Kugoo M2 Pro Review
Kugoo M2 Pro Specifications
- Top speed: 25 kmh 15.5 mph
- Range: 30 km 18.6 mph
- Motors: single hub BLDC motor
- Power: 350 W real, 750 W peak
- Climb angle: 15 °
- Rotations: 680-730 rpm
- Battery: 270 Wh, 36 V
- Battery type: 18650 lithium
- Charging time: 6 h
- Avg. charging cost: US: $0.04, Canada: $0.02, UK: £0.08, EU: €0.08
- Ingress protection (IP): IP54
- Weight: 15.6 kg 34 lbs
- Weight limit: 120 kg 265 lbs
- Tire size: 8.5 in
- Tire type: pneumatic
- Foldable: yes
- Foldable handlebars: no
- Seat: no
- Trunk or basket: no (customization possible)
- Build material: aviation-grade aluminum
- Terrains: urban
- Brakes: front electric + rear mechanical disc + foot brake, braking distance 4m
- Lights: 2.5 W built-in LED lights, rear LED lights
- Control: high-contrast round display
- Speed modes: 3
- App: yes
- Warranty: 12 months (6 on battery)
- Folded dimensions (L * W * H): 113 * 50 * 51 cm 44.49 * 19.69 * 20.08 in
- Unfolded dimensions (L * W * H): 113 * 50 * 111 cm 44.49 * 19.69 * 43.70 in
- Deck dimensions (L * W): 40 * 18 cm 15.75 * 7.09 in
- Deck to handlebar height: 101 cm (est) 39.76 in (est)
- Adjustable handlebar: no
Tests and measurements
- Speed tests (EScooterNerds): 25 kmh 15.5 mph
- Speed tests (third party): 25 kmh 15.5 mph
- Range tests (EScooterNerds): 25 km 15.5 mi
- Range tests (third party): 30 km 18.6 mi
- Braking distance tests (third party): 4 m
- Climb tests (EScooterNerds): 20
- Climb tests (third party): 15
- Charge time tests (third party): 4
- Weight limit tests (third party): 118 kg 260 lbs
Ratings and scores
Pros
- budget-friendly
- low maintenance
- good portability
- good brakes
- not very fast
Cons
- low climb angle
- low range
- not the most comfortable
When to buy
The Kugoo M2 Pro stands out as a top choice for European scooter enthusiasts under $400, possibly under $500, with limited competition. If your budget is $350-$400, it’s a strong contender, offering a perfect balance of range and portability, strong torque, and climbing power for hilly terrains. Its IP54 rating ensures suitability for various weather conditions, and the air-filled tires and dual suspension enhance the riding experience. Beyond focusing on value, specs, and performance, it’s crucial to highlight the sheer fun factor appreciated by numerous users.
When not to buy
The Kugoo M2 Pro, despite its attractive price and reasonable specifications, may not cater to every rider’s preferences. For those seeking a powerful hill climber, the M2 Pro may struggle on steeper inclines, especially for heavier riders. Despite having 8.5-inch pneumatic tires that offer some cushion, navigating potholes and rough terrain can result in uncomfortable vibrations. Long-distance riders should be cautious, as the advertised 30 km / 18.5 mi range may significantly decrease in hilly areas or for heavier users, potentially leading to unexpected stops before reaching your destination. Speed enthusiasts may find the 25 kmh / 15 mph top speed somewhat underwhelming for an exhilarating experience. While the Kugoo M2 Pro is well-suited for casual riders on smooth terrain, those with specific needs or a desire for more power and features may find it worthwhile to explore alternative options before making a purchase.
The Kugoo M2 Pro is a versatile and budget-friendly electric scooter and is part of Kugoo’s strategy to dominate the European budget scooter market. It has solid specs and quality, so let’s explore why it’s a great choice.
Basic
Here are some of the basics you should know about the Kugo M2.
Unboxing and assembly
The scooter may arrive in a double box, an uncommon practice that might concern environmentally conscious individuals.
