GoKawiilThe New VX4 arrives in Eco mode, which has a top speed of 15 miles per hour. That’ll get you where you’re going, but it’s not going to give you goose bumps. Curiously, Sport mode also tops out at 15 miles per hour, but it gets you there fast. The torque is so powerful in sport mode that it took most of my first ride to learn to brace myself against the rapid acceleration.
In addition to the speed modes, you can also control the start settings (roll or throttle), top speeds, password settings, and more on the app, which is a common feature in electric scooters. What’s more impressive is that the app isn’t absolutely necessary, since you can access all of those controls through the bright, clear, TFT display.
Photograph: Billy Brown
At first, I was annoyed that I couldn't mount my phone on the handlebars. But once I realized that you can access every feature and adjustment on the display, I appreciated the ability to put my phone away and just enjoy the ride. Unlike simpler dot displays you’ll find on other scooters, the New VX4’s TFT display is bright, clear, and vibrant, even in direct sunlight. Navigation is simple thanks to the intuitive interface and responsive buttons.
The app itself is a bit bare-bones, but I like that the app isn’t required to use the scooter. VMax doesn’t force you to register, and you don’t have to worry about connection issues.
For all of the customization features, I’d have loved to see a way to adjust the acceleration. I’m no stranger to a quick start, but it still took me a few runs to learn how to shift my weight when I gunned it. I’m a fan of the torque, but it might be too much for some people. In lieu of customizing the acceleration rate, the New VX4 offers a less powerful Eco mode and a roll-start option that requires you to get the scooter rolling before the throttle engages. The scooter still hops to when you throttle down, but it isn’t nearly as jarring with the rolling start.
Feel the Power
Photograph: Billy Brown
The New VX4 weighs 60 pounds, which isn’t unreasonable for loading into a trunk or carrying a short distance. If you live on the third floor with no elevator, the weight would get real old, real fast. But if you’re looking for a full-commute scooter, the full suspension, big battery, and powerful motor more than justifies that weight.