The Truth About the Gotway Nikola Plus, 2000W, According to a Mechanic

The Gotway Nikola Plus, 2000W is a high-performance electric unicycle (EUC) aimed at enthusiasts who prioritize speed, range, and style. It's not for casual users or first-timers—it’s designed for experienced riders who know how to handle the power and quirks of a serious machine. While it looks sleek and promises impressive specs, there are a few things you need to know before pulling the trigger.

Real-World Power Consumption and Range

Forget the manufacturer’s claim of 160 km range—this is marketing fantasy. In real-world conditions, you’re looking at 90–110 km max. That’s assuming moderate riding speeds of 25–30 km/h, a rider weight of 75 kg, and relatively flat terrain. Push the 2000W motor harder—say, cruising at 50 km/h—and you can easily drop below 70 km of range. Add hills, cold European winters, or a heavier rider, and the range shrinks even more. The 1800Wh battery is efficient, but it’s not magic. If you’re planning long rides, don’t skip a backup plan or a charger.

Common Problems of the Gotway Nikola Plus, 2000W

Here’s where things get interesting. From my years in the shop, here are the issues I see most often with the Nikola Plus:

Motherboard Failures: Gotway’s (now Begode’s) control boards are notorious for overheating or outright frying under heavy loads. High-speed riding or long climbs can push the board to its limits.
Motor Issues: The 2000W motor is powerful but prone to bearing noise and wear, especially after extended use in wet conditions.
Battery Degradation: While the 21700 cells are decent, frequent charging cycles and deep discharges can lead to reduced battery capacity within a year.
Build Quality: The shell is prone to cracking or breaking upon impacts. It looks good, but it’s not the most durable material out there.
Weatherproofing: The Nikola Plus is not fully waterproof. Riding in heavy rain or through puddles can lead to water ingress, causing damage to electronics.

Overall Reliability

Reliability is hit-or-miss. If you’re gentle and don’t push the scooter to its limits, it can perform well. But if you’re an aggressive rider or live in a place with challenging weather (like much of Europe), expect regular maintenance headaches. Spare parts are available in Europe, but they’re often expensive and can take weeks to arrive. Keep this in mind if downtime is a concern.

Resale Value

The Gotway Nikola Plus holds its value decently, but not spectacularly. Enthusiasts are always looking for used models, but wear and tear will significantly affect your resale price. If you’ve babied the scooter, you might recover 60–70% of your initial investment. If it’s been through hell, expect to sell it at a steep discount.

Tips for Prospective Buyers

Inspect the Control Board: If you’re buying used, open up the scooter and check for signs of overheating or water damage on the motherboard.
Test the Battery: Take it for a long test ride. If the range feels suspiciously low, the battery may be degraded.
Look for Cracks: Inspect the shell for any cracks or damage. These are common and can cost you down the line.
Beware of Scams: In Europe, some sellers offload scooters with hidden issues. Always test ride and inspect before buying.

Alternatives

If the Gotway Nikola Plus doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, consider these alternatives:

Inmotion V12: A more reliable and beginner-friendly EUC with decent performance and better weatherproofing.
Veteran Sherman: If you need extreme range and durability, the Sherman is the tank of EUCs, though it comes at a higher price.
KingSong S18: Offers suspension, making it better for rough roads and trails.

Conclusion

The Gotway Nikola Plus, 2000W is a powerhouse with undeniable performance, but it’s not without its flaws. If you’re an experienced rider who can handle its quirks and afford the upkeep, it’s a thrilling ride. But if you’re looking for reliability, weatherproofing, or a long-term investment, you might want to look elsewhere. Choose wisely, and remember, no scooter is perfect—every ride is a compromise.