The Zero 9 electric scooter is a popular choice among riders who want a powerful and portable mode of transportation. With its sturdy construction and efficient motor, it can handle steep hills and rough terrain with ease. The Zero 9 also features a long-lasting battery that allows for extended rides, making it ideal for commuting or leisurely trips.
In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the key features of the Zero 9 electric scooter and evaluate its performance, comfort, and overall value. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to the world of electric scooters, the Zero 9 is definitely worth considering
Acceleration
The Zero 9’s rear motor is a 600 W powerhouse with a peak power output of 1200 watts. It delivers excellent acceleration up to around 18 mph, after which it gradually increases to its top speed. The Zero 9 can reach 15 mph in just 4.2 seconds, 20 mph in 7.1 seconds, and 25 mph in 11.8 seconds, making it much faster than a typical ride-share scooter.
While the motor is generally quiet, it can be slightly noisier at lower speeds, producing a noticeable hum below 10 mph. However, once you accelerate past this speed, the motor becomes pleasantly quiet, allowing you to enjoy the ride without any annoying noise.
Top Speed
The Zero 9 electric scooter is capable of reaching a top speed of 28.4 mph, which is incredibly fast for a scooter. However, it’s important to note that this is the certified top speed and may vary depending on factors such as rider weight, terrain, and battery life.
For everyday use, cruising at 15 to 20 mph on the Zero 9 feels quick and is sufficient for most riders. In comparison, typical ride-share scooters are usually limited to around 16 mph.
Range
With a maximum range of 25 miles on a single charge, the Zero 9 electric scooter is ideal for those who plan to travel longer distances. However, it’s important to note that this maximum range can only be achieved if the rider is in the lowest speed setting and weighs no more than 75 kg.
Fortunately, the Zero 9 has an intuitive QS-S4 display that allows riders to switch up their riding mode to suit their needs. In full power mode, the realistic mileage of the Zero 9 is around 18 miles, which is still impressive and more than enough for most commutes.
Hill Climb
The Zero 9’s hill-climbing ability might not be its strong suit, given its lack of dual motors. It can handle hills with up to a 15-degree incline rate, depending on the rider’s weight and the mode selected. However, it falls short compared to the VSETT 9+, which can handle steeper gradients of up to 25 degrees.
Nevertheless, the Zero 9’s hill-climbing performance is in line with other similar scooters. It can climb hills twice as fast as entry-level scooters, but it is also 50% slower than high-performance models.
Suspension
The Zero 9 electric scooter features front and rear springs that effectively dampen vibrations while riding on well-maintained streets. The vertically-aligned front spring absorbs the impact, while the dual, horizontally-aligned springs cushion the vibrations. However, the suspension doesn’t have much travel, which may make it feel stiff.
Additionally, it’s not adjustable, so you can’t tailor it to fit different road surfaces. Nonetheless, if you’re planning to ride mostly on predictable city surfaces, this should not be a major concern. Furthermore, the Zero 9 is equipped with pneumatic tires that provide an added layer of protection against jarring impacts on rougher roads. These tires are filled with air, which helps to further cushion the ride.
The Braking System
The Zero 9 features a powerful brake system that includes a front disc and a rear drum brake, both of which are cable-actuated and easily accessible via the handlebars. This combination allows the Zero 9 to come to a complete stop in just 3.3 meters when traveling at 15 mph.
While many other scooters in this price range have dual mechanical brakes, the Zero 9 is unique in its use of two different types of brakes. This setup offers several advantages, such as the lower maintenance required for drum brakes compared to disc brakes. Additionally, the Zero 9 has a regenerative braking system that converts kinetic energy from braking into battery power, extending the scooter’s maximum range.
You can adjust the strength of the regenerative braking system or turn it off completely using the QS-S4 display.
Charging Time
When it comes to charging, the Zero 9 offers a standard option that takes 6 to 8 hours to fully recharge. This may be suitable for those who have enough time to wait before taking their next ride. However, for those who want to reduce their charging time, the Zero 9 offers a fast charger that can cut the charging time in half.
This means you can enjoy your scooter with less downtime and get back on the road more quickly. Keep in mind that while the fast charger is an optional purchase, it may be worth the investment for those who frequently use their Zero 9 and need a faster charging solution.
