Segway Ninebot Max review: Should you buy it?

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The Segway Ninebot Max is one of the most popular electric scooters on the market, and you likely may have spotted a few in your city. With an impressive 40 miles of range, durable components, and three different riding modes, it certainly has a lot going for it. But is it the best bang for your buck? Find out in Android Authority’s Segway Ninebot Max review.

The standout feature of the Segway Ninebot Max is undoubtedly its impressive range. Offering 40.4 miles (or 65km) on a single charge sets a high bar for electric scooters in its class. This extended range became a significant convenience during my time with the scooter, as it dramatically reduced the frequency of charging sessions required between my trips. I was able to ride to and from work (~5km) for three days straight on a single charge.

The scooter’s smooth ride experience is another notable aspect. Even without a dedicated suspension system, the Segway Ninebot Max absorbed minor bumps and uneven terrains effectively, thanks to its large ten-inch pneumatic tires. These ‘self-healing’ tires could navigate almost any irregularities in the pavement without causing discomfort or a jarring ride.

Another feature that won me over was the responsive speed control. The scooter offers three distinct speed modes: Eco, Standard, and Sports, each providing different maximum speeds catering to various riding needs and environments. The throttle’s responsiveness was a pleasant surprise, swiftly adjusting speeds according to how hard I pressed, a notable upgrade over other electric scooters I’ve tested.

Despite its many strengths, the Segway Ninebot Max does have some shortcomings. The biggest issue I encountered was with the Segway mobile app. Initial connectivity was challenging, taking a few attempts to establish a stable connection between the scooter and my smartphone. Even once connected, the app didn’t consistently record my rides initially. These connectivity issues were frustrating because you can only unlock the higher speeds and enable cruise control via the app.

While the Ninebot Max has features that help it handle city riding, it isn’t well-suited for all terrains. Although its pneumatic tires do an excellent job on pavement and minor road irregularities, they aren’t enough to make this scooter suitable for off-road or harsh terrains. Riding on gravel becomes bumpy, and the scooter slows considerably on grassy paths.

Lastly, the scooter’s water-resistance rating of IPX5 is somewhat disappointing. Although it can handle light splashes, it’s not equipped to be ridden in heavy rain or through puddles. The placement of the brake cable inside the stem frame, though, does help reduce accidental contact with water. Despite this precaution, it’s clear that the Segway Ninebot Max isn’t designed for wet weather, which limits its utility in certain climates or during specific times of the year (most of the year where I live in Vancouver, BC.)

If you’ve been considering an electric scooter for commutes, leisure rides, or exploring the city, the Segway Ninebot Max is a compelling option. After spending several weeks with it, I am convinced it lives up to the hype. The scooter’s multiple speed options make it a versatile choice for riders of varying experience levels. Beginners can start with the comfortable pace of the Standard Mode and, when feeling more confident, can shift up to the Sports Mode for increased power and speed.

The Segway Ninebot Max is particularly appealing for long-distance travelers who would rather focus on the journey than worry about the battery running out. Despite not having a dedicated suspension system, the larger, self-healing tires can tackle bumpy terrain. Additionally, the spacious seven-inch baseboard provides comfort for your feet and allows room for a second rider if desired. The folding clip and the kickstand add to the scooter’s convenience for carrying or propping up.

One downside, however, is the mobile app. Although it has various features, including a social media portal, the connectivity issues and the app’s occasional failure to record rides can be frustrating. Fortunately, once the scooter is synced, the use of the app is minimal.

Overall, the Segway Ninebot Max is a solid investment for those seeking reliable, high-quality two-wheel transportation. Whether navigating an urban environment or suburban streets, it checks all the boxes: sturdy construction without feeling cumbersome, an intuitive LED dashboard with plentiful options, easy to fold and carry without excessive weight, and substantial range without draining the battery too quickly. For a price point of $999, it’s hard to find a better deal on the market.

The Segway Ninebot Max has three speed modes: Eco at 15 mph, Standard at 25 mph, and Sports at 30 mph. You must first connect your scooter to the Segway mobile app via Bluetooth to enable them. Once connected, double-press the power button on the scooter to switch speed modes.

Yes, the Ninebot Max is worth it for anyone looking for an e-scooter with long-range and durability for less than one thousand dollars.

Yes, the Ninebot Max has a charging cable to charge the scooter. No bulky power brick is needed.

No, the Ninebot Max is not waterproof and has an IPX5 rating. Do not ride the e-scooter in the rain or get it wet.

The Ninebot Max can go up to 18.6 mph (30 km/h) in Sports mode.

Yes, the Ninebot Max comes charged with 75% battery life. However, you should fully charge the scooter before riding.

The Ninebot Max was crowdfunded in 2019 and released for sale in 2020.