If you are the lucky owner of a Ninebot electric scooter, you have probably already enjoyed its reliability and pleasant ride. But what if you want to go faster? This article offers you different solutions to increase the speed of your Ninebot electric scooter, while taking into account the precautions to take and the laws in force. Ready to boost your rides?
Why are there speed limits for Ninebot electric scooters?
Before looking into the speed boost of Ninebot scooters, it seems necessary to understand why they are limited at the factory. The answer is simple: it is a restriction put in place to ensure safe driving and compliance with regulations.
The reasons for the limitation
Several reasons may explain this restriction.
User safety
By limiting the speed of the Ninebot electric scooters, we reduce the risk of accidents. Indeed, a machine that is too fast can be difficult to control, which increases the risks of falling and colliding. Not to mention that the braking distance is extended at high speed, which can be dangerous in the event of a sudden obstacle.
Compliance with regulations
In France and in several European countries, the maximum speed allowed for an electric scooter is 25 km/h. This restriction aims to regulate the use of this vehicle in urban areas to ensure better coexistence with other road users. Non-compliance with this regulation can lead to penalties, even the prohibition of circulation on public roads.
The preservation of the device components
The limitation of electric scooters to 25km/h also aims to ensure the durability of the components and prevent their premature wear. Indeed, riding at excessively high speeds puts more strain on the equipment and can affect the overall lifespan of your scooter.
It is also reminded that engine overheating and increased energy consumption can lead to frequent breakdowns and higher maintenance costs.
Liability in case of accident
In the event of an accident involving an electric scooter exceeding the authorized speed, the insurance may refuse to cover the damages. This could then represent a significant financial risk for you, which is not desirable at all.
Summary table of the best Ninebot scooter models
Here are some popular Ninebot models available at Weebot:
|
Model |
Maximum Speed (km/h) |
Power (W) |
Autonomy (km) |
|
Ninebot E2 |
20 |
250 |
20 |
|
Ninebot E2 Plus |
25 |
500 (peak) |
25 |
|
Ninebot F2 E |
25 |
450 (900 W pic) |
40 |
|
Ninebot F2 Plus E |
25 |
450 (900 W pic) |
55 |
|
Ninebot MAX G2 E |
25 |
450 (900 W pic) |
70 |
|
Ninebot P65E |
25 |
500 (980 W pic) |
65 |
How to increase the speed of your Ninebot electric scooter?
Today, there are several ways to increase the speed of your Ninebot electric scooter. You can either use software settings or make hardware modifications. Each solution has its advantages and disadvantages that you need to consider before making any changes to your device.
Switch to Sport mode
It should be noted that some Ninebot models are equipped with a Sport mode that immediately boosts the vehicle's performance.
To activate Sport mode, start by opening the Segway-Ninebot app on your smartphone. Then, connect to the device via Bluetooth, go to settings, and look for the "Sport mode" option. Activate it and change the region to "Global — F2" if this option is available. The advantage? Unlock more power and achieve a slightly higher speed than in Sport mode.
You will have understood, the Sport mode is a simple and quick solution to boost your electric scooter without having to make complex hardware or software modifications.
Opt for unlocking
Unleashing is a common practice in the world of electric scooters. It involves modifying the internal software of the machine to remove the speed limitations imposed by the manufacturer.
Some applications allow you to achieve this goal with ease:
- Scooter Hacking Utility
- XiaoFlasher
To carry out the unblocking process, here are the steps to follow:
Start by downloading one of the applications mentioned earlier, then connect your scooter via Bluetooth to your smartphone. Next, select the speed settings and adjust them according to your preferences. Complete the process by clicking on validate and restart the scooter so that it incorporates the changes.
Attention: unlocking may involve certain risks. The most well-known being the cancellation of the scooter's warranty. But that's not all! It can also lead to premature wear of components and put you in an illegal situation if you ride it on public roads.
Alternative solutions to increase speed without derestriction
If you want to ride faster without touching the internal settings of your Ninebot electric scooter, there are several simple tips to implement. Here are some ideas to boost the speed of your Ninebot scooter without risking compromising its original settings.
Play with the tire pressure
Tire pressure plays an important role in the performance of your scooter. By maintaining good pressure, you reduce rolling resistance, which can slightly improve speed. Also opt for harder or thinner tires, which offer less friction with the ground, for a smoother and faster ride, especially on smooth surfaces.
Adjust the suspension for more stability
The suspension of your scooter has a significant impact on its stability, especially at high speeds. A stiffer suspension allows for better shock absorption and improves the vehicle's stability. This reduces energy loss during impacts with the ground, ensuring optimal performance and a more comfortable ride, especially on uneven terrain.
