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Discover why I swapped my car for an Unagi Scooter! Dive into my journey from the monotony of traffic to the freedom of city streets, exploring the excitement, eco-friendliness, and simplicity of scooter life. Join the ride towards a more adventurous, sustainable urban lifestyle. Will you join me?
With White Glove Love, we go where you go. All-Access members who are traveling can get an Unagi electric scooter for use during their trip, delivered to their hotel or Airbnb, at no extra charge. Now available in 8 U.S. cities.
Explore our latest feature in the Voyager's smart mobile app: Ride Recording. Now, you can effortlessly track your journeys, monitor stats, and review your ride history to see how far you've traveled, and much more. Discover this and more in the Unagi Voyager’s smart app!
In this article we'll run through a handful of reputable e scooter models simply explaining the important features and spec you should aim for, to ensure you buy the best electric scooter for commuting in 2024.
Stay current with the latest U.S. electric scooter laws in our 2024 guide. Updated annually since our first comprehensive guide, ensuring you have the most recent state and city regulations to ride responsibly”
In this guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know about riding an electric scooter in California, from the electric scooter laws and regulations to preparing for your journey.
The Glion Balto, an electric scooter designed for carrying stuff, has been the go-to scooter for city dwellers. Forget about loading up your back pack or carrying heavy bags, its ample basket can safely transport all sorts of items.
Like picking up a takeaway or groceries on the way home from work, small shopping trips, or running errands around your neighborhood.
But what if there's something even better waiting around the corner?
In this article, we'll explore the alternatives and see if we can find a match-or maybe even something that edges out the Balto. It's not just about replacing your ride; it's about upgrading your urban adventure.
From the Razor EcoSmart Cargo, with similar features, to the ultra-portable Unagi Voyager, is there something that can rival the Balto?
Source: Glion
Nebraska-based, Probity Cell LLP - operating as Glion Electric Scooter - was founded in 2012. It's range of e scooters launched with the Ion SmartScooter in 2014, successfully followed by well known mobility scooter, the Mini and popular urban performers, Dolly and Dolly XL.
The Glion Balto model was launched in the spring of 2021, and 12 months later, we saw the upgraded X2.
Like all the best electric scooters on road and sidewalk, the Balto is built for urban daily life. Particularly useful for riders who need an affordable electric scooter for everyday, practical mobility and convenience. Above all, giving you a safe, reliable and comfortable commute.
Source: Glion
Balto X2 is equipped with a powerful motor on the front wheelhub, giving:
And just like almost all electric scooters out there, you have a set of capped speed modes too. Speed modes are designed to:
ECO Mode (S - setting): Top speed 18km/h (11mph)
TURBO Mode (F - setting): Top speed 28km/h (17mph)
The Balto's maximum speed of 28km/h (17mph) is an ideal cruise control pace. And well within the 40.2 km/h (25 mph) legal state limits for e scooters allowed on US roads.
You may experience a nanosec of hesitancy at the off. But once it gets going Balto can hit top speed in around 14 seconds.
Performance always depends on factors like battery charge, rider weight, ground surface, tire pressure and wind resistance.
Packing a 500 watt motor enables the Glion Balto X2 to handle hill climbs of:
TOP TIP: Depending on how steep the incline and rider weight, your scooter may need a kickstart.
Glion Balto X2 comes with:
Most scooters tend to be fitted with tires of between 8.5in to 10in in diameter.
Here Glion definitely aims to give that extra cushion to ride quality. Even without suspension, these uniquely large size pneumatic tires are stable and durable enough to soak up the bumps and cracks of precinct pavements. And sail over small pot holes in road tarmac.
TOP TIP: Keep both tires pumped up to max pressure for maintaining range.
Source: Glion
This electric scooter may not be an urban speed demon but Glion have installed both a front and rear disc brake to the Balto X2. The ability to have total control on every ride, even in low speed ECO mode, is essential.
Travelling in TURBO mode - at an average speed of 24.1 km/h (15 miles per hour) - the Glion Balto has a stopping distance of around 9.7 meters (32 feet).
Source: Glion
Glion Scooter have given Balto X2 an upgraded lighting system, consisting of:
The headlight throws a defined circle of light on the immediate ground in front.
TOP TIP: To gain wider illumination, it's generally recommended to add a second headlight, high up on the stem just below the handlebars.
Along with power and speed, any rider's list of must-haves is sure to include saving battery life for extended range. Here the Glion Balto X2 offers a great solution - a swappable battery.
The X2 comes with:
On a single charge of 5 hours, via the 2A charger, you would normally have a maximum range of 32 km (20 miles). But Glion can give you double that distance - by simply swapping out the battery for another whenever you need the extra range.
The scooter is built to house the battery in the stem not within the deck.
A further new feature is the option of adding an inverter - which converts battery power (DC) into a higher voltage alternating current (AC). The inverter turns your battery into a 500 watt AC portable power station.
If you're always heading out of town, or making lots of short trips in one day, the Balto X2 gives you the option to have extra juice to handle just about everything.
TOP TIP: Constant stopping and starting can use up energy quicker than an unbroken ride.