However, additional protective packaging and styrofoam, ensure the scooter is well-protected during shipping.
The package will contain:
- the scooter
- the charger
- the toolkit with Allen keys, a screwdriver, and a bag for the tools
- the user manual
- the warranty card
Assembly is straightforward, though slightly more involved compared to some other scooters.
To assemble the scooter, connect the cables from the handlebar to the stem, place the handlebar, and tighten the screws. Ensure you fully charge the battery before the initial ride.
Folding and user manual
The Kugoo M2 Pro has one of the simplest folding mechanisms I’ve ever seen.
To fold the scooter, unlock the safety lever, fold the stem, and lock the safety lever again. When folded, rotate the handlebars for a narrower profile, making it easier to fit in car trunks.
The bell on the left handlebar is loud enough for pedestrians, and some vehicle riders may hear it.
Performance
Here are some of the performance aspects you should know about.
Motor
The Kugoo M2 Pro features a powerful 350W brushless DC motor in the front wheel, reaching a peak power of 750W with a 14A controller.
Unlike other scooters in its price range with 250W or 350W motors, the M2 Pro falls into the latter category. Placed in the front wheel, the motor boosts torque and traction, enhancing climbing ability and overall performance.
Kugoo M2 Pro speed
The Kugoo M2 Pro has an official top speed of 25 kmh / 15 mph. User reports confirm this and I have, in some cases, surpassed this claim, reaching speeds around 28 kmh / 17 mph. The top speed decreases as the battery level drops.
Range and range test
The Kugoo M2 Pro has a range of 18 miles / 30 kilometers on a single battery charge. For my preference, it isn’t enough. The specified range is close to what users get in real-world rides
When I tested the scooter I managed to get only 16 miles / 25 km.
If you need a daily commuter that has a better range than this, check out my guide on the best long-range electric scooters.
Climbing and climb test
With its 350W motor, the Kugoo M2 Pro achieves an official climb angle of 15°, while many users and I report that it can handle 20° hills with ease.
Ride experience
The Kugoo M2 Pro offers an exceptionally smooth ride with its pneumatic tires and dual suspension.
For its price range in my opinion, it delivers comfortable and enjoyable rides, featuring cruise control that can be activated by holding the throttle and adjusted through the app.
Prioritizing torque and motor output, the scooter places the motor in the front wheel, and I think that this enhances acceleration but may result in less precise control and a front-heavy feel.
The M2 Pro addresses this with a wider handlebar, although it may still feel front-heavy. When braking at high speeds, shift your body’s center of gravity backward for better stability.
The scooter’s primary use case is urban use, commuting, and casual rides on roads and streets.
I wouldn’t recommend going offroad with the Kugoo M2 Pro.
If you’re looking for a ride through some rough terrain, see my guide on the best offroad electric scooters.
Kugoo M2 Pro vs other scooters
Now let’s see how Kugoo M2 Pro compares to other scooters in the same class.
Kugoo M2 Pro vs Kugoo S1 Pro
The M2 Pro and Kugoo S1 Pro share similarities in top speed, range, weight load, climb angle, and water resistance. The S1 Pro is slightly lighter and more portable, which is its main advantage.
However, it features solid tires, which, while beneficial for avoiding flats, don’t offer the same smooth ride as air-filled tires.
Personally, I would pick the M2 Pro here, especially at the discounted price, which makes them priced the same.
You can read the full review of the Kugoo S1 Pro if you want a very similar scooter to the M2 Pro but with solid wheels.
Kugoo M2 Pro vs Xiaomi M365
This may sound crazy to some, but I truly believe the Kugoo M2 Pro has enough advantages over the Xiaomi M365, to be considered better on average, or better for some use cases at the very least.
Kugoo is a direct improvement over Xiaomi M365, with tubeless tires to minimize flat tire issues and added suspension, a feature absent in M365.
