Apollo Air 2023, 500W: A Mechanic's No-Nonsense Review

The Apollo Air 2023, 500W is a mid-tier electric scooter designed for urban commuters looking for a balance between performance and affordability. With its 500W motor and claimed range of up to 50 km, it targets riders who want a reliable daily ride without breaking the bank. But, does it live up to the hype? Let's break it down.

Real-World Fuel Consumption

Forget the glossy marketing brochures. In real-world conditions, the Apollo Air 2023, 500W delivers a range of around 35-40 km on a single charge. This depends on factors like rider weight, terrain, and how throttle-happy you are. Heavy riders (90kg+) and hilly areas will see that number drop closer to 30 km. If you're zipping through flat city streets at moderate speeds, you might squeeze out the full 40 km. However, don't expect to hit the advertised 50 km unless you're feather-light and riding in eco mode at a snail's pace.

Common Problems

Here's where things get real. In my shop, the Apollo Air 2023, 500W shows a mixed track record:

Throttle Issues: A recurring problem is throttle lag or inconsistency. This is often due to the controller overheating or poor-quality wiring connections.
Brake Wear: Its drum brake system, while low-maintenance, tends to wear faster than expected, especially for heavier riders or those in stop-and-go traffic.
Kickstand Weakness: The kickstand feels flimsy and prone to bending or breaking, especially if the scooter is parked on uneven surfaces.
Waterproofing Concerns: Despite claims of IP54 water resistance, I've seen water ingress issues in the motor hub and control panel after consistent exposure to rain.

Pro Tip: Avoid riding in heavy rain if you want to keep your Apollo Air functioning long-term.

Maintenance Costs

Owning the Apollo Air 2023, 500W isn't too hard on the wallet—at least for basic upkeep:

Tire Replacement: Approx. €40-€50 per tire (including labor).
Brake Adjustment or Pad Replacement: Around €30-€40 per job. Drum brakes are cheaper to maintain than disc brakes but wear faster.
Battery Replacement: A big-ticket item at €300-€400. Expect to replace it after about 3-4 years of regular use.
Throttle or Controller Fix: Repairs can run between €50-€100 depending on the issue.

Annual maintenance costs for most owners will sit around €100-€150, excluding major repairs.

Hidden Costs

What the sales pitch doesn’t tell you:

Special Tools: If you're a DIY enthusiast, you'll need a hex key set and tire levers for basic repairs. Some parts, like the motor hub, require specific tools that aren't cheap.
Charger Replacement: The stock charger is prone to overheating. Replacing it will set you back €30-€50.

Factor these into your overall expenses.

Overall Reliability

The Apollo Air 2023, 500W scores 6.5/10 for reliability. It's a decent entry-level scooter, but it’s not without its quirks. While the motor and battery are generally solid, the build quality could be better. Riders who treat it with care will get more mileage, but it's not a set-it-and-forget-it machine.

Total Cost of Ownership

After factoring in purchase price (~€900 in Europe), annual maintenance, and occasional repairs, you're looking at a total cost of ownership of around €1,200-€1,400 over three years. For a mid-range scooter, that’s fairly reasonable. However, if you’re expecting luxury scooter reliability, look elsewhere.

Resale Value

The Apollo Air 2023, 500W holds its value moderately well. After two years, you can expect to sell it for 60-70% of its original price, provided it’s in good condition. It's not the fastest seller on the used market, but it’s not impossible to offload either. Keep it clean and well-maintained to maximize resale value.

Tips for Prospective Buyers

Inspect the Scooter: If buying used, check for throttle responsiveness, brake wear, and signs of water damage.
Test Ride: Ensure smooth acceleration and no unusual noises from the motor or brakes.
Warranty: If buying new, confirm the terms of the warranty—especially regarding water damage.
Scam Alert: Watch out for sellers claiming like new while hiding worn tires or a degraded battery.

Alternatives

If the Apollo Air 2023, 500W doesn’t seem like the perfect fit, here are some alternatives:

Segway Ninebot Max G30: Known for better range (~65 km) and solid build quality, but it’s pricier (~€1,100).
Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2: A budget-friendly option with similar performance, priced around €700.
Pure Air Pro (2nd Gen): Excellent water resistance and durability, great for European weather, priced around €800.

Conclusion

The Apollo Air 2023, 500W is a solid mid-range scooter for urban riders who prioritize affordability over luxury. It’s not perfect—issues like throttle lag and waterproofing concerns can be annoying—but it offers decent value for the price. If you’re willing to maintain it regularly and avoid heavy rain, it can be a reliable commuter. For those with a higher budget or specific needs (like long-range or better waterproofing), consider one of the alternatives mentioned above.

In the end, the Apollo Air 2023, 500W is good enough for most city commutes but doesn’t quite stand out in a crowded market. Choose wisely!