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NIU KQi2 Pro Electric Scooter Review

The KQi2 Pro is a value-packed entry-level electric scooter. It excels in reliability and range, but leaves something to be desired in motor performance.

in Electric Scooters
Founder & EV Reviewer
NIU KQi2 Pro electric scooter with scenic fjord in the background
8.4
Our Rating
View Full Ratings chevron-down
8
Speed
7
Acceleration & Hills
9
Range
8
Portability
8
Ride Quality
10
Build Quality
8
Safety
8
Features
10
Value

Our review score is based on thorough real-world testing and is always held up against comparable models.

How We Test
Key Specs

Values marked with '*' are based on our independent testing and may differ from those specified by the manufacturer.

Top Speed
17.3 MPH*
Range
19.8 miles*
Motor
300 W
Battery
365 Wh
Tires
10"
Weight
40.6 lbs
Quick Take
The NIU KQi2 Pro is one of the best commuter scooters under $600. We love the build, ride quality and smart app features, but it falls short on speed, acceleration and hill climbing.
What I like
  • checkmarkIncredibly reliable
  • checkmarkSolid range
  • checkmarkStable ride and good handling
  • checkmarkGreat lights setup
  • checkmarkPacked with value
  • checkmarkMinimalistic design with hidden cables
  • checkmarkIndustry-leading warranty
What I don't like
  • crossSlow charging
  • crossSlow acceleration despite 48V setup
  • crossNo zero-start
  • crossPoor on hills

The NIU KQi2 Pro has been hailed as one of the most reliable entry-level commuter scooters ever. We put it through more than 30 rigorous testing points to see if it lives up to its reputation.

Founded by two Xiaomi ex-employees, NIU has made crucial strides in the electric vehicle industry since 2014.

The KQi2 Pro remains one of the most popular models in the electric scooter market. But does it live up to the hype? Is it truly worthy of its popularity? Find out in this deep-dive, hands-on review.

NIU KQi2 Pro At A Glance

Let's take a quick look at what the KQi2 Pro offers before jumping deep into our performance tests.

Motor Power48V, 300W rear motor
Battery48V, 7,6 = 365 Wh
Weight40.6 lbs (18.4 kg)
Max Load220 lbs (99.8 kg)
Tires10" x 2.3", tubeless pneumatic
BrakesDrum brake, electronic regen brake
Weather ResistanceIP54

Speed & Motor Performance

Closeup of the motor on the NIU KQi2 Pro

The NIU KQi2 Pro has a 48V 300W rear hub motor with a peak output of 600W. NIU states it has a top speed of 17.4 MPH (28 KMH).

The KQi2 Pro has four riding modes: E-Save / Sport / Custom / Pedestrian. Having multiple riding modes and being able to set a custom speed allows you to familiarize yourself with the ride, adapt to traffic, and stay within local laws and legislation.

The US firmware includes a cruise control function, relieving your throttle hand. Unfortunately, this feature isn't available for EU users.

While earlier firmware allowed for zero-start, the KQi2 Pro is exclusively kick-to-start now. It is a justified safety feature, but having the ability to toggle it on/off would be nice for adept users.

Top Speed Test

We tested the top speed using pro-grade benchmarking gear. As a 175 lbs (79 kg) rider, I was able to reach a top speed of 17.3 MPH (27.8 KMH). It just about lives up to its promise.

ModelTop Speed$/Speed
NIU KQi2 Pro
$486.98 USD
17.3 MPH
(27.8 KMH)
$28.15/MPH
Segway Ninebot Max G30P
$799.99 USD
18.4 MPH
(29.6 KMH)
$43.48/MPH
NIU KQi3 Pro
$599 USD
19.7 MPH
(31.7 KMH)
$30.41/MPH
NIU KQi3 Max
$674.99 USD
23 MPH
(37 KMH)
$29.35/MPH
TurboAnt V8
$549.98 USD
19.41 MPH
(31.2 KMH)
$28.33/MPH
TurboAnt X7 Max
$429.98 USD
19.55 MPH
(31.5 KMH)
$21.99/MPH
Atomi Alpha
$329 USD
20.8 MPH
(33.5 KMH)
$15.82/MPH

Despite running at 48V, the NIU KQi2 Pro is not the fastest scooter around. However, it is not designed to be a fast scooter, so it makes sense it doesn't match the likes of the Turboant V8 and Atomi Alpha on speed.