With a battery lifespan of 1000+ cycles, you can expect 3-5 years at least of very little maintenance.
A straight, no-nonsense 24 inch handlebar gives you solid cockpit control. No small fiddly buttons here. To match the hi-grip rubber with its distinctive pattern enclosing each end the Balto X2 sports firm, chunky controls.
Hand brake - squeeze to operate disc brake, which automatically causes rear brake lights to flash.
One look at the pumped up, muscular build tells you - Glian Balto is made for the rigours of daily transit across city pavements and tarmac.
The Balto is made from a 6061-T6 aircraft grade steel/aluminum alloy, powder-coated. Making this machine not only exceptionally lightweight and strong - capable of carrying up to 115 kgs (255 lbs)- but also water resistant.
Source: Glion
Among the unique accessories are the rear rack and large basket, which can carry up to a weight limit of 12kg (26lbs), ideal for an impulse stop and buy.
Source: Glion
Glion Balto comes with a sturdy 40.4 cm (17.5in) x 23 cm (9in) deck. The addition of a securing post at the deck rear offers you the option of:
Ideal for longer distances, thanks to the swappable battery!
Source: Glion
If there is one downside among all the handy features and accessories it could be the unusual folding mechanism. Which may take seconds longer than normal to complete.
Glion Balto X2 folds down:
From - 122 x 112 x 61cm (48 x 44 x 24in)
To
Folded -122 x 61 x 38cm (48 x 24 x 15in)
Weighing in at 16.7kgs (37lbs) - including the battery - the Balto is more a mid range load to handle. However, once folded down and safely secured, you easily pull it along in its own wheeled rear rack.
Glion Balto X2 is an urban commuting scooter - and then some! Not only do you get a reliable, steady-paced ride on huge10in tires and the option of sitting comfortably all the way. But also doubling your range with an instantly swappable battery.
Touting its big basket (sold separately) and wide deck for all types of small shopping trips and errands, this Glion model could be your best electric scooter bet. But is there another scooter out there that packs riding power with the practical?
Let's see....
Razor scooters - made today by California-based, RazorUSA - have been wowing riders ever since 2000, and the launch of their e scooter in 2003.
You may even think Razor Cargo (rolled out in the fall of 2022) looks a lot like an e bike or moped. Check that big frame and those massive wheels! Its rider owners call the Razor "tons of two-wheeled fun", with its 5 speed toggle - and you can choose to stand, sit or transport a loaded basket.
Source: Razor
Like the Glion Balto X2, this electric scooter is built for pacey urban riding, shopping loads and errands. Razor also performs a wizard trick, allowing fun trips for two around the hood. Your +1 riding, pillion style.
Source: Razor
Razor is equipped with a:
*Rear wheel chain-drive scooters are - powered by a motor connected to the rear axle via a chain. This is a powerful, high-torque system that pushes rather than pulls the scooter forward.
There is a Cons Pros factor in this set up:
On the plus side ... the weight of both rider and motor above the rear wheel can help create better traction. Combined with the more powerful rear wheel drive motor, a chain drive can also improve climbing ability, and max speed levels.
However, the downside is ... the unusually loud noise given off by the chain drive motor. The constant hum may not be to every riders liking.
Source: Razor
5 Speed Modes
You can also toggle speed levels up or down while riding.
Source: Razor
Arguably, only the best electric scooters have the cojones for performing the steepest hill climbs. 10-15 per cent gradients tend to be the limit for the average urban e scooter.
The large, heavy-frame Razor may struggle a little but can make slightly less steep inclines at a tidy 16 km/h (10 mph). A speed near to the Glion Balto (12 km/h | 8 mph) on steeper hills - within the average e scooter range.
Source: Razor
Razor EcoSmart Cargo is pumped up on:
There's definitely a comfortable, smooth-riding performance here - if you keep strictly to the flat pavement, and avoid uneven or wet ground. Its two spoked wheels rock an e bike vibe but may not entirely soak up every bumpy surface. And ebike tires tend to start from 20in (50.8cm) upwards.
A handy, practical feature are the front and rear fenders to prevent tires kicking up road spray. The rear fender is extended with neat see-through side-guards to protect clothing being caught in the wheel spokes
TOP TIP: There's no dual suspension system. To maintain optimal riding performance, note the required pressure (PSI) indicated on the tire sidewall, frequently check and pump up if needed.
Source: Razor
Unlike the average electric scoorer built for urban riding, the Razor is only equipped with a:
With this type of heavy build scooter it's recommended to:
Riding at each of the different five speed caps will also mean adapting your braking for each mode. You may need a stopping distance of at least 7- 8 meters (around 25 feet).
Factors to be aware of can be the added weight of a passenger or a full basket of heavy items.
Source: Razor
Razor comes with a straightforward lighting system:
Note: there are no automatic turn signals or reflective strips.
Razor Ecosmart Cargo is equipped with:
On a single full charge (6 hours) you should get a max range of up to 26.7 kms (16.6 miles) or up to 50 minutes of continuous run time.
However, you should expect an average cruising range of up to 24.1 kms (15 miles) - lower than Glion Balto (32 km |20 miles) - depending on rider weight, additional load, wind and other weather conditions.
