Hiboy S2R Electric Scooter Review

After spending a significant amount of time with the Hiboy S2R Electric Scooter, I've come to appreciate its quirks and features as much as its few shortcomings. This review is the culmination of personal experiences and insights from many rides and thorough analysis of what this scooter has to offer.

Build Quality and Design

The Hiboy S2R impressed me with its robust build right out of the gate. The frame is constructed from a high-strength metal, which reassures its riders of its durability. The black matte finish not only gives it a sleek appearance but also does a decent job minimizing the visibility of scratches and wear.

The scooter features a simple and practical folding mechanism which feels secure when locked in place. Although the scooter is not the lightest model I’ve handled, weighing in at 31 lbs (14 kg), the trade-off is a stable and solid ride. The portability factor is decent—it can be carried onto public transportation or tucked away in the trunk of a car without much hassle.

Performance and Comfort

Powering the S2R is a moderately powerful motor that can take you up to 19 mph (30 km/h) depending on rider weight and terrain. I found the acceleration to be smooth, and the scooter handles inclines relatively well, although noticeably struggles on steeper hills.

Range is a defining factor for an electric scooter, and the S2R does a reasonable job. The advertised range is 17 miles (27 km), but in my real-world testing, it fell to around 15 miles (24 km) when riding at full throttle consistently. For the average commuter, this is sufficient for a day's travel without the anxiety of battery drain.

Riding comfort is fair, with the scooter sporting 8.5-inch solid tires that eliminate the concern of flats. While this is a benefit, the downside is that it reduces shock absorption on rough terrain. Coupled with the fact that the S2R lacks any suspension, you can expect a less than buttery ride on anything but smooth asphalt.

Usability and Features

The LED display is minimal but practical, showing the essential information like current speed and battery life. I found it to be clearly visible even in direct sunlight, which is a plus for safety. The integrated headlight and taillight are reasonably bright, but for night riding in poorly lit areas, additional lighting would be recommended.

A feature I grew to appreciate was the cruise control. It can be activated after holding a consistent speed for a few seconds, which is useful on longer rides, giving your thumb a rest from the throttle.

Connectivity with the Hiboy app provides a more detailed look at your riding stats and also allows for customizing your riding experience. Firmware updates and locking the scooter are additional perks that come with using the app. However, the Bluetooth connection could sometimes be finicky, taking a few attempts to properly sync.

Safety

Braking is handled by a rear disc brake paired with an electronic front brake. The response is adequate for urban riding conditions. However, the engagement of the electronic brake lacks a bit of subtlety, and it can take some getting used to in order to avoid jerky stops.

Maintenance

Maintaining the S2R is fairly straightforward. The lack of air-filled tires means you won't be dealing with punctures, and general upkeep involves the usual—keeping it clean and occasionally checking the tightness of screws, particularly after it's had a shake-down on rougher terrain.

Final Thoughts

To sum up, the Hiboy S2R Electric Scooter is a solid choice for those who prioritize ease of use, durability, and affordability. It handles urban commuting with competence, although it may leave enthusiasts wanting more in terms of performance and comfort. For a daily jaunt to the office, quick errands, or a leisurely ride through the park, the S2R will serve you reliably.

The scooter strikes a balance between functionality and cost, albeit at the sacrifice of some premium features such as pneumatic tires or advanced suspension. However, for its price bracket, it's hard not to recommend the Hiboy S2R to the budget-conscious commuter looking for a dependable electric scooter.

Pros:

• Solid build quality with a sleek design


• Good range for urban commuting


• Simple, reliable folding mechanism


• Maintenance is low hassle

Cons:

• Ride comfort is compromised by solid tires and lack of suspension


• Performance on steep inclines is moderate


• Brake engagement could be smoother

Overall, the Hiboy S2R is a scooter that, for its price point, punches above its weight in certain aspects and makes for a strong contender in the entry-level market for electric scooters. If you're after a no-frills, robust scooter for short to medium urban rides, this could very well be the ride you're looking for.

Update After Six Months of Usage

Having owned and ridden the Hiboy S2R for over six months, I have gained further insights into its long-term performance and reliability.

Long-Term Performance and Reliability

The durability of the Hiboy S2R continues to impress. The frame has held up well against daily use and sporadic rough handling. The battery life, while slightly diminished, still provides enough range to complete most daily tasks without needing a recharge.

However, a consistent issue has been the folding mechanism. It has begun to exhibit some looseness and creaking noises over time, which raises concerns about long-term durability in this aspect. Regular maintenance and tightening of the mechanism have become more frequent.

Comfort Revisited

Over several months, discomfort caused by the solid tires has become more evident especially on longer rides. The absence of suspension takes a toll on ride comfort over rough surfaces. Exploring aftermarket solutions or cushioned accessories has helped but isn't a perfect fix.

Ownership Experience

Daily interactions with the Hiboy app have become routine. The tracking features and customizations offered by the app enhance the riding experience. However, I've experienced occasional glitches and disconnections which, while minor, can detract from the overall experience.

Community and Support

One positive aspect that I’ve noted is the active community of Hiboy users online, who often share tips and solutions for common issues. Additionally, customer support from Hiboy, when needed, has generally been responsive and helpful, which is crucial for resolving issues not immediately fixable by the user.

In conclusion, the Hiboy S2R, after more extensive use, continues to be a valued mode of transport due to its robust build and adequate performance. While the riding comfort and maintenance issues present some challenges, these are largely manageable and do not severely detract from the overall positive aspects of ownership. For anyone considering an S2R, it remains a commendable option in its price range.