6 Best Electric Scooters For Climbing Hills (Selected From 140+ Models)
We’ve hand-selected and tested the 6 best electric scooters for climbing hills from a field of 140+ models.
Our selection placed particular emphasis on the power and torque of the motors, and the energy stored in the battery. Combined, these are the key factors that affect hill-climbing performance. You need the power to get up inclines and enough energy so that the scooter doesn’t call it quits while climbing.
Incline Rates: Maximum & Optimal
Based on our independent testing data, electric scooters often become sluggish once 60% of their hill-climbing credentials have been met.
For instance, if a scooter claims a maximum 20-degree incline rate, it may well be able to reach this but it is highly likely that once it ventures beyond 12 degrees it will become progressively slower up to 20 degrees. Here, the optimal incline rate is 12-degrees. With this in mind, it’s important to level up the power that you need to ensure that you can effectively scale inclines. This was taken into account for each incline category in our guide.
It's also worth noting that some retailers use either degrees or percentages to indicate hill-climbing ability, it’s important not to get these mixed. The percent figure can be misleading – for example, a scooter that has a 20% incline grade and a scooter that has a 20-degree incline rate have different hill climbing abilities. Here, the 20% incline grade equates to 12 degrees.
Moderate Inclines (5-10 Degrees):
These electric scooters are suitable for the majority of urban inclines. For context, you’d be able to feel it in your legs if you tried to cycle up one of these.
Steep Inclines (10-15 Degrees):
These electric scooters can tackle challenging inclines. Imagine hills that sit in the mid-ground between typical city inclines and those in San Francisco.
Extremely Steep Inclines (15+ Degrees):
This is where things get serious. Take San Francisco’s Filbert Street (17.5-degrees), for instance, or the world’s steepest street, Baldwin Street (19-degree) - no incline is too steep for these electric scooters.
Take a closer look at our recommendations by viewing the scooters in the categories below.
5-10 Degrees - Suitable for the majority of urban inclines.
10-15 Degrees - Suitable for challenging inclines.
15+ Degrees - Suitable for the world’s steepest streets.
Or, if you'd rather view the scooters by performance (e.g. top speed, range, braking, etc), or by type (e.g. for heavy adults, portability, etc), click on either of the below.
See our top picks organized by speed, acceleration, range, and braking performance.
See scooters by type (e.g. for heavy adults, portability, waterproofing etc)
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Electric Scooters for Moderate Inclines (5-10 Degrees)
SPLACH Twin
at SPLACH
- Speed: 28 mph
- Range: 28 miles
- Weight: 53 lbs
- Load: 220 lbs
Incline Ability:
- Maximum: 22-degrees
- Optimal: 13-degrees - Learn more
The Good:
- Fast accelerator
- Cheapest dual-motor electric scooter
- Respectable range
- Spring and swingarm suspension
- Dual drum brakes deliver great stopping power
- Most ergonomic handgrips we’ve tested
- Low maintenance design
- Great build quality
The Bad:
- Lights are insufficient for night rides
Discount Code:
- Get $110 Off. Use code:
Summary
The newly released SPLACH Twin sent the sub $1,000 price category into a frenzy. With two powerful 600W motors, it became the cheapest dual-motor scooter and significantly outpaces any other scooter in its price class.
As a direct result of its top-tier power output, the Twin can take on inclines of up to 22-degrees, with optimal performance coming in at 13-degrees.
Thanks to the motor and turbo buttons, you can easily control the amount of torque and power you need, allowing you to either unleash the full 2,136W of maximum power to effortlessly glide up hills without breaking a sweat or conserve battery by using less power.
Why We Recommend It:
Whether there are hills on your daily commute or you enjoy speeding up and down slopes at the weekend, you need some serious power. Unfortunately, almost all electric scooters under $1,000 don't have the torque required to get you up even the smallest slopes. Luckily, the SPLACH Twin breaks this mold with not only a delightfully low price, but also masses of valuable features, dual suspension, and more than enough power to take on moderate inclines.
While the SPLACH Twin has a maximum 22-degree incline rate, following our tests, we found that it performs optimally when riding up slopes of 13-degrees and below. Anything above this and it begins to slow. As a result, it is more than cable of tackling inclines of up 10-degrees, hence why we selected it as one of our top choices.
Although it's new to the market, the Twin is already set to become a favorite among scooter riders. The result of a crowdfunding campaign, the Twin, boasts first-class suspension, exceptional portability, and fantastic handling.