Source: Razor
The U-shaped handlebars - each end fitted with a soft rib-textured rubber grip - offer a basic layout consisting:
Left handlebar
Right handlebar
An inbuilt control feature will prevent you from steering the handlebars too far to the left or right.
The Razor is a robust, rigid steel construction in eco-themed olive green, capable of carrying up to a 136 kg (300lbs) compared to Glion Balto (115 kgs |255 lbs).
Of course, its big feature is the convertible rack and storage system, which gives you the option of an:
or you can easily install a detachable:
A quick-release mechanism easily adjusts the rider's seat height and position. And the passenger also has foldaway foot rests, similar to riding pillion on a bike.
Source: Razor
The eco theme is further highlighted with the bamboo and logo inset covering one third of a wider than average, grip tape covered deck.
A foldaway twin-legged deck stand to the rear firmly keeps the Razor upright.
Weighing in at 34.1 kg (75 lb) - more than double the Glion Balto (16.7kgs|37lbs) - Razor is definitely no lightweight.
A further issue with portability is size.
Unlike many other electric scooters, the Razor - which stands at 159cm (62.6in) x 64.5 cm (25.4 in) x 104.8 cm (41.1in) - does NOT fold down for either carrying or easy storage.
Razor EcoSmart Cargo could be your e scooter of choice for those short daily trips. Where you share the riding fun on e bike-style spoked wheels and seated comfort with a passenger. Or when you need to pick up groceries, store and transport items, and run errands.
On the downside, Razor doesn't have a swappable battery like the Glion Balto for longer rides, and the chain drive motor may be just too noisy for some riders. Lack of a dual braking system, limited portability - sizeable weight, and no "foldable design" - could be an issue too.
For a striking alternative - all instant carry and zippy urban style - let's check the commuter cool Unagi Voyager...
California-based Unagi continue their urban mobility makeovers for the e scooter generation with their latest affordable offering, Voyager.
Voyager comes loaded with:
Loaded with dual motors, Voyager beats out Glion Balto's single 500 watt motor to give a:
Voyager gives you 4 speed-capped, riding modes:
Dual motors often give you the oomph you need to beat the hill climb. Voyager's max torque of 32Nm can handle 15-degree inclines. That's around double the gradient Glion Balto can achieve.
Voyager's averages typical 10 per cent urban gradients in around 12 seconds at nearly 17.7 km/h (11 mph).
Voyager comes equipped with:
A single, fast 3 hour charging time (half the charging time of Glion Balto) can generate:
Voyager's built-in monitoring system - designed for low maintenance scootering - prevents:
Unagi scooters are well-known for their honeycomb tires - an unique hybrid of solid and pneumatic tire, measuring:
The "honeycomb" is a system of air pockets around the edge of the entire wheel, designed to give you:
Voyager comes equipped with:
Plus, a rear fender brake for a firm assist to full stops. With no jarring wheel locks when braking on flat ground.
Typical on-road braking for this Unagi model:
Visibility at all times is essential - for both you, other road users and pedestrians. Lights are not only for night rides!
Unagi have given Voyager :
plus
The headlight is also mounted in front of the handlebars at the highest point on the stem, for:
Lights should always be turned on early morning, after dusk, and in reduced daylight.
Unagi redefines ergonomic handlebar design for not only looking good but feeling good to touch, too. Voyager's control centre is seamlessly formed from a single casting of magnesium alloy, one third lighter than aluminum.
Handlebar centre: Flush-mounted LED display
At a glance you can also instantly see:
Smart app
The iOS and Android smart app enables you to:
How to connect Voyager to Unagi Smart Connect app
Voyager's high-strength and lightweight frame is made from carbon fiber, aluminum and magnesium alloy.
Producing a strength-weight ratio capable of typical max load capacity of up to 100kgs (220 lbs) 'Invisible' frame supports reinforce typical stress points.
Unagi continue to also lead the way in smart color makeovers. Voyager offers FOUR totally new cool urban shades to choose from:
Voyager sports a slimline deck, ideal for short commutes and trips around the block:
Standing room is generally larger than a typical scooter deck. And subtly tapered with a tough, rubber-grip embedded across its entire surface.
Ground clearance is 8.3cms (3.3 ins) with left-hand side kickstand, neatly folding away when not in use.
Voyager weighs in at an easy, carry in your hand 13.4kgs (29.6 lbs), which is easily lighter than Glion Balto - by more than 3kgs (7lbs).
Unagi scooters are also lighter than many other commuter scooters. Offering max portability for quick commutes on foot and by public transit.
Voyager also has a fast-action folding and locking mechanism.
In a one-flick thumb slide - combined with a 90 degree stem angle - Voyager instantly folds down to:
An easy comfortable size for carrying up stairs, escalator, and storing neatly away in your car trunk, at the office or in your home.
Voyager's upgraded dual 500 watt motors and 360Wh battery deliver an all-round excellent performance compared to many other scooters at a similar price.
Unagi's attention to fine design ergonomics ensures satisfying handlebar control. A micromobility freedom with double the range at half the energy-charging time.
Every ride is a cool, fun journey of unlimited possibilities in the urban space.
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