TurboAnt X7 Max | Best Electric Scooter under 600$

The TurboAnt is the best budget-friendly entry-level scooter I have ever come across. While reviewing the Hiboy S2, I wondered if any brand could compete with it, but then I discovered the X7 Max, the upgraded version of the X7 Pro. If someone is in search of their first electric scooter within a decent budget, the X7 Max is definitely worth considering. It is very easy to handle that even a beginner can handle it easily.

The scooter is well-constructed, with a sleek design and an easy-to-handle, user-friendly dashboard. It boasts some advanced features that are typically not found in entry-level scooters especially under 600$. The value is definitely worth considering, given the features the scooter provides. What makes it the best among its competitors is the detachable battery. You can extend the scooter’s range by keeping two batteries (priced at $220 on the website) with you, especially when you are on trips.

Since they use a detachable battery located on the stem rather than the deck, the deck sits 5.3 inches above the ground, providing you with enough ground clearance for a smoother and more comfortable ride. The ride quality of the TurboAnt X7 Max far exceeds that of the Hiboy S2, thanks to its use of 10-inch air-filled pneumatic tires. These tires absorb bumps effectively and provides a  smoother and comfortable ride.

The Handlebars

The TurboAnt boasts slightly narrow handlebars. On the right side, you’ll find throttle and button controls for adjusting speed modes and powering the scooter. In the center, there’s a compact yet clear display indicating current speed, mode, and battery percentage. On the left side, there’s a brake lever for the mechanical rear disc brake. Also there is headlight and a tail light as well which enhances the visibility in low light.

One noteworthy aspect is that the handlebar grips are removable, which makes the scooter a more convenient transportation option. The build quality is excellent, with no issues of stem wobbling observed during riding. The handlebars measure almost 41 inches from the deck, providing ample space for even taller riders to stand comfortably and handle the scooter without assuming an awkward position.

Range and Battery

The battery is what sets this scooter apart from its competitors. The X7 Max features a 36V 10Ah (360Wh) detachable battery securely located on the stem of the scooter. The battery can be easily attached and detached from the scooter with a lock key. This allows you to extend your range by keeping an extra fully charged battery with you (available for $220 on the website). This feature comes in handy when cruising on trips and you run out of battery but have a backup.

Now, while this is a convenient feature, what is the actual range on a single charge? The speed depends on the type of terrain, rider weight, and scooter speed. Under extremely optimal conditions such as flat terrain and eco mode, the scooter delivers a tested range of 27 miles on a single charge. However, in sport mode where the scooter reaches its top speed, the range is almost 20-22 miles per charge. If you keep an extra battery with you, you can even double your range.

Top Speed

The X7 Max is equipped with brushless 350 watt motor which uses all the motor power to give a top speed of 18 miles per hour. While the advertised speed is 20 mph, this can vary depending on factors such as weight and terrain. Nonetheless, it’s quite impressive, especially considering the comfort of the ride. The stem didn’t wobble at all, and the scooter handles well even at high speeds.

Another notable feature is the cruise control functionality. You can activate cruise control by pressing the throttle for about 5 to 7 seconds while maintaining a constant speed, and you’ll hear a beep indicating that you’re in cruise control. From there, you can maintain the scooter’s speed and simply press the throttle or brakes to exit cruise control mode.

The X7 Max offers three distinct speed modes: eco, comfort, and sport mode. When navigating through busy areas, you can restrict your speed by activating eco mode. Conversely, to reach the top speed, you should utilize sport mode.

Wheels

The 10-inch pneumatic tires are another notable feature compared to the Hiboy S2. These tires cushion you from bumps, even on rough terrains, whereas solid tires lack this cushioning effect. While solid tires are known for their durability, pneumatic tires provide a more comfortable and noise-free ride. However, the X7 Max does have one drawback in terms of wheels: its air-filled tubes may require replacement after a certain period, especially after a puncture.

Additionally, the scooter uses solid rims, which can be challenging to replace on your own and may require expertise, thus incurring maintenance costs. Nevertheless, in terms of ride comfort, the X7 Max offers a significantly smoother and more comfortable experience compared to the Hiboy S2. It’s important to note that when you open the box, always check the tire pressure, which should be set at almost 35 PSI, and continue checking it periodically.

