GoTrax GXL V2 vs. Kugoo M2 Pro: Battle for the Ultimate Commuting Scooter
In recent years, the electric scooter has expanded from only a few models with limited features to numerous brands with different bells and whistles. Much like the explosion in the use of an electric bike or hoverboard for commuting, there are now so many electric scooter choices, it can be a challenge to determine which is the best fit for your needs. A casual rider that uses their electric scooter to get around town has different requirements from a commuter which differs from package or food delivery needs. This article is going to review two excellent scooters, the GoTrax GXL V2 and the Kugoo M2 Pro which are well-rounded and durable machines that will meet the needs of most riders.
Keep reading to learn more about these two electric rideable scooters!
TABLE OF CONTENT
GoTrax GXL V2 vs. The Kugoo M2 Pro: Side-by-Side Comparison
The GoTrax GXL V2 is regularly ranked as one of the best commuting electric scooter options on the market. Its predecessor, the GoTrax GXL, was also highly ranked by commuters so the GXL V2 has even more to offer. While the GXL V2 is one of the best commuting electric scooters available, the Kugoo M2 is also a great commuting scooter because of its 18-mile range between charges. Both scooters are considered reliable, safe, and easy to use and both are incredibly affordable (under $350). The GoTrax GXL V2 boasts an 8.5-inch pneumatic tire system that is excellent in wet conditions while the Kugoo M2 Pro also features 8.5-inch tires, both of which are excellent for uneven roads, cracked sidewalks, sticks, gravel, brick paths, and other road dangers.
GoTrax GXL V2 and Kugoo M2 Pro
| Specification | GoTrax GXL V2 | Kugoo M2 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum speed | 15.5 mph | 23 mph |
| Range | 9-12 miles | 18 miles |
| Motor | 250 W | 350 W |
| Acceleration | 15.5 mph in 10 seconds | 15.0 mph in 10 seconds |
| Battery | 36V battery | 36V battery |
| Brake Distance | 5.0 meters | 4.0 meters |
| Climbing Ability | 24-degree incline | 15-degree incline |
GoTrax GXL V2 vs. The Kugoo M2 Pro Differences
Although the GoTrax GXL V2 and the Kugoo M2 Pro have quite a bit in common, several important differences could make a difference in your decision. While we will get down to the nitty-gritty later in this GoTrax GXL V2 review, the GXL V2 is one of the least expensive options on the market while the Kugoo M2 Pro is almost $50 more expensive.
Also, the LED light on the GXL V2 is not that bright, and there no LED lights in the back, which could be a concern for some. However, the M2 features red LED lights on the back that activate when braking but the LED headlight definitely isn’t as good as the one on ght GXL commuter V2. Both have a folding mechanism so they’re quite portable.
Furthermore, the GXL V2 has a steeper climbing ability at a 24-degree incline while the M2 Pro only can reasonably manage a 15-degree incline. However, the M2 gets almost double the range on a single charge compared to the GXL V2.
OTHER SCOOTERS TO CONSIDER
Specifications, Comparisons, and Reviews
| MODELS | TOP SPEED | RANGE | WEIGHT |
|---|---|---|---|
| GoTrax GMax Ultra | 25 mph | 45 mi | 36 lbs |
| Segway Ninebot Max G30P | 18.6 mph | 40.4 mi | 41.2 lbs |
| GoTrax GXL V2 | 15.5 mph | 9-12 mi | 26.4 lbs |
| GoTrax G4 | 20 mph | 25 mi | 36 lbs |
| Hiboy S2 Pro | 19 mph | 25 mi | 33 lbs |
| The Kugoo M2 Pro | 20 mph | 18.6 mi | 34 lbs |
| Segway Ninebot ES4 | 18.6 mph | 28 mi | 30 lbs |
In my mind, probably the most notable difference between the two is the speed. It’s like driving a Toyota Corolla vs. a Corvette. While the acceleration on the Kugoo M2 Pro isn’t amazing, the maximum speed for a scooter at this price point is insane.
One massive gripe I have with the GoTrax scooter company in general is that they don’t have an app for their scooters. Kugoo on the other hand has a slick app that allows you to do all kinds of things with it. You can set the cruise control, see your overall trip distance, turn on the headlight, turn the scooter on and off, lock the scooter and much more.
While the GoTrax GXL V2 scooter is often billed as the ultimate commuting scooter, it’s quite possible the Kugoo could take the crown because of it’s insane braking capability, overall speed, far superior suspension, better tail lights and the app.
