If you are searching for the best electric scooters for commuting and enjoying some fun time, we’ve got your back.
In this NIU electric scooters review, we will introduce all their electric scooter models. Also, we will provide you with all the details you need to make an informed purchase.
Read on to get all the details and more!
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About NIU Electric Scooters
- Founded: 2014
- Headquarters: Shanghai, China
NIU Technologies was founded in 2014 and specializes in making electric scooters. The company is one of the leading providers of smart urban mobility solutions.
It’s committed to providing its global customers with environmentally friendly and convenient ways of urban mobility. The company embraces technology and sells smart electric scooters that embrace the latest designs.
NIU has a streamlined portfolio that features seated electric scooters, electric kickscooters, and an e-bike.
The company is world-famous for its seated electric scooters, which have won them 7 international awards, including IF and Red Dot in Germany, G Mark in Japan, and IDEA in the US.
The company has developed a longer-lasting 4th generation NIU Energy battery that is safer, lightweight, powerful, and offers a longer range than other batteries.
They have some of the best scooters and are dedicated to making them more efficient for their global customers.
NIU Electric Scooters Lineup
Although NIU is most well-known for manufacturing seated electric scooters, they already have years of experience in manufacturing electric kick scooters and e-bikes.
Let’s take a closer look at their electric kick scooters.
NIU KQi Youth Kids Electric Kick Scooter
The NIU KQi Youth+ electric scooter is the ultimate ride for youngsters aged between 8 to 14. Merging style with functionality, this e-scooter ensures that young riders have both a thrilling and safe experience.
With a commendable range of 7.1 miles per charge, it offers up to 70 minutes of uninterrupted fun. Riders can choose between the Safe Mode, ideal for beginners with a speed limit of 6.2 mph, and the Sport Mode, which unleashes the full potential of its 150W motor, allowing speeds up to 10 mph.
Safety is paramount in the KQi Youth+ design. Its tires, infused with NIU’s patented AirStryke Technology, blend solid rubber with shock-absorbing PU rubber, ensuring a comfortable ride on varied terrains. The dual braking system, comprising an electronic front brake and a mechanical rear brake, guarantees swift and secure stops.
The half-handle twist throttle is tailored for smaller hands, and the customizable grip tape lets young riders showcase their personality.
Practical features like the soft stem cover, absence of exposed wiring, and a quick-release stem for easy storage make the NIU KQi Youth+ a top pick for the modern young rider.
NIU KQi1
The NIU KQi1 Pro Electric Kick Scooter is a notable addition to the NIU lineup, designed for urban commuters and enthusiasts.
With a 15.5-mile range and a 15.5 mph top speed, it offers a balanced performance for city rides. The scooter’s 250W motor ensures decent propulsion, especially on flat terrains, though it might find challenges with steeper inclines compared to its 450W counterpart in the KQi3 Max.
A standout feature is its patented folding mechanism, making storage straightforward. The 9× 2.3-inch pneumatic tires provide a comfortable ride, and the dual braking system enhances safety.
Integrated with the NIU App, riders can access various functionalities, from locking the scooter to tracking ride statistics. Weighing 33.95 lbs and crafted from automotive-grade steel, the KQi1 Pro is a reliable choice for those seeking a blend of convenience and functionality in their electric scooter.
NIU KQi2 Pro Electric Scooter
The NIU KQi2 was one of the first models of NIU e-scooters and it’s designed for adults.
It has a minimalistic but stylish design and a drum brake designed to fit perfectly inside its front wheel. It is the perfect example of how good engineering could improve your daily commutes and make you feel good.
The e-scooter has a 17mph (28km/h) top speed that provides a healthy and safe dose of morning joy before you settle into your daily routine.
The NIU KQi2 is perfect for commutes and enjoying some fun time.
It has a 25-mile (40km) range, which is enough for short commutes. It takes 7 hours to fully charge, meaning you can charge it at night and use it throughout the day. You could also top up the charge at work and use it in the evening if your commute takes longer than 13 miles.
The scooter has 10-inch pneumatic tires, ensuring a comfortable and smooth ride.
