NIU KQi3 Pro Summary

It seems like e-scooter makers are shooting for the moon in terms of pricing in a market that is only expanding. This is why we’re interest in a cheap scooter: we haven’t seen many of them!

Out of NIU’s current trio of KQi3 models (the KQi3 Pro, KQi3 Sports, and KQi2 Pro), the KQi3 Pro is the clear frontrunner. It’s also the priciest, though not by a huge amount. NIU’s massive production capacity because to its larger moped-style scooters is fantastic for maintaining cheap prices.

If there were a gold standard for modern commuter scooters, it would look like the KQi3. With the exception of suspensions, this electric scooter features everything a rider, whether a novice or an expert, could want.

Overall, the scooter performs better than expected. The accelerations and the throttle are both quite smooth. The KQi3’s top speed of 19 miles per hour is neither breathtaking nor insufficient. The 700 W max output of the rear motor delivers adequate torque to allow for speedy travel up standard inclines.

Once you go out to around 21 miles, that’s when your NIU training really starts to shine through. You may ride with confidence knowing that the scooter’s powerful battery is shield by patented technology that guarantees you superior mileage for your energy expenditure. In addition, the ride quality is adequate, so you won’t get too worn out on the way to work.

We were pleasantly surprise by how well the KQi3 performed for our first kick scooter. The KQi2’s larger 10 inch tyres would have improved the e-riding scooter’s quality, but this is just one of the trade-offs you’ll have to make between the two models.

Some more distinctions to keep in mind are as follows:

• Compared to the KQi2, you can save around $200.
• The KQi3’s 350-watt (700-watt maximum) motor should provide more power than the KQi2’s 300-watt motor (600w max). Because of this, the KQi3 also has an advantage when going up steep hills.
• The KQi2 weighs 41 pounds, whereas the KQi3 is 45 pounds.
• The KQi3’s 486 wh battery is larger than the KQi2’s 365 wh battery. It’s easy to see how this contributes to the KQi3’s increased range of 20.9 miles compared to the KQi2’s 15.7 miles.
• The KQi3 can go at a maximum speed of 19 miles per hour, while the KQi2 can only travel at a maximum of 16 miles per hour.
• With its combination of dual mechanical disc brakes and regenerative braking, the KQi3 boasts a superior braking system. The KQi2 has electronic and regenerative brakes in the back in addition to drum brakes up front.

Therefore, it’s obvious that the KQi3 is the best choice if you’re looking for maximum efficiency. On the other hand, the KQi2 provides a more relaxing journey and helps you save money, but its average performance is a drawback.

Is it Good for Bigger, Heavier Riders?

The KQi3 has tested by huge dogs, but only up to a certain weight.

Heavy riders might cause problems for commuter scooters. The little motors simply don’t have enough torque to lift the heaviest riders. The maximum load for the KQi3’s 350 w motor is 220 lb. Heavy riders should note that the average weight capacity of big rider scooters is 265, so they have options.

Riders shouldn’t notice a performance drop as long as they stay inside the weight guidelines. Riders with larger feet may like the scooter’s spacious deck. They probably won’t like the footrests, but nobody ever uses them. Riders up to 6 feet tall will find the 46-inch handlebar height to be just right. In addition, larger riders can find a comfortable position on the bike thanks to the 21-inch wide handlebars.

This scooter is ideal for riders whose weight is at the middle of the heavy range. And if you weigh more than 220 pounds or are taller than 6 feet, you should probably seek elsewhere.

Acceleration

You won’t hear the KQi3 arriving since she’s so stealthy. You won’t find a faster acceleration from any other scooter at this price point. Incredibly, the scooter only needs 5.2 seconds to go from 0 to 15 mph because to the effortless way in which the throttle is engage. The quick start-up time is 2 tenths of a second faster than the fast Ninebot Max and 46% quicker than the KQi2 Pro. This rate of acceleration is comparable to that of the local speed demon, the 5.1-second Fluid Mosquito electric scooter.

Top Speed

It’s possible that you could outrace your neighbour on his bike if you set out to compete with him on the way to your goal. In comparison to NIU’s claimed top speed of 20 mph, the KQi3’s top speed of 18.6 mph is still rather respectable; however, just like with cars, practically all scooter speedometers read 5 to 10% higher when checked against GPS.

In comparison to other scooters on the market, the KQi3 fares about as well as the rest. It has a higher maximum speed than both the Ninebot Max (18 mph) and the KQi2 (16 mph). There is a slight increase in speed with the Apollo Air Pro, which can reach speeds of 19 miles per hour. Top speeds like these are common on scooters with less powerful motors, although they aren’t the quickest available.

