The Truth About the Ninebot KickScooter ES2, 250W, According to a Mechanic

The Ninebot KickScooter ES2, 250W, is one of the most talked-about entry-level electric scooters. With a sleek design, a claimed range of 25 km, and a top speed of 25 km/h, it appeals to urban commuters and casual riders looking for a budget-friendly option. But does it live up to the hype? Let me cut through the marketing fluff and give you the real story based on years of repair shop experience.

Real-World Power Consumption and Range

Forget the shiny brochures. In actual use, the Ninebot KickScooter ES2 doesn't hit the 25 km range unless you're riding on flat terrain, in eco mode, and weigh under 70 kg. For most riders, especially in Europe with its mixed terrain and unpredictable weather, expect a real-world range of 15–18 km. If you're heavy on the throttle or riding uphill, that drops to 10–12 km. The 250W motor struggles on steep inclines, and you'll feel it bogging down, especially if you're above 80 kg. On the plus side, the regenerative braking system is fairly efficient, giving you a slight boost in battery life during downhill rides.

Common Problems with the Ninebot KickScooter ES2

In my shop, the ES2 is a frequent visitor. Here are the most common issues:

Battery degradation: The battery loses capacity quickly, especially if not charged properly. After about a year, expect reduced range.
Rear suspension failure: The rear suspension is poorly designed and tends to become noisy or completely fail after moderate use.
Motor controller failures: The motor controller often overheats, especially during long rides or uphill climbs, leading to sudden shutdowns.
Stem wobble: The folding mechanism develops a wobble over time, which can feel unsafe and annoying.
Water resistance: Despite its IP54 rating, the ES2 doesn't handle rain well. Water ingress can damage the electronics and battery, which is a big issue in Europe's wet climates.

Overall Reliability

Is the ES2 reliable? Not really. It's a scooter built to a price point, and it shows. Expect frequent maintenance if you use it daily. Spare parts are relatively easy to find in Europe, but repairs like motor controller replacements can get expensive. If you're handy with tools, you can save some money, but don't expect this scooter to last more than 2–3 years with heavy use.

Resale Value

The resale value of the Ninebot ES2 is average at best. After a year of use, you'll likely fetch 50–60% of its original price, provided it's in good condition. Buyers are wary of used ES2s because of the common issues I mentioned earlier. It sells slowly compared to more reliable models like the Xiaomi Mi M365. If you plan to resell, keep the scooter well-maintained and document any repairs.

Tips for Prospective Buyers

If you're set on buying a Ninebot ES2, here’s what to look for:

Test the battery: Ensure it holds a charge and delivers the expected range.
Check the folding mechanism: Any wobble in the stem is a red flag.
Inspect the rear suspension: Listen for any creaks or signs of wear.
Avoid water-damaged units: Check for signs of rust or corrosion in the electronics.
Buy from a reputable seller: Avoid deals that seem too good to be true.

If you're buying new, consider getting the optional external battery. It adds range and improves hill performance, though it increases the overall cost.

Alternatives

If the ES2 doesn't sound like the right fit, here are some alternatives:

Xiaomi Mi M365: Similar price range but better reliability and ride quality. It also has a larger community for support and upgrades.
Ninebot Max G30: A pricier option but far superior in range, build quality, and overall performance.
E-Twow Booster GT: Lightweight and compact, with better performance and durability, though more expensive.

Conclusion

The Ninebot KickScooter ES2, 250W, is an okay choice for casual riders who need a budget-friendly, short-range scooter for flat urban areas. However, it has significant flaws, including poor reliability and limited performance on hills. If you’re a commuter in Europe dealing with wet weather and mixed terrain, you’re better off spending a bit more on a more durable and capable model. My advice? Think twice before buying unless you're okay with frequent maintenance and limited range.