The GoTrax XR Elite is the latest in electric scooter technology, offering a powerful and reliable ride for commuters looking for a fast and efficient way to get around. With its sleek design, powerful motor, and advanced features, the XR Elite is the perfect choice for anyone looking for an electric scooter that can keep up with their fast-paced lifestyle.
In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the features of the XR Elite, how it stacks up against the competition, and what consumers can expect when they purchase this powerful electric scooter.
Acceleration
GoTrax boasts that the 300W motor allows you to reach 15.5 mph with ease. In practice, it is difficult to maintain a speed of 15.5 mph, but it is possible to reach that speed. It takes just under 8 seconds to reach 14 mph after a kickoff. Although the acceleration is not particularly quick, it is ideal for most riders, especially beginners.
The maximum speed of 15.5 mph is sufficient for the majority of inner-city riders who intend to use the scooter for commuting or urban exploration. However, the XR Elite is somewhat sluggish, so it would be prudent to consider alternatives with greater performance. If you have ample opportunities to ride on quiet residential streets due to your suburban lifestyle, the XR Elite’s top speed leaves you wanting more.
Range
The high capacity battery of the XR Elite provides a maximum range of 18.6 miles per charge. This is the longest range of any scooter that costs less than $400. If you put your foot to the floor and ride as quickly as possible, the likelihood of reaching the 18.6-mile threshold is diminished.
As with all electric scooters, aggressive riding depletes the battery faster than economical riding. In context, aggressive riding will give you a range of approximately 13 miles. Even if your scooter runs out of juice, you can charge it in as little as three hours.
Hill Climb
GoTrax claims that the XR Elite can traverse up to 15% inclines. This is entirely accurate, but it is not possible to ride up steeper slopes particularly quickly. Especially if you’re a heavier rider, you’ll notice the Elite struggling. Before you purchase the XR Elite, you should carefully consider where you intend to ride it.
The type of ride you’ll be taking can help you determine which scooter is most suitable. In general, however, standard urban ascents should not pose any difficulty.
Suspension
The shock-absorbing tires with a diameter of 8.5 inches are pneumatic (air-filled), which is always preferable to solid tires. This is due to the fact that they provide greater shock absorption on uneven terrain. However, the pneumatic tires on the XR Elite are your only defense against road irregularities.
Unfortunately, the Elite lacks suspension, which can be uncomfortable on rougher roads due to the vibrations caused by the terrain.
The Braking System
Standard equipment on the XR Elite is a rear disc brake and anti-lock electrical braking. The dual braking system provides control at all times and responds when the brake lever is pulled. Even at top speed, the XR Elite’s braking system is responsive. You can anticipate a stopping distance of approximately 15 feet. This distance varies depending on riding conditions, but 15 feet is generally adequate.
Charging Time
Three to four hours are required to fully charge the XR Elite. This is on the faster end of charge times, making it ideal for charging at home, in a café, or at the office.
Portability
The Elite weighs 14 kilograms and folds to 104 centimeters in length, 43 centimeters in width, and 41 centimeters in height. Like its predecessors, the XR Elite is a highly portable scooter that should be simple to transport up stairs and into a vehicle. The XR Elite features an upgraded GoTrax folding mechanism with a safety locking pin.
Handlebars
The XR Elite’s handlebars are easy to use and attractive. The current mileage, battery level, cruise control option, and headlight controls are displayed on a central LED dashboard. In terms of safety and comfort, the handlebars have adequate hand grips, and the throttle and brake levers are effortless to operate.
If you need to alert pedestrians to your presence, there is a simple-to-use bell attached. You might assume that all scooters have a bell, but that is not the case, GoTrax prioritized the safety of its rider. Important to note is that, unlike other GoTrax scooters, the XR Elite lacks “gears.”
This implies that you do not need to switch riding modes to unlock your scooter’s maximum speed. This is advantageous if you intend to push the Elite to its limits, as it eliminates the need to change gears prior to beginning your daily commute.
Frame
GoTrax made the astute decision to conceal the brake cable within the XR Elite’s stem, making the scooter sleeker and more aesthetically pleasing. Although it has no effect on performance, it demonstrates GoTrax’s attention to detail. Matte black is still the most popular color for electric scooters, and the XR Elite follows suit.
The stem is adorned with a white GoTrax logo, which looks pretty cool, and red accents give the scooter a hip, urban appearance.
Deck
Standard deck width of 6.6 inches provides sufficient space for a comfortable ride. This, combined with the non-slip rubber material, allows you to enjoy the ride with confidence that your feet will remain firmly planted on the deck. The XR Elite has a 19-by-6.6-inch standing area, allowing it to accommodate riders with larger shoe sizes.
It’s important to note that the Elite has a ground clearance of just over 3 inches, which means you shouldn’t be climbing curbs on the sidewalk.
Lights
The XR Elite is equipped with a bright white LED headlight and a rear LED light on the fender. The LED rear fender is an improvement over models with a simple reflector. The Elite is also equipped with retroreflectors at the scooter’s corners to increase visibility. For riding frequently at night or in low-visibility conditions, it is always recommended installing additional, extremely bright headlights and a tail light.
Tires
The XR Elite is an exception to the rule when it comes to the quality of the tires on budget-friendly scooters. In addition to its affordability and dependability, it features 8.5-inch air-filled tires that contribute to a more comfortable ride. Cheaper models typically have solid rubber tires with virtually no shock absorption.
The XR Elite’s air-filled tires are another feature that contributes to its excellent value. GoTrax have you covered despite the fact that some individuals are hesitant to use air-filled tires out of fear of getting a puncture. The Elite comes with pre-slimed tires that can self-heal up to 6mm punctures.
Even though the tires are of high quality and have a cushioning effect, you can still feel the impact of larger potholes. It is also important to note that the XR Elite lacks suspension, so you must rely on the tires to absorb shock. Therefore, you should not ride it on rough terrain or off-road. If you stick to asphalt surfaces that are flat and smooth, you will be fine.
Build Quality
Despite being an inexpensive scooter, the XR Elite has excellent fit-and-finish. It is the highest-quality scooter available for less than $400. From the wide anti-slip deck to the super simple folding mechanism, the GoTrax team has worked tirelessly to bring you a high-quality, lightweight, and durable scooter that lacks the flimsy construction of cheap models from unknown brands.
It is important to remember, however, that although the XR Elite is the most expensive scooter in its price range, more expensive scooters have higher build quality, with some even using aerospace-grade aluminum.
Quality of the Ride
Compared to other GoTrax scooters, the XR Elite has a larger-than-average deck, making it more comfortable to maintain a natural foot position. The scooter also feels more balanced than other GoTrax models due to the battery’s location in the deck, which results in a lower center of gravity and a more secure feeling.
In other models, the battery is located in the stem, causing the scooter to feel front-heavy at times. The cruise control option makes your journey even more relaxing, allowing you to take in your surroundings. As there is no suspension, you will feel the effects of larger potholes despite the fact that the pneumatic tires mitigate some of the impact. Overall, the ride is comfortable considering the low price.
Is the GoTrax XR Elite Waterproof?
The GoTrax XR Elite is IP54, meaning it is protected from dust and can withstand splashes of water from all directions. This makes it suitable for light rain and wet conditions. However, it should not be submerged in water or used in heavy rain. This means it is not suitable for use in snow or in shallow water.
The XR Elite also has a water-resistant display and brake lever, which helps keep the scooter working under difficult conditions.
Is the GoTrax XR Elite Worth the Investment?
The GoTrax XR Elite is a great investment for riders looking for an affordable, reliable electric scooter that does not compromise on features. With its powerful 300W motor, 18.6 mile range, and dual braking system, the XR Elite is an excellent choice for commuters looking to get around quickly and efficiently.
The 8.5-inch pneumatic tires, LED headlight and rear fender light, and retroreflectors also contribute to the overall safety of the XR Elite. The lack of suspension and gears, however, may be a turnoff for some. Despite this, the XR Elite is a great value for the price and is well worth the investment.
Can You Charge GoTrax XR Elite Overnight?
GoTrax products have overcharge protection, but it is best to charge them within four to five hours. Leaving the XR Elite plugged in overnight is not recommended as it may damage the battery.
How Does the Warranty on GoTrax Work?
Original GoTrax parts and components are covered by a limited warranty for three to six months. If more than 15 days have passed since the date the scooter was received, the replacement of warranty-eligible parts will incur shipping fees. Additionally, labor and installation fees are not covered by the warranty.
This warranty does not cover any damage or malfunction due to abuse, misuse, or normal wear and tear.
Is GoTrax Better Than Segway?
GoTrax and Segway are two popular electric scooter brands, and both offer great products. While Segway is well-known for its iconic Ninebot ES series, GoTrax offers a range of reasonably-priced electric scooters that are great for commuters. When it comes to value for money, GoTrax is a better choice than Segway.
GoTrax scooters offer features such as dual braking systems, LED headlights, cruise control, and air-filled tires, all at a fraction of the price of Segway’s models. GoTrax also offers a range of sizes, from the lightweight XR Elite to the heavier XR Ultra, so there is an option for everyone.
Furthermore, GoTrax scooters are easy to use and maintain, making them ideal for beginners. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference, but if you’re looking for an affordable, reliable electric scooter, GoTrax is a great choice.
Conclusion
The GoTrax XR Elite is an excellent choice for riders on a budget who are looking for a scooter that is reliable and efficient. With its powerful motor, up to 18.6 miles of range, and features such as cruise control and LED headlights, the XR Elite is the perfect commuter scooter.
The lack of suspension and gears may be a turnoff for some, but the 8.5-inch air-filled tires and low center of gravity make it a comfortable ride. Its portability, build quality, and price make it a great value, and its warranty and customer service are top-notch. If you’re looking for an affordable electric scooter for commuting, the GoTrax XR Elite is an excellent choice.
