Best 40 MPH Electric Scooters (4 Selected From a Lineup of 17)
Top Picks: Best 40 MPH Electric Scooters
Following my hands-on performance tests of 17 electric scooters that claimed to reach top speeds of up to 40 mph, I selected the 4 top performers.
Key to my consideration was each scooter's top speed, acceleration, handling, and braking, while I also assessed the size of their motors, throttle response, and peak power outputs.
Budget
Top picks that are on the lowest end of the price scale, but maintain as many key features as possible.
Mid-Range
Top picks for riders that want better build quality and faster acceleration rates than the budget models.
Premium
Top picks that are packed with features and have the highest levels of performance.
Best By Type: Electric Scooters By Use Case
Heavy Riders
- Budget: Varla Eagle One V2 – Supports up to 330 lbs
- Mid-Range: Apollo Phantom – Supports up to 300 lbs
- Premium: Mantis King GT – Supports up to 265 lbs
Further Information:
Heavy Duty Electric Scooters for Heavy Adults
Tall Riders
- Budget: SPLACH Titan – Suitable for riders up to 6'5″
- Mid-Range: Apollo Phantom – Suitable for riders up to 6'4″
- Premium: Mantis King GT – Suitable for riders up to 6'2″
Further Information:
Electric Scooters For Tall Riders Up to 6ft 6″
Fastest
- Budget: Varla Eagle One V2 – 40 mph
- Mid-Range: Apollo Phantom – 41 mph
- Premium: Mantis King GT – 43 mph
Further Information:
Fastest Electric Scooters
Longest Range
- Budget: SPLACH Titan – 44 miles max (29 miles real-world)
- Mid-Range: Apollo Phantom – 40 miles max (29 miles real-world)
- Premium: Mantis King GT – 56 miles max (38 miles real-world)
Further Information:
Long Range Electric Scooters
Off-Roading
- Budget: Varla Eagle One V2
- Mid-Range: None
- Premium: Mantis King GT
Further Information:
Best Off-Road Electric Scooters for All Types of Terrain
Lightest & Most Portable
- Budget: SPLACH Titan – 64 lbs and foldable stem
- Mid-Range: Apollo Phantom – 77 lbs and foldable stem
- Premium: Mantis King GT – 74 lbs and foldable stem
Further Information:
Best Foldable Electric Scooters (Portable, Compact & Small)
Lightweight Electric Scooters
Commuting
- Budget: SPLACH Titan
- Mid-Range: Apollo Phantom
- Premium: Mantis King GT
Further Information:
Electric Scooters For Commuting
Hill Climbing
- Budget: Varla Eagle One V2 – Steep inclines
- Mid-Range: Apollo Phantom – Steep inclines
- Premium: Mantis King GT – Steep inclines
Further Information:
Electric Scooters For Climbing Hills: Breeze Up the Steepest of Inclines
Waterproof
- Budget: Varla Eagle One V2 – IP54 water-resistance rating
- Mid-Range: Apollo Phantom – IP54 water-resistance rating
- Premium: Mantis King GT – IPX5 water-resistance rating
Further Information:
Waterproof Electric Scooters: Best Scooters For Riding in the Rain
Suspension
- Budget: SPLACH Titan – 8.5/10 shock absorption score
- Mid-Range: Apollo Phantom – 7.5/10 shock absorption score
- Premium: Mantis King GT – 9/10 shock absorption score
Further Information:
Best Electric Scooters With Suspension
Optional Seat
- Budget: Varla Eagle One V2 – Seat available for $159
- Mid-Range: None
- Premium: None
Further Information:
Best Seated Scooters
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Best Under $1,600
SPLACH Titan
Performance Report:
Tester: Josh Frisby (190 lbs, 6.1 ft)
- Top Speed: 32/37 mph
- 0-15 mph: 2.5 s*
- 0-25 mph: 4.9 s*
- Max Range: 44 miles
- Real Range: 29 miles*
- Braking: 2.4 meters*
- Suspension: 8.5/10*
- Max Incline: 20 degrees
- Optimal Incline: 12 degrees*
- Weight: 64 lbs
- Load: 220 lbs
Motor Power:
- Motors: Dual 52V 1000W
- Nominal Power: 2000W
- Peak Power: 2600W
SPLACH Titan Overview:
Typically, power to the tune of a 40 mph top speed requires more than a modest investment – unless you’re buying the SPLACH Titan, that is.
