iScooter i9 Electric Scooter Review: Is This Budget Commuter Worth It?

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iScooter i9 Electric Scooter — Smart, Foldable City Commuter

Our take: a fast, app-enabled scooter that delivers real 19 mph performance and practical range for everyday urban rides.

4.6/5

• 350W rear hub motor with up to 19 mph top speed for brisk city commutes and gentle hills.
• 36V 7.5Ah battery offers up to 18 miles of range with 3–6 hour fast charging for daily use.
• 8.5" honeycomb solid tires, dual brakes, bright lights and Tuya app with cruise control.

Motor

350W rear hub

Battery

36V 7.5Ah

Top Speed

Up to 19 mph

Range

Up to 18 miles

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If you’ve been thinking about swapping short car trips or crowded buses for something cheaper and more fun, the iScooter i9 is probably already on your radar. On paper, it looks very tempting: a 350W motor, up to 19 mph top speed, 18-mile range, 8.5-inch solid tires, app control, and a fully foldable frame – all in an affordable package around the $200 mark.

But spec sheets never tell the full story.
How does the iScooter i9 actually feel on real city streets? Is the range realistic? And who is this scooter really best suited for?

This in-depth review walks through everything you need to know before you buy – from performance and comfort to safety, portability, and long-term ownership.

Key Specs at a Glance

Feature	iScooter i9 Spec
Motor	350W rear hub motor
Top Speed	Up to 19 mph (D mode 9 mph, S mode 19 mph)
Battery	36V 7.5Ah (270Wh)
Claimed Range	Up to 18 miles per charge
Max Rider Weight	220 lbs (100 kg)
Wheels & Tires	8.5" honeycomb solid rubber tires
Brakes	Rear disc brake + electronic brake (eABS)
Frame	Aluminum, foldable stem
Dimensions	42.5" L x 17" W x 44" H
Water Resistance	IPX4 (splash-proof)
Smart Features	Tuya app, cruise control, mode switching, lock/unlock, headlight control
Lighting	High-brightness front headlight + rear brake light
Typical Price	Around $199.99 (often discounted)

Quick Verdict

The iScooter i9 is a city-focused commuter scooter that delivers a solid blend of speed, range, and smart features for riders on a budget. It’s clearly designed for everyday urban use: short to medium commutes, campus rides, and quick errands across town.

The 350W motor and 19 mph top speed give it more punch than many entry-level scooters, while the 36V 7.5Ah battery and 18-mile claimed range cover most daily needs. You also get 8.5-inch solid honeycomb tires (so no flats), dual braking, LED lighting, and a full Tuya app with cruise control and locking functions.

It’s not a high-performance or off-road scooter, and riders close to the 220-lb weight limit or living in very hilly areas will want to keep expectations realistic. But for light to medium-weight adults looking for an affordable, low-maintenance commuter, the i9 is a very compelling option.

Who Is the iScooter i9 Best For?

The i9 is built around practical urban mobility, not extreme speed or off-road adventures. It fits best if you are:

• A city commuter covering 3–8 miles each way on mostly paved roads.
• A college or campus rider needing something easy to fold, carry, and store in small spaces.
• A casual rider who wants a fun, simple way to get to the gym, office, or coffee shop without taking the car.
• A first-time scooter buyer who wants sensible safety features and a friendly price tag.

It’s also a strong choice if you:

• Prefer low maintenance – solid tires, simple mechanical disc brake, and splash-proof design help here.
• Want smart features – app control, cruise control, and the ability to lock/unlock the scooter from your phone.
• Need something compact that fits into apartment hallways, elevators, or the trunk of a car.

On the other hand, the i9 is not ideal if:

• You routinely ride long distances well over 15–18 miles in one go.
• Your routes involve very steep hills beyond the advertised 10–15% slopes.
• You weigh significantly more than 220 lbs or often carry heavy backpacks and cargo.
• You want suspension or an ultra-plush ride over very rough surfaces.

If you fall into the first group, the i9 lines up nicely with what you’re looking for.

Design & Build Quality

At first glance, the iScooter i9 has the clean, modern look that’s now standard in the commuter scooter world: matte black frame, red accents, and a neatly integrated deck and stem. It’s understated enough to blend in, but still looks sleek and purposeful.

Frame and Construction

The frame is made from aluminum, keeping the scooter relatively light while maintaining good stiffness. The deck is wide enough for a typical adult stance and features a non-slip surface, which is important when riding in damp conditions or making quick stops.

