My kids have kick scooters and my wife bought an electric scooter for work (getting to and from the parking garage). I started using my wife’s scooter to take the kids out daily around the neighborhood so they could get some exercise. I really liked using her electric scooter, so I purchased my own, so below is my real life Hover-1 Alpha Electric Kick Scooter review.

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Trial & Error

I enjoyed using my wife’s scooter, but being frugal I purchased a scooter for me that was about $50 cheaper than her scooter, big mistake in my opinion.

While the cheaper scooter was lighter and more compact, it had smaller 6.5 inch solid tires (versus her scooter’s 8.5 inch pneumatic or inflatable tires). I believe the smaller solid tires made the ride bumpier and the tires were less capable when riding over cracks and small rocks/debris. I was almost thrown from the cheap scooter when I ran over a small rock, it stopped the scooter in its tracks and started skidding. Please keep in mind that electric scooters travel at higher speeds than manual kick scooters.

The cheaper scooter stored the batteries in the column versus under the platform, which makes the scooter platform seem more flimsy. The other thing I didn’t like about the cheaper scooter was the brake control mechanism was the same as the accelerator mechanism, a lever you push with your thumb (see picture below of Hover-1 Alpha, accelerator lever is on right handle). I prefer the bicycle type brake controller (see picture below of Hover-1 Alpha left handle bar) that you squeeze because it is more natural and in my opinion it is easier to use.

Choosing a Scooter

I also had some other issues with the cheaper scooter, so I returned it (Amazon makes returns so easy). So, I started looking for another scooter. I liked my wife’s scooter, so I started looking at Hover-1 scooters.

So, I purchased Hover-1 Alpha through Amazon and purchased a 3 year Amazon warranty so I don’t have to worry about dealing with the scooter manufacturer.

I went with Hover-1 Alpha Electric Kick Scooter instead of my wife’s scooter because it was only $50 more than my wife’s scooter model, but the Hover-1 Alpha has a larger frame and platform, a larger electric motor, larger 10 inch air filled tires (versus 8.5 inch tires), a platform logo that lights up, ambient lights under the platform, a rear brake light, Bluetooth speakers to stream music, etc. A lot of added features for only $50 more.

Specifications obtained from manual

• Motor: 450 watt motor
• Max speed: 17.4 mph
• Max range: 12 miles
• Battery: 36 volt 6 Ah Lithium-ion 30 cell battery
• Battery charge time: 4.5 – 6.5 hours
• Weight capacity: 264 lbs
• Brakes: Handle activated rear disc brake
• Tires: Front and Back 10 inch air filled tires
• Other: LED headlight, LCD display, built-in Bluetooth speaker, bike style bell
• Driving modes: High speed mode, cruise control
• Weight: 36.16 lbs
• Open dimensions: 45″ x 16.6″ x 47.7″
• Folded dimensions: 45″ x 16.6″ x 20.7″

My thoughts so far

I’ve been using the Hover-1 Alpha once or twice daily for some time now, typically going distances of 1-3 miles on neighborhood streets, sidewalks and walking trails. The ride feels grounded, throttle is responsive, acceleration smooth, and overall the scooter feels substantial. And, I’m able to go up inclines (like our driveway) with ease as compared to my wife’s scooter that struggles.

I believe the manufacturer provides a 3 year warranty, but I paid for the 3 year Amazon warranty so I don’t have to worry about dealing with the manufacturer. So, I would recommend this scooter without reservation.

4/14/2020 Update: I’ve noticed that when applying the hand brake that it emits a loud sound from the brakes. I haven’t noticed any issue with brake performance.

1/5/2021 Update: Brakes still make noise when applying the brakes, but I haven’t had any issues with performance.

Where can you buy this scooter?

Hover-1 Alpha Electric Kick Scooter – https://amzn.to/2URpj9O

Check out these other reviews:

VIRO Rides Sport Runner Folding Kick Scooter Review

Jowbeam Bike Light Review

TEROMAS Tire Inflator Air Compressor Review