Portability
The Zero 9 scooter has three mechanisms that make it easy to carry and store. The handlebars fold down securely thanks to a solid screw-type mechanism. The entire scooter collapses through an anodized metallic tab and hinges on the deck. Additionally, the adjustable stem collapses, providing ergonomic customization without sacrificing portability.
Although it weighs 18 kg, which isn’t the lightest, the scooter is still easy to carry for most adults and compact enough when folded to fit in a small car’s trunk. If weight is a concern, there are other top-rated, lighter scooters such as the Xiaomi Mi M365 or Gotrax GXL Commuter.
Handlebars
One of the standout features of the Zero 9 electric scooter is its adjustable handlebar height. The telescopic stem allows riders to position the handlebars anywhere between 29 and 39 inches from the deck, which can be easily adjusted using the quick-release locking lever. However, with a lot of adjustable parts comes the risk of stem wobble, and some reviewers have noted that the handlebars may require tightening after a few rides.
The handlebars also feature hand-operated mechanical brake levers and the QS-S4 display, which serves as both a finger throttle and a display screen for speed, battery life, and riding mode. The grips are ergonomically shaped and coated in a robust and grippy rubber, making them a step up from cheaper alternatives on the market.
Frame
The Zero 9 electric scooter is a stylish ride that’s sure to turn heads with its bold two-tone black and red color palette. The frame is well-finished and the exposed cabling at the top and bottom of the steering column keeps the aesthetic clean. The lighting setup on the Zero 9 is also impressive, with strips of vibrant LED lighting embedded on both sides of the deck and the front of the stem, providing both vertical and horizontal illumination.
The red accents are subtle enough to avoid being overwhelming, and the Zero branding is prominent but not too loud. It’s interesting to note how the red of the Zero 9 contrasts dramatically with the blue branding of its twin, the Apollo City, further emphasizing the rivalry between these two models.
Deck
The Zero 9 electric scooter boasts ample standing room on its skateboard-shaped deck, measuring 19.5 inches long and 7.7 inches wide. While the deck is sparsely coated in grip tape columns that look cool, they may not provide as much traction as fully coated decks. One downside of the deck is the lack of a kick plate at the rear, which allows riders to lean into their ride and strike a more aerodynamic posture when hitting high speeds.
However, the rear fender is built to protect against mud splashes and not as a footrest. While kick plates are important for some riders, they’re not necessary for commuting. One highlight of the deck is its 4 inches of ground clearance, which provides a comfortable ride without the risk of bottoming out.
Lights
The Zero 9 may not have the most unique design or specifications, but its appearance is a real head-turner. With an abundance of swag lighting, the Zero 9’s appearance can be likened to that of a downtown strip in an 80s movie or the sci-fi flick, Tron. It is bedecked with slender LED strips that run the length of its stem and deck, making it one of the most captivating scooters in its class.
Additionally, the Zero 9 has a responsive tail light incorporated into the rear of the deck. For those with an eye for aesthetics, it’s a dream come true. The only downside is the headlight, which is situated on the fender, providing insufficient illumination for night rides. As a result, riders will need to utilize additional rechargeable lights for safe nighttime riding.
Tires
The Zero 9 comes with big air-filled tires, which is a rare treat in the world of electric scooters. These tires are 8.5 inches in size, which is generous enough to offer excellent traction and handling. While you may have to be careful about punctures, the benefits of these pneumatic tires far outweigh the risks.
They provide superior shock absorption and suspension that can protect you from the jolts and bumps of uneven roads. With these tires, you can ride through the city streets with ease and comfort. They offer the perfect balance between nimbleness and stability, making the Zero 9 an excellent choice for those who want a smooth and comfortable ride.
The Controls and Display
The Zero 9 scooter boasts a sturdy steering column and comfortable grips that are coated with a rubber material to provide an excellent grip, making it easier to control the scooter when riding. The handlebars are also fitted with a simple yet functional QS-S4 LCD that displays essential information such as speed, distance traveled, gear, and battery level.
The LCD screen also features two buttons that allow for various functions to be performed, either separately or in combination. When it comes to braking, the Zero 9’s hand levers are located on either side of the handlebars for easy access and quick stopping power.
