Macwheel MX Pro Review
Macwheel MX Pro Specifications
- Top speed: 25 kmh 15.5 mph
- Range: 40 km 25 mph
- Motors: single hub in front wheel
- Power: 350 W
- Battery: 360 Wh, 36 V
- Charging time: 7 h
- Avg. charging cost: US: $0.06, Canada: $0.03, UK: £0.11, EU: €0.11
- Ingress protection (IP): IPX4
- Weight: 12.7 kg 28 lbs
- Weight limit: 100 kg 220 lbs
- Tire size: 8.5 in
- Tire type: solid, airless foam-filled
- Foldable: yes
- Foldable handlebars: no
- Seat: no (customization possible)
- Trunk or basket: no (customization possible)
- Build material: aluminum
- Terrains: urban
- Brakes: dual 120 mm disc + electronic regenerative brakes
- ABS: E-ABS on front wheel
- Shock absorbers: no
- Lights: LED headlight + rear brake
- Control: LCD screen
- Speed modes: 3
- Cruise control: yes
- Keys: no
- Alarm: no
- App: yes
- Warranty: 1 year
- Certificates: UL2272
- Rider age: adult
- Folded dimensions (L * W * H): 104 * 42 * 46 cm 40.94 * 16.54 * 18.11 in
- Unfolded dimensions (L * W * H): 104 * 42 * 113 cm 40.94 * 16.54 * 44.49 in
- Deck dimensions (L * W): 41 * 15 cm 16.14 * 5.91 in
- Ground clearance: 9 cm 3.54 in
- Deck to handlebar height: 100 cm (est) 39.37 in (est)
- Rider height: 120 – 190 cm 47.24-74.80 in
- Adjustable handlebar: no
- Notes: 17 mph tested speed
Tests and measurements
- Speed tests (EScooterNerds): 21 kmh 13 mph
- Speed tests (third party): 25 kmh 15.5 mph
- Range tests (EScooterNerds): 37 km 23 mi
- Range tests (third party): 40 km 25 mi
- Braking distance tests (EScooterNerds): 5 m
- Braking distance tests (third party): 4.5 m
- Charge time tests (third party): 7
Ratings and scores
Pros
- long range
- budget-friendly
- highly portable
- removable battery
- regenerative braking
- foldable
Cons
- build quality
- short kickstand
- not suitable for off-riding
- not suitable for tall riders
When to buy
You should consider the Macwheel MX Pro if you are on a budget of $400 or less, if you have short to medium commutes and need a portable scooter for last-mile transport that prioritizes portability in terms of weight and dimensions.
When not to buy
If you need a more powerful scooter or live in a hilly area, as the Macwheel MX Pro may not be suitable for such scenarios. Moreover, if you’re seeking a scooter of higher quality, it’s advisable to explore additional alternatives.
This is a full review of the Macwheel MX Pro, a scooter that aims to be a good budget option that will appeal to many different value shoppers.
Basics
Let’s go through the basics needed for using this scooter.
Unboxing
The whole package weighs about 35 lbs / 16 kg. The package included:
- the scooter
- the charger
- the warranty card
- the manual
- 2 wrenches for adjusting the scooter
The scooter didn’t need intricate assembly; I simply ensured no screws are loose, checked the brakes, and verified the electronics were functioning properly.
Folding, unfolding, riding
To activate the scooter, I simply used the power button.
The folding process mirrors the simplicity found in Xiaomi scooters.
Interestingly, the bell lever, though present, served a unique purpose – it functioned to secure the scooter when folding, a design element reminiscent of Xiaomi models.
Emphasizing its authentic electric kick scooter nature, the optimal starting technique involved a light kick for initial momentum before I smoothly engaged the throttle.
The kick method not only ensures efficient battery usage but also contributes to an extended lifespan for the scooter’s power source.
Performance
Let’s see the Macwheel MX Pro performance analysis.
Motor, speed and speed tests
The Macwheel MX Pro boasts a 350-Watt motor, a significant improvement from certain versions of the older model with only 250 Watts.
The hub motor, situated in the front wheel, promises a top speed of 15 mph / 25 kmh.
User experiences vary, with some reaching around 17 mph / 28 kmh in certain conditions, while others report the scooter struggling to reach even 12 mph / 19 kmh.
I personally didn’t have this problem, during my test the scooter reached 13 mph / 21 kmh easy.
Range and range tests
The Macwheel MX Pro stands out for its impressive range, hitting 25 mi / 40 km, a substantial improvement from the older model’s 18 mi / 30 km range, all for under $400.
During my ride, the scooter went to 22 mi / 37 km on a flat terrain without a problem.
In my opinion, the scooter’s price-to-range ratio offers excellent value.