Interestingly, the KQi2 Pro offers some of the best speed-to-cost value, so you get ample speed for your money.

Acceleration Test

Acceleration test on the NIU KQi2 Pro
play

We tested the acceleration curve of the KQi2 Pro. The following results are based on 10+ test rides.

IntervalAverageBest
0-15 MPH (24 KMH)8.83 s7.69 s
0-17.3 MPH (27.8 KMH)16.2 s15.4 s

We averaged 15 MPH in 8.83 seconds (best: 7.69 seconds). It climbs to its top speed in 16.2 seconds on average (best: 15.4 seconds).

Model0-15 MPH0-20 MPH
NIU KQi2 Pro8.83 s-
Segway Ninebot Max G30P5.85 s-
NIU KQi3 Pro4.82 s-
NIU KQi3 Max4.36 s8.89 s
TurboAnt V88.51 s-
TurboAnt X7 Max8.29 s-
Atomi Alpha6.71 s11.82 s

Expectedly, the KQi2 Pro does not match the KQi3 Pro or KQi3 Max. It falls notably short of the Segway Ninebot Max but is on par with the Turboant offerings.

Considering it runs at 48V, I would expect it to perform a tad better than 36V alternatives, but with a modest 300W motor, it isn't quick off the mark.

Hill Climb Test

We tested the KQi2 Pro on a 250 ft (76 m) hill with an average incline of 8%. We completed the test in 30.48 seconds with an average speed of 5.6 MPH (9 KMH).

ModelTimeSpeed
NIU KQi2 Pro30.48 s5.6 MPH (9 KMH)
Segway Ninebot Max G30P28.8 s5.9 MPH (9.5 KMH)
NIU KQi3 Pro24.4 s7 MPH (11.2 KMH)
NIU KQi3 Max11.5 s14.8 MPH (23.9 KMH)
TurboAnt V829.2 s5.8 MPH (9.4 KMH)
TurboAnt X7 Max26.3 s6.5 MPH (10.4 KMH)
Atomi Alpha25.3 s6.7 MPH (10.8 KMH)

As the previous motor performance test might've suggested, the KQi2 Pro doesn't climb hills well, but it isn't far off the Segway and Turboant alternatives.

If you live in a hilly area or are on the heavier side of 200 lbs, you may want to look at the NIU flagship models (KQi3 Pro and KQi3 Max).

Motor Performance Summary

The NIU KQi2 Pro is relatively slow, doesn't accelerate fast, and struggles on hills. However, it is intended to be an affordable, lightweight city electric scooter, hence the tradeoffs in motor performance.

The KQi2 Pro is sufficient for riders under 180 lbs (82 kg) in flat areas, but bigger riders will be better served with more power.

NIU KQi2 Pro
NIU KQi2 Pro
Avg: $460.91
$48685
Get Deal

Range & Battery Performance

Closeup of charging port on the NIU KQi2 Pro

The KQi2 Pro has a 48V, 7.6Ah battery with an effective capacity of 365 Wh. It has a specified range of 24.9 miles (40.1 km).

Unlike most competitors, this electric scooter runs its battery at 48V. This allows the scooter to draw more current, positively affecting motor performance. However, this advantage seems to be offset as the scooter has below-average motor power.

The KQi2 Pro uses 18650 cells in its battery pack, which is industry standard. They have a high discharge rate and good longevity, so your battery should perform well through hundreds of charges.

The included charger has 70W output power, resulting in a charge time of about 7 hours. This is considered slow. The Segway Max charges at 121W, the KQi3s at 108W, and the Turboants at 84W.

Battery Capacity Comparison

ModelBattery Capacity$/Wh
NIU KQi2 Pro
($486.98 USD)
365 Wh
(48V, 7.6Ah)
$1.33/Wh
Segway Ninebot Max G30P
($799.99 USD)
551 Wh
(36V, 15.3Ah)
$1.45/Wh
NIU KQi3 Pro
($599.00 USD)
486.7 Wh
(48V, 10.1Ah)
$1.23/Wh
NIU KQi3 Max
($674.99 USD)
608 Wh
(48V, 12.7Ah)
$1.11/Wh
TurboAnt V8
($549.98 USD)
540 Wh
(36V, 15Ah)
$1.02/Wh
TurboAnt X7 Max
($429.98 USD)
360 Wh
(36V, 10Ah)
$1.19/Wh
Atomi Alpha
($329.00 USD)
360 Wh
(36V, 10Ah)
$0.91/Wh
Based on current best prices (updated every 24 hours)

The battery capacity of the KQi2 Pro is not something to write home about. It has 40% less capacity than the Ninebot Max G30, 29% less than the KQi3 Pro, and 50% less than the KQi3 Max.

