Swiss electric scooter maker VMAX has launched the new VX2 Lite, a commuter-focused electric scooter that packs premium features like full suspension, a 56-mile (90 km) maximum range, and up to 1,400W of peak motor power into a relatively lightweight package.
First unveiled at CES earlier this year, the new model slots into the company’s growing lineup as an urban-friendly option designed for riders who want a comfortable daily commuter without stepping into the heavier, high-performance scooter category.
Despite its Swiss roots, VMAX has increasingly made a name for itself in the US electric scooter market, where the new model is likely to prove popular among riders who want a quality, fast electric scooter with full suspension but without breaking the bank.
The VX2 Lite is powered by a rear hub motor rated for 500W continuous output and capable of producing up to 1,400W of peak power. That gives the scooter a claimed top speed of 25 mph (40 km/h) and enough torque to tackle hills with grades of up to 28%, making it suitable for the kind of steep urban streets that can leave lower-powered commuter scooters struggling. I’ve tested VMAX electric scooters on the hills of Los Angeles before, and they can deliver fast speeds up hill that you wouldn’t expect from looking at the svelte scooters.
Buyers can choose between two battery options depending on their riding needs. The standard 499 Wh, 48V battery is rated for up to 31 miles (50 km) of range, while a larger 874 Wh battery nearly doubles that figure to a claimed 56 miles (90 km).
As always, real-world range will vary depending on rider weight, terrain, temperature, and riding style, but either option should comfortably cover most daily commutes.
One of the biggest upgrades comes in the comfort department. Rather than relying solely on its pneumatic tires to smooth out rough pavement, the VX2 Lite combines a 47 mm oil-damped hydraulic suspension fork up front with an elastomer rear suspension system. Together with its 10-inch tubeless tires, the setup is designed to better absorb cracks, potholes, cobblestones, and other imperfections common on city streets.
Braking is handled by a somewhat unusual combination of a front drum brake and regenerative electronic braking on the rear wheel. While many scooters in this price range now feature disc brakes, drum brakes have earned a reputation for being durable, low-maintenance, and largely unaffected by wet weather. They make even more sense on scooters, which have smaller wheels, putting a disc rotor a mere finger length from hazards of the road. For anyone who has ever knicked their disc brake rotor on a curb and forever after heard that ‘ting-ting-ting’ sound, drum brakes are the answer you’ve been looking for.
The scooter carries an IPX6 water-resistance rating and tips the scales at just 48.3 lb (21.9 kg) for the smaller battery version, or 51.8 lb (23.5 kg) for the larger battery version, making it easier to carry up stairs or onto public transit than many similarly capable electric scooters. While that’s not lightweight on its own, it’s actually quite impressive for a full-suspension scooter.
Lighting includes a bright 60-lux dual-cone headlight along with a brake light for improved visibility, and VMAX backs the scooter with a 24-month warranty while offering free shipping, local service, and customer support.
Pricing starts at $799 for the 31-mile version, while the larger 56-mile model comes in at $1,099.
For riders looking for a commuter scooter that prioritizes ride comfort without venturing into the bulky, 70-pound performance scooter segment, the VX2 Lite appears to strike an interesting balance. Full suspension, respectable range, and relatively modest weight remain a combination that’s surprisingly difficult to find in today’s increasingly crowded electric scooter market.
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