While there is so much to love about this scooter, the real star of the show is the torque from the dual motors. Each can reach a maximum output of 1,068W and will get you to 15 mph in just 3.0 seconds and 25 mph in 6.1. To match this, SPLACH equipped the Twin with a pair of powerful drum brakes. Not only are the drum brakes highly effective, but as soon as you pull on the brake levers, the electronic brakes kick into action furthering the stropping power. As a result, this fast-acting system will bring you to a complete stop in 2.8 meters from 15 mph.
With two motors comes a host of benefits. As well as a top speed of 28 mph, you can adjust your power usage by switching between one and two motor use. For example, you can achieve a range of 20-22 miles when using both motors, but with one, you'll be able to reach up to 28 on a single charge. Plus, with the addition of the Turbo and Eco functions, and three riding modes, you get 12-speed modes. With this flexibility, finding the correct setting to take on hills is a breeze.
As if that wasn't enough, the Twin seriously steps up when it comes to ride quality. The frame is cushioned by springs and swingarms that effectively protect you from bumps in the road. Thankfully this system is so good that it balances out the non-shock absorptive solid rubber tires.
When it comes to portability, it boasts an intuitive folding mechanism, telescopic stem, and foldable handlebars that all serve to keep it small and compact once folded. Although, at 53 lbs, you won’t want to carry it for long stints.
Overall, this scooter is an effective hill-climber at an exceptionally low price. The twin motors add an extra injection of power that can't be matched by any other scooter in its price class.
EMOVE Cruiser
at Voro Motors
- Speed: 30 mph
- Range: 62 miles
- Weight: 52 lbs
- Load: 352 lbs
Incline Ability:
- Maximum: 20-degrees
- Optimal: 12-degrees - Learn more
The Good:
- Unparalleled range in its class
- Supremely affordable
- Fantastic load-bearing capabilities
- Powerful semi-hydraulic disc brakes
- Buttery-smooth suspension
- IPX6 water resistance rating
The Bad:
- The handgrips have some wiggle
Summary:
With the EMOVE Cruiser's 1000W motor delivering a 1600W peak output, it's got some serious torque, making it an excellent choice for hill climbs.
Alongside the power of its 52V motor, it delivers a supremely long range of 62 miles, and a boatload of extra features – including an IPX6 water-resistance rating, telescopic stem, semi-hydraulic brakes, spring suspension, and car-grade tires.
The EMOVE Cruiser is the perfect blend of style and substance. Everything you get with this scooter screams premium. From the stunning finish to the LG battery, and everything in-between, the EMOVE Cruiser is well worth its $1,399 price tag.
Why We Recommend It:
While the EMOVE Cruiser may not be the quickest off the mark, it can still reach 15 mph in a more than satisfactory 3.4 seconds. What's more important, though, is that our tests revealed that it’s a good performer uphill. Now, you may assume that dual-motor scooters are best for hill climbing, but the Cruiser still acquits itself admirably on the incline.
EMOVE class this scooter as being able to take on inclines up to 20-degrees, so as you can imagine, it can easily manage 10-degree slopes. The Cruiser is, however, the only single motor scooter on this list, but the combination of the 52V 1000W motor and huge 30Ah battery provides it with more than enough power to climb hills. It must be noted, though, that the optimal incline rate for the EMOVE Cruiser is 12-degrees – anything higher and the single motor begins to struggle.
Once you've made it to the top of the hill and come down the other side, you'll feel in control thanks to the strong braking system. With front and rear 140 mm semi-hydraulic disc brakes, this model is a step above most other scooters in its price class. The braking setup will bring you to a complete stop in 3.4 meters from 15 mph.
If you need to lift the Cruiser at the bottom of the hill, it's important to know that at 52 lbs, it is no lightweight. However, its simple folding mechanism and combination of a telescopic stem alongside foldable handlebars mean that it's easy to store out of sight or place in a trunk. When in use, however, the solid frame and big deck give you more than enough room. Plus, it has a high weight limit of 352 lbs, making it ideal for heavy riders.
Where the EMOVE Cruiser shines, though, is in its mileage and ride quality. The large battery puts out a maximum 62-mile range. Considering that hill climbs sap energy, the Cruiser is one of the most well-equipped scooters to tackle numerous hills and still have plenty of juice left in the tank.
As for ride quality, the pairing of two large front springs and rear air shocks makes for an impressively comfortable ride. Both work to dampen vibrations and effectively cushion any larger dips and bumps. Previously, the tires used on the Cruiser were pneumatic – meaning that they have an inner tube. EMOVE, however, decided to change these to a tubeless design to reduce maintenance, and the choice was a smart one. Out of 3,000 riders, only 10 (0.3%) need to repair a flat, making the Cruiser a low-maintenance option that feels great to ride.
