Segway looked to revolutionize the way in which people travel when they launched their first product in 2001. It was the now-famous Segway HT, or Segway Human Transporter, a self-balancing two-wheeled personal transporter that looked like something out of the future.
The Segway HT caused quite a stir as people were a mixture of amazed, curious, and excited to see what this new device was all about.
The inventor Dean Kamen was inspired to take action after seeing the struggles that a young man in a wheelchair had whilst trying to get over a sidewalk. Analyzing the situation, he concluded that the primary issue was the young man’s balance. Working closely with his team, they developed the Independence IBOT™ Mobility System.
This self-balancing mobility device aided those with mobility issues to navigate more challenging environments and scale new heights.
Seeing the successful application of their ideas working, they then moved towards creating a personal transporter for general use. The company took their name from the word ‘segue’, defined as "to transition smoothly from one state to another".
In 2015 the Chinese start-up robotics company Ninebot Inc acquired Segway and the companies merged, and they have since gone on to cease production of the original Segway two-wheeled ranges.
Instead, the new company Segway-Ninebot now produces a fantastic range of personal transporters in all kinds of shapes and sizes for all ages and with varying levels of technical requirement.
This article will take a look at the range of different transportation products Segway-Ninebot manufactures including self-balancing scooters, electric scooters, kids scooter bikes, electric roller skates, and even Go-Karts!
Electric Scooters
Electric scooters have blown up in popularity over the last few years, as more people look for more eco-friendly modes of transportation. In many countries, laws have made electric scooters’ road legal as they seek to combat the environmental issues caused by fossil-fueled-based transportation.
Segway-Ninebot produces an incredible range of electric scooters for both adults and kids, with forward-thinking design, improved safety features, and ever-improving power and functionality.
The Segway-Ninebot MAX is undoubtedly one of the best electric scooters on the market today, and one of the most popular models from the manufacturer’s electric scooter range. It is powered by an impressive 350W motor that pushes it to a top speed of 18.6 mph, more than fast enough to get you from A to B on time.
It has a remarkable range of just over 40 miles, making it suitable for those using the scooter for their commute. The Portable Folding Design is a one-step folding system, allowing you to fold it in only 3 seconds for easy transportation.
The MAX features a mechanical and electrical Anti-Lock braking system to stop the brakes from locking up, which would cause the rider to take a fall. With both front and rear wheel shock absorbers and its 10-inch tires, the ride is smooth on even more challenging terrains.
The MAX is loaded with technology including an LED display, different riding modes, and Bluetooth connection. The only negative from some riders’ experience is that, at 50 lbs, it’s quite heavy, which some lighter riders may struggle to carry around easily.
It also comes with a one-year or 180-day warranty, which is dependent on the part that needs replacing or repairing.
Pros
- Powerful 350W motor for an impressive range of 40 miles
- Portable Folding System
- Anti-Lock braking system
- Great technology connectivity
- Smart Battery Management System
- Warranty (One year or 180 days depending on the part)
Cons
- Could be a bit heavy for some smaller or lighter riders to easily carry
Self-Balancing Scooters
This range is a little closer to Segway’s original HT personal transporter, as it's a series of two-wheeled personal transporters. Although each model is pretty spectacular, we’re going to look at one of the more affordable options, the S-Plus
Riders absolutely love the Segway-Ninebot S-Plus for its smooth and sleek design as well as its mighty impressive power and performance.
It features powerful 400W dual motors which power it to a maximum speed of 12.5 mph, whilst riders can get up to a range of 22 miles on a single charge. Riders can use the knee control bar for astoundingly responsive steering, with riders gliding across the surface effortlessly once they gain their confidence.
That smooth ride is aided by thick 11” tires that spread the load evenly and provide stability as well as shock absorbance on more uneven terrain. A wonderful safety feature is the amount of lighting on the S-Plus, with front and backlights, a brake light, and turning lights.
A really solid design that is well-built to handle the rough ground and even wet weather with its IP54 water-resistant chassis. Featuring Intelligent App Management, the rider can download the Segway app for convenient connectivity.
In the app, the rider can adjust various settings including the speed and lighting, as well as monitor the battery and set up the anti-theft function.
The remote control is a notable feature, allowing the user to control the device as well as set it to follow mode when the user is walking or unable to ride.
Pros
- Powerful 400W dual motors for 22 miles range on a single charge
- Lights for a safer riding experience
- Durable design to withstand challenging conditions
- Intelligent App Management
- IP54 water-resistant chassis
- Smart Battery Management System
Cons
- The knee control bar is not adjustable
Kids’ Scooters & Scooter Bikes
The company has a wide range of scooters for kids, which has also grown to include scooter bikes. These allow kids a bit more stability than standing scooters, putting some parents’ worries or concerns at ease.
