Kugoo M4 Pro Review
Kugoo M4 Pro Specifications
- Top speed: 45 kmh 28 mph
- Range: 60 km 37 mph
- Motors: single BLDC
- Power: 500 W
- Climb angle: 12 °
- Battery: 624 Wh, 48 V
- Charging time: 8 h
- Avg. charging cost: US: $0.1, Canada: $0.06, UK: £0.19, EU: €0.18
- Ingress protection (IP): IPX4
- Weight: 22.5 kg 50 lbs
- Weight limit: 150 kg 330 lbs
- Tire size: 10 in
- Tire type: pneumatic, anti skid, offroad
- Foldable: yes
- Foldable handlebars: yes
- Seat: yes (optional)
- Trunk or basket: no (customization possible)
- Build material: aluminum alloy
- Terrains: all terrains
- Brakes: dual disc brake
- Shock absorbers: dual spring
- Lights: front LED + safety taillight + red night light
- Control: high-contrast round display
- Speed modes: 3
- Keys: yes
- Warranty: 12 months (6 on battery)
- Certificates: CE & MSDS verification
- Folded dimensions (L * W * H): 116 * 22 * 35 cm 45.67 * 8.66 * 13.78 in
- Unfolded dimensions (L * W * H): 115 * 56 * 120 cm 45.28 * 22.05 * 47.24 in
- Deck to handlebar height: 95 cm (est) 37.40 in (est)
- Adjustable handlebar: yes
Tests and measurements
- Speed tests (EScooterNerds): 43 kmh 27 mph
- Speed tests (third party): 47 kmh 29 mph
- Acceleration tests (EScooterNerds): 4.2 second to 20 mph
- Acceleration tests (third party):
- Range tests (EScooterNerds): 58 km 36 mi
- Range tests (third party): 60 km 37 mi
- Braking distance tests (EScooterNerds): 7 m
- Braking distance tests (third party): 7 m
- Climb tests (EScooterNerds): 14
- Climb tests (third party): 12
- Charge time tests (EScooterNerds): 8
- Charge time tests (third party): 8
- Weight limit tests (third party): 150 kg 330 lbs
Ratings and scores
Pros
- great range
- excellent suspension
- reliable build
- good brakes
- very good acceleration
Cons
- portability
- mid price
- cables sticking out
When to buy
Positioned between budget and mid-range, it’s an ideal choice for budgets around $700, considering its quality and safety features. With impressive range and performance, it’s a wise option for both commuters and value-conscious shoppers. The scooter’s reliable build, excellent suspension, and water-resistant features make it perfect for challenging environments with frequent rain, snow, bad roads, or lack of dedicated lanes.
When not to buy
If portability is a priority, consider alternatives. For those residing in countries like the USA, Canada, and Australia, where GeekBuying doesn’t deliver consistently, finding a distributor for the Kugoo M4 Pro can be challenging. While AliExpress may occasionally have stock, it’s not guaranteed. In such cases, the Ninebot Max is a close alternative, offering comparable prices, similar performance and features, and excellent quality.
Breaking the unwritten rule that budget scooters can’t handle offroad, the Kugoo M4 Pro challenges the status quo in the electric scooter world.
In this review, we’ll explore how this bold scooter defies expectations and aims to excel off the beaten path.
Basics
The scooter exudes strength and stability with its sturdy design, primarily constructed from industrial-grade aluminum alloy. The folding mechanism is simpler than the Kugoo M4 standard model, addressing previous complaints.
The adjustable handlebar accommodates various heights and directions to suit individual preferences.
It has three-speed modes capped at 15 kmh, 30 kmh, and 45 kmh (9 mph / 18 mph / 28 mph) respectively.
Key security ensures the Kugoo M4 Pro can only be started with the key. It is a self-starter, eliminating the need to kick it off the ground.
Unboxing and assembly
The scooter will arrive in a large box, with lots of protective foam and plastic covers.
The package will include:
- the scooter
- tire pump hose
- artificial leather seat
- seat bar with suspension
- charger, with both European and UK cables
- manual
- warranty
- toolkit with two Allen keys and a wrench
Assembly is minimal – jsut install the seat and headlight.
Use the Allen keys and wrench to tighten screws as a precaution, although they are usually secure out of the box.
Performance
Let’s check out the most important performance aspects of the Kugoo M4 Pro.
Motor
The Kugoo M4 Pro features a 500 watt single-drive brushless hub motor, striking a balance between traction and speed offering a fun, high-quality ride, even on rough terrains, making it an excellent offroad scooter.
In my opinion, they really couldn’t make the motor much better here, considering this price.
Speed and speed test
The Kugoo M4 Pro has an official top speed of 45 kmh / 28 mph. Speed tests vary, with some users reaching 42 kmh / 26 mph and others hitting 47 kmh / 29 mph.
When I was testing the scooter I was impressed with how quickly it accelerated from 0 to 20 mph in just 4.2 seconds. The scooter felt stable and I felt in control even at high speeds.