However, the capacity-to-cost ratio is solid. It also beats the Atomi Alpha and Turboant X7 Max on capacity with a hair.

Range Test

Throughout years of testing, I have found that capacity and real-world range aren't always synonymous. Anything from battery quality to scooter weight and efficiency can greatly impact performance.

To understand the KQi2 Pro's range capabilities, I conducted three range tests at various speeds. All range tests with energy recovery (regen brakes) set to Medium.

Test (#)RangeAvg. Speed
#1: Speed Priority17.2 miles
27.7 km
16.4 MPH
26.4 KMH
#2: Regular19.8 miles
31.9 km
14.9 MPH
24 KMH
#3: Range Priority22.3 miles
35.9 km
12.7 MPH
20.4 KMH

In the first test, we focused on going fast. Averaging 16.4 MPH, we got 17.2 miles of range.

The second test is as close to real-world riding conditions as possible. At 14.9 MPH, we got 19.8 miles of range.

In the last test, we prioritized range by going slower and riding economically. With an average speed of 12.7 MPH, we got 22.3 miles of range.

These are, by all means, impressive numbers. Let's hold them up against the competition.

Range Comparison

Range comparison NIU KQi2 Pro

#1: Speed Priority

ModelRangeAvg. Speed
NIU KQi2 Pro17.2 miles
(27.7 km)
16.4 MPH
(26.4 KMH)
Segway Ninebot Max G30P27.6 miles
(44.4 km)
17.0 MPH
(27.4 KMH)
NIU KQi3 Pro17.9 miles
(28.8 km)
18.1 MPH
(29.1 KMH)
NIU KQi3 Max24.6 miles
(39.6 km)
19.5 MPH
(31.4 KMH)
TurboAnt V818.9 miles
(30.4 km)
17.8 MPH
(28.6 KMH)
TurboAnt X7 Max13.4 miles
(21.6 km)
17.9 MPH
(28.8 KMH)
Atomi Alpha16.3 miles
(26.2 km)
17.9 MPH
(28.8 KMH)
Test #1 (Speed Priority), 175 lbs (80 kg) rider

#2: Regular

ModelRangeAvg. Speed
NIU KQi2 Pro19.8 miles
(31.9 km)
14.9 MPH
(24 KMH)
Segway Ninebot Max G30P30.3 miles
(48.8 km)
14.7 MPH
(23.7 KMH)
NIU KQi3 Pro23.5 miles
(37.8 km)
14.9 MPH
(24 KMH)
NIU KQi3 Max31.1 miles
(50.1 km)
15.1 MPH
(24.3 KMH)
TurboAnt V821.3 miles
(34.3 km)
15.1 MPH
(24.3 KMH)
TurboAnt X7 Max15.4 miles
(24.8 km)
14.8 MPH
(23.8 KMH)
Atomi Alpha18.9 miles
(30.4 km)
15 MPH
(24.1 KMH)
Test #2 (Regular Speed), 175 lbs (80 kg) rider

#3: Range Priority

ModelRangeAvg. Speed
NIU KQi2 Pro22.3 miles
(35.9 km)
12.7 MPH
(20.4 KMH)
Segway Ninebot Max G30P34.5 miles
(55.5 km)
11.9 MPH
(19.2 KMH)
NIU KQi3 Pro26.9 miles
(43.3 km)
12.5 MPH
(20.1 KMH)
NIU KQi3 Max35.9 miles
(57.8 km)
12.2 MPH
(19.6 KMH)
TurboAnt V825.4 miles
(40.9 km)
12.6 MPH
(20.3 KMH)
TurboAnt X7 Max18.2 miles
(29.3 km)
12.5 MPH
(20.1 KMH)
Atomi Alpha21.2 miles
(34.1 km)
12.9 MPH
(20.8 KMH)
Test #3 (Range Priority), 175 lbs (80 kg) rider

Despite having almost the same battery capacity as the Turboant X7 Max and Atomi Alpha, the NIU KQi2 Pro beats them both. It offers about 5% more range than the Atomi Alpha and roughly 23% more than the X7 Max.

Despite its much larger battery capacity, it doesn't fall far off the Turboant V8.

