A low-cost, highly portable electric scooter with a moderately powerful motor that yields a top speed of 16 mph and a range of up to 16 miles
What initially started as a toy is fast becoming a common means of commuting for many people. If you are looking to join the electric scooter world or need a new scooter, then the options may be overwhelming. Thankfully, we are here to help. Today, we look at one of the best options out there, the Hiboy NEX3 electric scooter.
Right off the bat, the NEX3 faces an uphill task in justifying its £325 price tag, considering there are similar scooters on the market that cost much less. However, when it comes to price tags, there is more than meets the eye. We will carefully dissect what the Hiboy NEX3 scooter packs and whether it’s worth buying in the following sections.
Let’s get started!
Hiboy NEX3 – The Lowdown
For starters, Hiboy NEX3 is a brilliant piece of technology. Tucked in the hub of its front wheel is a powerful 350W brushless motor that pushes the scooter to a top speed of 16 mph. On its extended deck, you will find a 36V battery, powerful enough to keep you going for up to 16 miles on a single charge.
Aesthetically, by scooter standards, the Hiboy NEX3 is a welcome sight. It comes in matte black and spots a semi-circular stem, which is a breakaway from the traditional circular stem present in most electric scooters. However, while this design is intended to make the NEX3 stand out, all it really does is make the scooter challenging to carry due to its sharp edges.
The base of the Hiboy NEX3 also comes with improved features. Propped on two sturdy wheels is an unusually large deck that comfortably accommodates a toe-to-heel standing position.
Speaking of the wheels, they are made to last. Popularly known as “flat-free tyres,” these are a gem for anyone who wants a low-maintenance scooter. On the flip side, they can be a drag if you want a smooth ride.
Regarding safety, the Hiboy NEX3 features two braking systems that are capable of managing all braking scenarios. It also comes with a brake light and a powerful front LED light for night visibility.
Hiboy NEX3 Specifications
Motor | Brushless 350W hub motor |
Battery | Lithium-ion, 36V 7.5 AH battery |
Charge Time | 6 hours |
Single-Charge Mileage | 16 miles / 25.7 km (may vary depending on riders weight and terrain condition) |
Max Speed | 16 mph / 25.7 km/h |
Climbing Range | 15 degrees |
Braking System | ABS electronic brake and disc brake |
Lighting | Brake light and powerful front LED light |
Horn | None |
Max Load | 90.7 kg / 200 lb |
Scooter Weight | 13.4 kg / 29.7 lb |
Product Material | Light aluminium alloy |
Folding Handlebar | 6082-T6 alloy aviation grade frame and handle. SCM440 Shaft with steel and plastic covers |
Folding Steering Tube | 6082-T6 alloy aviation grade frame and handle. SCM440 Shaft with steel and plastic covers |
Suspension | None |
Size (L x W x H, cm) | Unfolded Size (Inches): 43.31 x 19.49 x 44.09 Folded Size (Inches): 43.31 x 19.49 x 16.26 |
Water Resistance | Not rated |
Hiboy NEX3 Video
Check out the following video review of the Hiboy NEX3. In summary, this is a lightweight, low-maintenance electric scooter that’s suited for short urban commutes.
Hiboy NEX3 Pros
Powerful motor
Large extended deck for improved comfort and stability
Flat-free durable tyres for minimal maintenance
Long battery life
Exceptionally light and easy to carry
Hiboy NEX3 Cons
Expensive, compared to similar scooters
Hard ride on uneven surfaces due to lack of a suspension system
Hiboy NEX3 Summary
The Hiboy NEX3 epitomises what a scooter should be: durable, dependable, and safe. It is the perfect urban commuter. The 350W brushless motor produces enough juice to get the scooter to a top speed of 16mph. The motor is primed to gradually gain momentum, making it relatively easy to learn for first-time scooter riders. Also, if you live in an area with uneven terrain, you will be glad to know that the Hiboy NEX3 packs enough punch to tackle gradients of up to 15%.
Like most electric scooters on the market, the Hiboy NEX3 has a lithium-ion battery pack with a maximum output of 36V and a long battery life. In ideal conditions, it should churn out a reasonable 16-mile range on a single charge. However, most users say it achieves typically a range of about 13 miles on a full charge.
Aluminium alloy is the standard material for scooter manufacturers, so it’s unsurprising that it makes up over 90% of the Hiboy NEX3 electric scooter. This means one thing; expect sturdiness and longevity when you buy this product.
Comfort takes centre stage as shown by the extended deck. There is enough space for both feet.