Now let's turn our attention to the combined display and finger throttle. The Cruiser is kitted out with a QS-S4 display – a system that’s found on many scooters ranging in price from several hundred dollars to more than a few thousand. It displays your speed, mileage, and other useful stats, and even lets you customize more technical details, such as the strength of the acceleration and electronic brakes.
In conclusion, the EMOVE Cruiser is a great choice for riders that need a scooter that can easily handle long hill-climbing journeys.
EMOVE Cruiser Review
29 Reasons to Buy or NOT to buy the EMOVE Cruiser
Electric Scooters for Steep Inclines (10-15 Degrees)
Apollo Ghost 2022
BOGO DEAL: Apollo Ghost + FREE Apollo Air 2021 for $1,949 (Was: $2,548) – Save $599
- Speed: 37 mph
- Range: 39 miles
- Weight: 64 lbs
- Load: 300 lbs
Incline Ability:
- Maximum: 25-degrees
- Optimal: 15-degrees - Learn more
The Good:
- Powerful dual 52V 1000W motors
- Fast acceleration rate
- Perfect balance of power to get your adrenaline pumping without losing control
- Super strong stem eliminates wobble at speed
- Big tires and dual springs allow for great ride quality
- Best-in-class folding mechanism
- Excellent brakes
- Good value for money
- Swanky deck lights
- Foldable handlebars for enhanced portability
- Supports heavy riders
- IP54 water-resistance rating
The Bad:
- Extra lighting is needed for night rides
- Key-lock ignition is outdated and would be better replaced with a simple start button
- Kickstand is weak
Summary
The Apollo Ghost 2022 is a blisteringly fast entry-level performance scooter with a maximum incline capability of 25 degrees.
The dual 1000W brushless motors have a combined maximum output of 2500W, which is more than enough to accelerate up steep inclines.
Combining its unique skeletal frame with power, ride quality, and useful features like the voltmeter that helps you keep track of your battery usage during hill climbs, it's easy to see why this latest update of the Apollo Ghost has fast become one of the most popular electric scooters.
Why We Recommend It:
With an increase in motor power (new 1000W motors replace the 800W offering of the original) and an enhanced top speed of 37 mph (vs 34 mph), the Apollo Ghost 2022 is the latest version of this supremely supernatural scooter. It’s not just its power credentials that have undergone a makeover, though. Newly reinforced rims and a more robust stem are now 50% stronger for enhanced durability and stability at speed. Similarly, a superior claw-like folding mechanism replaces the originals clunky collar clamp, while its overall ride quality has been turned up a notch.
All combined, the numerous upgrades to the Ghost’s design and power capabilities demonstrate just how much Apollo value and listen to customer feedback.
The Ghost 2022 is a step up from the scooters below it on this list. It is an excellent choice if you're looking for a model that can go fast, ride across urban and off-road terrain, and take you up steep hills. While Apollo reports that it can scale slopes of up to 25 degrees, you'll notice a dip in speed after 15 degrees.
Powering the formidable motors is a 52V 18.2Ah Dynavolt battery, which charges in 12 hours and delivers a range of 39 miles. Although its maximum range is beaten by cheaper models like the EMOVE Cruiser, it's important to remember that the Ghost delivers a well-balanced ratio of performance. The battery does perform well in other areas, though. It's capable of 600 charge cycles which, at a rate of 3 charges per week, will give you 4 years of peak performance.
One of the main attractions of the Ghost is its spectral design. From the skeletal cutouts on its neck to the hollowed-out geometric stem, it balances lightweight design with durability. Plus, the tall handlebars and maximum 300 lbs load capacity ensure that the Ghost can be ridden by all riders, including those that are on the heavier side.
It's also ideal for riders that like to venture off the beaten path. With adjustable spring suspension and 10-inch pneumatic tires, it even rivals the comfort of its much more expensive sibling, the Apollo Phantom.
It's a good thing that the Ghost is built for comfort because you'll need it when the acceleration kicks in. When you hold the throttle down, you'll reach 15 mph in 2.5 seconds and 25 mph in 5.3 seconds. Luckily the brakes have the required power to handle the rapidity of the motors and provide confidence to let them rip. Plus, Apollo gives you the choice of regular disc brakes or upgrading to hydraulics for an extra $150.
Under our certified tests, the standard brakes bring you to a complete stop in 3.4 meters from 15 mph. We also tested the hydraulics and these improved the stopping distance by 0.4 meters.
The efficient braking system is further bolstered by the rest of the controls in the cockpit. When you need to slow, you can quickly switch from dual to single motor mode, as well as limit the torque by swapping from turbo to eco mode by pressing the yellow and red buttons below the right handgrip. By using the buttons in unison with the three riding modes (which you can change via the QS-S4 display), you can cap the speed or unleash maximum torque to help you glide up steep inclines.
