Thinking About the Pure Air Go 5th Gen, 350W? A Mechanic's Take

The Pure Air Go 5th Gen, 350W is a budget-friendly electric scooter marketed as a reliable, entry-level option for urban commuting. It's designed for short-distance riders who value simplicity, affordability, and a compact design. But is it worth your money? Here's what you need to know before buying.

Real-World Power Consumption and Range

Forget the manufacturer's claim of up to 25km range. In my shop, I've seen this scooter deliver around 18-20km under realistic conditions. Factors like weight, terrain, and weather impact this significantly. A heavier rider (80kg+) or hilly routes can drop the range to 15km. Cold weather, common in Europe, also reduces battery efficiency by 10-20%. The 350W motor handles flat city streets well but struggles on steep inclines, draining the battery faster. If you're commuting in a city with lots of hills, keep this in mind.

Common Problems with the Pure Air Go 5th Gen, 350W

Every scooter has its quirks, and the Pure Air Go 5th Gen is no exception. Here's what I've seen most often:

Battery Degradation: The battery's lifespan is average at best. After around 18 months, many riders notice a significant drop in range. This is typical for budget scooters with lower-tier lithium-ion cells.
Brake Cable Wear: The drum brake is reliable but requires frequent adjustment. The cable tends to stretch or fray after a few months of regular use.
Water Ingress: Despite its IPX4 water resistance rating, heavy rain often leads to issues with the throttle or electronics. European weather can be harsh, so don't trust this scooter in prolonged wet conditions.
Rear Tire Punctures: The solid rubber tires are puncture-resistant, but the rear tire often wears down quickly due to uneven weight distribution.

Overall Reliability

On the reliability scale, I'd give the Pure Air Go 5th Gen a 6/10. It's decent for its price, but it's not built to last. Parts availability in Europe is fair—most Pure Electric service centers stock what you need, but wait times for non-standard parts can stretch to weeks. If you're handy with tools, minor fixes like brake adjustments are straightforward.

Resale Value

When it comes to resale, the Pure Air Go 5th Gen holds its value reasonably well for the first year. After that, depreciation kicks in hard, especially if the battery has degraded. Expect to sell it for 40-50% of its original price after two years. It moves quickly in the second-hand market, but buyers are wary of used batteries, so be prepared to negotiate.

Tips for Prospective Buyers

Thinking of buying one? Here's my advice:

New Buyers: Check the build quality in-store. Ensure the brake cable feels taut and the motor engages smoothly.
Used Buyers: Inspect the battery performance. Test ride it for at least 10 minutes and observe any sudden drops in battery percentage.
Scams to Avoid: Beware of sellers claiming like new condition but hiding battery degradation. Always ask for proof of purchase and servicing history.
Walk Away If: The scooter shows signs of water damage (corroded contacts or erratic throttle behavior). Repairs for these issues are expensive.

Alternatives

If the Pure Air Go 5th Gen doesn't quite fit your needs, consider these:

Xiaomi Mi 3: Better build quality and a similar price point, with a slightly longer range.
Segway Ninebot E22E: A more reliable option for wet climates, thanks to its improved water resistance.
Turboant X7 Pro: Offers a removable battery, making it a more versatile choice for longer commutes.

Conclusion

The Pure Air Go 5th Gen, 350W is a decent choice for budget-conscious urban riders who need a basic, no-frills scooter. It's not without its flaws—expect limited range, occasional maintenance needs, and durability issues over time. However, for short commutes on flat terrain, it gets the job done. Just don't expect it to last forever. If you're willing to spend a bit more, better options are out there.