Armed with dual 52V 1000W motors that deliver a huge peak power output and rapid acceleration rate, this pound-for-pound superstar has given pricier rivals one heck of a headache.
That’s because the Titan has triggered a sea change in customer expectations. It promises premium performance at an entry-level price. Seriously? But don’t just take my word for it. For just over a thousand dollars, you can see what all the fuss is about for yourself.
The Good:
- Outstanding value for money
- Chart-topping performance in its price class and beyond
- Supremely smooth suspension
- Handles all types of terrain
- Fat tires with terrain-agnostic tread
- One of the best lighting packages in the industry
- Excellent for long-range rides
- Superb folding mechanism
- Sharp and responsive brakes
- Secret hiding spot for an Apple Air Tag
- IP54 water-resistance rating
The Bad:
- Deck is a little short
- Higher load capacity would make it more accessible to heavy riders
Why I Recommend the SPLACH Titan:
SPLACH’s success as a trailblazer lies in its mission to make premium scooters at affordable prices. To achieve this, the brand minimizes the amount of profit it makes, utilizing crowdfunding to support its productions, and forums to guide development.
This modus operandi has led to the wildly popular Twin, the celebrated Turbo, and now, after months of excitement, the Titan.
It was worth the wait. Costing what you’d expect for a basic, entry-level dual-motor scooter, this firecracker is anything but. Those 52V 1000W motors deliver a top speed of 37 mph and whiplashing acceleration rate of 0 to 15 mph in 2.5 seconds. Interestingly, the Titan gets faster once in motion, too, zooming to 25 mph in 4.9 seconds to leave the far pricier Apollo Ghost cowering in its shadow.
Hills are an absolute walk in the park for this juggernaut, too, thanks to the 2600W of peak power it’s able to generate. Suffice to say, then, the Titan has no peers within its price class when it comes to speed and power – but is it enjoyable to ride?
The answer is a firm yes.
That’s because the Titan has been designed with rider comfort front and center. The handlebars, for starters, are among the widest that I’ve tested. Spanning a width of 27 inches, they guarantee balance and control on rough terrain and at high speed. They’re also tall – which is great news for your back if you’re over 6 ft – while the handgrips are flared at the ends to ensure your hold always remains secure.
And though I would prefer a thumb throttle over the finger variant, it does at least grant you easy access to the delivery of power. Talking about power, you have three gear modes, as well as eco/turbo and single/dual motor modes to choose from, meaning you can control your speed in a way that feels right for you.
Of course, with such power comes a need for effective brakes. Once again, the Titan doesn’t disappoint. Wielding standard disc brakes, they perform to a level befitting of superior hydraulics; you come to a complete stop from 15 mph in just 2.4 meters.
Elsewhere, the front and the rear suspension do a fine job in soaking up shocks and vibrations; the excellent calibration of the springs also prevents the scooter from bottoming out over loose terrain.
While the Titan scores highly as a powerful all-terrain scooter, it’s also the perfect companion for long-range rides. Its 52V 20.8Ah battery has a best-in-class maximum range of 44 miles, which ensures ample juice for multiple journeys. As to be expected, though, riding the scooter in its fastest setting reduces its range to a respectable 29 miles. This is still impressive, though, considering that the somewhat equally powered – and more expensive – Apollo Ghost achieved just 25 miles under the same conditions.
Among a raft of impressive extra features is a lighting rig that’s second to none. The headlight could bring ships into port, while the swaggy LEDs that line the sturdy stem and deck can be controlled via a nifty mobile app.