There are numerous sizes to choose from and a whole heap of different color schemes and patterns, allowing parents and kids alike to find the perfect design for them.
The Zing range is one of the most popular for kids worldwide, as it combines value with functionality and quality. There are three different models in the range, the E8, E10, and C10. Each is designed with riders of different dimensions and ages in mind.
The E8 has a top speed of 8.6 mph and is designed for riders below 4’9” in height. The E10 is designed for riders up to 5’3” in height and can reach a maximum speed of 10 mph. Lastly, the E10 is designed for those kids who may have outgrown the other models either physically or technically, and it has a top speed of 11.6 mph.
Each of the models has a range of 6.2 miles from a single charge, more than enough for many school commutes and plenty of riding time when playing in the park. Front suspension is featured on the entire Zing range, which reduces the rattles and discomfort that may come from extended or challenging riding.
Pros
- Great variety within the Zing range
- Lightweight for easy carrying or pushing the scooter
- A good range that should be more than enough for a kid’s needs
- Shock-absorbing front suspension for a more comfortable ride
Cons
- Doesn’t have reflectors on the front or side, so invest in some additional safety protection if used at dusk
Something Different
Segway-Ninebot has also branched out and extended its range to include some quite incredible modes of personal transportation.
They continue to combine technical excellence, industry-leading design, functionality, and above all else, a lot of fun.
Roller skates and inline skating have been an on and off trend over the last few decades. Now the next stage in the evolution of roller skating is here in the form of the Segway-Ninebot Drift W1.
These are for use by both adults and kids, though it’s always recommended to supervise kids with activities like this, especially whilst they are learning.
Although these aren’t suitable for a commute or longer journey like some of the scooters, there is a lot of fun to be had as well as improving fitness when using the Drift W1’s.
These self-balancing electric roller skates, or ‘Hovershoes’, can reach a top speed of 7.5 mph thanks to their high-powered hub motor. The Smart Battery Management System and UL 2272 certification provide a double guarantee of skater safety.
Constructed of a one-piece magnesium body, they are lightweight and sturdy, with convenient elastic carry bands built-in at the bottom. They feature silicone bumpers to help protect against wear and tear, helping keep them looking slick for longer.
The safety features continue with the addition of the ambient and tail lights for improved visibility in the dark. Sturdy rubber tires provide great grip and stability, whilst the slip-resistant pads beneath the feet keep the skater in control even in difficult conditions.
They have an IP54 water-resistant rating, and the additional safety features will help any skater feel comfortable.
Pros
- Incredible design that’s lightweight and durable
- Loaded with safety features
- Easy to learn
- Smart Battery Management System
- IP54 water-resistant
Cons
- Low top speed compared to other Segway-Ninebot personal transportation
“Lets-a-go!”
This quote is from Mario, brother of Luigi, esteemed plumber, battler of Bowser, and all-around adventurer. If you also grew up playing the Mario Kart games on Nintendo consoles, then this next product is sure to make you smile!
Segway-Ninebot has released an electric go-kart to the joy of Mario fans, race car enthusiasts, and general speed demons the world over. Please note that this is an additional kit that can be combined with the Ninebot S to create the full go-kart experience.
With a range of up to 13.7 miles and a top speed of 10 mph, drivers will be sure to have hours of fun. Both adults and kids can enjoy this, though individuals over 6 feet tall might feel cramped.
With precision steering and a double brake system (foot and handbrake), drivers will be drifting around their yard like Vin Diesel in no time at all.
A strengthened seat belt helps ensure driver safety, whilst it has a convenient collapsible design for easier logistics. It features access to the Segway app for easy control of settings, data on performance, and easy customer care.
Pros
- Race like Mario
- Durable and lightweight design
- Connect to the Segway app
- Double brake system with foot and hand brake to authentic drifting
- Good range of 13.7 miles from a single charge
Cons
- Drivers over 6 feet might feel cramped
Final Thoughts
Wow! Segway-Ninebot is truly excelling in their field, with an incredibly wide and diverse range of transportation options for both work and play.
Their products are well-designed, feature-packed, safety-conscious, and endless hours of fun. For those looking for an eco-friendly mode of personal transport or just looking to get fit in a new way, then the Segway-Ninebot range could be just what you’ve been hoping for.
Last Updated on March 18, 2022 by
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