In-Depth GoTrax vs. Kugoo Comparison: Gotrax GXL V2 Versus the Kugoo M2 Pro
Overall Riding Experience
While specifications help you learn more about the quantifiable aspects of the scooter, the rider experience cannot be found on paper but is the most important factor when selecting the best model for your needs.
Certain scooters are not best for those who are riding an electric motor version for the first time. They are vastly different from a traditional kick scooter that most of us rode as children. The good news is, the GXL V2 has a short learning curve and is simple to pick up the basics within a short period. Also, the GXL V2 delivers a durable ride for those looking for a scooter to use many times without issue. The pneumatic tires, regenerative braking system, rear disc brake, and decent range between charges provide an excellent riding experience.
As a well-rounded scooter that meets the challenge of any situation, the M2 Pro performs well along paved roads around town. The 8.5-inch air filled tires, excellent braking (thanks to a dual braking system which combines a rear disc brake and front electrical brake) , splash resistance, and top-notch suspension system deliver a smooth and comfortable ride with each use. Not to mention that the speed on the Kugoo M2 Pro is far superior over the GoTrax GXL V2 scooter. The M2 Pro finds the sweet spot between offering a great ride with fantastic features at an affordable price. Yes, it’s a bit more than the GXL V2 scooter but the increase in max speed (in my opinion at least) is well worth the extra money.
Hill Climbing
In the hill-climbing category, the GoTrax GXL V2 commuting electric scooter trumps the Kugoo M2 Pro. With the ability to climb a 24-degree incline hill in just under 21 seconds while maintaining an average speed of 6.52 mph, the GXL V2 is a commuters’ dream, especially for those who live in hill cities. The Kugoo M2 Pro can officially climb hills with an incline of 15 degrees with some claiming 20-degree hills as being possible due to the motor being located at the front wheel. This provides better traction than rear motors but it takes a bit to get up to speed.
Braking
Featuring a rear brake (disc) and front regenerative braking system as the most critical safety feature, the GXL V2 breaks seamlessly without breaking down or skipping during everyday use. Part of this crucial safety system is the pneumatic tires that will grip the ground in all conditions, even when wet. The brakes offer a 15 foot braking distance to ensure you stop quickly.
While the GXL V2 has an excellent braking system that will do the job, the M2 Pro boasts a dual brake system that utilizes a front electric brake alongside a mechanical disc brake located on the rear wheel. Most scooters in this class do not offer a dual braking system so this feature is hard to beat. While range and speed are always the attention grabbers, experienced riders will say that good brakes are more important than all other features and the M2 Pro really shines in this category. If you’re a commuter and frequently ride in heavily populated areas where you might have to stop quickly for pedestrians or cars, the Kugoo scooter is a better option.
Acceleration
Acceleration is one category where both scooters are close to one another. The GXL V2 can reach its top speed of 15.5 mph in only 10 seconds while the M2 Pro can hit 15 mph in the same amount of time. While this speed is fast enough for most riders, for those who are used to more powerful models, this will feel slow. More expensive scooters could reach this same speed is around 6 seconds so there is a difference. Also, keep in mind that the more you weigh the slow the acceleration will be.
Speed Performance
While the top speed of the GXL V2 isn’t spectacular, it is typically good enough for commuting and is excellent for its price point. With a max speed of 15.5 mph, it is average compared to other similar in-class scooters. Additionally, this model features a simple LED display that shows, your speed, riding mode, and battery life.
Like GXL V2, the M2 Pro features a “published” top speed of 15.5 mph but allows you to switch between three-speed modes, depending on your location, including 9.3 mph, 12.4 mph, and 15.5 mph. This extra feature gives you good speed control for everyday riding. With any scooter, the top speed decreases as the battery lowers so this is critical to remember when riding. The M2 Pro’s screen displays the current speed, speed mode, and battery level.
However, here’s the thing. In my test of the Kugoo M2 Pro electric scooter, I was able to reach a max speed of 23 mph! This top end max speed was right after taking the scooter off the charger. Overall speed degraded over time. However, for the vast majority of the ride, I was running a consistent 20 mph. I don’t know if Kugoo doesn’t use a speed limiter or what they do, but whatever it is, I like it!
Portability and Weight
Clocking in at 26.4 pounds, the GXL V2 is one of the lightest weight scooters on the market, including lighter than the GoTrax XR Ultra, which weighs 27.5 pounds, and the GoTrax Glider Cadet, which weighs 29 pounds, and the maximum rider weight capacity is 220 pounds. Also, the GXL V2 is incredibly portable and mobile. When the scooter is folded down and locked, it is easily stored in compact spaces with dimensions measuring 39 inches by 17 inches by 14 inches.
