GOTRAX GX1: An Affordable, High-Quality Performance Scooter
The GOTRAX GX1 is the more affordable version of their flagship dual-motor electric scooters, with a similar spec sheet right down to the hydraulic shocks but with a slightly smaller battery and lower-rated motors.
GOTRAX GX1 – $1,249
GOTRAX dominated the casual, single-motor commuter space by delivering the most affordable electric scooters you can buy from a reputable brand–and people love them.
Now that they have the GOTRAX GX1 and GX2 dual motor scooters, they’ve taken the same approach, availing high-quality performance scooters at unbelievably low prices.
The spec sheet is pretty standard without compromising the basics or overdelivering on the luxuries. However, we’re pretty stoked to have quality hydraulic shocks in this class of electric scooters.
Who Is This Scooter For?
The GOTRAX GX1 is for anyone who appreciates a great value from a reputable brand, and it’s for buyers who don’t need a portable scooter.
At 73.4 pounds, this is not a vehicle you’ll want to carry around. It is, however, a great choice for heavier riders, and an all-around excellent deal on a powerful dual motor entry-level scooter.
GOTRAX GX1 Review
GOTRAX GX1 Specs
Make | GOTRAX |
Model | GX1 |
Weight | 74 lbs |
Motor power (continuous) | 1,200W |
Motor type | Dual motor |
Top Speed | 30 mph (Manufacturer spec) 30.6 mph (ESG tested) |
Range | 25 mi (Manufacturer spec) 19.9 mph (ESG tested) |
Battery capacity | 720 Wh |
Battery recharge time | 5 hrs |
Max rider weight | 300 lbs |
Brake type | Disc + Disc |
Tire type | Pneumatic (Tubeless) + Pneumatic (Tubeless) |
Built-in lights | Front + Rear |
Water resistance | IP54 |
UL Certification | UL2272 |
Our Full Video Review
Top: GOTRAX GX1: An Affordable, High-Quality Performance ScooterGOTRAX GX1: Performance
Top Speed
Real-world testing of the scooter in a two-directional speed run with data captured on pro-grade tools and ridden by a 165 lbs rider gave us a top speed of 30.6 mph against the manufacturer-cited 30 mph.
Acceleration
The GOTRAX GX1 reached 15 mph in just 2.7 seconds and 30 mph in 9.9 seconds, outperforming the GX2’s times of 2.9 seconds and 10.1 seconds, respectively.
Don’t get us wrong, the GX1 has its limitations, but they’re minor. Our reviewer Paul comments on the thumb throttle, for instance:
“If I have a criticism, it’s that 80% of the throttle comes on in the first 50% of travel, which can make it a little twitchy if you’re trying to ride at a steady 20mph in power mode.“
Range
The GOTRAX GX1 electric scooter’s 720 Wh gave us 19.9 miles of range, ridden in max performance mode on our hilly RG range test course.
Given the shorter ranges we got from previous GOTRAX models, this is undoubtedly an upgrade. And it’s not too far from the larger GX2 GOTRAX, which went 24.7 miles.
Top: GOTRAX GX1: An Affordable, High-Quality Performance ScooterBraking
The new GOTRAX GX models are both equipped with front and rear mechanical disc brakes that work in tandem with the scooters’ regenerative brakes and hydraulic shocks to deliver ultra-short stopping distances.
The GX1 has the 7th shortest recorded stopping distance measured by ESG, braking from 15 mph in just 9.5 ft.
Hill Climb
Both the GOTRAX GX1 and GX2 are excellent hill climbers, an area where dual-motor scooters tend to excel.
On our 200-foot, 10% grade test, the GX1 scooter took 9.4 seconds to reach the top, while the GX2 was slightly slower with a 9.5-second climb – again showing the importance of performance testing.
Ride Quality
GOTRAX completely aced the front dual hydraulic suspension and single rear hydraulic shock. The suspension is really good, effectively absorbing shocks and bumps to ensure a stable and controlled ride.
For a $1200 electric scooter, this is definitely the highlight. You can adjust the shocks for preload, and damping feels ideal from the start.
The GOTRAX GX1 scooter’s tires also contribute to a comfortable ride. These are 10-inch tubeless air-filled tires, meaning they provide greater shock absorption and have fewer flats.
Top: GOTRAX GX1: An Affordable, High-Quality Performance ScooterGOTRAX GX1: Design, Build & Reliability
Both the GOTRAX GX1 AND GX2 rated highly on our Reliability Index, with a score of 7.4 each, a number that averages 11 factors such as warranty length, tire type, UL certification, and battery manufacturer.
The GX1 is one of GOTRAX’s first dual motor scooters and is certainly a game-changer. While previous GOTRAX scooters were primarily built for casual riding and commuting, the GX1 feels like it was designed for more. It goes faster, has a longer range, can overtake bicycles on bike lanes, and feels solid enough to take on adventurous trails.
The GX1 is IP54-rated and has good fender protection, so you can afford to get caught up in light showers without necessarily damaging the scooter.
GOTRAX GX1: Is It Worth It? Our Verdict
Now to the real question. Is the GOTRAX GX1 a good electric scooter to purchase, and which scooter is for you: the GX1 or GX2? As GOTRAX’s first-ever dual motor scooters, these flagship vehicles really hit the mark.
The GOTRAX GX1 has good performance for its price, has a feature-rich spec sheet that surpasses its low price tag and is outright fun to ride. While it may have a lesser range and top speed compared to the GX2, opting for the GX1 allows you to save a significant $200.
When it comes down to it, the rider’s unique needs will inform the choice of one over the other. The GX2 feels like a better option as it follows our policy of “better to have (extra speed and range) and not need it than need it and not have it.” That said, the GX1, with its 15% cost savings, is still an excellent deal.
Top: GOTRAX GX1: An Affordable, High-Quality Performance Scooter