I was able to reach a top speed of 43 kmh / 27 mph on a flat road. If this speed isn’t enough for you speed junkies, check out my guide on the fastest electric scooters.
It’s safe to consider 45 kmh / 28 mph as the confirmed top speed.
Range and range test
We reviewed the Kugoo M4 Pro model which has a 13 Ah battery. It offers a 60 km / 37 miles range, and for me, that is more than enough.
When I tested the range I went on a long drive through my neighborhood which has a mix of flat roads, gentle inclines, and even a few steeper hills.
The results were close to the manufacturer’s ones, at 52 km / 32 miles. If the testing was done only on a flat road I think I would have surpassed the manufacturer’s given range.
If your daily commuting is longer than the official range, check out my guide on the best long-range electric scooters.
Climbing and climb test
The Kugoo M4 Pro excels in climbing with a strong ability to handle hills, officially rated at a 12-degree climb angle, but some users have reported handling 15 degrees without issues.
The controller surpasses advertised power, contributing to the scooter’s high performance.
On the climb test, the scooter was able to easily handle the incline of 14 degrees. It started off slowly, but it quickly gained speed and maintained a steady pace throughout the climb. The scooter did not overheat or lose power, and I was able to reach the top of the hill without any problems.
If you live in an area with steeper hills and you need stronger climbers, check out my guide on the best hill-climbing electric scooters.
Ride experience
I was impressed with the smooth and comfortable ride the Kugoo M4 Pro provided. Even on rough pavement and cobblestone streets, the scooter glided effortlessly, absorbing bumps and vibrations with ease.
Its powerful motor provided ample acceleration.
The dual suspension system did an excellent job of keeping me in control, even when going over potholes and uneven surfaces.
The wide tires provided excellent stability and grip, and the responsive brakes ensured a safe and controlled ride.
Kugoo M4 PRO vs other scooters
Now, let’s see how the Kugoo M4 Pro compares to other scooters.
Kugoo M4 vs M4 Pro
Comparing the M4 and M4 Pro might seem unfair, given the Pro’s improvements based on the M4’s shortcomings. While sharing many features, they differ in some key aspects.
Notably, the M4 Pro boasts wider, more patterned tires—an improvement subjectively considered better. The increased range of the M4 Pro (15 km / 9 mi more) is a significant advantage.
Enhanced suspension and a rubber mat on the deck further refine the Pro version, particularly on rainy days.
For current M4 owners, upgrading to the Pro may not be necessary, as the standard model is still excellent.
However, for first-time buyers or those choosing between the two, the Kugoo M4 Pro is a superior option, well worth the extra $70 or so.
Kugoo M4 Pro vs Kugoo M5
Comparing the Kugoo M4 Pro and the Kugoo M5 boils down to the range vs speed debate.
The M4 Pro offers a superior range at 37 mi / 60 km, while the M5 provides 31 mi / 50 km.
Surprisingly, the M4 Pro, despite the larger battery, is lighter at 50 lbs / 22.5 kg compared to the M5’s 75 lbs / 34 kg. This makes the Kugoo M4 Pro a better choice for most situations.
The Kugoo M5 is designed for more power, speed, and acceleration, and if that’s what you’re looking for, you can see my complete Kugoo M5 review.
Kugoo M4 Pro vs Kugoo G2 Pro
In my view, although the Kugoo G2 Pro outperforms the M4 Pro in some aspects like range, top speed, and climbing, the price difference doesn’t justify it.
The G2 Pro is marginally faster and climbs slightly better but costs an extra $400 – not a worthwhile deal in my opinion.
Moreover, the M4 Pro has a better range by about 6 mi / 10 km and enjoys greater popularity and trust. For most people, I recommend sticking with the Kugoo M4 Pro.
Consider the G2 Pro only if speed and climbing are crucial factors for you.
Kugoo M4 Pro vs Ninebot Max
I’d say that the biggest threat to the Kugoo M4 Pro comes from the Ninebot Max.
The Ninebot Max is a popular scooter, offers slightly more range, faster charging, better water protection, and superior overall build quality, with fewer defects and more comfortable rides.
On the other hand, the Kugoo M4 Pro boasts more raw power, resulting in a higher top speed (though the Ninebot Max can be hacked for similar speeds), a larger weight limit, and better off-road capabilities.
Build quality
The Kugoo M4 Pro is a well-built electric scooter that uses high-quality materials. The frame is made from lightweight yet durable aluminum alloy, and the components feel solid and well-assembled.
The scooter is also easy to fold and unfold, and it feels sturdy when riding.
In my opinion, the Kugoo M4 Pro has a very beautiful design and is very appealing to the eye.
Features
Here are some of the key features of the Kugoo M4 Pro.
Battery and charging
Battery options vary based on the scooter’s source. The reviewed model has a 13 Ah, 48 V battery with a 624 Wh capacity.
Some models feature a more potent 17 Ah battery. The high-quality battery rarely overheats, and it’s housed in a robust case for protection.
