The Segway Max G2 Surprises with More than Just Suspension

The SEGWAY MAX G2 is a benchmark for under-$1,000 single motor electric scooter commuters. It’s got more of everything when compared to its predecessor, and it’s still the top scooter to beat in its class.

SEGWAY MAX G2 – $999

The Max G2 marks the beginning of the second act in the ultra-popular Ninebot Max production. The original Max and its smaller sibling, the G30 LP, dominated the commuter class of scooters for a few years with their unique reliability, long range, and prices that didn’t burn holes through the pocket.

However, it wasn’t long before other manufacturers caught on to the formula of the Ninebot Max’s success and replicated it – even bettered it in some cases – to give us a sea of Ninebot Max alternatives. Now comes the Max G2, the long-awaited successor, and we’re glad Segway took their time creating it, because it simply is a more efficient masterpiece. 

Segway developed special low-rolling-resistance tires, optimized the motor and controller, and then named the whole package RideyLong. It doesn’t really roll off the tongue, but it works. The new-found efficiency is the reason behind the Max G2’s quicker acceleration, higher top speed, and better range.

Who Is This Scooter For?

This scooter serves the same set of people as the original Max, from those who want to commute to work every day to those who just want long rides for fun on the weekend. The Max G2 demographic includes everyone from brand-new riders to those on their third or fourth scooter, and it is way more fun to ride than most commuter scooters in its class. 

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SEGWAY MAX G2: Performance

Top Speed

The MAX G2 recorded a sustained top speed of 21.7 mph on our prograde tools, surpassing the spec sheet claim of 20 mph top speed.

Acceleration

From a standing start, the Max G2 accelerates to 15 mph in just 4.1 seconds, which is 32% quicker than the original Max, which took 6.0 seconds for the same sprint. Competitors like the NIU KQi3 Max get to 15 mph in 4.6 seconds, while the Okai Neon Pro is a tad slower at 4.8 seconds. 

Should you need to adjust the intensity of the scooter’s acceleration, there’s a provision to do so on the app. Segway also set this up so that it can be done independently of adjusting the top speed. And, if, like us, you just want to get going, you can set it up to Zero Start by changing the starting speed to 0 mph (still on the app).

Range

The Max G2 had a tested range of 26.6 miles against the original Max’s record-setting 21.6 miles. This is very impressive, considering the added weight from the suspension.

Braking

Braking is controlled with a single lever on the left side, which activates the front drum and rear regen brake. The brakes are very similar to those in the previous build, and very low maintenance, but these work a little differently. They feel like they’re tuned to be less intense.

The G2’s 12 ft of stopping distance from 15 mph is almost a foot longer than our tests of the original G30 Max. But the benefit is that no matter how hard you brake, you won’t go over the handlebars.

As with your speed and acceleration, you can control regenerative braking in the app. When set to medium or strong, it automatically applies a small amount of regen brake when you release the throttle.

Hill Climb

The 450-watt motor with 1000 watts of peak power does a stellar job of scaling hills. We take all scooters on a 200 foot, 10% test hill, and the Max G2 got to the top in just 13.7 seconds, sustaining an average speed of 10 mph.

During the range test, I hit 18 miles an hour while traveling up steep 4 to 6% grade hills, even with just 50% battery remaining. This data makes the Max G2 as the fastest scooter on hills in its class.

Ride Quality

The biggest and most obvious change is the new suspension, which makes long rides much more comfortable and gives you better cornering. We thought the front suspension would be just a shaft and a spring, like the Segway Ninebot ES4, but there’s a hydraulic front shock under the rubber cover. This is what makes the MAX G2’s front end feel ultra plush. 

I was literally giddy when the MAX G2 arrived at Electric Scooter Guide HQ, but also a little nervous that after waiting four years for the sequel to the original Max, we might end up feeling let down. But after riding the first 10 feet, my fear was gone. I was floored by how smooth this new suspension is, and as I dug deeper, by how much new stuff this “Ninebot Max with suspension” really has.

SEGWAY MAX G2: Design, Build & Reliability

The Ninebot Max G2 scored a 8.58 on our Reliability Index, a formula that averages 11 factors, including tire type, build quality, IP Rating and UL Certification.

The Ninebot MAX G2 features next-generation low-rolling resistance tubeless 10″ tires with a flat-resistant coating inside, known as RideyLONG™ self-sealing pneumatic tubeless tires by Segway.

The folding mechanism boasts a new, faster latch, while retaining the reliable (yet slightly-awkward) deck latch positioned to one side. Notable design elements include a front-firing horn integrated into the frame and ultra-bright, high-mounted turn signals with intuitive switches for enhanced visibility.

With Ninebot’s award-winning app offering advanced security features like Smart Riding Assistant and Apple Find My functionality, reliability goes up even higher, and you get an IPX5 scooter and an IPX7 battery for riding in most any weather condition.

SEGWAY MAX G2: Is It Worth It? Our Verdict

The MAX G2 sets a new standard with its outstanding performance and feature set, all at an exceptional price point. From traction control to cruise control, suspension, loud horn, spacious deck, and responsive throttle, it caters to a diverse range of riders.

For those constantly on the move, the built-in charger feature offers unparalleled convenience—all you need is the cable. While the scooter’s folded length of 47.5 inches might pose a challenge for some car trunks, it’s still manageable, especially for urban commuters or college students navigating tight spaces.

With its compatibility with a dedicated app and robust safety features, the MAX G2 emerges as an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable electric scooter as their daily ride.