If that wasn’t enough, you also get an IP54 water-resistance rating to ensure that the scooter is protected from splashes from all directions, an NFC card reader that allows you to lock and unlock the Titan with a key card – the same technology used on key fobs to get into apartment blocks, and an intuitive folding mechanism.
And what a bargain the SPLACH Titan is. If you’re on the hunt for an all-terrain electric scooter that can hit high top speeds while going easy on your bank account, then there’s little reason to look elsewhere.
Best Under $1,800
Varla Eagle One V2
Performance Report:
Tester: Josh Frisby (197 lbs, 6.1 ft)
- Top Speed: 40 mph
- 0-15 mph: 2.3 s*
- 0-25 mph: 5.8 s*
- Max Range: 42 miles
- Real Range: 24.4 miles*
- Braking: 2.0 meters*
- Suspension: 8/10*
- Max Incline: 30 degrees
- Optimal Incline: 18 degrees*
- Weight: 82 lbs
- Load: 330 lbs
Motor Power:
- Motors: Dual 52V 1000W
- Nominal Power: 2000W
- Peak Power: 3200W
Varla Eagle One V2 Overview:
Although it features the same motors, hydraulic brakes, and battery management system as its predecessor, the Eagle One V2 represents a significant leap forward from a brand intent on tightening its talons around the entry-level performance market.
Indeed, with a larger battery, superior controllers, an ergonomic thumb throttle, a better lighting rig, and chunkier all-terrain tires now entering the equation, the V2 is a value-busting scooter that’ll leave esteemed rivals such as the SPLACH Titan nervous.
The Good:
- Top contender in its price class
- Packed full of features
- Extremely well-rounded performance
- Great value for money
- Powerful, yet tameable
- All-terrain powerhouse
- Plush suspension that’s primed for differing terrain
- Handling, control, and maneuverability are all assured
- Throttle response is super smooth thanks to the Sine Wave controllers
- Rock-solid stem thanks to super secure folding mechanism
- Suitable for tall and heavy riders
- Large, bright, and easy-to-read display
- NFC card reader for enhanced security
- Lights are sufficient for night rides
- Sharp and responsive dual hydraulic brakes
- IP54 water resistance rating
The Bad:
- The deck is short, but the well-designed kickplate adds an extra 5.1 inches of space
- The grip tape quickly becomes dirty and is hard to clean
Why I Recommend the Varla Eagle One V2:
So, let’s take a look at the alchemy behind the Eagle One V2’s mooted 40 mph top speed. There are three key elements at play here: the dual 52V 1000W motors, 25A Sine Wave controllers that perform more efficiently than those found on the original, and a new thumb throttle.
Together, they deliver an eye-opening peak power output of 3200W and an acceleration rate of 0-15 mph in 2.3 seconds. It must be said, however, that my tests – conducted using a state-of-the-art GPS data logger – culminated in a top speed of 36.1 mph. While I’m sure 40 mph is within the V2’s capabilities, it seems that conditions have to be optimal. But, whichever way you slice it, the Eagle One V2 is a powerful piece of kit – its ability to conquer steep hills is a testament to this.
Such power demands a design that can successfully harness it. Thankfully, this is an area where the scooter shines. Its 28-inch wide handlebars are tailor-made for maximizing balance and handling, while a 9-degree rake angle ensures stability and control at any speed. The IP54 water-resistant frame, meanwhile, boasts a perfect distribution of weight from front to rear, and the power delivery guarantees a smooth transition through the gears.
The only slight design grumble that I have is with the size of the deck. Measuring 16.1 x 7.7 inches, it’s a little on the small side, though the presence of a 5.1-inch kickplate mitigates this issue to a large extent.
Then you have the suave suspension system and juicy 10-inch tires. The springs and swingarms work wonders to absorb shocks across every type of terrain, while the tubeless wheels cushion impacts even further. As a welcome bonus, they’re also now less vulnerable to punctures and pinch flats, afford more stability with their 0.5 inches of extra width, and guarantee traction thanks to their knobbly tread pattern.
