Mike Hardaker Test Riding the Kaboo Mantis X Plus | Photo Rich Goodwin Mountain Weekly News
Electric scooters have surged in popularity, becoming a go-to for commuters and outdoor lovers. In dense urban areas, they’re prized for their eco-friendly and easy transport. For others, they just bring fun to daily travel. What began as a simple option for short commutes has evolved into a thrilling way to explore both cityscapes and off-road trails.
The Kaabo Mantis X Plus is a new contender in this bustling market, aiming to deliver a blend of power, agility, and rider comfort. With a top speed of 31 mph and the ability to handle city streets, this scooter is more than just a means of getting from A to B; it’s an invitation to rediscover your surroundings. From daily errands to carving through the bike paths of Jackson, Wyoming, the Mantis X Plus is ready to roll.
First Impressions & Build Quality
Right out of the box, the Mantis X Plus impresses with its clean design and solid construction. The frame, crafted from T6082 Aviation Grade Aluminum, feels robust and inspires confidence for navigating city streets. One of the first things you’ll notice is the new 4-inch Kaabo Dashboard with a digital lock and a USB charging port. This large, vibrant display is a significant upgrade, offering clear visibility of your speed, battery life, and turn signals. Another innovative feature is the NFC key, which allows you to unlock the scooter with a simple tap, adding a layer of modern security.
The scooter’s foldable design is a major plus for those with limited storage space or who need to transport it in a vehicle. The folding mechanism is quick and intuitive, making it easy to transition from riding to storing. The overall aesthetic is sleek and modern, with thoughtful details like the side-mounted LED deck lights that not only look cool but also enhance visibility.
Performance & Dual Motor Power
The Kaabo Mantis X Plus is powered by dual 500W brushless motors, providing a combined peak power of 2200W. This setup delivers zippy acceleration and the ability to tackle hills with a 25-degree climbing angle. The scooter reaches a top speed of 31 mph, placing it in a sweet spot for both thrilling rides and safe commuting.
During my rides around Jackson, the scooter’s acceleration was responsive, and it maintained its speed well on varied terrain. The right-hand finger throttle is intuitive, though its proximity to the brake lever takes a little getting used to.
Battery Life & Range
Equipped with a 48V 18.2Ah Li-ion battery, the Mantis X Plus boasts an impressive maximum range of 46 miles. This is based on a 165 lbs rider traveling at 15mph on a flat surface. In real-world conditions with more aggressive riding and varied terrain, the range will likely be less but still substantial enough for most daily commutes and recreational rides. An interesting feature is the battery’s 7-day auto-sleep mode, which helps to preserve battery life when the scooter is not in use.
The charging time is around 9 hours with the standard 2A charger. While this is a bit long, it’s a trade-off for the extended range. For those who need to get back on the road more quickly, the scooter is capable of fast charging with a compatible charger.
Safety Features & Handling
Safety is a key focus with the Mantis X Plus. It features 140mm disc brakes along with an electronic anti-lock braking system (EABS) for reliable stopping power. The full front and rear adjustable damping and spring oil shock absorbers, with 15 levels of adjustment, provide a remarkably smooth ride, soaking up bumps and potholes with ease. This level of suspension is often found on more expensive models and is a standout feature of the Mantis X Plus.
Visibility is another strong point. The scooter is equipped with a very bright headlight, prominent turn signals that are easily visible even in daylight, and side deck lights that can be customized with a 360° color palette via an app. A loud push-button horn further enhances safety in traffic. The 10*3.0 inch tubed pneumatic tires with split rims not only provide excellent grip but also make tire changes significantly easier.
City Riding & That “Surf” Feeling
While the full suspension might suggest off-road prowess, the Mantis X Plus is truly in its element navigating the urban landscape. The combination of the smooth sine-wave controllers, responsive acceleration, and incredible suspension makes for a ride that feels akin to surfing or snowboarding. Carving through the bike paths in Jackson, the scooter feels nimble and intuitive underfoot, allowing for a fluid and enjoyable ride. The 10-inch CST tires provide a stable and grippy connection to the pavement, inspiring confidence in turns.
The clean design, with its integrated lights and uncluttered handlebars, gives it a polished look that’s perfect for city life. It’s a scooter that’s as much about the joy of the ride as it is about practical transportation.
How the Mantis X Plus Compares to Other Scooters
Compared to many commuter scooters, the Mantis X Plus offers a superior ride quality thanks to its exceptional suspension. While some scooters may offer a higher top speed, the 31 mph of the Mantis X Plus is more than enough for most urban environments and helps to keep it in a more accessible price range. The inclusion of features like the large NFC-enabled display, sine-wave controllers, and highly visible turn signals sets it apart from more basic models.
Kaabo Mantis X Plus Electric Scooter Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Powerful dual 500W motors.
- Impressive 46-mile maximum range.
- Outstanding full suspension with 15 levels of adjustment.
- Excellent visibility with bright lights and prominent turn signals.
- Smooth and quiet ride thanks to sine-wave controllers.
- Modern features like an NFC key and a large, clear display.
Cons:
- A 9-hour charging time can be lengthy.
- The finger throttle and brake lever are positioned closely together.
- The stock headlight could be brighter for nighttime trail riding.
Overall Impression
The Kaabo Mantis X Plus is a fantastic option for riders who want a premium city commuting experience without venturing into the highest end of the market. Its combination of a powerful and smooth motor system, exceptional suspension, and a host of modern features make it a joy to ride. For someone who grew up with board sports, the agile and responsive handling truly mimics that feeling of carving on a surfboard or snowboard.
With its foldable design and impressive range, it’s a practical choice for daily use, while its fun-to-ride nature makes it perfect for weekend explorations. If you’re looking for an electric scooter that delivers a premium feel, a comfortable ride, and a touch of modern tech, the Kaabo Mantis X Plus is an excellent choice that is ready for your next urban adventure.
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