Are you on the hunt for a sleek and efficient electric scooter? Look no further than the NIU KQi3 Pro. This nimble machine is perfect for urban commutes or leisurely rides around town. The KQi3 Pro also features a lightweight design, easy-to-use controls, and a removable battery for convenient charging.
Plus, its advanced technology allows you to monitor the scooter’s performance and location through the NIU app. In this review, we’ll dive into the details and let you know if the NIU KQi3 Pro is worth the investment.
Acceleration
The NIU KQi3 Pro electric scooter is a smooth operator that can surprise you with its quick acceleration. In just 5.2 seconds, it can reach speeds of up to 24 km/h from a standstill, making it one of the fastest scooters in its price range. What’s more impressive is how smoothly the throttle engages, allowing for a comfortable and controlled ride.
This acceleration is a significant improvement over the KQi2 Pro and even rivals the speed of other high-performance scooters like the Fluid Mosquito. So if you’re looking for a quick and efficient mode of transportation, the NIU KQi3 Pro electric scooter is worth considering.
Top Speed
The NIU KQi3 Pro electric scooter is a solid option for those looking for a speedy mode of transportation. While it claimed top speed of 32 km/h may not be entirely accurate, the KQi3 can still reach a respectable 18.6 miles per hour. Compared to other scooters in its class, the KQi3 performs well, surpassing the top speed of the Ninebot Max and KQi2 models.
However, it falls slightly behind the Apollo Air Pro, which can reach speeds of up to 30 km/h. These speeds may not be the fastest, but they are typical for scooters with lower-rated motors. So, if you’re looking for a reliable and reasonably speedy electric scooter, the NIU KQi3 Pro is a great option to consider.
Hill Climb
The NIU KQi3 Pro electric scooter offers solid performance for its price range. It can sustain speeds of up to 27 km/h on typical hills, which is faster than the KQi2 and comparable to the Ninebot Max. In a typical hill test of 60 meters with a 10% grade, the KQi3 climbed at a speed of 11 km/h, which is a 27% improvement over its predecessor, the KQi2.
For city dwellers who don’t encounter many steep slopes, the KQi3 is a reliable and efficient commuter scooter. Its hill-climbing capabilities make it a great option for getting around town without breaking a sweat.
Range and Battery
The NIU KQi3 Pro electric scooter is an excellent choice for commuters who want a reliable and efficient ride. With its high miles per watt-hour, the KQi3 offers a tested range of 34 kilometers, making it a standout in its price range. The scooter can be ridden on full throttle or in E-save mode, which doubles its mileage.
Plus, the US market may soon get the KQi3 Max, which has a larger battery than the Ninebot Max G30 and can provide up to 65 kilometers on a single charge. The KQi3 Pro also maintains 90% of its full speed until the last 3 kilometers of the range test, giving you ample time to get to your destination.
When the battery runs low, the KQi3 Pro displays a warning code, turns the dash bright red, and beeps periodically, so you’re always aware of its status. The battery takes about 6 hours to fully charge with a 2amp charger and comes equipped with NIU Energy BMS, providing 14 levels of protection, including overcharge protection.
With its impressive range, reliable performance, and safety features, the KQi3 Pro electric scooter is an excellent choice for commuters looking for a practical and efficient ride.
Braking System
The KQi3 electric scooter is a great choice for riders looking for a reliable and safe mode of transportation. One of its standout features is its dual mechanical disc brakes, which are responsible for its record-breaking braking distance of just 3.0 meters from 24 km/h to 0 km/h.
These disc brakes are part of the scooter’s aesthetics, as they look good, and come with calipers that squeeze from both sides like hydraulic brakes, making it easier for riders with smaller hands to stop. The regenerative braking system is also a unique variation, allowing the rider to trigger the regen brake depending on how hard they squeeze the lever.
The harder you squeeze, the more regen braking you get. You can also adjust the strength of your regen brakes on the app, making it customizable for your needs. Even with the great braking power, there’s minimal disk brake lock, ensuring you can brake with minimal skidding or falling.
Motor Configuration
The KQi3 electric scooter is designed with a rear-wheel-mounted brushless motor that is similar to the KQi2. However, it has an additional 50 watts, which results in a maximum output of 700W. This added power significantly improves the scooter’s speed and hill-climbing capabilities. In fact, the KQi3 is almost 50% faster than the KQi2, making it a great option for riders who value speed.
It can also climb hills 25% faster than the KQi2, which is a noticeable improvement. In comparison to the popular Segway Ninebot Max, the KQi3 performs equally well in both acceleration and hill climbing speeds. This makes the KQi3 a great option for riders who need a powerful scooter that can handle tough terrain.
Portability
The NIU KQi3 Pro electric scooter boasts an easy and efficient folding system that makes it convenient to carry upstairs or transport in a vehicle. With a sturdy and secure stem latch and a second safety clip, you can quickly fold the handlebars toward the deck. The deck latch is even better than that of the Ninebot Max, with an easy click-to-position mechanism.