It isn't far off the range performance of the KQi3 Pro. The Segway Max G30P and KQi3 Max remain the range kings in single-motor scooters under $1,000 USD.

Battery Performance Summary

Based on the data points above, we can conclude that the NIU KQi2 Pro has solid battery performance. It outperforms alternatives with the same capacity, suggesting the use of high-quality battery cells and an efficient ride altogether.

If your commute is below 15 miles, you're golden with the KQi2 Pro. It'll serve you fine even if you floor the throttle throughout.

For commutes above 20 miles, you must be careful with power consumption or opt for a scooter with a high battery capacity, such as the KQi3 Max or Ninebot Max.

NIU KQi2 Pro
NIU KQi2 Pro
Avg: $460.91
$48685
Get Deal

Ride Quality

Testing the suspension on the NIU KQi2 Pro
play

The NIU KQi2 Pro is a confidence-inspiring ride. Its large tubeless tires and stable design make for an above-average ride experience.

Tires & Suspension

Closeup of the front tire on the NIU KQi2 Pro

The scooter is equipped with 10" x 2.3" pneumatic tubeless tires that serve to dampen the ride. They do a good job of diminishing road vibrations, and the deep tread allows for solid traction and water diversion.

Tubeless tires are generally favored in the electric scooter industry. They're much smoother to ride on than solid tires and handle much better. They're also less prone to punctures and pinch flats than tubed tires.

As a nice bonus, the scooter comes with an extension nozzle that will allow for easy inflation if you can't access the tire nozzle directly with your tire pump.

The KQi2 Pro has no built-in suspension system, but it is not needed for typical city commuting, which this scooter is designed for.

The tires are a fraction narrower than those seen on the Ninebot Max, but it doesn't make a noticeable difference in ride quality. All in all, the tire setup is great.

The scooter is rear-wheel driven (motor in the rear wheel), improves traction control, and provides a more balanced riding experience overall. It does affect acceleration negatively, but as it isn't intended to be a speed beast, we like the tradeoff.

Braking

Front-wheel drum brake on the NIU KQi2 Pro electric scooter

This elegant entry-level scooter has a drum brake at the front and electronic regen braking. Drum brakes are ideal for single-motor scooters as they provide enough stopping power while being low maintenance compared to disc brakes.

The regen braking is integrated with the drum brake for a seamless experience that provides more stopping power while recovering some of that energy into more range.

The regen braking can be adjusted in power via the smartphone app to match your needs. I found the Medium setting to be sufficient in stopping power while being smooth. If you want to maximize range, you can go for the full-strength setting.

I tested the stopping distance on dry, smooth asphalt from 15 MPH to a full stop. The braking distance was 14.6 feet.

ModelBraking Distance
NIU KQi2 Pro14.6 ft (4.5 m)
Segway Ninebot Max G30P12.6 ft (3.8 m)
NIU KQi3 Pro10.4 ft (3.2 m)
NIU KQi3 Max10.4 ft (3.2 m)
TurboAnt V813.9 ft (4.2 m)
TurboAnt X7 Max15.2 ft (4.6 m)
Atomi Alpha15.9 ft (4.8 m)
Braking from 15 MPH (24.2 KMH).

The KQi3s use dual disc brakes, which obviously leads to stronger braking. It still beats the Alpha and X7 Max, however.

Anything below 16 feet is good in this price class, and with the regen braking at full strength, I imagine you can get a sub 13 ft brake distance.

Deck

Deck on the NIU KQi2 Pro

The KQi2 Pro has 18.5" x 5.3" (47 cm x 13.5 cm) of usable deck space. It is completely flat and has a classic grip tape surface, as skateboarders swear by. It provides a superior grip but isn't as nice to look at as a rubberized surface.

You also risk the odd chance of scraping your skin on it, which isn't a forgiving feeling. However, as a low-cost, zero-nonsense solution, we like it. You can also buy various grip tape designs from the official NIU store to suit your style. An extra piece of grip tape comes included with the scooter.

The deck doesn't match the KQi3s or Ninebot Max in size, but it is sizable enough for most riders. However, larger riders may want to opt for a scooter in the KQi3 range.

The scooter has a ground clearance of 2.8" (7.1 cm). This isn't a lot, but it is enough to handle most road impurities and the occasional pothole. Again, the design decision aligns with the scooter's intended use.