Charging takes 12 hours, with off-peak charging costing approximately 15 pence in the UK and 10 cents in the EU, while peak hours incur 19 pence in the UK and 15 cents in the EU (averaged across most EU countries).
Brakes
The two mechanical disk brakes, one on the front and one on the rear wheel will be strong enough to give the Kugoo M4 Pro a braking distance of just a few meters.
They can be adjusted if needed, but mostly they will come perfectly prepared out of the box.
For my personal preference, I like my brakes to be sharper, so I adjusted them.
Tires
The Kugoo M4 Pro features 10-inch by 4-inch anti-skid, high-grip offroad tires. These provide excellent traction on various terrains, including grass, bad roads, and rocky surfaces.
Additionally, the tires perform well on slippery and wet surfaces and are suitable for climbing. They are likely the largest tires on a scooter priced below $1000.
All in all, they are amazing for the price you are paying.
Suspension
The Kugoo M4 Pro has a strong dual suspension system.
On the front, it has a double spring suspension, while on the rear it will have an arm suspension. The combination will provide comfortable, enjoyable rides.
When I was testing the scooter I really didn’t feel any bumps and holes while driving.
Weight, dimensions, and portability
With a weight of 23 kg / 51 lbs, this scooter is medium-heavy but manageable for short distances.
Despite a folded length of 116 cm / 46 in, the foldable handlebars enhance portability, fitting in car trunks and easily navigating narrow spaces like hallways and elevator doors.
When I first got the Kugoo M4 Pro I was skeptical about the portability but after the first try, I was amazed at how easy it is to maneuver it, since it doesn’t actually take a lot of space.
Seat
The Kugoo M4 Pro’s seat is comfortable with spring suspensions to absorb bumps.
Easily removable with a few screws, the scooter earns extra points for this feature in my book.
Lights
This scooter features strong and strategically placed lights. I was shocked at first by how powerful the LED headlight is and how ideal it is for night rides.
Yellow lights on the deck function as turn signals, while a bright red brake light at the back enhances visibility and safety during stops, especially at night.
The Kugoo M4 Pro has a very cool, high-contrast round display screen that shows:
- gear
- current speed
- battery level
- odometer
To its right side, there are two buttons – the power button, and the speed mode button.
The voltage is displayed above the keyhole, also on the right handlebar.
Water resistance
The Kugoo M4 Pro boasts a robust IPX4 protection standard that shields it from rain. Models for Russian and Eastern European markets may have an even more impressive IP66 rating, making them fully waterproof.
In essence, this scooter is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Interestingly, the scooter can be made even more waterproof. Check the following video to learn exactly how.
If you want a fully waterproof electric scooter, check out my guide here.
App
No official Kugoo app for this scooter exists.
While there are a few available, all of them have poor ratings and performance issues, some may still be worth trying. Check them out here:
- Kugoo app by Imoogoo for Android
- Kugoo app by ZhaiMob Studio for Android
- Kugoo mobility by Dong Huang for iPhone
- KIRIN&KUGOO by KIRIN&KUGOO Technology for iPhone
Additionally, consider the Universal Electric Scooter Helper App by EScooterNerds.
Designed to complement regular scooter apps, it offers extra features like checklists, calculators, guides, hacks, and tools. It’s available for both iOS and Android.
Gear, accessories, customizations
For this powerful scooter, prioritize a sturdy helmet, even considering a motorcycle helmet for added safety.
Check my guide on the best scooter helmets for recommendations.
While the Kugoo M4 Pro store offers some accessories like the seat, customized options like a phone mount or trunk may be limited.
Explore generic electric scooter accessories for more customization choices.
If you frequently leave your scooter outdoors, invest in a reliable scooter lock from brands like Master or Kryptonite to ensure security.
Problems
Like any scooter, the Kugoo M4 Pro is not without issues.
The biggest issue I have with the Kugoo M4 Pro is the few cables that are visible and stick out of it, especially the one going from the stem to the deck.
While water-resistant, covering these cables would enhance durability.
The scooter’s size and weight make it less portable, and challenging for frequent transitions in and out of public transport. Ideal for long commutes, a lighter scooter may be better for last-mile scenarios.
Fortunately, these are the main issues, and none are dealbreakers.
It’s a tough choice, and it comes down to specific needs.
If you want a more tried-and-tested scooter that is loved by millions all around the world, you may want to check out my detailed Ninebot Max review.
Verdict
The Kugoo M4 Pro is possibly the greatest scooter from the Kugoo brand. It is an improvement over its predecessor, the Kugoo M4.
For almost a budget price, the Kugoo M4 Pro will try to establish itself as the first affordable power scooter, prepared for offroad as well. By the looks of it and my experience with it, it seems like it will succeed.
It is one of the most performant budget scooters, a range of 60 km / 37 mi is not something you often see for around $675.
As usual, Kugoo offers solid quality, tons of value, and features, all for a great price. Definitely consider this scooter if you’re looking for performance on a budget.