A key detail is the metal double-support fender bracket on the rear. Many budget scooters cut corners here, using flimsy plastic parts that tend to crack or rattle over time. The reinforced setup on the i9 helps keep the rear fender stable and also contributes to overall durability.

The wiring is routed cleanly, with the red brake cable giving a small visual pop without looking messy. The folding mechanism sits at the base of the stem and locks into place firmly when upright. It’s a simple design that most riders will understand instinctively after the first or second fold.

Deck & Riding Position

With dimensions of 42.5" x 17" x 44", the scooter doesn’t feel cramped. The flat deck gives enough room to ride with your feet staggered, which helps with balance and comfort. Handlebar height works well for most average-height adults; taller riders will still be comfortable though they may wish the bars were slightly higher for long rides.

Overall, the build feels more solid than you might expect from such an affordable scooter. It’s clearly designed to be used daily, not just as a toy.

Motor Performance & Top Speed

The heart of the iScooter i9 is its 350W brushless rear hub motor. In real-world terms, this puts it clearly in the “urban commuter” category – stronger than many 250W entry-level scooters, but not an aggressive performance machine.

Acceleration and Modes

You get two primary riding modes:

• D Mode (Drive/Eco) – capped around 9 mph, perfect for beginners, crowded paths, or battery-saving.
• S Mode (Sport) – unlocks the full 19 mph top speed for quicker commutes and open stretches.

In S mode, the scooter accelerates briskly from a standstill up to its cruising speed. It’s not going to pin you back like a high-powered performance scooter, but for city use the acceleration feels confident and predictable. The rear-wheel drive helps traction on slight slopes or when you push off harder.

Once you’re rolling, the i9 holds its speed well on flat ground. At around 15–19 mph, it hits a nice sweet spot: fast enough to feel fun and genuinely replace short car trips, but not so fast that it becomes intimidating for newer riders.

Hill Climbing

iScooter rates the i9 for 10–15% slopes, which is realistic for a 350W motor with a 36V system. On moderate city inclines, the scooter should climb at a reasonable pace, especially for riders below the 200-lb mark. On the steeper end of that range, you can expect speeds to drop, and heavier riders will feel the scooter working harder.

As with any commuter scooter in this power class, it’s best to think of steep hills as something you can handle, but not blast up at full speed. If your daily route is extremely hilly, a higher-powered model may be a better fit – but for typical urban bridges, ramps, and gentle inclines, the i9 does what it promises.

Battery, Range & Charging

Powering the motor is a 36V 7.5Ah lithium battery (about 270Wh). This pack is integrated neatly into the deck, keeping the center of gravity low for better stability.

Realistic Range Expectations

The brand quotes a range of up to 18 miles on a single charge. As always, that number assumes ideal conditions: lighter rider, flat terrain, eco mode, and moderate speed.

In real-world mixed riding – some sport mode, some eco, a few hills, stop-and-go traffic – a typical adult can expect something like:

• 10–14 miles for heavier riders using mostly S mode.
• 14–18 miles for lighter riders or those who stick closer to D mode and smoother paths.

For many commuters, that still covers a full day of riding plus a bit of extra margin. It’s perfect for:

• A 5–7 mile round-trip commute without needing to recharge at work.
• Short rides to public transit, then back home later.
• Weekend errands and recreational rides around town.

Charging Time

The scooter charges from empty to full in around 3–6 hours. Practically, that means:

• Plug in after work and it’s topped off for the next morning.
• Or charge overnight and never think about it.

Because the battery capacity isn’t huge, it charges faster than bigger, more powerful scooters – which is a nice convenience for daily use.

If you treat the battery well (don’t store it fully drained, avoid extreme temperatures, and charge it regularly), the 36V 7.5Ah pack should support plenty of cycles before you notice capacity reduction.

Ride Comfort, Handling & Tires

Riding comfort is where design choices really show. The iScooter i9 uses 8.5-inch honeycomb solid tires rather than air-filled ones. That single decision brings both advantages and trade-offs.

Solid Honeycomb Tires

Pros:

• No flats, no punctures, no air pressure checks.
• The honeycomb structure adds a bit of flexibility compared to completely solid rubber tires.
• Great for riders who don’t want maintenance headaches.

Cons:

• Less cushioning than pneumatic tires, especially over rough surfaces, potholes, or cobblestones.
• You’ll feel more of the road texture through your feet and hands.