The benefit of having low ground clearance is that it handles better due to a lower center of gravity. You'll know what I mean if you've ever ridden an off-road beast with ultra-high ground clearance.

Cockpit

Cockpit and handlebars on the NIU KQi2 Pro scooter

The cockpit on the NIU KQi2 Pro is beautifully designed. It is extremely streamlined, and there are very few visible cables.

The handlebars measure 20.3" (51.6 cm). That is a bit wider than the Segway Ninebot Max but narrower than the KQi3s. It'll be sufficient for most riders, but very tall/wide riders may want extra length. NIU advertises that the scooter is intended for riders up to 6'6" (2 m), but I would suggest that the true upper limit of comfort is around 6'4".

The deck-to-handlebar height is 39.4" (100 cm), which is the sweet spot for comfort for most riders.

The scooter has interesting handles. They're soft and have a twirled surface that provides decent grip. They could be shaped more ergonomically, but it will feel comfortable for riders with small and big hands alike.

Throttle on NIU KQi2 Pro

The thumb throttle is smooth to operate, and the input lag is minimal. You can easily make small or large adjustments to your speed, and its textured soft rubber surface is comfortable on the thumb.

Left handlebar on NIU KQi2 Pro

On the left side, you have a brake lever that controls both electronic regen braking and the mechanical drum brake at the front. It feels sturdy and didn't require any tuning out of the box.

Next to the brake lever, you have a mechanical bell. There isn't much to write about, but it does the job. We do prefer an integrated bell, as seen on the Ninebot Max, as it takes up less handlebar space and doesn't get in the way of anything.

Closeup of the display on the NIU KQi2 Pro

The scooter has a visor installed at the front of the handlebars. To this day, I am unsure of its function, but I believe it serves to protect you from any reflections when running the headlight at light.

The instrument dashboard is located in the middle of the cockpit. It shows important information like Bluetooth status, speed, light status, riding mode, battery level, and error codes/warnings. It is large, and clarity is good even in direct sunlight.

Portability

Folding the NIU KQi2 Pro
play

The NIU KQi2 Pro is a fairly light and portable scooter that folds well into a compact size. But if you're after an ultra-portable solution, there are lighter alternatives.

Weight & Dimensions

NIU KQi2 Pro folded

The KQi2 Pro weighs 40.6 lbs (18.4 kg).

ModelWeight (lbs)Weight (kg)
NIU KQi2 Pro40.6 lbs18.4 kg
Segway Ninebot Max G30P41.2 lbs18.7 kg
NIU KQi3 Pro44.8 lbs20.3 kg
NIU KQi3 Max46.3 lbs21 kg
TurboAnt V847.6 lbs21.6 kg
TurboAnt X7 Max34.2 lbs15.5 kg
Atomi Alpha36.8 lbs16.7 kg
Based on our own high-precision weight measurements.

Expectedly, it is a little lighter than the KQi3s and Turboant V8, which all have bigger batteries, but I was surprised to see that it is only 0.6 lbs lighter than the Ninebot Max. In that regard, the Max has a much better range-to-weight ratio.

When unfolded, the scooter measures 20.3 x 47.2 x 44.1 in (61.9 x 143.9 x 134.4 cm). When it is folded, it measures 20.3 x 20.1 x 44.1 in (61.9 x 61.3 x 134.4 cm).

At 42.3 ftยณ, its cubic footprint is 4.4% bigger than the Ninebot Max, but the difference is negligible, and the wider handlebars are largely the contributing factor.

Overall, the KQi2 Pro is fairly lightweight, but there are lighter alternatives, such as the Atomi Alpha or Turboant X7 Max.

Folding & Carrying

NIU KQi2 Pro folding mechanism

The NIU KQi2 Pro has a reliable, easy-to-operate folding mechanism at the base of the stem. It has a safety pin for added safety and easily clicks into the latch point at the rear fender.

NIU KQi2 Pro folding latch

The latch system is some of the best I have seen. It stays in place until you press the "unhook" button, which is a blessing when carrying the scooter. The only better latch design I can think of is on the KQi3s simply because their "unlatching" button is easier to access.

The weight distribution of the build is excellent, so it isn't awkward to carry like some of the stem-battery alternatives around (i.e., Turboant X7 Max).

The stem sits parallel to the deck when folded, which I like. On scooters like the Atomi Alpha or Segway Ninebot Max, the stem is shifted when folded, making carrying a little awkward.