Battery and charging
The enhanced range is attributed to the larger 360 Wh, 36 V battery.
Charging the scooter fully takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, costing around 2 cents during off-peak hours and about 7 cents during peak hours in the US.
Featuring a protective rubber cover cap, akin to Xiaomi models, the charging port safeguards the battery from dirt, dust, and liquids.
Standard charging indicators apply – the light is red while charging and turns green when the battery is full.
Climbing angle and climb tests
The scooter doesn’t excel in hill climbing.
While it handled mild hills well, it definitely struggled on moderate slopes and is likely to face a battle on steep inclines.
The 350 W front-drive single motor lacks significant torque for such challenges.
If you live in a hilly area be sure to check out my list for best electric scooters for climbing hills.
Water resistance
The Macwheel MX Pro features an IPX4 rating, a welcome improvement from the previous model, which either lacked an IP rating or unofficially had an IPX4 rating.
With an IPX4 rating, the scooter is safeguarded against water splashes from all angles.
While it can withstand light rain, it’s strongly advised to minimize water contact, a recommendation applicable even to waterproof scooters.
Ride experience
The Macwheel MX Pro offers a smooth ride, making it a suitable commuting gadget for modern cities with good infrastructure.
Despite its solid wheels and lack of suspension, the scooter managed small bumps, holes, and cracks surprisingly well, delivering a smoother ride than expected, though not comparable to pricier models.
If you’re seeking a scooter with enhanced performance and features, be prepared to invest more ($1000, $1500, $2500 and more).
Since I have the Xiaomi M365 Pro, the ride experience wasn’t poor, but it doesn’t match the quality of scooters with air-filled tires.
Riding the MX Pro was notably quiet, with only a gentle “zzz” sound coming from the motor.
Activating cruise control by holding the throttle for over 5 seconds allowed hands-free riding, although this is not available at speeds exceeding 10 mph.
Designed for urban use, this scooter is not suitable for off-road terrain. If this is your preference, take a look at my list for best off-road electric scooters.
Macwheel MX Pro vs other scooters
Take a look at the comparison of the Macwheel MX1 with other scooters.
Macwheel MX Pro vs Macwheel MX1
An easy decision.
The Macwheel MX Pro offers more range, a superior battery, and a more powerful motor. It has addressed previous issues, like range and top-speed diminishing after a few rides.
While minor brake problems may still occur, they are much less frequent.
Clearly, the Macwheel MX Pro outshines the MX1, making it the preferable choice at this point.
Macwheel MX Pro vs Xiaomi M365
For this comparison, I lean towards the Xiaomi M365.
While I appreciate a strongn underdog, the Macwheel MX1 Pro doesn’t offer sufficient improvements to justify the slight cost savings—no real enhancements, in my view.
Consider the Macwheel MX Pro if you reside in an area with rough roads or face frequent flat tire issues. The Xiaomi M365 is known for vulnerability to flats and requires skill and patience for repairs.
If solid tires are a priority without a complex installation process, the Macwheel MX Pro is a shortcut to a Xiaomi M365 with solid tires.
Outside of challenging road conditions, I believe the Xiaomi M365 outperforms the Macwheel MX Pro in nearly every scenario, except for those requiring a solid-tire scooter.
Macwheel MX Pro vs GoTrax XR Elite
The Macwheel MX Pro is frequently compared to the GoTrax XR Elite.
Both scooters share similarities, including almost identical pricing. The notable difference lies in the range, with the Macwheel MX Pro offering about 6 mi / 10 km more than the GoTrax XR Elite.
Interestingly, the GoTrax XR Elite is also approximately 5 lbs / 2 kg heavier, a departure from the typical correlation between range and weight in scooters.
The GoTrax XR Elite holds an edge in brand recognition and popularity, along with slightly better build quality and a more established design team.
Build quality
This scooter shares many design aspects and color choices with the Xiaomi M365, though variations exist in elements like handlebars, the bell, and potentially shades of grey/black/red, depending on the specific Xiaomi model and market.
Constructed from industrial-grade aluminum alloy, the scooter’s frame incorporates steel, rubber, and plastic for details and finishes.
Featuring a 16-inch long and 6-inch wide deck, the scooter offers ample standing space. The deck includes an anti-slip rubber tape with bumps for enhanced grip and stability.
While the kickstand is functional, a longer one improved stability when leaning.
Features
Take a look at the features the Macwheel MX Pro offers.
Brakes
The scooter features a brake lever on the left handlebar, activating the dual 120 mm disc brakes, which also engage the regenerative braking to recharge the battery.
The brakes are robust and secure for the scooter’s top speed, with minor adjustments, if needed, being easily manageable.