The display also lets you customize your acceleration and electronic braking strength, while its main function is to provide you with key riding data, including your speed and battery level. Not only is it super simple to read at a glance thanks to its vibrant interface, but it's also extremely bright and finished in almost a matte design meaning you can view it no matter how harsh the sunlight.
Overall, the combined speed, acceleration, and reliable pedigree of the Apollo brand make the Ghost 2022 a serious contender when it comes to climbing hills.
Mantis King GT
at Voro Motors
- Speed: 43 mph
- Range: 56 miles
- Weight: 74 lbs
- Load: 265 lbs
Incline Ability:
- Maximum: 30-degrees
- Optimal: 18-degrees - Learn more
The Good:
- Best-in-class performance
- Industry-leading design
- Exceptional build and ride quality
- Smooth, fast acceleration
- Premium sinewave controllers
- High-quality Samsung battery
- Adjustable hydraulic suspension
- Terrain-agnostic tires
- Advanced TFT display
- Controllable swag lights
- Efficient folding mechanism
- Wide handlebars afford excellent control
- Ergonomic controls
- Powerful hydraulic brakes
- Huge deck
- IPX5 water-resistance rating
The Bad:
- Headlight isn't strong enough for night rides
Discount Code:
- Get $50 Off. Use code:
Summary
The most recent update to Kaabo’s supreme Mantis line, the King GT has some serious hill-climbing chops.
With numerous improvements that make this the best Mantis yet, the GT can hit 15 mph in a rapid 1.9 s, reach a top speed of 43 mph, and has a large battery capable of keeping the wheels rolling for 56 miles. All combined, it has the power and longevity to swat steep inclines aside.
If you’re searching for a model that’s at the cutting edge of scooter tech, then look no further than the Mantis King GT. It brings a wealth of exotic features to the table, including highly-efficient Sine Wave controllers, the ability to control the flow of power to each motor independently, and a set of adjustable hydraulic shocks that put the rest of the scooters on this list to shame.
While it's our premium pick for steep inclines, it can easily scale hills that are in the extremely steep category.
Why We Recommend It:
The Mantis King GT has done nothing short of exploding onto the electric scooter scene. With a stunning black and gold (or red) finish and programmable swag lights, it’s easy to see why so many heads have turned. But this is one scooter that’s got so much more to offer than just its good looks.
Based on earlier Mantis models like the Pro SE, the King GT perfectly walks the line between complete overhaul and reverent reissue. It retains a lot of what we loved but comes with a host of upgrades, reinventions, and completely new additions.
For instance, the designers at Kaabo have significantly upped the comfort factor by making the frame larger, the deck more spacious, and the build quality so tight it has Rolls Royce engineers looking over their shoulders in envy.
This redesign has also made it more robust. When you’re riding up steep slopes it puts a lot of pressure on the scooter and a poorly put-together frame will soon develop annoying rattles and vibrations. There’s none of that to worry about here. The hard-wearing aluminum alloy construction and the built-in steering damper are more than a match for unrelenting hills and keep you steady on your course.
Building on its top-notch build, the handlebars are home to several top-of-the-line features. It’s the first Mantis scooter to be equipped with a 4.2-inch TFT display. This was famed by the Wolf King GT and has been one of Kaabo’s most well-received additions. This has replaced the EY3 MiniMotors display and finger throttle. It’s now centrally mounted and is exceptionally clear letting you view various riding stats at a glance.
Our favorite function of the display, though, is that it puts full control of the scooter’s power delivery in your hands. it allows you to regulate the power of the ferocious 1100W motors via 6 riding modes (Eco, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5). Even better, you can choose to engage either one – or both – of the motors. By controlling and capping the torque available, you can ease into the ride. This helps to build confidence by progressing through the speeds at your own pace but is crucial for maintaining momentum while scaling steep inclines.
A good throttle is key in your ability to modulate your pace, too. Instead of following the finger-throttle blueprint of previous Mantis scooters, it’s now completely separate from the display and is controlled with your right thumb. This is a better setup since it’s more intuitive.
Other useful features that are accessible via the cockpit include a loud horn, as well as a multi-switch console that lets you control the impressive array of lights. With a high-mounted headlight, responsive taillights, turn signals, and deck LEDs, you and your scooter are kept visible at night.
When I say that the Mantis King GT is an example of electric scooters at their best, you might think I’m exaggerating. But once you’ve seen the attention to detail that’s been applied, you’ll soon agree.