On the other hand, the M2 Pro is much heavier weighing 34 pounds. A lot of this added weight is due to the dual braking system that the GXL V2 does not have. Constructed from aviation-grade aluminum, the M2 Pro is at the higher end of the weight spectrum among other in-class scooters. However, where it lacks in weight, it makes up for in folding. With a little practice, you can completely fold and unfold the scooter in around three seconds.
Range Test
While the official range of the GXL V2 is 9.12 miles, it can last as long as 12 miles without a change. This is depending on the weight of the rider, the terrain, weather conditions, average speed, and many other factors. Compared to other scooters in-class, 9-12 miles is a decent distance for a single charge. If you run out of battery power, the deck is low enough that it will function as a traditional kick scooter, so you don’t get stuck.
The M2 Pro blows the GXL V2 out of the water in this category. With an official max range of 18.6 miles per charge, the M2 Pro, in my test, went a little further. Obviously, your experience will vary depending on the above factors. That means Kugoo is under-promising and overdelivering, which is much appreciated by scooter enthusiasts. Like the GXL V2, the M2 Pro can also be used as a kick scooter if your battery runs out of juice during a ride.
Build Quality
One of the shining benefits of the GXL V2 scooter is the build quality. Featuring a sound, sturdy, reliable, and well-designed chassis, the scooter is simple to operate and maneuver, and the controls are easy to use and intuitive. What this scooter lacks in bells and whistles, it makes up for in construction. Since there are no extra switches, levers, and knobs, it is a straightforward and well-crafted machine, which is necessary for commuting electric scooters.
While the overall build quality of the M2 Pro is robust, some of the aesthetics could use an upgrade. For instance, the charging port cover uses a flimsy and cheap plastic cover while the power button and surrounding plate also feel like poor construction. Additionally, the headlight could throw a wider beam of light if angled properly. Other than these details, the M2 Pro is constructed from durable, high-grade aluminum, and the 8.5-inch air filled tires can withstand most road debris and provides a comfortable ride.
Features
The top two features on the GXL V2 are the cruise control and folding mechanism. The cruise control feature is rarely found on electric scooters in this class but is an excellent addition, so you do not constantly have to hit accelerate. Just like using cruise control on an automobile, it will turn off when you brake.
As mentioned, the folding mechanism makes it easy to toss the scooter in the car, carry it on mass transit, store it at work or school, or even just carry it down the street. Another excellent feature is the deck size which measures 19 by 6 inches and larger than other in-class scooters. Furthermore, the GXL V2 will fully charge in around four hours.
Like the GXL V2, the M2 Pro offers excellent width on the deck which helps with balance and dependability. The deck also features a solid grip and does not flex while you ride, which could result in a spill on the pavement. The deck is a bit more squishy and comfortable to ride on for long periods of time.
The handlebars offer exceptional grip, and the turning is predictable and responsive. A major standout on the Kugoo M2 Pro is the shock absorbers. While the GXL V2 only features air filled tires without a suspension system, the M2 Pro offers supreme riding comfort. This is an uncommon feature with similar in-class electric scooters.
Display
As with most scooters in this class, the GXL V2 has a simple LED display that is ideal for a glance to see your battery life, speedometer, and riding mode. Directly below the display is a small red button that allows you to operate the headlight and select the riding mode.
The M2 Pro’s LCD screen is much better than the GXL V2. It is bright, easy to read, and constructed from excellent quality materials. From the Kugoo app, you can control the screen brightness, toggle the headlights, and even turn the scooter on and off. The M2 Pro features a large screen that allows you to select one of the speed modes, monitor your speed, and see your battery level. Pairing the app to the scooter is simple via Bluetooth, which displays the symbol on the screen when connected.
Price
While the prices can fluctuate, both the GoTrax GXL V2 Commuting Electric Scooter and the Kugoo M2 Pro are within approximately $50 of each other.
Last Words of Recommendation
Quite a bit of information has been covered in this comparison between the GoTrax GXL V2 Commuting Electric Scooter and the Kugoo M2 Pro. The GXL V2 offers better hill climbing, a slightly better acceleration, is much lighter weight, and overall better build quality, and is less expensive.
On the other hand, the M2 Pro features a more advanced braking system, almost double the range, a better display, is MUCH faster and overall, has more bells and whistles.
Ultimately, both scooters are better than most others in class. However, the decision comes down to the overall riding experience. Are you more comfortable riding on one than the other? Do you prefer one set of features over the other? Do you plan to use the scooter every day to commute further distances or are you close enough where the range doesn’t matter? There are many questions that this guide cannot answer for you but now that you have all the details of these two excellent scooters, you are more informed to make an educated decision! Happy riding!
FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers
