Are you looking for a reliable and affordable way to get around? The GoTrax GXL V2 is the electric scooter for you. This e-scooter is perfect for commuters, students, or anyone looking for an eco-friendly way to travel. It’s equipped with an efficient motor, comfortable ride, and is built to last.
In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the GoTrax GXL V2 and all its features. We’ll cover its design, power, performance, battery life, and more. Read on to find out why the GoTrax GXL V2 is the perfect electric scooter for you.
Acceleration
A 250-watt brushless DC motor provides respectable acceleration for the GXL Commuter V2. Typically, motors at this price point do not exceed 250 watts. The lack of a zero-start feature on the scooter necessitates a minimum speed of approximately 3 km/h before the motor is activated.
In comparison, one of the most popular scooters, the M365, reaches 24 kilometers per hour in 6.30 seconds. Nonetheless, this scooter is $100 to $200 more expensive than the GXL V2.
Top Speed
The manufacturer claims that the GoTrax GXL Commuter V2’s top speed is 26 km/h. This top speed is below average for scooters, but comparable to other low-cost scooters. This is fast enough for the majority of urban commuters, but some may want more.
Shared scooters (e.g., Bird, Lime, Spin) typically have a maximum speed of 26 kilometers per hour. Higher-priced scooters, such as the Xiaomi Mi M365, also have a top speed of 26 km/h.
Range
The manufacturer claims that the GoTrax GXL Commuter V2 has a range of 19 kilometers. Keep in mind that low temperatures, inclines, frequent stops, and higher speeds will all decrease your scooter’s range. The scooter is light enough and the deck is low enough to the ground that it can be used as a conventional kick scooter if the battery fails. The GXL V2 has a lithium-ion battery pack with 187 watt hours.
Hill Climbing
According to GoTrax, the GXL V2 is capable of climbing 14-degree inclines. This is a simple error to make. 14 degrees is close to Filbert Street (17.5 degrees), the steepest hill in San Francisco, and the GXL V2 is incapable of climbing hills of this magnitude.
The marketing statistics for the GXL V2 may have been muddled or lost in translation at some point, but the actual hill climbing ability is comparable to that of the vast majority of sub-$600 electric scooters.
Yes, it can climb up inclines as steep as 14%, but be prepared to move at a snail’s pace on those inclines. It is also worth noting that the GXL V2 will struggle more on ascents the heavier you are. Overall, the GXL V2 will serve you well if you do not reside in a region dominated by hills.
Suspension
The GXL V2 does not include built-in suspension, so you must rely on pneumatic tires. They do a decent job of providing a smooth ride on well-maintained surfaces, but you’ll need to check the routes you’ll be taking to avoid bumpy and uneven terrain, or else your wrists and knees will take a beating.
The Braking System
Finding a sub-$300 scooter with a dual-braking system is akin to panning for gold and discovering a large nugget. The combination of the rear disc brake and front regenerative electric brake gives you complete control over the scooter. Even at top speed, pulling on the brake lever will bring you to a smooth stop.
Compared to other models, such as the E22 (which is almost double the price), which rely solely on electronic brakes and rear step-on fenders, this dual-hybrid system gives you significantly more control over your ride.
Charging Time
The GXL V2 continues to impress with a charging time of 3 to 4 hours, which is respectable. Especially considering that some scooters of inferior quality can take up to 12 hours to charge.
Portability
The lightweight 26.4-pound frame and folding mechanism make the scooter easy to transport. Although the scooter folds into a relatively compact package, its folding mechanism is not the simplest. To fold the scooter, you must first unscrew the safety pin that locks the folding mechanism in place and then pull down on the red folding lever located at the base of the handlebar stem.
The stem of the handlebar will then collapse onto the deck. Other GoTrax scooters, such as the XR Ultra, have the safety pin integrated, so you do not need to carry a metal pin in your pocket while carrying the scooter. However, considering the cost of the GXL V2, this is a flaw that can be overlooked.
Ultimately, this is not a deal-breaker, as the scooter can still be folded in 5 to 10 seconds. Despite the fact that the handlebar grips do not fold parallel to the frame, the GXL V2 is compact enough to fit under a desk at work, in a hallway closet, or in a trunk.
Handlebars
Overall, the handlebars are relatively simple. They do not lack any features you would have expected, but they also do not over-deliver. They strike the ideal balance between ergonomic functionality and the requirements of a budget-friendly electric scooter. As with most low-priced scooters, the GXL V2’s LED display is ideal for a quick glance at the speedometer, battery life, and riding mode.
You can also control your headlight and select your riding mode using the small red button directly below the LED display. On the left side of the handlebars is the hand-operated brake that will be intuitive for new riders who have previously ridden a bicycle. Additionally, you will discover the bell, which you can easily ring with your left thumb.
On the right, the thumb throttle’s ergonomic design makes it easy to rotate and prevents it from sticking, as seen on low-quality scooters.
The Frame
Matte black has become synonymous with electric scooters, and for many individuals, including myself, it is the preferred color. The GXL V2 does not disappoint with its black frame, GoTrax logo wrapped around the handlebar stem, and red accents on the carrying hook and brake cable.
For those who like to mix things up, it is also available in silver and pink, although these color options have been rarely seen in recent years. So, if you notice that GoTrax has your desired color in stock, purchase it immediately. Fortunately, black appears to be available year-round.
