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In this head-to-head comparison, we’ll show you why the shared scooter industry standard, the Segway Ninebot ES2, can’t keep up with the new kid on the block: the Ninebot E22. Find out what features Segway improved generation to generation, and how to hack the E22 for faster top speed.
Segway Ninebot ES2 vs. Segway Ninebot E22 Comparison
| Segway Ninebot ES2 | Segway Ninebot E22 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $549 | $499 |
| Max Rider Weight | 220 lb | 220 lb |
| ESG Tested Specs | ||
| Weight | 29 lb | 30 lb |
| Top Speed | 16.0 mph | 13.0 mph |
| Range | 9.8 mi | 10.1 mi |
| Acceleration | ||
| 0 to 15 mph | 7.1 s | - |
| Features | ||
| Brakes | Front: Regenerative Rear: Foot | Front: Regenerative Rear: Foot |
| Tires | 8 x 2.1 in Front: Solid Rear: Solid | 9 x 2 in Front: Solid Rear: Solid |
| Suspension | Front: Spring Rear: Spring | Front: None Rear: None |
| Lights | Front: High Rear: Low | Front: High Rear: Low |
| IP Rating | IP54 | IPX4 |
| Throttle Type | Thumb | Thumb |
| Dimensions | ||
| Deck Width | - | 6.0 in |
| Deck Length | 16.0 in | 18.0 in |
| Folded Length | 44 in | 45 in |
| Folded Width | 17 in | 17 in |
| Folded Height | 12 in | 14 in |
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Segway Ninebot ES2: Pros + Cons
- Higher top speed (without flashing). The ES2 has a 3 mph higher tested top speed than the E22. However, you can flash the firmware on the E22 to up the ante, making their top speed about equal.
- Cooler lighting package. The one thing that the ES2 continues to hold over the E22 is its underdeck lighting. Both Ninebot scooters have high-mounted headlights and fender-mounted, brake-responding taillights, but only the ES2 has what we call swag lighting. You can customize light colors and patterns in the Ninebot mobile app.
- Slightly smaller footprint. Both the ES2 and E22 weigh around 29 lb but the ES2 has a slightly smaller folded footprint, as it’s 1 in narrower and 2 in lower height.
Segway Ninebot E22: Pros + Cons
- Less expensive. Even though it is a newer, better model, the E22 is around $50 less than the ES2, and at a great price point for an entry-level model.
- Better ride quality. The E22 has far superior ride quality, given the 9 in polyurethane-core foam tires, which are 1 in wider diameter than the ES2. They feel more stable, more comfortable and provide better traction than the solid tires of the ES2. Although the E22 doesn’t have suspension, the solid tires of the E22 are a serious improvement, providing better cornering and braking feel.
- Better build quality. The ES2 was plagued by a creaky stem. Segway improved the E22 by adding additional reinforcing screws to the stem at the handlebars and at the base, where it connects to the deck. This keeps the stem from suffering wobble over time, and makes for a more secure ride. The kickstand mechanism on the E22 is far less noisy than the kickstand on the ES2, which makes a resounding clack every time.
- Better hill climber. Although it’s not much faster than a walking pace uphill, the E22 is 2 mph faster climbing an incline than the ES2, with a hill climb time up a 200 ft, 10% hill in 26.4 s.
- More rider-friendly features. Some other small improvements include a bell for warning passersby that you’re approaching, zero start function (while the ES2 is kick-to-start only), and a headlight with a brighter, more targeted projection.
Verdict: Ninebot E22 Is a Big Improvement Over ES2
As delivered, the E22’s entry-level price, excellent stability and vastly improved ride quality make it ideal for beginners and a huge step forward from the ES2.
Does it deliver the most all-around performance per dollar like the M365? No. Does it deliver ultimate ride quality and handling like the Apollo Air? Also no.
However, it is exemplary. The E22’s super power is to move you from one place to another with absolute minimum fuss. It’s super easy to ride, requires no adjustments at all, has no exposed cables, and can’t get flat tires. It’s a zero maintenance scooter that, unlike some other Segway Ninebot E-series scooters, doesn’t suck to ride.
