Dualtron Thunder 2 Summary

The Dualtron Thunder 2 is expected to meet our expectations. Even though the original Dualtron Thunder had some flaws (such as being very pricey, having a flimsy stem clamp, having mudguard bolts that frequently go missing, and without a steering damper or stock dampening), the scooter’s positive attributes more than made up for these flaws.

We will see the Dualtron Thunder 2 enter the Bronco Xtreme 11 and Weped Territory because it has approximately DOUBLE the power of the first model.

The fact that Minimotors have considered power output over cell discharge is commendable; obviously, drawing up to 10 kW at a time will require the battery cells to handle a high discharge rate. The advantage of the 21700 cells is that they can draw a greater current and have more power stored in each cell.

A 35ah LG Battery with 18650 cells and a 60v system voltage powered the Original Dualtron Thunder, giving it a total WH capacity of 2100wh. With a battery capacity of 2880wh and 21700 LG cells, the Dualtron Thunder 2 operates at 72 volts.

Performance Overview

Therefore, even though we haven’t had a chance to hold the Dualtron Thunder 2, it’s easy to predict how it will function. The Thunder 2 MAY outperform the Bronco 11 Xtreme based on its max power output of 8400w, dependent on the controller’s performance, tolerances, power delivery, and other factors.

We also know from the Bronco that producing 8kw (8000w) or more starts to affect traction, so since the Dualtron Thunder 2’s wheels spin as soon as you press the accelerator, it’s quite likely that it will experience the same issue.

The Weped FF produces 12,000w, which makes it significantly more powerful than the Thunder 2, but the FF initially restricts current output such that the rider experiences harsh acceleration after takeoff.

Dualtron won’t likely behave the same in the Thunder 2; instead, it’ll likely be a beast to control, like the Bronco!

The peak speed in the actual world is also expected to be between 65 and 70 mph (104 and 112 km/h).

Given that the Dualtron X2 has a top speed of 65 mph (104 km/h), the Thunder 2 likely has a higher top speed because it produces more power and weighs less.

The controllers that Minimotors employ will have a significant impact on how well the Dualtron Thunder 2 performs. While the Thunder 2’s controllers have not yet been confirmed, the Bronco 11 Xtreme has 180amp, pure sinewave controllers. Although we don’t think the Thunder 2’s controllers will be sinewave, we want to see them bigger and more robust.

Top Speed & Acceleration

The Dualtron Thunder 2’s top speed is listed as 62 mph (100 km/h), but we predict that, depending on the rider’s weight and the terrain, it will likely be closer to 68 mph (110 km/h). Although the top speed of the original Dualtron Thunder was listed as 49 mph (80 km/h), lighter riders frequently achieved top speeds of 53 mph (85 km/h). We would anticipate that the Thunder 2’s increased motor power will be reflected in its higher top speed and acceleration.

Battery Life & Range

Depending on how it is ridden, the Dualtron Thunder 2’s range might be between 80 and 110 kilometers (50 to 70 miles). In order to determine how real-world range actually is, we’ll be attempting to conduct an endurance test in eco/sport. Given the Thunder 2’s light weight of only 47 kg (103 lbs) and the battery’s huge capacity, we should experience very long battery life.

Motor Configuration

The Thunder 2 has the same configuration as other Dualtron Scooters; the new multi-switch on the handlebars lets you choose between single and twin motor mode. The cheap red and yellow buttons from Dualtron have finally been replaced with much nicer chrome effect buttons that let riders switch between single and dual motor mode.

Due to the enormous amount of power available, eco rides using a single motor with a 5kw peak output will now be feasible, especially on hills. With the Dualtron Thunder 2, we anticipate that one motor will be able to handle grades of up to 20 to 30 percent without the requirement for the second motor, whereas historically lower power scooters needed dual motor mode for inclines (Although it does depend on the SOC and weight of rider).

Construction & Build Quality

Most Dualtron scooters are quite well constructed. The same high calibre is what we anticipate from Dualtron. The first version of Thunder was great right out of the box. The quality of everything seemed excellent, and the scooter’s overall durability was undeniable. The Dualtron Thunder 2 appears to be more robust, solid, and equipped with stronger components, with clear attention paid to the stem clamp. The EY3 and NUTT brakes will remain on the Dualtron Thunder 2, and the frame alloy will be the same. The EY3 display is excellent, but it is deteriorating quickly. It is a little frustrating in that regard that the Thunder 2 lacks the phone-style LCD displays with a wealth of additional information found on modern scooters like the Nami Burn-E.