On smooth pavement and typical city bike lanes, the ride is impressively stable and predictable. The solid tires also contribute to a planted, confident feel in corners and at higher speeds. On broken sidewalks or road cracks, you’ll notice more vibration – that’s the trade-off for never having to worry about tire pressure or pinch flats.

Handling and Stability

Thanks to the low deck and reasonably wide bar stance, the i9 feels secure even near its 19 mph top speed. Steering isn’t twitchy, and the weight distribution between the front and rear keeps the scooter balanced when braking or turning.

For riders near the 220-lb limit, the scooter still holds up well, but you may want to approach rough surfaces more cautiously. For lighter riders, it feels nimble and easy to maneuver around pedestrians, parked cars, or sidewalk clutter.

Safety: Brakes, Lights & Visibility

Safety is a major selling point for the iScooter i9, and it backs that up with both hardware and certifications.

Dual Braking System

The scooter features a rear disc brake combined with a hidden electronic brake (eABS). When you pull the brake lever:

• The mechanical disc brake applies strong friction to the rear wheel.
• The electronic brake adds regenerative braking and helps prevent wheel lock-up.

This combination gives you strong, predictable stopping power, especially important when you’re traveling at 15–19 mph in busy city traffic. The braking feel is progressive rather than “on/off,” which makes it easier for new riders to control their stopping distance without skidding.

Lighting for Night Rides

Visibility is handled by:

• A high-brightness LED headlight mounted at the front of the stem to illuminate the path ahead.
• A rear brake light that alerts other road users when you’re slowing down.

The marketing emphasizes “Enhanced visibility for night rides”, and that’s exactly what you want when commuting early in the morning or after sunset. It’s still smart to wear reflective clothing or a helmet with lights, but the scooter’s built-in illumination provides a strong baseline of safety.

Certified & Water-Resistant

Two more quiet but important details:

• The scooter is UL-certified (UL2272) for electrical system safety.
• The frame and electronics are IPX4 water-resistant, meaning it can handle light splashes and riding on wet pavement.

It’s not meant for heavy rain or deep puddles, but you don’t have to panic if you get caught in a light shower or ride through shallow water on the road.

Portability, Folding & Storage

One of the biggest reasons people choose a scooter like the i9 is sheer convenience. Folding and storing it should feel natural, not like wrestling a piece of gym equipment.

Folding Mechanism

The iScooter i9 uses a straightforward folding stem with a latch at the base. To fold it down, you:

1. Release the latch.
2. Fold the stem toward the deck until it locks to the rear fender hook.
3. Pick it up by the stem and walk away.

This process takes only a few seconds once you get used to it and makes it simple to:

• Carry the scooter into an apartment or office.
• Lift it into the trunk of a car.
• Store it in a hallway, under a desk, or in a closet.

The folded footprint is compact enough for most small living spaces.

Weight & Everyday Carry

While the exact weight isn’t listed in your notes, the i9 is clearly engineered to be light enough for adults to carry short distances. Think of carrying it up a flight of stairs, across a train platform, or into an elevator. If you’re extremely sensitive to lifting weight, it’s still worth considering where you’ll regularly carry it, but for most riders, the portability is one of the scooter’s strong suits.

Smart Features & Tuya App Experience

This is where the iScooter i9 steps beyond many basic budget scooters. Instead of being just a stand-alone device, it integrates with a Tuya Smart App, turning your smartphone into a control center.

What the App Can Do

Once connected via Bluetooth, the app lets you:

• Adjust the maximum speed and switch between ride modes.
• Activate cruise control, letting you maintain a constant speed without holding the throttle.
• Lock and unlock the scooter electronically, adding a layer of security when parked.
• Control the headlight (on/off).
• Check battery level, ride time, and mileage at a glance.
• Access additional settings like start mode and navigation features.

For riders who like data and customization, this adds a lot of value. It also means you can fine-tune the scooter’s behavior to match your comfort level – for example, limiting max speed for a new rider, then later increasing it as confidence grows.

Everyday Benefits

In practice, the app is most useful for:

• Quickly checking remaining range before you head out.
• Turning on cruise control during long, straight stretches.
• Locking the scooter when you pop into a shop or café (still use a physical lock for real security, but the electronic lock is a helpful deterrent).

The fact that these smart features are available on such an affordable scooter is a big plus and pushes the i9 ahead of many similarly priced competitors.

Assembly, Setup & Learning Curve

The iScooter i9 arrives mostly assembled. Typically, you only need to:

• Unfold the stem and lock it in place.
• Install the handlebar or tighten a few screws (depending on batch).
• Check the brakes and lights.
• Download the Tuya app and pair it with the scooter.