Despite the latter’s brand recognition and slightly lighter weight by about 3.5 kg / 7.7 lbs, these factors may not be crucial for some users.
If that’s something closer to what you’re looking for, you can see my detailed Xiaomi M365 review to learn more.
Now, if we’re talking about the Xiaomi M365 Pro, that’s a whole different story, and the price difference between the Kugoo M2 Pro and the Xiaomi M365 Pro is so big that comparing them makes very little sense.
Build quality and design
The Kugoo M2 Pro boasts a sturdy frame with a robust design, radiating reliability and strength. Past durability concerns have been addressed, resulting in a well-built, agile scooter, outperforming many other entry-level options.
Features
Here are some of the key features of the Kugoo M2.
Battery and charging
The 18650 lithium battery of the Kugoo M2 Pro has a 270 Watt-hour capacity and a voltage of 36 Volts. The battery has a smart battery management system that protects it from overcharging and partial charging.
Charging takes 4 hours on average, but as the battery naturally degrades over time, the charge time can extend to up to 6 hours.
The charging port is located at the base of the stem and is protected from water and dust by a plastic cap.
Charging the scooter fully costs 7 pence in the UK, and 6 cents in the EU on average, if you charge during off-peak hours. Charging during peak hours costs around 10 pence in the UK and 9 cents in the EU.
Tires
The 8.5-inch by 2.5-inch pneumatic tubeless tires of the Kugoo M2 Pro strike a balance between ride comfort and puncture resistance, common in tubeless designs.
With a standard road tread, they include vent spews, which users can use as wear indicators. If the small hairs are mostly gone or the tire looks worn out, it’s a sign to consider a replacement.
Suspension
The Kugoo M2 Pro features dual-wheel suspension – a dual spring arm on the rear wheel and a larger spring between the front wheel and the stem. While it may wobble on larger bumps, the suspension significantly enhances ride comfort.
These are not the best shock absorbers, but having any suspension is a notable advantage, especially considering that most scooters in this price range lack any type of suspension.
If you prefer even more comfortable rides, check out my guide on the best electric scooters with suspension.
Brakes
The Kugoo M2 Pro boasts dual brake redundancy with two separate systems utilizing three brakes in total.
The Kugoo M2 Pro features a 110-mm disc brake on the rear wheel and an electronic regenerative brake on the front wheel. Activated by the left handlebar brake lever, it triggers the red rear lights.
An additional foot brake, activated by pressing your foot against the rear fender, serves as an extra safety feature, which can come in handy in my opinion.
While it may not be very useful most of the time, having it available is better than not. With a braking distance of 4 meters, the Kugoo M2 Pro provides strong stopping power, especially considering its top speed.
Deck and handlebars
The standing surface of the Kugoo M2 Pro is a comfortable, slip-resistant rectangle, measuring 40 cm in length and 18 cm in width, accommodating various rider sizes.
It features patterned rubber to prevent slipping.
The handlebars have gripped rubber covers, ensuring a secure grip even in sweaty conditions.
While the handlebar height is fixed, the deck-to-handlebar height (around 39 inch / 101 cm) is standard and suitable for most riders, including those up to 195 cm / 6’5″‘.
With a width of 50 cm, the handlebars provide more control and balance compared to most scooters in this price range, enhancing the overall riding experience.
Lights and night rides
The Kugoo M2 Pro features a white LED light under the handlebar at the top right of the stem, casting light up to 6-7 meters due to its strength and mild angle.
The rear deck is equipped with red lights that function as blinking and brake lights, activated by pressing the brake lever. The lights are sufficiently strong, making the scooter street-legal.
Screen
The LED screen has an anti-reflective quality, and although it isn’t terribly bright, it is actually good enough for both sunny days and at night. It displays:
- current speed
- current speed mode
- battery level
The battery level has 6 bars instead of the typical 5, which is a more precise way to gauge how much juice you have left.
App, bluetooth, and lock
The app, despite having a nice design and useful features, is poorly implemented, causing user dissatisfaction which is a common issue among popular electric scooter brands.