Build Quality
The Zero 9 electric scooter has a sturdy and reliable design that can handle speeds up to 24 mph without rattling or making noise. Its high-quality LG battery and durable frame make it a comfortable and reliable ride. Additionally, the scooter is easy to pack down and store due to its folding handlebars and stem, which can compress by 10 inches.
However, the scooter’s lack of a water-resistance rating may be a concern for riders who live in areas with frequent rainfall or wet conditions. While competitors like the VSETT 8R and 9+ and the Apollo City have water-resistance certifications, the Zero 9 does not offer the same level of protection.
The Quality of the Ride
The Zero 9’s suspension system isn’t revolutionary, but it still offers a reliable ride that’s comfortable enough for well-maintained roads and sidewalks. The pneumatic tires and ample clearance on the deck help absorb some of the impacts from urban terrain, but the scooter’s suspension can’t handle big impacts, so your knees and wrists may suffer.
For those seeking better ride quality, the VSETT 9+ (15.6Ah) is a stand-out scooter that uses an adjustable spring and swingarm suspension system for better compression and damping. The larger, vertically aligned springs are more equipped to absorb impacts, and the swingarms ensure smooth transitions.
The VSETT 8R also boasts a similar suspension system and was originally intended to be the Pro line of the Zero 8 and 9 before rebranding to VSETT. Both VSETT models provide superior ride comfort compared to the Zero 9, especially on rougher terrain or light off-road paths.
Warranty
If you purchase the Zero 9 electric scooter from REV Rides, you’ll be covered by a 12-month warranty. However, the warranty is pretty standard and doesn’t cover wear and tear or any damage caused by neglect or abuse. It also excludes labor costs, which means you might have to pay for repairs even if the damage is covered.
To get more coverage, you can choose to extend the warranty through third-party protection company Extend. The cost of an extra year is $209, two years is $319, and three years is $419. It’s important to note that the warranty doesn’t cover damages caused by accidents or environmental factors like wind, rain, and fire, nor does it cover any unauthorized modifications you make to the scooter.
The Apollo City has a warranty that matches the Zero 9 but also provides an additional 12 months of cover for repairs without a service fee.
Maintenance
To take care of your Zero 9 electric scooter, you should follow some best practices. First, make sure you regularly charge the battery to avoid dead cells. Proper storage is also important, as is periodically servicing moving parts. After using the scooter, it’s a good idea to clean it and inspect the brake cables for signs of wear and tear. Don’t forget to check the tire pressure before each ride and tighten any loose screws or nuts.
It’s best to avoid riding in the rain or through pools of water since the Zero 9 is not entirely waterproof. By following these simple tips, you can keep your Zero 9 in good condition and enjoy many safe and fun rides.
Is the Price Tag of Zero 9 Worth it?
The Zero 9 and Apollo City share the same frame and materials, with the only difference being their branding and color schemes. However, the Apollo City has a longer range, higher load capacity, and better water resistance than the Zero 9. The two models have different batteries, with the City powered by Dynavolt cells and the Zero 9 using LG cells.
While the City’s battery has better performance initially, the Zero 9’s battery has a longer lifespan and outperforms the City’s over time. The Apollo City is a better option if you want more value for your money, and if speed and acceleration are important, the VSETT 9+ is the way to go. If mileage is your main concern, the VSETT 8R is the better choice.
Can Heavy Riders Use the Zero 9?
Yes, heavy riders can use the Zero 9, but it may not perform as well as it would for lighter riders. The Zero 9 has a maximum load capacity of 220 lbs or 100 kg, which is generally sufficient for most adult riders. However, heavier riders may experience a reduced range and speed due to the increased load on the scooter.
It’s important to note that exceeding the maximum load capacity can also put undue stress on the motor, brakes, and other components, which can lead to premature wear and tear. Therefore, it’s recommended to stay within the specified weight limit to ensure safe and optimal performance of the Zero 9.
Conclusion
The Zero 9 is a well-made electric scooter with efficient brakes, good suspension, and decent power. However, the additional features that come with it compared to its predecessor, the Zero 8, do not justify the high price. For $100 less, Apollo City offers a similar experience.
The Zero 9 is a good purchase for those who want to spend a little extra on added features, but for those who are looking for a high-end scooter, the Zero 10X is recommended. Overall, the Zero 9 is a solid choice for new or experienced riders who want a reliable and well-built electric scooter.