The Hiboy NEX3 has also been engineered around safety. At the back, you will find a bright LED brake light to help other road users spot you better at night. Additionally, an uncharacteristically bright front LED light illuminates the scooter’s path while also making you more visible. The Hiboy NEX3 also features two braking systems: a front electric brake and a rear disc brake. This effectively brings the scooter to a stop when needed.
The scooter’s deck is carried by two 8.5-inch flat-free tyres. On the upside, these wheels are durable and reduce maintenance costs. On the downside, the wheels are incredibly uncomfortable, especially on rough terrains.
Performance Overview
The Hiboy NEX3 holds its own when it comes to performance. The 350W motor churns out just enough power to get the scooter cruising at stable speeds (16 mph). Even on light elevations, the Hiboy NEX3 still is a formidable force. However, if you want to squeeze every mile out of this scooter, you are better off staying on level surfaces.
Under ideal conditions, the Hiboy NEX3 will run for up to 16 miles on a single charge. Otherwise, expect a range of between 9-12 mph on a single charge under normal conditions. Like most electric scooters in its category, the Hiboy NEX3 will take six hours to ramp up its battery to 100%.
The lack of a suspension system coupled with solid rubber tyres makes the NEX3 very jiggly when used on uneven surfaces. However, it slightly compensates for this flaw by providing a large and extended deck for increased standing area and stability. Furthermore, it is functional even at night, thanks to a very bright LED light, fitted on the front of the semi-circular stem.
Top Speed & Acceleration
According to the official site, the Hiboy NEX3 electric scooter is set to max out at 16 mph. However, some users have recorded speeds of up to 18 mph while riding downhill on smooth roads, which is impressive. Apart from this, the NEX3 rocks a steady, three-speed acceleration, which is exactly what new riders need to learn the skill.
This is not the ideal hill-climbing electric scooter. Sure, it will do the job of tackling inclines of 15% with ease, thanks to its 350W motor. However, this is achieved at the detriment of the battery’s range. Additionally, due to its lack of a suspension system and slow acceleration, it may feel like it takes an eternity to climb inclines steeper than 15%.
Ultimately, the Hiboy NEX3 is designed for urban settings. It comes alive on flat surfaces with shallower inclines.
Controls & Display
The Hiboy NEX3 sports an LED display perched in the middle of both handlebars. On it, the user will find information on battery level, travelling speed and lights. The handlebars have a premium feel. They come wrapped in firm rubber for improved traction, comfort and longevity. On either side of the handlebars are independent brake levers: one for the electronic brake and the other for the rear disc brake. On the right, you will find an ergonomic thumb-operated throttle. Finally, there is a small bell on the left side of the handlebar.
Battery Life & Range
Tucked under the Hiboy NEX3’s deck is a 36V lithium-ion battery that keeps the scooter running for 16 miles on a single charge. Whether the Hiboy NEX3 can actually reach its maximum distance depends on the riding style and terrain. Most users report an average ride distance of 13 mph on a single charge. Overall, it’s one of the few scooters in this price point that will give you decent value for money in terms of longevity.
Motor Configuration
This brilliant piece of engineering features a 350W brushless motor tucked onto its front wheel. The result of this ingenious design is an incredibly quiet ride. Even at top speed, the only significant sound the Hiboy NEX3 makes is its wheels driving over the ground beneath it.
Construction & Build Quality
The NEX3’s frame is made from aluminium alloy, thereby making it very sturdy but lightweight at the same time. But that’s not all! It’s also a remarkable sight. The matte black finish, dotted with red designs on the deck and wheels, is appealing to the eye.
But while everything else seems thought through, the front LED light single-handedly makes this scooter a contender for the most hideous electric scooter ever made. It looks like an afterthought. The designer must have been having a chuckle, sticking that cone-shaped LED light onto the scooter’s stem.
Even so, Hiboy NEX3 redeems itself with striking designs on its deck and wheels. The rubber deck has a premium feel to it, looks great and works perfectly.
Suspension
For £325, one would expect the Hiboy NEX3 to come fitted with a mid-range suspension system. Unfortunately, it doesn’t. The lack of a suspension system heavily limits NEX3’s capabilities. If you want an all-terrain electric scooter, then this is not for you.
Ride Quality
For the urban dweller surrounded by flat and even surfaces, the NEX3 is a comfortable ride. You might experience a few jerks here and there, but the overall ride is bearable.
On the flip side, its lack of a suspension system, coupled with its solid rubber tyres, provides a reduced battery range and severely bumpy ride over rough terrain.
