Full Review
Design and Build Quality
- Sturdy Construction: The Neon Pro feels incredibly solid, almost like it's been carved from a single metal piece. Its elegant curves and cohesive design stand out, especially with the near-perfect welding at the joint between the deck frame and front fork. The frame is crafted from premium quality aluminum, ensuring durability.
- Deck: The deck is the longest among the Neon series, offering ample room for comfortable riding. Covered in gray diamond-patterned rubber, it provides excellent grip in most weather conditions and is easy to clean.
- Weight and Portability: Despite being the heaviest in the Neon series at 46.2 lbs, the Pro remains highly portable. The folding mechanism is easy to use, and the scooter can be carried on public transport or stored in small spaces like a car trunk or office cabinet.
Performance and Range
- Motor and Speed: The Neon Pro is equipped with a 350 W (700 W peak) motor, offering impressive acceleration and a tested top speed of 20.5 mph, which is higher than most scooters in its class. The speed is capped at 20 mph for a great balance of speed and range.
- Battery and Range: The 48V, 705.6Wh battery gives the scooter a tested range of up to 26.8 miles. This range outperforms many competitors and is enhanced by the use of Samsung 21700 battery cells known for their reliability and longevity.
Riding Experience
- Handling and Comfort: The scooter's 10-inch tubeless pneumatic tires provide a smooth riding experience and easy steering. The lack of a suspension system is partially compensated by these tires. The ride may feel a bit firm, especially at the maximum tire pressure of 44 psi, but the stability and cornering are exceptional.
- Braking System: The combination of mechanical disc and electronic brakes ensures safe stopping, although the braking distance could be improved. The front wheel electronic braking system prevents over-the-handlebar accidents, enhancing safety.
User Interface and Lighting
- Cockpit: The minimalist cockpit features a high-resolution LCD display showing vital ride metrics. It also includes a thumb-held throttle for intuitive riding.
- Lighting: The Neon Pro boasts an outstanding lighting system, including bright adjustable front and rear LED lights, and customizable RGB LED strips on the stem and under the deck. This enhances both safety and aesthetic appeal.
User Experiences
- Positive Feedback: Users have praised the Neon Pro for its fast motor, impressive range, and ease of use. It has been described as a game-changer for commuting, offering an exciting and efficient way to travel.
- Concerns: Some users have experienced issues with the front tire and have noted the need for more powerful regenerative braking. However, overall satisfaction remains high, with many users expressing their love for the scooter's performance and design.
Conclusion
The Okai Neon Pro stands out for its combination of speed, range, and portability. While it leans more towards utility than luxury, its performance and build quality make it an excellent choice for sporty commuters. Its user-friendly design, coupled with modern tech features, positions it as a strong competitor in the electric scooter market
Long-Term Ownership Update: 6-Month Review
Over six months of extensive use, the Okai Neon Pro has largely lived up to its initial promise, with a few caveats that have emerged over time. Here’s a consolidated experience based on long-term usage:
- Durability: The robust build quality has endured various urban terrains and weather conditions. The frame and deck continue to hold up well without any signs of structural wear. However, the paint finish seems susceptible to scratches, especially around the folding mechanism.
- Battery Life: The battery retains good capacity, with only a slight decrease in maximum range observed. Regular users recommend careful management of charging cycles and avoiding complete discharges to preserve battery health.
- Performance Consistency: The motor still delivers strong performance, though some users reported a mild decrease in acceleration after continuous extensive use. This, however, does not significantly impact everyday commuting needs.
- Maintenance: The ease of maintenance is a major plus. The tubeless tires are less prone to punctures, but replacing them can be challenging due to their tight fit. Regular cleaning and routine checks (especially for the brake system) are necessary to maintain optimal performance.
- User Experience: Some minor electronic quirks have been noted, such as occasional glitches in the LCD display and throttle responsiveness. These issues are sporadic and typically resolved with a restart of the system.
- Overall Satisfaction: Despite these minor issues, overall satisfaction among long-term users remains high. The general consensus is that the Neon Pro provides reliable, efficient urban transportation, affirming its value as a solid investment for regular commuters.