NIU KQi2 Pro
NIU KQi2 Pro
Avg: $460.91
$48685
Get Deal

Build Quality & Safety

Photo of the NIU KQi2 Pro by ERideHero

Since NIU entered the electric scooter market, they have been praised for their excellent build quality and reliability. The KQi2 Pro is no exception to that.

The KQi2 Pro oozes reliability and functional design. Smart design choices throughout the build come together to elevate the user experience in a way you can be confident in.

The development team deserves big praise for their attention to detail and ability to put themselves in the riders' shoes to understand what is important.

Frame

Closeup of the front logo on the NIU KQi2 Pro

The frame/chassis of the KQi2 Pro is made of aviation-grade aluminum alloy. Aluminum alloy is used in most electric scooters at this price point.

According to NIU, the aluminum alloy used weighs about one-third as much as steel, but its strength-per-unit density is 1.3 times that of steel. Also, it has better thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance.

The deck sides are covered in plastic. While it doesn't look as strong as what you'll find on the KQi3s, it isn't subjected to much force. It ensures an overall lightweight package and also looks really sleek in white.

Fenders

Closeup of fenders on NIU KQi2 Pro

The KQi2 Pro has beefy, thick plastic fenders that encase the tires to protect the rider from water and dirt splashes.

The rear fender has a large connection point with the deck, ensuring longevity and minimizing rattling. It is so large that it almost hugs the tire, so even at an odd angle, you're unlikely to get splashed by road debris.

I like that the taillight is directly integrated with the rear fender. It is less clunky than having multiple moving parts/components.

The front tire fender is highly functional, too. It is wider towards the front and longer towards the back. NIU has done lots of testing to find the optimal design shape and size rather than opting for a standard stock fender that doesn't necessarily suit their scooter. Take notes, competitors!

Kickstand

Kickstand on the NIU KQi2 Pro

Way too many companies cut corners on the kickstand. So it was really refreshing to see it done right on the KQi2 Pro.

The kickstand is made of metal and has a large base integrated under the deck. This ensures strength, smooth operation, and longevity.

The kickstand placement and length are optimal for balancing the scooter. Some scooters have the kickstand way too far back on the deck, negatively affecting stability. However, the KQi2 Pro kickstand sits at the center of its weight distribution, yielding the best stability possible.

We went through the tedious task of folding/unfolding the kickstand 500 times to see if it started to get loose, but that wasn't the case. It definitely has solid longevity.

Folding Mechanism

Folding mechanism on NIU KQi2 Pro

Throughout my review process, NIU continued to amaze me by how well-executed every aspect of the design was. They seemingly got it right already in their second line of scooters (which is more than you can say about 95% of the industry).

The KQi2 Pro has a lever at the base of the stem for folding. It adds a layer of protection with a safety latch so it doesn't accidentally release when you're riding.

After releasing the folding lever, you can connect the handlebar with a latch integrated into the rear fender for easy carrying.

Release button on the NIU KQi2 Pro fender

We really like the click-to-release setup the folding mechanism uses on the rear fender. It is much less seamless and easy to deal with than some of the more awkward solutions seen across the market. It ensures minimal wear to the latches and that the scooter stays folded when lifting it.

The folding mechanism doesn't require an excessive amount of force to release. You can easily operate it even if you aren't the strongest kid on the block.

Most importantly, the folding mechanism is strong and firm. It doesn't generate any stem wobble or flex, which is an issue some cheap models suffer from.

The KQi2 Pro's folding setup is some of the best we've seen. In its price range, it is only surpassed in ease of use by the KQi3s, as their release button is easier to access.

Weather Resistance

The NIU KQi2 Pro has an IP54 weather resistance rating.

IP54 Rating chart

The first digit refers to its protection against solids. A score of five means it has limited protection against dust but to a non-harmful standard.

The second digit refers to its protection against fluids. A score of four means it is protected against non-pressure water splashes from any direction.

In a real-world situation, this means the scooter will handle steady, light rain for a while. However, you should be cautious when it comes to riding through puddles and in heavy rain.

Generally, the scooter has tight seams and protection throughout its build, and through our rain tests, we had no issues. The beefy pneumatic tires should provide decent traction on wet surfaces but always ride cautiously in the rain. Braking distances increase, and handling is harder.

It is also worth noting that, like all other scooter brands, water damage is not covered under warranty.