Braking

The X7 Max performed admirably in the braking department. The dual brake system responds well even when cruising at high speeds. I didn’t experience any leaning forward sensation while applying the brakes. Moreover, the brakes are robust, with the front motor and rear disc brake providing ample stopping power. Although it lacks a rear wheel foot brake, this omission doesn’t pose much of an issue since most riders don’t rely on it.

Deck and Load Capacity

Since the battery is not located in the deck, it provides ample ground clearance from the ground, almost 5.3 inches. The deck is large, you don’t need to adjust your feet awkwardly; instead, you can comfortably position them on the deck. Furthermore, the deck is sturdy and provides stability while riding.

The scooter is well constructed and can support riders weighing up to 275 lbs. The handlebars are positioned at a decent height from the ground, allowing even taller and heavier riders to comfortably ride the scooter. However, the increased weight may affect both the speed and range of the scooter. The kickstand is positioned awkwardly and can be difficult to deploy at times. Sometimes, you may need to use your hands to assist in deploying the kickstand.

Portability and Folding

The scooter weighs 35 lbs and can be easily folded for convenient transportation. Simply unlock the stem and utilize the hook on the rear fender. However, it’s important to note that the hook does not lock, meaning the stem may slide if not secured properly. Therefore, you must keep the scooter straight to prevent it from slipping out of the hook.

While the scooter is excellent for portability, holding it in hand for extended periods may be difficult. This is because the majority of the weight is on the front side, making lifting or maneuvering the scooter in certain situations more difficult.

Hill Climbing and Off-Road Capability

The TurboAnt X7 Max has excellent features and performed well overall during our testing, except for one notable aspect. While the website advertises that it can handle 15% slopes, it struggled noticeably when navigating uphill. I measured the slopes, and the scooter struggled significantly. Therefore, I do not recommend it for steeper hills. One of the most concerning issues was the decrease in speed on slopes, dropping from 18 mph to almost 8 mph. At one point, I even had to manually push the scooter forward.

Off-road riding also proved to be challenging, particularly on grassy terrain. The scooter did not glide smoothly on grass, with the wheels often becoming stuck. When the wheels became blocked, maneuvering the scooter forward became difficult due to the majority of the weight being on the front side, where the battery is located. Ultimately, the scooter is not an ideal choice for off-roading or climbing hills.

Ride Quality

The ride quality was excellent on both flat terrain and rough surfaces. The 10-inch pneumatic tires and ample ground clearance allow the scooter to absorb bumps effectively, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride on uneven surfaces. However, as mentioned, the X7 Max did not perform well when going uphill or on off-road terrain.

Although it comes with an IPX4 rating, the scooter is not recommended for riding in wet conditions. While the rear fender protects you from water and dirt splashing onto you, applying brakes in wet terrain can cause the wheels to feel slippery, potentially leading to dangerous situations.

Who Should Buy?

The scooter is definitely worth the money, It’s well-constructed and easy to handle, making it suitable even for beginners. Therefore, it stands as the best option for those seeking their first electric scooter within a reasonable budget. Additionally, it’s an ideal choice for commuters heading to the office and teenagers attending college.

However, if your route includes hilly terrains, this may not be the ideal scooter for you. Nonetheless, on flat terrain and even on rough surfaces like bumps, the scooter performs admirably well.

Which one is Better? Hiboy S2 or TurboAnt X7 Max

Well, the most significant and undoubtedly the most crucial one lies in the tires. While it may seem minor, it greatly impacts the overall riding experience. Solid tires do not offer the same level of smoothness and comfort as pneumatic tires. Although the Hiboy S2 features a dual suspension system, it fails to match the comfort level provided by the TurboAnt X7 Max. Both scooters offer nearly identical features, except for this one crucial aspect.

Moreover, if you prefer solid tires, the TurboAnt X7 Max also offers this option, as it comes with both tire variants. The solid tires on the TurboAnt X7 Max are 10 inches compared to the Hiboy S2’s 8.5 inches.

In my opinion, if you prioritize solid tires and can get both options at the same price, then the TurboAnt solid tire variant is the way to go. However, if pneumatic tires are your preference, then I would highly recommend the TurboAnt X7 Max. Ultimately, the choice is yours and accordin to your needs and prefrences.