A 40 mph scooter also requires strong brakes, of course. The Eagle One V2 offers just that; together, its hydraulic calipers, 160 mm rotors, and electronic braking system brought me to a sharp stop in a hugely impressive 2.0 meters. Few models in its price category can match this.
The V2 also earns rave reviews when it comes to range. Its 52V 20.8Ah battery is 14% larger than the one sported by the original, translating into a maximum of 42 miles (or 24.37 miles based on my tests – which included me as a 197 lbs rider, an average moving speed of 17.9 mph, and a total ascent of 1,063 ft). There’s also the battery management system, which protects the unit from damage and ensures long-term efficiency.
Now, weighing 82 lbs, it isn’t exactly lightweight, but let’s not forget that this is a dual-motor model after all. Nevertheless, its capacity for supporting riders up to 330 lbs scores serious brownie points in my book. A 41.3-inch deck-to-handlebar height also means that riders up to 6’4” can enjoy its delights without risking a sore back and shoulders.
Among other highlights are a revamped lighting rig that’s far superior to its predecessor, a folding mechanism that strengthens the already solid stem, an NFC card reader for added security, and a large display that’s easy to read in any weather (even under direct sunlight).
Boasting a superb performance profile, a sleek and intuitive design, all-terrain versatility, and a reliable build, this is a scooter that’s equipped with enough flair and substance to leave an indelible imprint on the highly competitive market of affordable performance scooters.
Best Under $2,200
Apollo Phantom
Performance Report:
Tester: Josh Frisby (190 lbs, 6.1 ft)
- Top Speed: 41 mph
- 0-15 mph: 2.3 s*
- 0-25 mph: 4.5 s*
- Max Range: 40 miles
- Real Range: 29 miles*
- Braking: 2.1 meters*
- Suspension: 7.5/10*
- Max Incline: 25 degrees
- Optimal Incline: 15 degrees*
- Weight: 77 lbs
- Load: 300 lbs
Motor Power:
- Motors: Dual 52V 1200W
- Nominal Power: 2400W
- Peak Power: 3200W
Apollo Phantom Overview:
The Apollo Phantom V3 harnesses everything that I've always loved about this elite line of scooters – namely, the stunning combination of innovation, performance, and sophisticated style. But, this time around, it adds a suite of impressive upgrades to bring even more refinement to the table.
Chief among these enhancements is the new MACH1 controller, which smooths the throttle response to exquisite levels, though an improved LX display, regenerative braking system, and updated mobile app are also each headline-grabbing additions.
The key headline, however, is that the Phantom V3 will make you feel like Max Verstappen as you accelerate, race, and chicane your way through your city with captivating control.
When it comes to its overall package, few scooters can match its future-facing excellence.
The Good:
- New MACH1 controller unleashes high performance
- Supremely smooth throttle response
- Rapid acceleration
- Ludo mode boosts torque and top speed
- First-ever performance scooter to feature a regenerative brake paddle
- Supreme handling
- Quadruple springs are perfectly calibrated
- Mobile app lets you customize performance settings
- Great for tall and heavy riders
- Ergonomic cockpit
- Excellent lighting rig
- Sharp and responsive hydraulic brakes
- IP54 water resistance rating
The Bad:
- The rubber that sits around the plastic casing of the regen and throttle paddles is poorly-fitted
- Similarly-priced scooters offer more raw power, but some don’t match up to Apollo’s end-to-end customer experience
Why I Recommend the Apollo Phantom:
First, let’s look in the engine room. Armed with dual 52V 1200W motors, the V3 isn’t short of power. Yet what truly elevates it is the addition of the new, first-of-its-kind MACH1 controller. Not only does have a peak current of 28A for increased torque, but its acceleration and top speed have been made faster as a result.
Consequently, it can reach 41 mph when pushed into the adrenaline-shredding Ludo mode, while it tears from 0-15 mph in a dizzying 2.3 seconds. By comparison, it's 14% faster off the line than its predecessor, the V2.
These are seriously fast metrics that place the V3 in rarified company alongside the Mantis King GT, yet thanks to its balanced design, this speed never feels overwhelming.