None more so is the detail noticeable than in the GT’s motor power. Able to reach 15 mph in 1.9 seconds, its acceleration can, at times, feel like you’ve been strapped to the back of a Formula 1 car.
The dual motors are capable of producing tremendous amounts of torque that peak at 4200W. To put this into perspective, this is 68% more powerful than the Apollo Ghost which is already a thrilling ride. As to be expected, it makes light work of hills.
However, it’s not just a blistering 43 mph top speed that you get; each motor is paired with a 30A Sine Wave controller to regulate the flow of power as they surge into action. Electric scooter controllers manage the flow of power between the battery and the motors. Previously, Kaboo scooters have been fitted with Square Wave controllers and when you’d press the throttle, power was pulled in an erratic motion. This would jerk you back and forth (and is a reason I’m not the biggest fan of Dualtron scooters since the majority have these types of controllers). A Sine Wave controller, on the other hand, pulls power in a consistent and controlled manner, resulting in a smooth throttle response.
Controlling your speed via the throttle alone, however, would be foolish. Here’s where the brakes come into play – and the Mantis King GT doesn’t hold back. With Zoom hydraulic discs on both wheels, you get exceptionally responsive stopping power that’s more than a match for its mighty performance. When activated, you’ll come to a stop from 15 mph in a short 2.1 meters.
Strong brakes are vital when you need to slow while going downhill, but a standout feature is the ABS function (which you can turn on or off). ABS, otherwise known as an anti-locking braking system, works by sensing when the wheels are about to lock. It then rapidly reduces and increases the braking pressure multiple times per second, applying optimal pressure. This allows the wheels to keep moving as the scooter slows down, instead of locking up.
So, we’ve established that the Mantis King GT has the pedigree to effectively scale steep inclines, but the final topic of discussion is ride quality.
Thankfully, the newly introduced adjustable suspension system is the best you can get for an electric scooter priced under $2,500. Thanks to its hydraulic design, the compression and rebound of the springs are controlled via pistons that contain a compressed liquid. Using the simple dial, you can adjust the rate at which the springs rebound. Ultimately, this means that you can customize the suspension to your weight and terrain for the smoothest ride possible.
Working in cahoot with the beefy 10 x 3 pneumatic tires that are equipped with a terrain-agnostic tread, the Mantis King GT delivers a level of ride quality that far surpasses its rivals. It’s the only scooter on this list that can tackle all kinds of terrain without making any major adjustments (i.e. swapping street tires for off-road variants).
Whether you're riding up hills or burning rubber on the flats, the Mantis King GT has an impressive arsenal of functions and features. It chews up any hill you point your wheels at and ensures you have fun while doing it.
Electric Scooters for Extremely Steep Inclines (15+ Degrees)
Mantis V2
- Speed: 40 mph
- Range: 33 miles
- Weight: 65 lbs
- Load: 265 lbs
Incline Ability:
- Maximum: 30-degrees
- Optimal: 18-degrees - Learn more
The Good:
- The most popular performance scooter
- Fast, with a rapid acceleration rate
- Sine Wave controllers allow for a smooth throttle response
- Great for climbing hills
- Sports turn signals and stylish deck lights
- Great ride quality
- Strong brakes
The Bad:
- The battery uses FST cells, but you can upgrade to better quality LG cells for improved performance
Summary
The Kaabo Mantis V2 sets the standard for performance scooters. With powerful dual 60V 1000W motors and impressive Sine Wave controllers, it can reach 15 mph in 2.1 seconds and eat up the steepest of inclines.
Bringing a wealth of upgrades to outperform its predecessor, including a water-resistant rating, full hydraulic brakes, ergonomic rubber grips, and a full lighting suite, the V2 delivers superb value for money and a scooter that is perfectly suited for inner-city rides and blazing off-road tracks.
Why We Recommend It:
Priced like a base model but with plenty of pro specs, the Mantis V2 is one of the most popular performance scooters. The combined peak power of 3000W gives it plenty of torque, allowing you to take on even the most extreme inclines. Plus, the 25A controllers make the throttle smooth to operate and take you to top speed without uncomfortably jerking you back and forth.
Powered by an 18.2Ah battery, the V2 can keep the wheels rolling for up to 33 miles on a single charge. The recharge time is relatively long at 11 to 12 hours, but you can pay extra to get a fast 4-hour charger. To keep the V2 affordable, Kaabo has opted for a cheaper FST battery instead of an LG model. FST batteries are a great way to reduce the cost of scooters, but compared to name-brand batteries like those from LG, they lose their peak performance after fewer charge cycles. However, if you prefer, you can pick up the Mantis V2 with a larger and higher quality 24.5Ah LG battery for an additional cost.