The KQ’s three gear settings also limit its maximum velocity:

• Environmentally-friendly Pedestrian Mode
• Speed limit broken in sport mode
• Maximum speed can set via app-controlled gear mode.
• Steep Ascent

Hill Climb

The KQi3 is a slightly above-average hill climber for the price, and its usefulness is never undervalue. On average inclines, the KQi3 electric scooter can maintain speeds of up to 17 mph. It was 27% quicker than the KQi2 on our standard test hill of 200 feet, 10% slope, and it tied with the Max in terms of speed. This scooter is fine for commuting if you live in a flat area.

Range and Battery

When looking for a scooter to use as a mode of transportation for your last mile to work, school, or other destination, you should choose reliability over style. As a result of its high miles per watt-hour, the KQi3 provides excellent range for the price. Tests show that this electric scooter can take you further than the KQi2 (16 miles) and the Air Pro (18 miles). In this respect, the Max outperforms the KQi3 by a significant margin; its range of 28 miles is far more than that of the KQi3.

This test of range was conducted at full speed, with the exception of stops at traffic lights and stop signs. Obviously, using E-save when riding an e-scooter can double the distance you can travel compared to the vehicle’s maximum range. In addition, we have heard from a reliable source that the KQi3 Max, which has a battery even bigger than the Ninebot Max G30, may soon be available in the United States. The Max e-scooter claims to have a range of 40 kilometres per charge. This is fantastic news for anyone who cares deeply about range yet doesn’t want to compromise on durability or efficiency.

The KQi3 Pro electric scooter is further distinguished from the norm in that it can go at 90% of full speed for the entirety of the range test, even in its last two miles. However, as the final bar on the battery metre begins blinking, the e-speed scooter’s drastically drops to around 12 mph. The dashboard flashes bright red, shows a warning code, and beeps intermittently as the battery life of the scooter decreases, so you’ll never be caught off guard again. And now you have roughly a mile of range left until the battery dies altogether.

It takes roughly 6 hours to fully charge the 48V battery using a 2amp charger. Overnight charging ensures that it will be fully charged and ready to go when you wake up, as will plugging it in as soon as you walk through the door at the workplace. However, you need not fear; the battery features a patented NIU Energy BMS that offers 14 distinct layers of protection, one of which is overcharge protection.

Braking

Of course, we’re big fans of any scooter that does something different from the norm. The KQi3 is unique in that it has dual mechanical disc brakes but still costs less than $1,000. It has mechanical disc brakes in the front and back, allowing it to stop in the shortest amount of time ever. Historically dominant brakes that cost less than $1000 When we tested stopping distances from 15 mph to 0 mph, Ninebot Max provided us with a distance of 11.0 feet, however this has now been surpassed by ANYHILL UM2 at 10.5 feet. Both of these records have been broken by the KQi3 electric scooter, which only takes an incredible 10.0 feet to stop.

Riders with smaller hands will appreciate the way the combined disc and regen brakes act, which is quite similar to having power brakes. They’re also a little bit unconventional. To begin with, they contribute to the overall aesthetic and are pleasing to the eye. Second, and most crucially, unlike most mechanical brakes, these have callipers that squeeze from both sides, just like hydraulic brakes. And what is the end result? There is less risk of injury from overuse, and stopping requires less hand strength.

It’s also quite unusual to find a vehicle with regenerative braking. KQi3 Pro includes a variable switch in the lever that triggers the regen based on how hard you push; in other words, the more you squeeze, the more regen braking you’ll experience. The software also allows you to change the intensity of your regen brakes from mild to extreme.

Furthermore, disc brake lock is rather low despite the excellent braking power. As a result, you’ll be able to apply the brakes with less sliding and resulting falls.

Ride Quality

Although the KQi3 electric scooter is attractive and well-built, its ride quality is neither thrilling nor unsatisfying.

The KQi3 Pro’s frame and stem are extremely sturdy, reminding us of what we said about the Ninebot Max. Although the absence of suspension is noticeable, the use of tubeless pneumatic tyres mitigates the harshness of the road. But the grips tend to get a little buzzy on the hardest surface. Tires will roll more smoothly and have better traction if their pressure is lowered to 45 psi, which is what we advise.

The scooter’s design accommodates users of varying heights. The scooter’s handlebars are wider than the norm, making it easier to ride. Increased straight-line and directional stability is provided by the scooter’s handlebars and a 15-degree steering angle. The handlebar grips, too, are top-notch; they feature a wavy texture that is both comfortable and secure, making for a highly practical combination.