While a subpar app might not be a major drawback unless it affects scooter usage, many scooters don’t even have an app. Kugoo, at least, is making an effort and includes a handy feature for locking the scooter.
For security, I recommend getting a good scooter lock, as the app lock alone won’t prevent theft, but it’s still better to have it than not.
The app can also power the scooter on and off and toggle the lights.
It can display:
- the current speed
- the battery level
- the trip distance
- the total distance covered
There are several preferences you can set through it, like:
- whether to use the metric or the imperial system
- brake strength
- backlight settings
- how many seconds to activate cruise control
- how fast should the acceleration be
Even though it’s full of features, the app is poorly rated mainly because of bluetooth and connectivity issues. This is the most common problem with scooter apps, and almost no app has solved these problems successfully.
The app is available for Android and iPhone. It has a disappointing 1.8-star rating on the app stores.
Regardless, it’s evident that the app needs improvement, and we hope that Kugoo will address this issue soon.
In addition to the original Kugoo app, I recommend taking a look at the Universal Electric Scooter App by EScooterNerds.
It’s designed to complement the Kugoo app, it offers various features such as tools, calculators, hacks, guides, and additional resources.
The app can be found both on the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store.
Dimensions, weight, and portability
The dimensions of the Kugoo M2 Pro are:
- folded (L x W x H): 113 x ~30 x 51 cm / 44.5 x ~11.8 x 20.1 in
- unfolded (L x W x H): 113 x 50 x 111 cm / 44.5 x 19.7 x 43.7 in
The Kugoo M2 Pro is average-sized, similar to most modern scooters. It earns an additional portability point as its handlebar rotates when folded, reducing width for easier carrying and trunk storage.
Weighing 15.6 kg / 34.4 lbs, it’s comparable to most commuter scooters, perhaps slightly heavier. It falls within the category of scooters that are not too heavy (typically under 12 kg is considered very light, while over 18 kg is considered a bit heavy).
With the center of gravity toward the front due to the motor, it remains easy to carry even for longer distances.
While not the most portable, it is reasonably portable and shouldn’t pose significant challenges for most owners in terms of carrying and storage.
If you need a more portable scooter, check out my guide on the most portable electric scooters.
Weight limit
The Kugoo M2 Pro can carry loads of up to 120 kg / 264 lb. The scooter has been used by both heavier users, but also by rebellious couples that ride two at a time.
The scooter is powerful enough for riders weighing up to its weight limit.
It’s possible that even heavier riders can ride it, but that is usually not a good risk to take (check out the guide on the best electric scooters for heavy adults if you need bigger weight limits).
IP rating and water resistance
The Kugoo M2 Pro has an IP54 water resistance standard, providing protection from water splashes from all angles. While not technically waterproof, it offers good water resistance.
Kugoo advises against riding in the rain. Users have experienced light rain without major issues, but there’s a small risk of problems if used in wet conditions.
If you prefer a scooter with a better IP rating, check out my guide on the most waterproof electric scooters.
Accessories and customizations
The Kugoo M2 Pro is reasonably feature-full, so there will not be a need for too many customizations.
If you want to beef up your scooter, you can start with some common cheap accessories, usually the generics should fit:
- IPOW universal bike phone mount from Amazon
- mirror
- trunk or basket
- possibly a louder horn if you need it (like the Airzound on Amazon)
Check out the full guide on all the possible electric scooter accessories for more cool ideas. Of course, don’t forget the helmet.
It seems that the scooter doesn’t support a seat, and there are no known seat customizations for it at the moment.
Verdict
The Kugoo M2 Pro epitomizes Kugoo’s value-driven ethos with affordability and impressive performance.
While not yet availebl in the US, where alternatives like the GoTrax GXL V2 Commuter exist, it’s a top choice in Europe for its budget-friendly features.
The M2 Pro stands out as a commendable budget option, offering unmatched value. I recommend it is a good budget scooter in general.