When it comes to the rest of the V2’s build, it’s a solid, well-made scooter with a frame crafted from aviation-grade aluminum. It's exceptionally durable and feels sturdy even over terrain that would make many of its peers shake and rattle. Although we've found previous Mantis models to have wobbly stems, the V2’s stem clicks firmly into place and remains solid as a rock throughout your journey. The deck also provides plenty of space and is surrounded by bright lights for enhanced visibility at night.
When you want to pack the scooter away or carry it, there is an easy-to-master folding mechanism. It even has a handy latch on the back of the handlebars that clips into the deck to hold everything firmly in place while in transit. In the folded position, the handlebars remain in one piece giving it a wider profile than scooters with foldable handlebars.
Moving on to the ride quality, the front and rear spring suspension, and 10-inch pneumatic tires can take on rough terrain all while giving you a smooth ride. For the V2, the designers at Kaabo have made some welcome improvements to the suspension. The springs are stiffer to prevent unnecessary movement and bottoming out. As a result, the ride feels more responsive and can easily dampen vibrations.
As is the case with all good hill climbers, a lot of focus is placed on motor power, but one equally important area is braking power. After all, you need to be able to effectively control the scooter when coming down a hill. Kaabo has ensured that you won't be disappointed by installing dual hydraulic disc brakes. These are a vast improvement over the cable-actuated semi-hydraulic discs of the original Mantis. Together they will quickly bring you to a stop in 2.7 meters from 15 mph. Previously, they took 3.4 meters.
Mounted on the handlebars, you'll find a QS-S4 display and throttle console. This is a commonly used component that displays key riding stats and allows you to customize a range of features, including braking and acceleration intensity. The display is bright and large enough to take in key information at a single glance, even in direct sunlight.
Usually, we prefer scooters to have thumb throttles because of their more ergonomic design, however in the case of the V2 and climbing hills, having a finger throttle works well. It's easy to wrap your finger around the throttle while gripping the handlebars as you scale steep inclines.
With all things considered, the Mantis V2 ticks every box that a great hill climber needs. Plus, despite the V2 benefitting from a wealth of improvements that aid its ride quality and hill-climbing credentials, it manages to maintain a reasonable price of just $1,799.
Wolf King GT
at Voro Motors
- Speed: 62 mph
- Range: 70 miles
- Weight: 115 lbs
- Load: 330 lbs
Incline Ability:
- Maximum: 50-degrees
- Optimal: 30-degrees - Learn more
The Good:
- Expansive handlebars afford excellent handling
- Puncture-proof 11-inch tubeless tires
- Huge 72V 2000W motors
- Blistering acceleration (fastest recorded)
- Show-stopping dual 50Ah Sine Wave controllers
- IPX5 water resistance rating
- Upgraded TFT display
- Ergonomic thumb throttle
- Motorcycle-grade suspension
- Tactile button controls
- Excellent lights (including turn signals)
The Bad:
- Cumbersome to fold – it gets longer when you collapse it
- Extremely heavy
Summary:
The Wolf King GT is the undisputed king of hill-climbing. Its dual 2000W motors take no prisoners and come with an incredible maximum incline capability of 50-degrees. Yes, you heard me correctly, 50-degrees. With this beast, you'll make mincemeat of any incline unlucky enough to get in your way.
This is one of our favorite scooters and a shining light amidst the growing mass of ultra-performance models. Although the $3,595 price is high enough to make your eyes water, it's a perfect example of “you get what you pay for”. It has a ferocious acceleration rate, a rapid top speed of 62 mph, an extensive range of 70 miles, and more than enough torque to take on any hill, even the steepest street in the world (Baldwin Street).
Why We Recommend It:
At this point, it's worth mentioning that if you're looking for your first scooter, you should turn away. You can come back when you've got a few years of experience riding some tamer models. To master this behemoth takes someone who knows their way around an electric scooter and can judiciously use its monstrous speed. If that's you, you have my blessing to read on and treat yourself to the wonder that is the Wolf King GT.
One of the things that makes this scooter stand out is its ability to take on any terrain. Whether you take it off-road or into the urban landscape, you'll have the time of your life. The designers at Kaabo have even provided the option for you to choose between off-road, racing, or street tires.
Thankfully, the GT has been equipped with a well-balanced battery and power supply. Unlike its predecessor – the Wolf King – which came with a much smaller 28Ah battery and a maximum range of 50 miles, the GT ups the ante with a huge 35Ah battery. As a result of this significant upgrade, the relentless dual 2000W motors can keep spinning for a maximum of 70 miles. Under realistic conditions, you can expect 53-55 miles of use. Considering that steep inclines require a huge amount of energy to conquer, the GT has a copious amount of power to keep your hill-filled journeys well within reach.