The Apollo Air Pro, Ninebot Max, KQi2, and KQi3 Pro all include rear-domiciled motors, which contribute to their agile handling. For riders who prefer to wheelie off curbs, a rear-wheel drive provides a more responsive steering and an enhanced road feel. But the Apollo Air Pro with front suspension maintains the greatest handling of the competing scooters. Aside from that, the KQi2 and KQi3 Pro are its closest competitors. The Ninebot Max lags well behind the competition because its handlebars are 3 inches thinner than those of the KQi3.

No zero-speed starting option is available on the KQi3 Pro electric scooter. We absolutely appreciate why NIU didn’t want inexperienced riders to be taken off guard, and that’s presumably why. Although the kick-to-start mechanism is effective, getting acclimated to how it operates may take some time. You can’t use the throttle then the kick. It’s the same deal as the Ninebot Max; you have to kick before you can use the throttle. It’s the sort of thing you might grow used to quickly, but it might be frustrating if you make a mistake.

Portability

This is the perfect electric scooter if you need something you can easily carry up no more than three flights of stairs. The NIU KQi3 Pro’s folding mechanism is simple and fast. The stem latch is exactly as sturdy and well-built as the one on the 2 Pro. Simply release the latch on the scooter’s stem, and a second safety clip will appear, allowing you to fold the device. It’s the second clip, and you need to unhook it to fold your handlebars down to the deck.

Compared to the latch on the Ninebot Max, the one on this boat’s deck is a far more elegant design. The process for setting it in place is as simple as clicking a button. Pressing the extended button folds out the handlebars for transport or adjustment. We enjoy it since it is reliable and simple to use. The scooter may be easily lifted because the stem provides a firm grip. In addition, it weighs 45 pounds, so most adults will have to work a little to raise it off the floor. Because of its length of 46 inches, it can be stored in virtually any trunk.

Cockpit

Our expectations for displays are sky high, but even a basic one is welcome on a commuter scooter, where it is often omitted. Unlike more advanced models, the NIU KQi3 electric scooter’s display is basic, with low resolution and showing information in characters reminiscent of pixel art. Nonetheless, it can be read clearly even when exposed to bright sunshine.

When you turn on your headlights, the screen becomes less bright. As a result, if the display is dim, turning off the headlight should solve the problem. The halo light in the headlight is still there to keep you visible in case of an emergency.

The KQi3 electric scooter features a digital display that provides information about the rider’s speed, mode selection, and battery life. The display also features a single button with several uses, such as:

• An extended click activates the scooter.
• Once the scooter is turn on, a simple click will toggle between speed settings.
• The headlights can turned on and off with 2 clicks.
• The distance units can switched between miles and kilometers with just three clicks.
• The scooter may converted to pedestrian mode in 5 clicks.

A smartphone app controls the e-functions, scooter’s such as locking the device, monitoring travel time, adjusting the amount of energy returned after a charge, and setting a maximum speed limit. You may upgrade the firmware and activate or deactivate cruise control all from the app. And finally, it puts the rider through a beginner tutorial that prevents them from leaving Eco mode on the scooter until they’ve mastered the material. To be continue.

Lights

The headlight of the KQi3 electric scooter is both attractive and practical; it’s situated high on the handlebars, so it can be seen during the day, and it casts a wide beam of light at night. The daytime halo around the headlight is always on. For purely aesthetic reasons, this is ideal.

For safer and more productive riding in low light, you can change the angle of the headlamp. There is a 60-foot range of visibility for the powerful beam when the lights are on. However, the back light isn’t too strong. To further warn other drivers of your intentions, the taillight blinks when you use the brakes.

A variety of reflectors, including one placed just under the headlight, are installed on the scooter to increase its visibility.

Tires

Scooter riders will enjoy a smooth ride even on urban pavement thanks to the scooter’s large 10 by 3 inch air tyres. The broad tyres improve both traction and manoeuvrability. Comfort on cracked pavement, light gravel, and grassy paths is maintained by the e-pneumatic scooter’s tyres for a reasonable amount of time until rider fatigue sets in.

Tires can easily be punctured or burst, however. Instead of the hassle of always needing to change the tyres on a low-speed commuter scooter, solid tyres are a preferable option. However, by using a sealant, one can make tyres self-healing and therefore protect against pinpricks and punctures. One can understand why NIU opted for pneumatic tyres despite the lack of suspension.