To slow this beast safely, you need some decent brakes. Thankfully, it comes equipped with front and rear discs, as well as a variable regenerative braking system that you can modulate via the paddle on the left side of the cockpit. This marks a first for performance scooters. Using it recharges the battery by up to 10% while saving the discs from wear and tear. Together, the brakes will bring you to a complete stop from 15 mph in an impressive 2.1 meters.
Elsewhere, the 52V 23.4Ah battery offers an impressive single-charge range of up to 40 miles when used in the most economical settings, or 29 miles if you’re riding fast.
Indeed, the Phantom is a real head-turner no matter if you’re riding fast or slow. Its black and gun-metal finish is enhanced by its nigh-on invincible frame and ultra-wide 27-inch sweeping handlebars. The deck, meanwhile, measures 20.5 by 8.5 inches, giving you plenty of room. Among all of the scooters that I’ve tested, it serves up the best configuration. Small details like the shallow angle and flat shape of the kickplate make a big difference to how you ride.
Two other areas of its design that make it thrilling to ride are the 10-inch pneumatic tires and quadruple spring suspension.
The unique suspension system was designed specifically for the Phantom. The four springs provide excellent rebound and compression to shield you from bumps and vibrations that could otherwise rattle your knees and wrists.
The tires stand out from the crowd, too. Instead of being slick like those found on so many other models, they feature a moderately patterned tread. This lends itself to enhanced performance where they provide much-needed traction while accelerating, braking, and cornering.
Adding to the Phantom’s impressive handling is a cockpit that encloses you with a newly upgraded LX display and easy-to-reach controls. Brighter, clearer, and with double the refresh rate than the previous display, you can easily glance at key stats.
Even more exciting is the new mobile app. This enables you to adjust braking and acceleration strength, as well as the top speed of each riding mode. You can also switch between start modes, turn your lights on and off, activate the electronic lock, configure your cruise control settings, record trips, and use it as a navigational device where it’ll show you a route to your destination while giving you remaining range estimates based on your most recent riding pattern.
Then there’s the lighting rig. The headlight is 1000 lumens, making it more than bright enough to see where you're going at night. You also get a responsive taillight and a suite of turn signals that flash at the front and rear of the deck.
I also can’t end this review without a nod to the fact that the Apollo Phantom V3 is three different scooters combined into one. You see, to refine it, Apollo gathered feedback from the 10,000 plus units of the V1 and V2 that they sold.
The result is a scooter that addresses real-world rider needs and concerns. It's been carefully designed with meticulous attention to detail.
Best Under $2,400
Mantis King GT
Performance Report:
Tester: Josh Frisby (190 lbs, 6.1 ft)
- Top Speed: 43 mph
- 0-15 mph: 1.9 s*
- 0-25 mph: 4.0 s*
- Max Range: 56 miles
- Real Range: 38 miles*
- Braking: 2.1 meters*
- Suspension: 9/10*
- Max Incline: 30 degrees
- Optimal Incline: 18 degrees*
- Weight: 79 lbs
- Load: 265 lbs
Motor Power:
- Motors: Dual 60V 1100W
- Nominal Power: 2200W
- Peak Power: 4200W
Mantis King GT Overview:
The Kaabo Mantis range is lauded for its ingenious melding of brawn and beauty. Its scooters are powerful yet practical, and premium yet affordable. The King GT encapsulates this finely balanced marriage of opposites – and turns everything up to 11.
Wanna smash that 40 mph mark? This rocket’s dual 60V 1100W motors take such speeds in their stride (43 mph). With upgraded 30A Sine Wave controllers also entering the fray, the power on display here is unlike anything you’ve seen before from Kaabo’s celebrated stable. It’s like dropping a tiger into a litter of kittens.
Voted the Best All-Terrain Electric Scooter by thousands of our readers, it brings serious bite to even the most mundane of journeys.