When it comes to comfort, it's easy to focus on the dual hydraulic shock absorbers, rear springs, and huge 11 x 3.5-inch puncture-proof tires. Of course, these deliver excellent results in the way of shock absorption, but the real defining factor of the GT’s ride quality is determined by the extra-wide handlebars and tall dual stem. This combination delivers a level of control that is unmatched by any other scooter – especially while accelerating and hitting top speeds.
Alongside the formidable frame, the 50Ah Sine Wave controllers are responsible for the GT’s exceptionally smooth throttle response. When used in conjunction with the GT’s 6 riding modes and the choice of enabling either both or just one motor, the scooter rewards you with a ride that can be tamed and grown into – this is a far cry from other ultra-performance models that drop you in the deep end.
Nevertheless, it is worth noting that in full power mode, the torque provided by the motors is nothing short of hair-raising. Impressively, the Wolf King GT – alongside the NAMI Burn-e – has the fastest acceleration rate that we’ve ever recorded. It reaches 15 mph in a mere 1.7 seconds and 25 mph in an eye-watering 3.0 seconds. As you can imagine, the acceleration can, at times, be intimidating – if you are a hill, that is. With this much power at the tip of your thumb, the GT can quickly accelerate up inclines.
If you're planning on traveling at speeds like this, you'll need some decent brakes to bring you to a stop. Kaabo doesn't disappoint with its tried and tested dual hydraulic discs. Unlike previous models, the discs are slightly thicker to prevent warping or wear and tear. During our tests, they brought the scooter to a stop in 3.0 meters from 15 mph – this is in line with the majority of ultra-performance models.
Fitted with a stunning next-gen TFT display, a glance at the handlebars will give you all the information you need. The anti-glare screen means you can take in important stats, no matter how bright it is outside. Here you can also switch between various riding modes, set a four-digit passcode, and customize a range of settings and features.
The Wolf King GT is not just a scooter; it's an experience and one you'll enjoy time and time again. Everything this scooter has to offer, from its striking design and glaring bright lights to its unrelenting power and exceptional handling, makes it the apex of hill climbing.
By Performance
Our Top Picks by Speed
Ordered from fastest to slowest.
| Scooter | Price | Top Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Wolf King GT | $3,595 | 62 MPH |
| Mantis King GT | $2,495 | 43 MPH |
| Mantis V2 | $1,799 | 40 MPH |
| Apollo Ghost | $1,699 | 37 MPH |
| EMOVE Cruiser | $1,399 | 30 MPH |
| SPLACH Twin | $999 | 28 MPH |
Our Top Picks by Acceleration to 15 MPH
Ordered from fastest to slowest.
| Scooter | Price | 0-15 MPH (Seconds) |
|---|---|---|
| Wolf King GT | $3,595 | 1.7 s |
| Mantis King GT | $2,495 | 1.9 s |
| Mantis V2 | $1,799 | 2.1 s |
| Apollo Ghost | $1,699 | 2.5 s |
| SPLACH Twin | $999 | 3.0 s |
| EMOVE Cruiser | $1,399 | 3.4 s |
Our Top Picks by Maximum Range (Riding at Slowest Speed)
Ordered from longest to shortest.
| Scooter | Price | Max Range |
|---|---|---|
| Wolf King GT | $3,595 | 70 miles |
| EMOVE Cruiser | $1,399 | 62 miles |
| Mantis King GT | $2,495 | 56 miles |
| Apollo Ghost | $1,699 | 39 miles |
| Mantis V2 | $1,799 | 33 miles |
| SPLACH Twin | $999 | 28 miles |
Our Top Picks by Realistic Range (Riding at Top Speed)
Ordered from longest to shortest.
| Scooter | Price | Max Range |
|---|---|---|
| Wolf King GT | $3,595 | 55 miles |
| EMOVE Cruiser | $1,399 | 48 miles |
| Mantis King GT | $2,495 | 38 miles |
| Mantis V2 | $1,799 | 28 miles |
| Apollo Ghost | $1,699 | 25 miles |
| SPLACH Twin | $999 | 22 miles |
Our Top Picks by Braking Performance
Ordered from shortest to longest stopping distance.