Braking
The Hiboy NEX3 comes fitted with two braking systems: an electronic ABS and a rear disc brake. The ABS slows the scooter down at maximum speed, while the disc brake brings it to a complete halt. It brakes well in an emergency, thanks to its joint input from both braking systems.
Portability
At 29.7 pounds, the Hiboy NEX3 is as light as electric scooters get. Since battery packs weigh a lot, it takes ingenuity to produce a scooter that is this light without compromising on its overall performance.
The NEX3 can be easily transported by hand—even across extended distances—and it does not weigh down the person who is carrying it. It also has an easy-fold design.
However, there are a couple of design flaws that hinder its portability. The manual latch that holds the stem to the base when folded can lock up over time. Also, some riders say that the semi-circular design of the handlebar places unnecessary pressure on your palms when carrying it.
Water Resistance
The Hiboy NEX3 has no official IP water-resistance rating. Therefore, it is safe to assume that this product is not water-resistant. To be safe and to avoid voiding your warranty, you should keep your scooter in dry conditions and only ride when it’s dry.
Lights
The Hiboy NEX electric scooter features dual lights: LED headlight and rear fender light. The built-in LED headlight is placed mid-stem to facilitate maximum visibility at night or in low light conditions. The rear lights double up as brake lights to inform other road users of your presence or braking actions.
Later releases have an integrated headlight that is located high on the stem.
Tyres
The Hiboy Max comes with a set of 8.5″ honeycomb (solid) rubber tires that offer decent traction on standard urban terrains. However, the solid tyres are pretty stiff and provide minimal cushioning. This compromises the ride quality since you’ll have to endure impacts from bumps and rubbles. With such tyres, the Max is best to ride only on immaculate urban roads or smooth pavements.
The perforations (honeycomb design) was meant to increase the tyres’ capacity to absorb shock, but they perform dismally on this front. On the brighter side, though, the scooter’s tyres don’t require any maintenance as they don’t sustain punctures- one major advantage offered by this scooter over other budget scooters. On the flip side, the 8.5” don’t offer sufficient ground clearance.
Deck
Like most Hiboy scooters, the NEX comes with a spacious deck covered in textured rubber matting. The rubber matting ensures sufficient rider stability when riding at higher speeds or in wet conditions.
Considering the NEX has been designed for teenagers, it’s slightly smaller in length and width than the average adult scooter. Nonetheless, it still offers sufficient room for riders to stand with their back foot perpendicular to the front comfortably: no awkward standing on the scooter when riding.
Reliability, Warranty & Customer Support
The customer support team at Hiboy is one of the most effective and prompt we’ve ever met. They respond to queries promptly and satisfactorily. Rest assured that they always have your back, should you have any issues with your product.
Additionally, the Hiboy NEX3 is built to last. For starters, its battery is primed to last for at least three years with normal usage, which is quite impressive. The scooter itself will serve for an even longer period, thanks to its superior build quality and flat-free tyres.
Finally, the Hiboy NEX3 comes with a one-year parts warranty, which covers any defects on the scooter. Buyers also get a 30-day return policy, provided that the scooter is unused from the time of purchase.
Maintenance
The basic rules of maintaining a mobility device apply to the Hiboy NEX3. For example, to keep your battery functioning for long, store the scooter in a dry place away from direct heat or extreme cold. Additionally, before setting out for a ride, always make sure that all the brakes are functioning as required and bolted joints are firmly attached.
Known Issues
Apart from the bumpy ride on uneven surfaces, the Hiboy NEX3’s performance is satisfactory. Most users have relayed positive feedback on Hiboy’s products, which have proven to be sturdy and well built.
Is this Electric Scooter value for money and is it worth buying?
The Hiboy NEX3 offers excellent value for your money despite some people finding it a bit on the expensive side. Even so, it lacks a lot of vital features as compared to similarly priced scooters on the market.
Should you buy it? The answer to this question is entirely subjective. If you want a scooter that is durable and will serve in the long term—despite missing certain crucial features—then go for it. However, if you want a more complete mini-vehicle that offers more range and power, there are better market options.
Author:
Holly Darani
BIO:
Holly is a lover of the outdoors and is always up for an adventure! She loves learning something new - whether that involves SEO or scooters!
- Powerful motor
- Bright, front LED light for enhanced visibility and use in the dark
- Relatively decent top speed and range for the price
- Exceptionally light and easy to carry
- Expensive, compared to similar scooters
- Hard ride on uneven surfaces due to lack of a suspension system