NIU KQi3
NIU’s KQi3 comes in 3 different variations: Sport, Pro, and Max. They each come with a different motor power and battery capacity. We have covered it all in the full review of Niu KQi3.
The best version of them (KQi3 Max) has a 22mph (35km/h) top speed and a 40-mile range (64km), perfect for daily commutes or fun weekends. The scooter takes 5 hours to fully charge, meaning that you can charge it at night or at work.
The scooter has 9.5-inch pneumatic tires designed to provide you with better handling and speed.
The NIU KQi3 is engineered for optimal performance, comfort, balance, and handling. The scooter is built from strong, aerospace aluminum with high structural integrity that protects it from damage if exposed to physically stressing elements.
It also has dual-drive disk brakes that provide strong braking power in wet and dry conditions.
The scooter also has an in-built bell and iconic halo light that ensures you’re heard and seen during the day and night.
Additionally, the scooter has an app that offers Bluetooth connectivity, helps you set the riding mode, and provides rider statistics.
The KQi3 also has LED headlights, braking lights, tail lights, and an LED dashboard.
NIU KQi Air
The NIU KQi Air and KQi Air X are the latest additions to NIU’s electric scooter lineup, emphasizing portability and city performance.
Both models are incredibly lightweight, with the KQi Air X weighing 25.8lbs and the KQi Air at 26.2lbs, thanks to their premium carbon fiber frames. This material not only reduces weight but also offers strength, making it three times stronger than aluminum.
The main difference between the two models is the weight, with the KQi Air X being slightly lighter. Both are suitable for riders aged 14 and above, supporting a maximum weight of 265lbs.
Performance-wise, both scooters can reach a top speed of 20mph and offer a range of up to 31 miles on a single charge. They’re powered by a motor of 700W max power, which is sufficient for city commuting, including tackling inclines with a 20% hill climb capability. The innovative LG battery technology provides a higher energy capacity, ensuring longer rides. Charging is relatively quick, taking about 5 hours.
Safety features include an electric horn, turn signals, rear lighting, and ambient light. The front disc brake combined with regenerative braking ensures efficient stopping power.
The NIU smart app enhances the riding experience, allowing users to customize their ride, track statistics, and even set charging limits to extend battery life.
FAQs
Is NIU a Chinese Company?
NIU is a Chinese company founded in 2014 and headquartered in Changzhou, China.
The company’s CEO and COO, Yan Li, has been in the company since 2017 and has seen the company raise 300 million dollars in revenue in 2019.
NIU Technology is listed on NASDAQ under the ticker NIU.
Are NIU Scooters Available in the USA?
NIU’s electric kick scooters have been available in the USA since 2021.
Their seated electric scooters have been available in the USA since 2019. Their official distribution partner in the US is Genuine Scooters, which has offered quality products since 2014.
How Fast Does NIU Scooter Go?
NIU has several scooters with varying speeds. If you ask about seated scooters, then some have been known to go as fast as 62mph or 100km/h.
The scooters are designed with powerful batteries and powerful motors. Most of their scooters have a restricted top speed that you can unlock by upgrading their hardware.
However, if you ask about the speed of the NIU electric kickscooters, then the fastest model is the NIU KQi3 Max which goes up to 22 mph.
How Much is an NIU Scooter?
The entry-level electric kick scooter KQi2 Pro costs $599. However, the company has several variants that are priced differently. The most expensive model is currently KQi Air X, which costs around $1,500.
Their mopeds are more popular in the USA and are priced at about $2000.
How Long Do NIU Scooters Last?
NIU scooters last for a decent period. For instance, they can retain 80% of their capacity after 600 to 800 charge cycles, translating to about 5 years of use.
This is a good lifespan. However, it varies depending on the use of battery and general care.
Is NIU Scooter Waterproof?
NIU scooters are graded with an IP65 rating.
They also take pride in their electronic braking system that remains at top performance even when exposed to 230mm of water. You are assured of no lasting damage even when the scooter is splashed with or briefly submerged in water.
A freelance writer and copywriter.