Within 20–30 minutes, most riders will be comfortably ready to roll.

Getting Comfortable as a New Rider

For beginners, the D mode (9 mph) is perfect. It lets you get used to balancing, turning, and braking without feeling rushed. Once you’re comfortable, switching to S mode gives you the full performance.

The solid tires and stable frame make the scooter feel predictable, and the dual braking system responds well even if your technique isn’t perfect yet. As long as you wear a helmet and practice in a safe area first, the learning curve is gentle.

Reliability, Maintenance & Ownership Costs

One of the strongest arguments for the iScooter i9 is low ongoing cost.

Low Maintenance Design

• Solid honeycomb tires mean no flats, no inner tubes, and no air pressure checks.
• The rear disc brake may need occasional cable adjustments and pad inspection, but this is straightforward.
• The electronic brake has no physical wear parts, providing extra stopping force without extra maintenance.

Basic care includes:

• Keeping the deck and wheels clean.
• Avoiding high-pressure water when washing.
• Storing the scooter indoors when possible.
• Charging the battery regularly and not letting it sit fully drained for long periods.

Warranty & Support

iScooter backs the i9 with a 12-month or 180-day warranty (depending on the part), plus customer support if anything goes wrong. That’s reassuring at this price point, where many no-name scooters offer very limited support.

Between the low running costs and the modest purchase price, the i9 can quickly pay for itself if it replaces even a portion of your short car trips, rideshare use, or public transit fares.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent value for the feature set and performance.
• 350W motor with up to 19 mph top speed – lively for urban commuting.
• 36V 7.5Ah battery with up to 18 miles of range.
• Dual braking system (disc + electronic) for strong, controlled stops.
• 8.5" honeycomb solid tires – no flats, low maintenance.
• Tuya smart app with cruise control, locking, mode switching, and more.
• Foldable aluminum frame that’s easy to carry and store.
• IPX4 water resistance and UL2272 safety certification.
• Supports riders up to 220 lbs.
• Backed by warranty and responsive customer support.

Cons

• Solid tires transmit more vibration than air-filled ones, especially on rough surfaces.
• Hill performance is adequate but not thrilling on very steep slopes, particularly for heavier riders.
• No dedicated suspension – all comfort relies on tire design and deck flex.
• Deck length and bar height may feel a bit compact for very tall riders.
• Range will drop if you ride fast, climb hills, or are near the weight limit (as with any scooter).

How the iScooter i9 Fits in the Market

In the crowded budget scooter segment, many models look similar at first glance. The iScooter i9 distinguishes itself in a few key ways:

1. Balanced Performance
   The combination of a 350W motor, 19 mph top speed, and 18-mile range puts it above the most basic 250W/12-mile scooters, yet it remains very affordable.
2. Smart App Integration
   Many scooters at this price either skip app control entirely or offer very limited functions. The Tuya integration adds real value through cruise control, locking, headlight control, and detailed ride stats.
3. Attention to Safety
   Dual brakes, bright lighting, UL electrical certification, and IPX4 water resistance show that safety and reliability were not afterthoughts.
4. Low-Maintenance Setup
   Honeycomb tires and a simple braking system reduce the risk of weekend-killing punctures and minimize the need for constant tinkering.

If you’re comparing several budget scooters, the i9 is especially compelling if you care about smart features and long-term reliability as much as price and speed.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the iScooter i9?

The iScooter i9 Electric Scooter hits a sweet spot that many urban riders are looking for:

• Fast enough to feel fun and efficient.
• Light and foldable enough to carry and store easily.
• Smart enough to sync with your phone and make daily riding more convenient.
• Affordable enough that it doesn’t require a huge investment.

It’s not trying to be a monster off-road machine or a high-end performance scooter. Instead, it focuses on what matters most for everyday commuting: reliable power, practical range, strong brakes, decent comfort, and low maintenance.

Choose the iScooter i9 if:

• You want a budget-friendly, feature-rich commuter scooter.
• Your rides are mostly on paved city streets with moderate hills.
• You appreciate no-flat tires, app control, and solid safety features.
• You need something easy to fold, carry, and live with day-to-day.

Look elsewhere if you’re chasing extreme speed, very long range, or heavy off-road capability.

For most adults looking to simplify their daily commute or add a fun, efficient way to move around the city, the iScooter i9 is a smart, well-rounded choice that delivers far more than you’d expect at its price.

Frequently Asked Questions About the iScooter i9