Reduce the total weight of your scooter
The total weight of the scooter, including yours, directly influences the speed. By opting for lighter accessories or reducing the carried weight, you decrease the resistance and thus improve performance. Less weight means less effort for the scooter, resulting in a slightly higher speed without touching the internal settings.
These little tips help you improve the performance of your scooter while maintaining its safety and durability.
Maintenance after unlocking: Extend the life of your Ninebot
When you make modifications to your electric scooter, such as derestricting or adjusting its settings, you increase the stress placed on its components. To ensure its longevity and avoid any risks, regular preventive maintenance is essential. Here are some good practices to adopt to ensure the safety and performance of your scooter in the long term.
Regularly check the brakes
Brakes are one of the most crucial elements for your safety. After changing the speed of your scooter, it is important to check their effectiveness. Higher speeds generate more forces, which can affect the braking distance. Make sure that the brake pads or discs are not worn and that the system is functioning properly to avoid any incidents.
Monitor tire wear
Tires experience more pressure when you push your scooter at higher speeds. Check their condition regularly for any signs of wear or deterioration. Worn tires can compromise your grip and safety, especially at high speeds. Don't forget to check their pressure as well, as under-inflated tires can affect performance.
Inspect the battery and the connections
A modified scooter puts more strain on the battery. Therefore, it is essential to check its charge status, efficiency, and connections. An aging or poorly maintained battery can quickly lose its capacity or, worse, cause breakdowns during your rides. If you notice a significant loss of autonomy or a battery that overheats, it is best to replace it to avoid any issues.
Check the screws and mechanical components
The vibrations caused by a higher speed can loosen certain parts of your scooter over time. Make it a habit to regularly check the screws and mechanical components (handlebar, stem, motor, etc.) to prevent them from loosening or deteriorating. This will help you avoid the risks of failure during use.
By applying these few simple gestures, you not only ensure the safety of your scooter after modification, but you also extend its lifespan. Regular maintenance is essential to maintain optimal performance, even after pushing your scooter to its limits.
The safety measures to know before unlocking your Ninebot electric scooter
As mentioned at the beginning of this article, the limiting of electric scooters exists to ensure compliance with current regulations, but not only that. It mainly exists to ensure the safety of users and to prevent accidents on the road.
Here are some security measures to apply.
Last reminder of the current legislation
Legally, an electric scooter cannot exceed 25 km/h on public roads. In France, unrestricting your scooter can result in a fine of up to €1500 and, in some cases, the confiscation of the device. Not to mention the risk of insurance cancellation.
The risks to security
Increasing the speed of your electric scooter obviously carries risks. At high speeds, the stability of the vehicle is reduced, which increases the risk of falls and collisions. Additionally, brakes are generally designed for a certain speed limit and can become less effective if you decide to unlock the device. Why? Because this increases the braking distance, putting the rider in danger.
Recommended equipment
If you are going for a tuning of your electric scooter, we recommend wearing a helmet, protective gloves, and joint protectors (knees and elbows). You can find several references on the Weebot website.
These devices reduce the risk of serious injuries in the event of a fall or collision.
FAQ
Does unlocking my Ninebot electric scooter affect the battery life?
Yes, unlocking your scooter can impact the battery life. A higher speed puts more strain on the battery, which can lead to increased energy consumption. You may therefore notice a decrease in range, especially if you frequently use the maximum speed.
What are the risks of damaging my Ninebot after an unblocking?
Uncapping exposes your scooter to the risk of premature damage, as it forces the motor, electronic components, and brakes to work harder. This increased strain can lead to more frequent breakdowns, especially if the machine is used at full power for extended periods.
Does the weight of the rider influence the speed of my Ninebot electric scooter?
Yes, the weight of the rider has a direct impact on speed. The heavier the weight, the more effort the scooter will need to exert to reach a certain speed. Reducing the carried weight (for example, by opting for lighter accessories) can improve performance without changing the internal parameters of the scooter.
What are the elements to monitor after unlocking my scooter?
After a derestriction, several elements will need to be monitored: the additional vibrations due to increased speed, the wear of mechanical components (engine, brakes, suspension), as well as the thermal management of the engine. Particular attention must be paid to the battery and charging, to avoid overloading that could damage it.
Conclusion
Increasing the speed of a Ninebot electric scooter is not prohibited. There are several solutions to achieve this. However, these modifications come with risks, particularly in terms of legality and safety. Before taking any initiatives, make sure to comply with the current regulations and adopt safety measures. And if you want to trade your old model for a newer and more efficient one, check out our catalog on Weebot!