Deck

The scooter’s wings deck design is undeniably eye-catching, but it serves little practical purpose. Unless you’re fine with your foot in a really uncomfortable position, you won’t be able to put your foot down on either the front or back of the design due to the sharp angles. The deck’s dimensions of 20 inches by 7 inches mean that riders of any size can find a comfortable posture. Furthermore, it is equip with ridges in the anti-slip rubber that improve grip while riding. The rear wing of the deck extends over the fender, protecting the fender from damage that can occur when riders stand on it. Rolling over curbs and other road impediments could scratch your deck due to the low clearance of only 3 inches.

Build Quality

The design as a whole was made to simple and straightforward on purpose. The packaging alone justifies our labelling it “the Mercedes Benz of scooters.” There are little plastic covers over the charging port, the fenders, the display, etc., so that should serve as evidence. They know how to manufacture things, so the smooth assembly makes you feel like you’re in a high-end automobile. Consider all of the well concealed wiring and operational artificial lighting.

The scooter is available in two different colour schemes: either all black or with a rose gold stem accent. For reasons of both lightness and durability, the KQi3 is construct from aircraft-grade aluminium. Many NIU insignia and badges make the scooter easily recognisable as belonging to the university. Lots of people dig the clever pun “NIU Way Forward” engraved on the deck’s rubber coating.

The scooter’s wide handlebars are design to make it easier to steer. Towards either end is a high-quality rubber grip with a wavy pattern, and in the middle is a minimalist display. The scooter also features a little shield reminiscent of those found on motorcycles, which can be used to block some of the sun while you’re out and about.

Another indication of the manufacturer’s attention to detail is the battery. The battery is safeguarded on 14 different levels by the exclusive NIU BMS. More than 10 billion kilometres (6.2 billion miles) of rider network have supposedly cover by the system, according to NIU. This is a strong indicator of longevity and dependability.

This scooter has an IP54 rating, meaning it is completely waterproof. Great news for riders: the company recommends against using the product in water deeper than 2 centimetres. The charging port and other particularly delicate areas are shield from harm. The charger port cover incorporates a hinge and a spring-loaded rubber seal to prevent it from opening during use and flying off during transit.

Safety

NIU’s crew got the task because they know that rider safety is everyone’s primary priority. The scooter has several features that make it safer to ride, including the best stopping distance in its class, high visibility both during the day and at night, a simple throttle, a bell, and the absence of a zero-start (though we wish that could unlocked for more experienced riders). These adjustments complement the riders’ innate wisdom and experience to ensure a risk-free trip.

But there are several things you should know before you go for your first spin.

• After removing the KQi3 Pro from its packaging, you must charge it for one minute before using it for the first time. The battery is in “transport mode” when the scooter is sent, and charging it is the only way to activate it.
• Next, there’s the mobile application. There’s an app for that, and all you have to do is download it and walk through a little tutorial to unlock the scooter from ECO mode. The tutorial can detect if you are actually following its instructions. If I made a mistake during a tutorial, like reaching for the rear brake when the front brake was requested, the training would not advance until I made the correct selection.
• In addition to completing the instruction, you will need to ride 500 meters in ECO mode with the app open before you may access the maximum speed. If you’ve never ridden a scooter before, 9 miles per hour is a safe speed to learn on.

Warranty

There is a 2 year warranty on the scooter. However, we have seen this tactic employed before by Korean firms who wished to enter the American market. How are things going?

If you don’t know us yet, take this massive warranty as proof that we mean business.

The most expensive components, including the battery, motor, controller, and dashboard are all covered for two years.

The warranty’s length and scope are important indicators of product quality. In general, a longer warranty indicates that the manufacturer is confident in the quality of the item. Consider GoTrax’s 90-day warranty and what it says about the company’s confidence in the quality of its product.

NIU KQi3 Pro: Review Conclusion

Although NIU is a relative newcomer to the electric scooter market, our time with the KQi3 Pro and KQi2 Pro convinced us that they deserve a spot there. As a result of their extensive background with Vespa-style scooters, they have probably gleaned a wealth of knowledge about what functions well in the commuting environment.

In comparison to similar scooters, the value you receive is noticeably higher thanks to the superior riding quality and performance. While it won’t blow your mind, it offers respectable performance, a reasonable driving range, acceptable comfort, impressive safety features, solid construction, and a long guarantee.

The outcomes are similarly impressive, especially for a first attempt at a kick scooter. Taking into account both experienced and inexperienced riders, NIU has designed a scooter that is ideal for commuting. Therefore, if you need a scooter for short journeys around town, the NIU KQi3 Pro electric scooter is a suitable choice.