Lets get this out of the way: you probably dont need a 40mph e-scooter.
Do you want a scooter with rock-solid build quality, impressive range, pillowy-soft suspension, and stable maneuvering?
Do you want a scooter that, at reasonably fast speeds, actually feels safe to ride?
If youre like me, you should expect less than the quoted range -but more on this later.
One of the first things that struck me about the Mantis is its build.
It feels like it could take a beating like its meant to be ridden as a serious vehicle.
Even at high speeds, theres no creakiness or worrisome flexing of the frame or handlebars.
When folded, the scooter locks firmly using a little latch connecting the handlebars to the rear wheel assembly.
I dig the looks too.
Its a utilitarian, stealthy design, but its also garnered several compliments and inquiries from curious passerby.
If Batman owned a scooter, it might be this one.
I do have some niggles about the design.
It might be a bit extra, but no one will miss you coming.
In the meantime, Im using the excellentLumos Matrixhelmet for turn signals.
Its a relatively small issue, but double-check you double-check the manual to know what pressing each button does.
This isnt a complaint, but something you should keep in mind depending on your travel needs.
Two reasons come to mind in particular: acceleration and stability.
Again, Im a heavy rider.
I pretty much never approached the scooters top speed, but I liked knowing Icould.
For most people though, I suspect using the single motor and/or eco mode would be enough.
Thats not just about fun; its an important element in feeling safe on the road.
While I still give a shot to avoid potholes when possible, its nice knowing I donthaveto.
The Mantis stability further contributes to the feeling of control.
It also means I can give one hand a break from gripping the handlebars during an uninterrupted long ride.
And take long rides I did.
Using Eco mode only, I was able to get nearly 26 miles in one instance.
All this adds up to what might be the fastest and most comfortable way to get around a city.
The suspension eats up potholes, and it has enough range to get you across town and back.
Sure, for most people interested in a scooter, the Mantis is overkill.
Its big and heavy, so its not ideal for mixing with public transportation.
Unlike smaller scooters you might bring inside most venues, you might have to lock the Mantis outside.
Its probably not the best choice as a last-mile solution.
And again, almost no one needs to go 40mph on a scooter.
But sometimes, a bit of overkill can be a wonderful thing.
That its reasonably priced against the competition is just a nice bonus.