To unfold the scooter, simply press the button extension to release the handlebars and reposition them. The stem offers a comfortable grip when lifting the 20 kg scooter, and most adults can manage to carry it a few flights of stairs. The scooter’s 117-centimeter length means it will easily fit in most car trunks.
Cockpit
Having a display on a commuter scooter is a luxury, and the NIU KQi3 electric scooter has a simple one that displays information in low-resolution pixel art-like characters. Even in direct sunlight, the display is easy to read, making it convenient for riders. When the headlights are turned on, the display dims.
However, turning off the headlight automatically brightens the display, ensuring readability. To improve safety, the headlight retains a halo light to keep riders visible. The scooter also connects to an app that enables riders to lock the scooter, track routes, and customize the exact top speed.
The app lets you adjust the energy recovery and toggle cruise control on or off. Additionally, the app runs the user through a novice tutorial that locks the scooter in Eco mode until the rider can complete the instructions.
Lights
The NIU KQi3 electric scooter has an impressive headlight that serves both as a daytime running light and for nighttime riding. Its high-mount design makes it stand out, and the halo light around it is always on, adding to its stylish appearance. The headlight’s angle is adjustable, which is especially helpful in low-light situations, and it has a strong beam with an illumination distance of 18 meters when turned on.
While the headlight is bright, the taillight is not as strong. However, it functions not only as a taillight but also as a brake light that blinks when stopping. This feature helps to alert other road users of the rider’s intentions. In addition to the headlight and taillight, the KQi3 electric scooter also has several reflectors, including a unique one under the headlight, to improve visibility and ensure the rider’s safety.
Wheels
The NIU KQi3 electric scooter boasts wide air tires measuring 24 centimeters x 6 centimeters. These tires offer an exceptional riding experience on city tracks, ensuring excellent grip and handling. These pneumatics also provide a reasonable level of comfort on paved tracks with cracks, light gravel, or grassy trails for a limited time before the vibrations start to transfer to the rider’s body.
However, these tires have a downside in that they are vulnerable to bursts and punctures, which can be inconvenient for low-speed commuting scooters. Solid tires work better in this case, as they eliminate the need to change tires altogether. But in the absence of suspension, NIU opted for pneumatic tires to ensure that riders enjoy a smooth ride, and one could add sealant to the tires for self-healing properties to avoid punctures.
Deck
The design of the deck on the NIU KQi3 electric scooter is unique and stylish, but it may not be the most practical. The steep angles at the front and rear of the deck make it difficult to rest your foot on either part unless you’re okay with an awkward position. However, the deck is quite wide, measuring 51 centimeters by 17 centimeters, which allows riders to find a comfortable riding position.
The deck also features an anti-slip rubber with ridges that provide additional grip, making it easier to keep your footing while riding. The rear wing of the deck extends over the rear fender, which helps prevent the fender from accidentally breaking when riders step over it.
The clearance between the deck and the ground is 8 centimeters, which is not very high, so it is best to avoid rolling over curbs or other obstacles on the road to prevent damage to the deck.
Build Quality
The NIU KQi3 electric scooter boasts a clean and minimalist design that is easy to use. The little plastic covers everywhere, from the charging port to the fenders and display, give the scooter a vehicle-grade fit and finish. You can get the scooter with a rose gold highlight on the stem or in full black attire, with logos and badges that make it hard to mistake for anything else.
The scooter is made of aero-grade aluminum for weight and durability, with a rubber-covered deck inscribed with a clever pun, “NIU Way Forward.” The wide handlebars come with wavy-textured rubber grips, while a mini motorcycle-style shield provides shade over part of the display. The battery comes with patented NIU BMS that provides it with 14 levels of protection, making it durable and reliable.
The scooter is IP54 protected, and the manufacturer warns against riding through more than 2 cm of water, which is great since riders are not left winging the limitations of the protection. Sensitive parts like the charging port come with extra protection, with a hinged, sprung rubber seal that eliminates the risk of being left open or falling off when riding.
The wide 24 centimeters x 6 centimeters air tires deliver superb ride quality on city tracks, with great grip and handling. The deck is wide at 51 centimeters x 17 centimeters, allowing riders to settle on an ideal riding position. It also has an anti-slip rubber with ridges that aid in riding grip.
While the steep angles on the front and rear design of the winged deck make it difficult to rest your foot on either part, the rear wing on the deck extends over the rear fender, preventing the fender from accidental breaking.
Quality of the Ride
The KQi3 electric scooter is a solidly built machine that looks great, but its ride quality has both its highs and lows. The frame and stem are ultra-solid, making the scooter feel like it can withstand anything. While it lacks suspension, the tubeless pneumatic tires help to absorb the impact of the road. However, on the roughest terrain, the grips may vibrate.
The scooter’s geometry allows riders of different heights to find a comfortable position, with wider handlebars that improve handling and stability in straight lines and corners. The handlebar grips have a wavy texture, making them comfortable and preventing slippage.
Riders who like to perform tricks will appreciate the KQi3 Pro’s rear-wheel drive, which improves road feel and steering response. However, the Apollo Air Pro with front suspension remains the best handling scooter in comparison, followed by the KQi2 and KQi3 Pro, while the Ninebot Max trails behind with narrower handlebars.
The KQi3 Pro doesn’t have a zero-start function, which is understandable, but its kick-to-start function may take some getting used to. You have to kick first before throttling, unlike the Ninebot Max, where you can throttle first and then kick. It’s a small annoyance, but riders will eventually adapt to it.
Warranty
When purchasing a scooter, it’s important to consider the warranty that comes with it. The KQi3 electric scooter offers a 2-year warranty, which is a similar strategy used by Korean manufacturers trying to break into the US market. However, it’s important to note what exactly the warranty covers.
In the case of the KQi3, the most expensive parts, including the battery, motor, controller, and dash, are all covered for two years. A longer warranty can give buyers more confidence in the quality of the product, as it shows the manufacturer’s belief in their own product’s reliability and durability.
In comparison, GoTrax offers a 90-day warranty, which may not provide as much assurance to buyers.
Who Can Use the NIU KQi3 Pro?
The NIU KQi3 Pro electric scooter is designed for adults who want a reliable and efficient means of transportation. It is suitable for anyone who wants to travel short distances within a city or town, such as commuting to work or running errands. The scooter has a weight capacity of up to 264 lbs, making it suitable for a wide range of riders.
However, it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations before purchasing any electric scooter to ensure it meets your needs and abilities.
Can Heavy Riders Use the NIU KQi3 Pro?
Yes, heavy riders can use the NIU KQi3 Pro as it has a maximum load capacity of 264 lbs (120 kg), which is higher than some other electric scooters on the market. However, it’s important to note that the weight of the rider will affect the scooter’s performance, especially in terms of speed and range.
Heavier riders may experience reduced acceleration and shorter range compared to lighter riders. Additionally, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and care to ensure the longevity of the scooter, especially if it’s being used by a heavy rider.
What PSI Should KQi3 Pro Tires Be?
The NIU KQi3 Pro scooter comes equipped with pneumatic tires, which provide several advantages over solid tires. With the recommended tire pressure range of 40 to 55 PSI, the KQi3 Pro tires can last up to 10,000 km before needing to be replaced. Pneumatic tires offer better shock absorption, which makes for a smoother and more comfortable ride over rough terrain.
They also have better traction on wet and slippery surfaces, providing increased safety and stability. Additionally, pneumatic tires tend to have better durability and longevity compared to solid tires. So, with proper maintenance and care, the KQi3 Pro’s tires can last for thousands of kilometers, making it a cost-effective and reliable choice for daily commuting or leisurely rides.
What Temperature Should Niu KQi3 Pro Be?
When it comes to charging your NIU scooter, it’s important to keep in mind that some of its features will still be active even if the battery is unplugged. Therefore, whether you’re plugging in the scooter or charging the battery separately, it’s crucial to ensure that the environment meets certain requirements to avoid any potential damage.
Specifically, the temperature should be within the range of 0° to 35° Celsius (32° to 95° Fahrenheit) to ensure optimal conditions for the scooter and its components. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that your NIU scooter remains in top condition and continues to function reliably for years to come.
Is It Worth the Money?
The NIU KQi3 Pro is an ideal electric scooter for everyday commuting and running errands. It’s built to be dependable, durable, and comfortable for long rides, which makes it a reliable option for those who want an SUV of electric scooters. It’s not designed for racing or trail riding, but it’s a serious electric vehicle that has exceptional built quality, so it doesn’t feel like a toy or novelty.
Moreover, the KQi3 Pro is fast and powerful enough to get the job done, with a single rear-wheel-mounted brushless motor that delivers a maximum output of 700W. It’s capable of speeds that are almost 50% quicker than the KQi2, 25% faster on hills, and goes toe-to-toe with the Segway Ninebot Max when it comes to both acceleration and hill climbing speeds.
The scooter is also backed up by an outstanding 2-year warranty, which covers all of the major parts, including the battery, motor, controller, and dash. This warranty speaks volumes about the manufacturer’s confidence in the product. The KQi3 Pro is not a perfect scooter, but it has more features to please a wider range of riders than most in the under $1000 category. It’s definitely an excellent value for the money.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the NIU KQi3 Pro electric scooter is a well-built, dependable, and powerful scooter that’s designed for daily commuting and local errands. Its sleek design, impressive speed, and long-range capability make it an excellent choice for riders who are looking for a high-quality electric scooter that can tackle any challenge.
The KQi3 Pro’s advanced features, such as its large, pixelated display and durable pneumatic tires, make it a standout in its price range. Additionally, the scooter’s exceptional build quality is backed by a 2-year warranty, providing riders with peace of mind that they’re investing in a reliable and long-lasting vehicle.
While it may not be the perfect scooter, the KQi3 Pro offers riders excellent value for their money, and it’s no wonder why it’s become a popular choice among electric scooter enthusiasts. Overall, the NIU KQi3 Pro is an impressive electric scooter that’s worth considering for anyone in the market for a dependable, fast, and stylish mode of transportation.
