NIU KQi 300X Electric Scooter Review

I've been a big advocate for NIU scooters since I first tested the NIU KQi2 Pro in 2023, but one thing has been missing: suspension. That is, until now. NIU is finally ready to take on the market's heavy hitters such as the Ninebot Max G2 and Navee ST3 Pro.

I put the KQi 300X through my extensive standardized tests to see not only how it performs in the real world but also how it holds up against wear and tear over time.

So, did NIU hit a home run with the KQi 300 series, or are there better alternatives? Let's find out.

Performance Summary

Here's a quick look at the main stats from my performance tests as a 175 lbs (80 kg) rider.

NIU KQi 300X

6M Avg: $981.37

$79900

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Speed & Motor Performance

The NIU KQi 300X delivers excellent motor performance. It goes head-to-head with the top performers in the under $1K commuter category.

The 300X has a 500W rear motor (1000W peak) and all the features you're looking for in the app: cruise control, 5 speed modes, and adjustable acceleration strength.

Top Speed Test

NIU claims a 23.7 MPH (38.1 KMH) top speed and I clocked it to 23.6 MPH (38 KMH) in my tests.

The Navee ST3 Pro takes the crown for top speed, with the VMax VX2 Pro and 300X close behind. It's a notable step up from the Max G2. This is plenty of speed for commuting and even enough to give you a kick of adrenalin if you ride recreationally.

Acceleration Test

The difference between the top models gets clearer when we look at acceleration.

The 300X, VX2 Pro GT, and ST3 Pro are in a league of their own, with the 300X and VX2 Pro GT being practically identical in terms of initial acceleration to 15 MPH.

This scooter's take-off is quick. I'm a seasoned rider (I have ridden more than 10K miles on scooters), but the NIU 300X really caught me by surprise. The zippiness compared to the Max G2 is night and day.

I've seen several mentions on Reddit of riders finding it too fast, but NIU has pushed firmware updates that allow you to smoothly transition between "Chill" and "Strong" acceleration via the app. I'd personally have preferred a mid-way between the two, or better yet, a full 1-10 dial of acceleration strength. Still, I always appreciate performance customization settings, which isn't at all a given in the industry.

Hill Climbing Test

The KQi 300X continued to impress on my usual 250 ft (76 m) hill test at an 8% grade. I barely felt the scooter slow down. The ST3 Pro and VX2 Pro GT edge it out slightly, but the difference is marginal.

I also tested it against the steepest hill in my city, which peaks at 17%, and the NIU KQi 300X didn't struggle. It held a steady speed of about 10 MPH, matching the top performers in this category.

If you've got a hilly commute to tackle or you're pushing towards the weight limit, you'll really feel the difference on this scooter compared to the 36V Ninebot Max G2. Like the VX2 Pro GT and ST3 Pro, the 300X's 48V battery holds its performance much better and allows you to climb spicy inclines even toward the end of your charge.

Range & Battery Performance

The NIU KQi 300X scores 26.8 miles (43.1 km) of real-world range from its 48V, 608Wh battery. It's more than enough for most commutes, though not the most range-efficient model in this category.

Range Test

Manufacturer-claimed max ranges are always based on clinically impossible, optimized conditions that, frankly, don't align with how a scooter rides in the real world.

As per usual, I conducted three range tests at different speeds to see what you can expect from the NIU KQi 300X.

The second range test (#2) is the most comparable stat for real-world riding. But if you ride "economically" to maximize range, it's definitely possible to break the 30-mile barrier.

Range Comparison

Despite having a powerful motor and front suspension, the 300X delivers respectable range. It falls behind the VMax VX2 Pro GT which dominates this category, and slightly trails the Max G2, but outperforms the Navee ST3 Pro. For a performance-focused scooter with suspension, the range is quite reasonable.

#1: Speed Priority

#2: Speed Priority

#3: Speed Priority

Range vs. Weight

So, how range-efficient is the NIU KQi 300X? Holding the regular range test (#2) result against its weight, it scores 0.55 miles/lb.

The VMax VX2 Pro GT is in a class of its own at 0.87 miles/lb, thanks to its excellent battery optimization and lack of suspension. The 300X matches the Max G2 (0.56 miles/lb) and notably beats the Navee ST3 Pro (0.45 miles/lb). This is particularly impressive considering the 300X is lighter than both dual-suspension options while still offering front suspension comfort.

Out of the two KQi 300 models, the 300X is gonna offer the most range relative to weight.

Ride Quality

The NIU KQi 300X is very comfortable to ride, particularly thanks to the front suspension. While it doesn't match the dual suspension comfort of the Max G2 or Navee ST3 Pro, it's significantly better than non-suspension options like the VMax VX2 Pro GT.

Tires & Suspension

The 10.5" x 2.5" tubeless CST tires paired with the front fork make a world of difference. They grip well and handle small bumps effectively. The front suspension has 30-40mm of travel and is an absolute game-changer on rougher roads.

Suspension performance does vary with rider weight. At 175 lbs, I find it well-balanced, but lighter riders might find it a bit stiff. While it doesn't match the dual suspension of the Max G2 or ST3 Pro, it offers a significant comfort advantage over the VMax VX2 Pro GT. The lower center of gravity compared to dual-suspension models also contributes to excellent stability. For daily commuters, it's a solid 8/10.