However, I noticed some friction noises from the rear brake, and in my opinion this may require additional adjustment.
Tires, wheels, and suspension
The standout feature of the Macwheel MX Pro, setting it apart from the Xiaomi M365, lies in its 8.5-inch solid, airless, foam-filled tires, completely immune to flats.
This is a significant advantage, considering the common issue of flats with the Xiaomi M365.
However, the trade-off is noteworthy.
Solid tire scooters, by design, notably compromise ride stability and experience. This is a substantial consideration, given that most scooters still opt for air-filled tires.
Adding to the MX Pro’s challenge is the absence of any suspension.
Control and screen
The right handlebar only has the thumb throttle.
The left handlebar has the brake lever, and the bell.
The LCD screen is in the middle. The screen was not particularly bright, and I had a little difficult to read in stronger sunlight.
It had just the power button at the bottom of the screen, through which I controlled everything on the screen – quite easy to manage.
The screen shows the current speed, the battery level, the bluetooth status, and the light status.
There are three speed modes, each limiting the top speed to 5 mph, 10 mph, and 15 mph.
The handlebars have gripped rubber covers on them.
Same as with other similar scooters, I would love for the handlebars to be a bit wider, for easier control over the scooter.
Lights and riding at night
The scooter includes an LED headlight and brake light, decent for a budget scooter.
However, for nighttime riding, I would advice additional lighting and a fluorescent vest.
Explore the electric scooter accessories article for top recommendations on lights and vests.
Portability, weight and dimensions
Weighing 28 lbs / 12.7 kg, the Macwheel MX Pro is light and highly portable.
With folded dimensions of 41.1 x 16.5 x 18 inches / 104 x 42 x 46 cm, it easily fits into car trunks, doorways, and public transportation.
This is a feature I really like in this scooter. I could travel with it without worrying about finding storage for its transportation.
When folded, there are no awkward parts or protruding objects.
The stem, not overly thick, allowed for a full grip, and the scooter’s center of gravity is conveniently located near the middle, which facilitated easy carrying.
Weight limit
Surprisingly, the weight limit has decreased in the newer model compared to its predecessor.
The MX1 had a specified weight limit of 265 lbs / 120 kg, while the MX Pro sets it at 220 lbs / 100 kg.
This is unusual given that both the motor and battery are more robust.
Accessories and customizations
Macwheel doesn’t provide specific customizations and accessories for this scooter.
Fortunately, given its similarity to the Xiaomi M365, many of the same accessories are compatible. Like the Xiaomi, this scooter doesn’t come with a seat, trunk, basket, or phone holder, but you can install custom parts.
Also, remember to invest in a proper scooter helmet for the Macwheel MX Pro.
App and security
The app is one great improvement over the older model, which didn’t have one.
The app is available for Android and iOS. Unfortunately, the app is not all that it can be, as it has some bugs and users have some difficulty connecting it to the scooter.
You connect the scooter with the app through bluetooth, and you can use the app to:
- lock the scooter
- see battery life and different statuses about the scooter
- set the speed mode
- turn the headlight on or off
- settings and error codes
The app’s primary advantage is the ability to lock the scooter, preventing it from starting without it.
However, it remains vulnerable to theft, as it can be easily carried away.
Tradeoffs and issues
A quick comparison between Macwheel MX Pro and Macwheel MX1 will immediately highlight significant improvements in the newer version.
The MX Pro enjoys a better overall rating with only a few 1-star reviews, indicating greater consumer acceptance.
Despite improvements, some issues persist, and new ones have emerged. While none are likely dealbreakers, it’s essential to be aware of them.
A potential concern is the build quality, which, while comparable to the Xiaomi M365 in many aspects, falls short. Reports include broken handlebars, a wobbly folding mechanism, and shaking at higher speeds.
There are some cases of scooters arriving dead or malfunctioning shortly after are reported, although this is not uncommon for budget scooters.
A lingering issue from the MX1 days is brake friction and occasional strange sounds. The fender may bend or break, causing additional friction, but these occurrences are rarer than in the previous model.
Verdict
While the Macwheel MX Pro shows improvement over the MX1, it doesn’t sufficiently distinguish itself from Xiaomi models, having clearly drawn inspiration from them.
At its price point, it’s a decent scooter, but I recommend considering more reputable options like the slightly pricier Hiboy Max.
This scooter offers a decent range for it’s price, however if you’re after something with a truly long range, check out my list for best long-range scooters.
Additionally, while budget scooters benefit consumers by lowering prices, there are reported quality issues.
If durability is a priority, explore other more reliable scooters.
If you have a different perspective, feel free to choose the Macwheel MX Pro. I appreciate an underdog and would welcome being proven wrong in this case.
