When it comes to high-performance electric scooters that are still reasonably priced, it’s a tricky balance. Most affordable scooters are underpowered and wobbly. The powerful ones often creep into motorcycle territory – with prices to match. But the VMAX VX2 Hub might just be the sweet spot we’ve been waiting for. It’s fast, it’s strong, it’s well-built, and most importantly – it actually feels good to ride.
Let’s dive into what makes this scooter stand out.
VMAX VX2 Hub video review
First of all, I know that seeing is believing, so for those who actually want to see the scooter in action, check out my video review below. Or keep reading for everything else!
Speed and power that actually feel usable
The VMAX VX2 Hub comes in two versions based on battery size – either a 642 Wh (13 Ah) pack or an 874 Wh (18.2 Ah) extended-range model. Both feed a rear hub motor capable of putting out a peak of 1,900W, giving the scooter enough torque to climb 35% grade hills. That’s steeper than pretty much anything you’ll find in San Francisco, and trust me, you’ll feel that power when you hit the throttle.
The top speed is a solid 33 mph. And unlike some scooters that get shaky or sketchy at high speeds, this one feels comfortable even as the numbers climb. It’s the kind of top-end performance that’s thrilling without becoming reckless – though yes, safety gear is still a good idea.
Just don’t do what I did and launch it in full-power mode on your first ride. I gave it full throttle, wasn’t ready for how torquey it was, and immediately pulled a wheelie. This isn’t your budget Amazon scooter with a throttle that’s either “on” or “off.” This one demands finesse – more like driving a vehicle than riding a toy.
And I love that about it, since it’s bad form (and a bad habit) to treat a throttle like an all-or-nothing affair. But weaker e-scooters teach us that bad habit, and when you finally get something with some real power, you have to remember that power is a spectrum.
Comfort, control, and a little class
The rubberized deck provides excellent grip, though it is a bit of a footprint magnet – something I learned when I ruined my clean b-roll shots riding it to the filming location.
The folding mechanism is particularly well-designed, staying sturdy even under hard riding. And I appreciate the hidden hook-and-lock design at the rear of the deck, which keeps the handlebars secured when folded without a hook being an annoying protrusion during rides, like on most scooters. Just push the spring-loaded button and the locking hook pops up from its flush mount on the rear kick plate. It’s a really slick design. See it in my video review above.
Lighting is another big win here. Rear turn signals stick out wide enough to actually be questionably useful in traffic, if cars are looking for turn signals on the back of a scooter. But there are also turn signals on the handlebars, too, facing both forward and rearward. Night commuting on VMAX scooters has always felt safer thanks to their lighting setups, and the VX2 Hub keeps that tradition strong.
Suspension-wise, it’s not an off-roader – but it doesn’t pretend to be. You can still take it off the paved path now and again, as I did several times, cutting across grassy embankments or taking the odd shortcut through a park. On flatter trails or grassy areas, the full suspension soaks up bumps better than you’d expect. It’s certainly worlds better than a rigid frame or single-suspension setup.
The extras you’ll actually use
One feature I love is the presence of a USB-C charging port onboard. It’s small, but thoughtful, giving you a convenient way to keep your phone charged on the handlebars. So many scooters still have an older USB-A port, so I’m glad to see VMAX is rolling with the times.
And while VMAX does offer a fairly robust smartphone app, it’s completely optional. You don’t need the app to turn on or ride the scooter – just to unlock a few extra features and getting deeper ride data to nerd out on the numbers. That’s a breath of fresh air in an age where every company wants you to download yet another app just to use the basic functions of your device.
Pricing and value
At $1,199 for the standard battery and a couple hundred more for the extended-range version, the VX2 Hub isn’t a cheap scooter – but it’s an incredible value for what you get. Between the 10-inch tubeless tires, full suspension, fast performance, and sturdy build, it honestly feels more like a mini motorcycle than a last-mile scooter.
And that’s the point. This isn’t a toy. It’s a real vehicle. A compact, fun, efficient, and powerful one.
Over many years, I’ve tested everything from budget scooters to ultra-premium ones, and the VMAX VX2 Hub hits that elusive middle ground where performance meets practicality. It’s got the power and speed you want, with the safety and quality you need – and it doesn’t require a second mortgage.
If your idea of micromobility includes skipping over budget compromises and going straight to the good stuff without breaking the bank, the VX2 Hub deserves a serious look.
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
Comments