Braking

The dual disc brakes are undeniably effective, but I can't help but feel dual drums would've been more practical as they require less maintenance. I measured the stopping distance from 15 MPH to 10.7 ft, which is as good as it gets under $1K.

The 300X also has adjustable regen braking. Like the best regen brakes, you don't really feel it - it seamlessly integrates with the discs for extra brake power and energy recovery. The regen brake strength can be adjusted via the app. I prefer the "medium" setting.

You can't fault the stopping power, but drums would've been less maintenance.

Deck

The deck is ultra-spacious at 21.6" x 6.7" (54.9 cm x 17 cm). There's plenty of room to adjust your footing on longer rides to avoid fatigue - this is a must for me.

I also really love the arched design at the rear, which serves as an excellent footrest. It's especially useful during sharp acceleration/deceleration as it allows you to shift your weight more easily.

Like its predecessors, the KQi 300X has a low ground clearance, measuring 2.9" (7.4 cm) - that's slightly higher than the KQi3s. Sure, you won't be hopping curbs (which you shouldn't be doing anyway), but it lowers the center of gravity, which is part of the reason all the NIU scooters feel so stable. The 300X just feels incredibly planted and responsive on dry and wet roads alike.

The 300X just feels incredibly planted and responsive on dry and wet roads alike. This lower center of gravity compared to taller dual-suspension models is one of the 300X's underrated advantages.

Cockpit/Display

The KQi 300X's cockpit is wide, well-designed and user-friendly. The display is crisp and readable in all lighting conditions, and I really like the introduction of turn signals for safety - it's something every commuter scooter should have, in my opinion.

NIU has transitioned to half-twist throttles on the 300X. I prefer thumb throttles, but it's all personal preference. Still, it feels very smooth. There is no notable input lag, and adjusting your speed gradually is easy.

I would've liked to see an electronic horn, but it's not a deal-breaker. The main button below the screen could've had better tactile feedback, but the turn signal buttons are fine.

Portability

At 48.7 lbs (22.1 kg), the NIU KQi 300X isn't a featherweight, but the folding setup is arguably the best I've tried.

Folding is easy and intuitive. The folding mechanism itself is sturdy yet easy to release without excessive force, and there's a safety pin to prevent accidental folding - great for peace of mind while riding. There's a hook and lock system at the rear that keeps the stem in place when folded and a quick-release button for unfolding.

When it comes to carrying, the 300X is pretty manageable. While heavier than non-suspension options, it's notably easier to carry than the dual-suspension competitors, striking a good balance between comfort features and portability.

The weight distribution is even for carrying, but the folded size might be an issue if you're trying to squeeze it into a small car trunk or take it on crowded public transport.

Overall, the 300X gets a solid 8/10 on portability. Niu has clearly prioritized performance and comfort, but they've done a great job of making it as portable as possible within those constraints. For demanding commutes, I think it strikes a good balance.

Build Quality & Safety

The NIU KQi 300X is built like a tank. Every component screams quality. It's the kind of scooter that makes you feel confident the moment you step on it, and that feeling only grows as you ride.

The 300X showcases NIU's commitment to build quality that rivals and often exceeds more expensive competitors. Every component feels overbuilt in the best way - this is one of the most robust scooters in the sub-$1K category.

I've stress-tested the build to see how it handles wear and tear over time, for instance, by operating the folding mechanism and kickstand 500 times, and it's held up with no signs of weakness.

Fenders are thick, have multiple contact points with the body, and disperse water really well.

The build has an IP66 weather resistance rating, and anecdotally, it handles rain nicely. I live in Denmark and have been caught out in the rain multiple times on the 300X (it rains more than 170 days a year here), and I haven't had any issues. There are no obvious signs of weakness or vulnerable gaps in the build - everything is insulated and protected to a high standard.

Then there's the visibility setup. We've got the usual high-mounted halo headlight, which is super bright and visible at all times of the day, and a wide taillight that increases in brightness as you engage the brakes. There are also several reflectors on the sides to ensure 360-degree visibility, something too many brands skimp on. The headlight deserves special mention - it's brighter and more effective than what you'll find on the ST3 Pro or VX2 Pro GT, making night riding notably safer.

But the true stars of the show are the handlebar turn signals. For a scooter to be a serious commuter contender today, it's a must. They're wide and visible from any direction, but I think they cut off too fast. If you're waiting at a stoplight, the 5-second (ish) auto turn-off is annoying.

There's just nothing to fault the KQi 300X on. It's incredibly well-built and built on the proven reliability of its predecessor, but they've stepped up in terms of visibility. This gives me no other option than to grade the 300X a 10/10 on Build Quality and Safety.

Verdict - Who Should Buy The NIU KQi 300X?

The NIU KQi 300X remains a masterclass in build quality. It rides smoothly, is built like a tank, and crushes hills with ease. While dual-suspension models like the ST3 Pro offer more comfort, the 300X counters with best-in-class braking, lower weight, and exceptional reliability. It's still an excellent choice for demanding commutes and heavier riders.

NIU KQi 300X

6M Avg: $981.37

$79900

Get Deal

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Alternatives I recommend

• More range: Vmax VX2 Pro GT
• Better ride quality: Navee ST3 Pro or Segway Ninebot Max G2