Suspension

Similar to the first Thunder, the Dualtron Thunder 2 has a cartridge-style suspension. This is alright because the cartridge method previously operated reasonably well and allowed users to select the desired suspension setting by simply switching out the cartridge.

Again, we believe Minimotors may need to consider alternative solutions in the future. Scooters like the Bronco employ a rear gas suspension unit that allows riders to customize their ride without changing anything other than the dampening settings on the unit’s dials.

Ride Quality

The Dualtron Thunder 2’s riding quality will probably be comparable to that of the first Thunder. The 11′′ extremely wide tyres should provide the scooter more physical touch with the ground, making it more stable at higher speeds. The chosen suspension setting will determine the overall ride quality. Riders will find it simpler to adopt a more aggressive riding position thanks to the rear footrest.

Braking

The NUTT brakes with 160mm rotors that were used in the original Thunder appear to be retained for The Thunder 2. The Thunder 2 might have ABS and regenerative braking.

Portability

The Thunder 2 isn’t particularly portable at 47kg (103lbs). Although it can be folded down and transported, it won’t be as simple as the first Thunder. The larger motors, batteries, and more features have increased the weight of the second model by more than 5 kg (11 lbs). The measurements are 1208 x 609 x 1267 MM (LWH) when unfolded and 1208 x 317 x 577 MM when folded (LWH)

Lights

Lights The Thunder 2 still uses deck lighting, which is disappointing because we would have expected Minimotors to think about including lights that are front facing and at stem level. Even while the deck lights are attractive, they don’t really provide much forward lighting at night. The RGB lighting on the stem will remain the same for the Thunder 2, but extra RGB lighting will be added to the deck’s side and the suspension arms themselves. The Thunder 2 will likely resemble a Christmas tree more.

Tyres

Wide profile 11′′ tubeless tyres of the Thunder 2 will increase the scooter’s stability at high speeds. Because the tubeless tyres have a thicker wall, they will be more resistant to punctures. According to the images we’ve seen, the valves between the motor rim and hub motor appear to still be quite difficult to access.

Deck

The Thunder 2’s deck is still relatively small, but the expanded rear foot plate will make it simpler to position your feet while riding. The deck has a rubber surface in place of the original Dualtron grip tape. Although it may appear prettier on the outside, we are concerned about how it will function if it becomes muddy or slightly damp. The same plastics that protrude from the deck’s sides will be present, providing a layer of protection for the deck in the event that the scooter is dropped. The front has the same side deck lights (4 bright white LEDs), while the back has the same brake and orange indication lights. A narrow, wide brake light will also be mounted on the back footrest.

Controls & Display

It’s fine but not great that the Thunder 2 will use the same MINIMOTORS EY3. The EY3 is fantastic, however given that the first Thunder was introduced in 2018, we would have anticipated an improved display after three to four years. The handlebar controls, which come from the Dualtron Storm, provide a smoother, simpler way to switch between the motor modes, speed modes, and indicators.

Water Resistance

As far as we could tell, the Thunder 2’s basic IP54 water resistance hasn’t been validated in the specifications.

Reliability, Warranty & Customer Support

Regarding warranties, dependability, and customer service, we believe the Thunder 2 will be a very durable scooter that can be used for countless kilometres of trouble-free riding. By default, the guarantee is 24 months for parts failure only, not for wear and tear. Battery is not included in this. Given that the battery accounts for half the cost of the scooter, we would have preferred to see a 2-year warranty on it. Due to the wide availability of Dualtron in the UK and the US, customer assistance will vary depending on where you purchase the product. We are dubious as to whether Minimotors will actually support Dualtron.

Maintenance

The Thunder 2 will require little upkeep. Maintaining adequate tyre pressure, checking the brake pads, and making sure the battery has cycled through charges are essential. Battery performance may not be at its best right away after initial use.

Hill Climbing

A steep grade of 30–40% will be no match for the Dualtron Thunder 2.

Is this E-Scooter value for money and is it worth buying?

We have complete faith that the Dualtron Thunder 2 will be a wise investment. Given that the original Thunder cost £3,100 ($4,394), the anticipated retail price in the UK is most likely to be £3,700 ($5,270), which, despite being pricey, is actually not a bad price for such a beefed-up model. We believe the Thunder 2 represents better value for the money because it offers so much more. We’d be willing to spend £3,700 ($5,270) for the Thunder 2 when it ships to the UK in the late Autumn because the price is predicated on quality overall.