Dualtron POP the Flat Commuter
I had high hopes for this entry-level scooter, but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations, especially considering the terrain in my area (Columbia, SC). While the 52V 14A configuration might be suitable for flatter regions, it's simply not adequate for hills. Performance: Flat Surfaces: On level ground, this scooter performs admirably. It accelerates well and maintains a decent speed. Hills: This is where the scooter truly disappoints. Even minor inclines cause a significant drop in power. It struggles to maintain speed and feels underpowered compared to even some lower-priced scooters I've tested. I believe a dual-motor setup is necessary for anyone living in a hilly area. Ride Quality and Comfort: Deck Space: The deck is noticeably narrow, making for an uncomfortable and cramped riding experience, especially on longer rides. Suspension: The shocks are practically non-existent, providing minimal shock absorption. Riding on anything but perfectly smooth pavement is jarring. Braking: The brakes themselves are effective and provide good stopping power. However, the frame exhibits significant flex under braking, which is concerning and detracts from the feeling of safety and control. Build Quality and Design: Handlebars: The handlebars consistently loosen, even after multiple attempts to tighten the tension screw. This is a recurring issue and a significant annoyance. Frame: As mentioned above, the frame flexes excessively under braking, indicating a weakness in its design or construction. Aesthetics: I do appreciate the scooter's overall look and profile. It has a modern and appealing design. Battery and Range: Range and Charging: The advertised range of 18 miles is not achievable in real-world conditions, especially with any hills. The charging time is also quite long relative to the actual usable range. The "juice is not worth the squeeze" in this regard. Packaging and Shipping: Packaging: The packaging is inadequate and resulted in shipping damage to both boxes I received. The internal packing materials offer insufficient protection during transit. Recommendations for Improvement: Motor Upgrade: A 1000W single motor with a minimum of 20Ah is recommended for improved performance, especially on hills. Dual motors would be even better. Frame Reinforcement: The frame needs to be significantly strengthened to eliminate the flex during braking. Improved Suspension: A proper suspension system is essential for a comfortable ride. The current shocks are ineffective. Handlebar Fix: The handlebar loosening issue needs to be addressed with a redesigned clamping mechanism or improved hardware. Increased Battery Capacity/Improved Charging: A larger battery or faster charging technology is needed to improve the range-to-charging-time ratio. Improved Packaging: More robust packaging is necessary to prevent shipping damage. Overall: While this scooter has some positive aspects, such as its aesthetics and performance on flat surfaces, the significant flaws in hill climbing ability, ride comfort, frame integrity, and handlebar stability make it difficult to recommend, especially for those living in hilly areas. The manufacturer needs to address these issues to create a truly competitive product.
By Good