Lights & Visibility

NIU KQi2 Pro LED lights at night

The KQi2 Pro has an excellent light setup. The always-on iconic high-mounted halo headlight is an in-class winner, and the taillight is bright and blinks when you brake.

Apart from the two bright light sources, the KQi2 Pro has four reflectors and an additional four visibility stickers.

NIU KQi2 Pro halo headlight

The headlight is angled downwards to illuminate the road ahead optimally while ensuring you don't blind oncoming traffic.

It would be nice to see integrated turn signals, but we have not seen a scooter at this price point feature. Understandably, it would make the unit more expensive.

The vast majority of entry-level scooters cut corners on the lighting setup. However, a safe commuter scooter calls for well-positioned light sources and reflectors. The KQi2 Pro achieves that.

Smartphone App

The NIU KQi2 Pro has Bluetooth app connectivity to extend its functionality and provide over-the-air firmware updates.

While some scooter apps are gimmicky, the NIU app provides useful insight while allowing you to customize features like energy recovery, speed, and cruise control.

I particularly like their accurate representation of the remaining battery level and the ability to keep track of your battery cycles.

The app will also let you lock the scooter. It doesn't replace a physical lock but decreases the risk of the scooter being stolen when combined.

The NIU app is one of the least buggy scooter apps we have tested. We did run into some issues when having two scooters connected at once, but it is a very rare use case very few riders will run into.

Warranty

Entry-level scooters typically have subpar warranties. However, the NIU KQi2 Pro is a game-changer in this aspect.

NIU offers a 2-year limited warranty on any scooter purchased through their official online store.

The warranty is distributed as follows:

  • 2 years - Main body (battery, charger, frame, motor, controller, dashboard, front fork, main harness)
  • 6 months - Accessories (brake lever, brake line, throttle, other non-daily consumable parts)
  • 3 months - Consumable parts (anti-collision strip, headlight, bell, fender, taillight, grip tape, kickstand, footpad)

In this price range, the NIU lineup is the only one we've seen to offer two years of warranty on the battery. Generally, all the expensive components fall into the 2-year category. It is fair to say that their warranty setup is market-leading.

Verdict - Who Should Buy The NIU KQi2 Pro?

NIU KQi2 Pro electric scooter

The NIU KQi2 Pro is an ideal scooter for riders with a strict budget who value high-quality standards, safety, and ample range. The main tradeoff is its weak motor.

If you're in the market for a reliable scooter that handles well and provides solid ride quality, the NIU KQi2 Pro is a top contender.

If you're heavier than 200 pounds or very tall, you may find the scooter to be small. Motor performance isn't impressive, so if you have to deal with hills, you should consider going for a scooter with a more powerful motor.

NIU KQi2 Pro
NIU KQi2 Pro
Avg: $460.91
$48685
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Full Specifications

Our Tests

Top speed17.3 MPH (27.8 KMH)
Acceleration
0-15 MPH
Avg: 8.83 s
Best: 7.69 s
Acceleration
0-17.3 MPH
Avg: 16.2 s
Best 15.4 s
Hill climb
250ft @8%
30.48 s (5.6 MPH)
Range (speed priority)17.2 miles (27.7 km)
Range (regular)19.8 miles (31.9 km)
Range (range priority)22.3 miles (35.9 km)
Braking distance
15 MPH - 0 MPH
14.6 ft
Handlebar Width20.3" (51.6 cm)
Deck-to-handlebar39.4" (100 cm)
Unfolded size20.3 x 47.2 x 44.1 in (61.9 x 143.9 x 134.4 cm)
Folded size20.3 x 20.1 x 44.1 in (61.9 x 61.3 x 134.4 cm)
Ground clearance2.8" (7.1 cm)
Deck18.5" x 5.3" (47 cm x 13.5 cm)

Manufacturer Specifications

BrandNIU
Top speed17.4 MPH (28 KMH)
Motor power (nominal)300W
Motor power (max)600W
Motor Voltage48V
Range24.9 miles (40.1 km)
Battery48V, 7.6Ah, lithium-ion
Battery capacity365 Wh
Charging time7 hours
IP ratingIP54
Weight40.6 lbs (18.4 kg)
Max load220 lbs (99.8 kg)
Tire typePneumatic, tubeless
Tire size10" x 2.3"
SuspensionNone
BrakesFront drum brake, electronic regen brake
Throttle typeThumb throttle
LightsTaillight, headlight
Other featuresApp, speed modes, cruise control, regen brake, smart lock

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