Even though the GXL V2 looks good, what’s under the hood is what matters. The V2 is surprisingly durable, making it ideal for daily use, due to the aerospace-grade aluminum alloy used to construct its frame. The assembly of each component is also excellent. GoTrax takes pride in its stringent quality control, which is evident.
Frequently, poorly constructed electric scooters become rickety and unsafe to ride, particularly when the handlebar post becomes unstable. Although the GXL V2’s frame is secure and sturdy, riding it over rough terrain and attempting jumps can cause the scooter to become loose in certain areas. However, if you stick to the recommended usage, the GXL V2 holds up well.
Deck
The GXL V2’s deck measures 18.6 x 6 inches and is coated with anti-slip rubber, which is fairly standard for urban scooters. It is neither too large nor too small, so there is sufficient space for a comfortable stance. To put this into perspective, if you wear shoe size 10.5 and have your left foot facing forward at a slight angle and your right foot almost perpendicular to it, you can easily fit both feet on the deck.
The GXL V2 has a low center of gravity and only a four-inch ground clearance. You should avoid jumping up and off curbs.
Lights
The scooter is equipped with one LED headlight and a rear reflector, but no tail light. As with other scooters, the LED is not particularly bright. For nighttime commuting, you can attach additional front and rear lights.
Wheels
The GXL V2 has pneumatic (air-filled) inner tube tires measuring 21.6 centimeters each. Despite the absence of suspension, the pneumatic tires will provide sufficient bounce for a pleasant ride. Pneumatic tires are also superior to solid (airless) tires in wet conditions. In wet conditions, solid tires typically become very slippery.
Despite their advantages, pneumatic tires have a disadvantage: the possibility of flats. However, most flats are preventable or easily repairable.
Build Quality
The GXL V2 is a sound design study. Overall, the scooter’s controls are simple and well-considered. There are no knobs, levers, or switches that are superfluous, as is the case with many other electric scooters. The mechanism for folding is robust. When the scooter is unfolded, all components feel sturdy.
With the included tools, assembly is quick and easy. Even if you lack mechanical aptitude, it shouldn’t be an issue. Lastly, the packaging is also well-designed. Numerous test scooters have been damaged during shipment due to the use of generic packaging. The scooter is damaged during shipping, and when you eagerly open the package, you must deal with the return.
GoTrax utilized custom-fitting packaging to ensure that the GXL V2 would arrive in pristine condition. Overall, construction quality is high. Amazing when you consider the price. The latching mechanism (which holds the folded scooter for transport) was a bit finicky at first, but after a bit of adjustment, it was rock-solid.
In contrast to the original GXL Commuter, the plastic fenders have been strengthened and are less likely to break. This scooter should be reliable for commuting, but may not withstand the rigors of daily use.
Quality of the Ride
Riding the GXL V2 is enjoyable. Its 8.5-inch air-filled tires absorb small potholes and uneven surfaces to provide a comfortable riding experience despite the bike’s low price. The ride quality is not as buttery smooth as more expensive models with suspension, but the GXL V2 will serve you well if you plan to ride in urban areas with relatively well-maintained roads and sidewalks.
As your body vibrates in response to the rough terrain beneath your feet, venturing off the beaten path can be quite jarring and uncomfortable.
Warranty
There is incredible post-purchase support available, but it is not comprehensive for this model. But don’t worry too much. If you keep your sales receipt from an authorized retail partner and experience any problems within 90 days of purchase, you are eligible for warranty service.
This is limited to parts or issues caused by manufacturer defects, so you are not free to perform potentially damaging stunts on your brand-new scooter for the first 90 days.
Is GoTrax GXL V2 Worth Buying?
The GoTrax GXL V2 is an ideal electric scooter for commuters or anyone looking for a reliable and affordable way to get around. It has an efficient motor and a long-lasting battery, and its design is both comfortable and sturdy. It has a respectable range and top speed and can tackle moderate inclines.
The GXL V2 also has a dual-braking system, a convenient folding mechanism, and a three to four-hour charging time. With a 90-day warranty and post-purchase support, you can buy the GXL V2 with confidence. All in all, the GXL V2 is a great pick for anyone looking for a reliable, affordable electric scooter.
Can You Ride the GoTrax GXL V2 in the Rain?
The GoTrax GXL V2 is not 100% waterproof but it does have an IP54 waterproof rating, which means that it can withstand water spray from any direction. The scooter is equipped with pneumatic tires, which are better suited for wet conditions than solid tires. The frame is made of aerospace-grade aluminum alloy and is sealed to protect against water ingress.
The electronic components and motor are also protected against water damage, so you can ride the scooter in light rain without any issues. However, it is not suitable for use in heavy rain, as it may cause the scooter to malfunction.
Conclusion
The GoTrax GXL V2 is an excellent entry-level electric scooter designed for urban commutes. It is well-built, reliable, and has a range of up to 19 kilometers. The frame is lightweight and sturdy, and the pneumatic tires provide a comfortable ride. The dual-braking system makes the scooter safe and easy to control.
The LED display and thumb throttle are ergonomic and intuitive. The GXL V2 is a great buy for anyone looking for an affordable electric scooter to get around town.