| Scooter | Price | Braking From 15 MPH |
|---|---|---|
| Mantis V2 | $1,799 | 2.7 meters |
| SPLACH Twin | $999 | 2.8 meters |
| Mantis King GT | $2,495 | 2.9 meters |
| Wolf King GT | $3,595 | 3.0 meters |
| Apollo Ghost | $1,699 | 3.4 meters |
| EMOVE Cruiser | $1,399 | 3.4 meters |
By Type
Heavy Adults:
- Moderate Inclines: EMOVE Cruiser – Supports up to 352 lbs
- Steep Inclines: Apollo Ghost – Supports up to 300 lbs
- Extremely Steep Inclines: Wolf King GT – Supports up to 330 lbs
Fastest:
- Moderate Inclines: SPLACH Twin – 28 mph
- Steep Inclines: Mantis King GT – 43 mph
- Extremely Steep Inclines: Wolf King GT – 62 mph
Longest Range:
- Moderate Inclines: EMOVE Cruiser – 62 miles (48 miles realistic)
- Steep Inclines: Mantis King GT – 56 miles (38 miles realistic)
- Extremely Steep Inclines: Wolf King GT – 70 miles (55 miles realistic)
Off-Roading:
- Moderate Inclines: None
- Steep Inclines: Mantis King GT
- Extremely Steep Inclines: Wolf King GT
Biggest Wheels:
- Moderate Inclines: EMOVE Cruiser – 10 x 3 inches
- Steep Inclines: Mantis King GT – 10 x 3 inches
- Extremely Steep Inclines: Wolf King GT – 11 x 3.5 inches
Most Portable:
- Moderate Inclines: SPLACH Twin – 53 lbs, telescopic stem, and folding handlebars
- Steep Inclines: Apollo Ghost – 64 lbs and folding handlebars
- Extremely Steep Inclines: Mantis V2 – 65 lbs and foldable
Commuting:
- Moderate Inclines: EMOVE Cruiser
- Steep Inclines: Apollo Ghost
- Extremely Steep Inclines: Mantis V2
Suspension:
- Moderate Inclines: SPLACH Twin – Dual springs and swingarms
- Steep Inclines: Mantis King GT – Adjustable hydraulic shocks
- Extremely Steep Inclines: Wolf King GT – Hydraulic front fork and dual rear springs with swingarms
Waterproof:
- Moderate Inclines: EMOVE Cruiser – IPX6 water-resistance rating
- Steep Inclines: Apollo Ghost – IP54 water-resistance rating
- Extremely Steep Inclines: Mantis V2 – IPX5 water-resistance rating
Waterproof Electric Scooters: Best Scooters For Riding in the Rain
Seat Attachment:
- Moderate Inclines: EMOVE Cruiser – Available for $65
- Steep Inclines: None
- Extremely Steep Inclines: Wolf King GT – Available for $145
FAQs
Which Electric Scooter is Best For Climbing Hills?
The best electric scooters for climbing hills are as follows.
Moderate Inclines (5-10 degrees):
- SPLACH Twin – $999
- EMOVE Cruiser – $1,399
Steep Inclines (10-15 degrees):
- Apollo Ghost – $1,699
- Mantis King GT – $2,495
Extremely Steep Inclines (15+ degrees):
- Mantis V2 – $1,799
- Wolf King GT – $3,595
Can Electric Scooters Climb Steep Hills?
Yes. However, not all scooters can conquer all steep hills.
Different models have different hill-climbing abilities. This is mostly determined by how much power and torque their motors put out, as well as the size and longevity of their battery.
Scooters with a nominal power output of 2000W or above have a better chance of getting you to the top of steeper hills whilst maintaining speed.
What is the Maximum Slope Climbing Speed of an Electric Scooter?
This depends on the degree of the slope and the power of the scooter's motor. The steeper the slope and the smaller the motors, the slower the scooter will go.
For example, if we take a 5-degree incline and the SPLACH Twin – a scooter with dual 600W motors – it can climb this incline while maintaining a speed of around 28 mph. If the incline increases to 15 degrees, the scooter would slow to around 10 mph.
Ultimately, if you want to go fast up hills then it's best to opt for a scooter with large motors and a high peak power output.
Can You Go Downhill on an Electric Scooter?
Yes, you can go downhill on an electric scooter. There are, however, a couple of important things you should be aware of.
Firstly, while it may be tempting to go full throttle to reach new heights of top speed, exerting this much force on a scooter can have a detrimental effect on the integrity of the motors. After all, the motors have been designed with a set number of revolutions per minute, and going beyond this can be dangerous. Here, it's best to remain under the maximum speed limit set by the manufacturer.
Secondly, going downhill requires strong brakes. For the best braking performance, we suggest choosing a scooter with hydraulics. It's also worth opting for a model that has larger-than-normal rotors. Rotors that measure 160 mm are a good choice since there is more surface area to dissipate heat. As a result, these deliver more reliable stopping power compared to smaller 140 mm rotors.
