed modes with just a couple of button taps.

App Integration

Pairing the scooter with the Hiboy app opens up a plethora of features. There's cruise control, which is handy for longer rides, and the ability to lock the scooter—a feature that provides some peace of mind if leaving the scooter unattended for a short period.

Lights

Visibility is paramount, and the Hiboy S2 doesn’t slack here. The bright headlight and taillight are great for nighttime visibility. However, I added some reflective tape and an extra light for side visibility, which is something to consider for those who ride a lot after dark.

Overall Impressions

The Hiboy S2 is a solid bet for anyone looking for a mid-range electric scooter. Here's a quick breakdown:

Pros

• Solid build quality and sleek design


• Good top speed with smooth acceleration


• Effective dual braking system


• Straightforward assembly


• Integrated app with additional features


• Decent battery life

Cons

• Ride comfort is compromised by solid tires on rough surfaces


• Electronic brake can feel sudden


• Range can vary significantly with rider weight and terrain


• Additional lights required for better side visibility

For the urban commuter or weekend cruiser, the Hiboy S2 offers a dependable, feature-rich experience at a price point that doesn't break the bank. Just remember to account for the usual caveats of range and comfort if you're planning extensive rides or tackling a city's less groomed streets.

Six-Month Update

After more than six months of using the Hiboy S2, my appreciation for its robust design and reliable performance has only deepened. However, there are a few aspects that prospective buyers should be aware of over the longer term.

Positive Attributes

• The scooter's build quality continues to impress; even after extended use, it has shown minimal wear and tear.


• The battery life remains consistent, with degradation not being a significant issue so far.


• The Hiboy app's functionality, including the ability to track your ride history, has proven to be quite useful and reliable.

Negative Attributes

• The comfort level during rides has not improved. The solid tires, while convenient, make long rides on uneven surfaces quite jarring.


• I’ve noticed an increased squeakiness in the folding mechanism that requires regular maintenance to keep in check.


• The range anxiety becomes real in practice, especially on routes with varying elevation or in colder weather.

Despite these issues, the Hiboy S2 remains a valuable tool for my daily commutes and occasional leisure outings. It’s a great blend of functionality, design, and technology. If you're in the market for something reliable for daily commutes or casual outings, this scooter should definitely be on your radar.