The Good:
- Best-in-class performance
- Industry-leading design
- Exceptional build and ride quality
- 30A Sine Wave controllers deliver a smooth, fast acceleration
- High-quality Samsung battery
- Adjustable hydraulic suspension
- Terrain-agnostic tires
- Advanced TFT display
- Controllable LED lights
- Superb folding mechanism
- Wide handlebars and ergonomic controls afford excellent control
- Powerful hydraulic brakes
- IPX5 water-resistance rating
The Bad:
- Headlight could be brighter
Why I Recommend the Mantis King GT:
So, let’s get straight to the point of your presence on this page: speed. The Mantis King GT oozes it. Those dual 60V 1100W motors summon a formidable peak power output of 4200W to produce speeds of up to 43 mph – about as fast as a greyhound.
But the real magic is found in its new and improved 30A Sine Wave controllers. Funneling power from the 60V 24Ah Samsung battery with dazzling efficiency, you’ll zoom to 15 mph in a mind-melting 1.9 seconds and 25 mph in 4.0 seconds – at which point your cheeks will be flapping. To put this into context, it’s the fastest scooter in its price class.
And the best part of all of this? Courtesy of the battery’s 21700 cells, your unadulterated glee will go on and on, with the GT delivering ultra-efficient power for up to 56 miles off a single charge – though you can expect 38 miles under realistic conditions. The only scooter I’ve tested that eclipses this performance at a similar price is the INOKIM OxO.
Fair to say, then, the Mantis King GT is one ferocious and rangey set of wheels. But this viciously sustained power doesn’t feel overwhelming – no matter if you're cruising, hitting speed runs, or navigating varying terrain.
And then there are its six riding modes – eco, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 – should you want to place a cap on your speed. You can also choose to engage one or both of the motors, which is very handy if you want to ease your way into riding this beast. All of these settings can be altered via the scooter’s anti-glare TFT display.
The quality of its ride is further enhanced by the sumptuous suspension system. Working in unison with its 10-inch hybrid pneumatic tires, the adjustable hydraulic shock absorbers can be dialed in to perfectly suit any terrain. No other scooter bar the NAMI Burn-e 2 can deliver such excellence. This is a quantum leap forward for a Mantis scooter.
But this excellence isn’t down to the suspension alone. The ultra-wide handlebars guarantee superb balance and steering control, while the sprawling, grippy deck is tailor-made for finding the optimum stance.
And when it comes to needing to stop this marauding bull in its tracks, the King GT has you covered. The best-in-class Zoom hydraulics will bring you to a complete halt from 15 mph in just 2.1 meters. No other Kaabo scooter – including those belonging to the Wolf clan – can match it.
Among other highlights are a lighting rig that would leave Madison Square Garden looking dull in comparison (you can change the color and brightness of the deck LEDs via an app), an IPX5 water resistance rating, and a USB charging port.
There’s also its ultra-efficient folding mechanism that not only allows you to collapse the scooter’s 74 lbs frame in mere seconds but also ensures that the stem remains rock solid – no matter how treacherous the terrain.
The Mantis King GT is a huge statement of intent from Kaabo; it’s redefined what can be achieved when you bring performance, practicality, and design into one unified vision. If you can afford it, then do yourself a favor: buy this scooter.
Compare 40 MPH Electric Scooters
SPLACH Titan | Eagle One V2 | Apollo Phantom | Mantis King GT |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Where to Buy | SPLACH | Varla | Apollo | Kaabo |
| Price | $1,399 | $1,449 | $1,999 | $1,899 |
| Award | Best Under $1,600 | Best Under $1,800 | Best Under $2,200 | Best Under $2,400 |
| Review | Review | Review | Review | Review |
| Performance | ||||
| Top Speed | 37 mph | 40 mph | 41 mph | 43 mph |
| 0-15 MPH | 2.5 s | 2.3 s | 2.3 s | 1.9 s |
| 0-25 MPH | 4.9 s | 5.8 s | 4.5 s | 4.0 s |
| Max Range | 44 miles | 42 miles | 40 miles | 56 miles |
| Tested Range | 29 miles | 24.4 miles | 29 miles | 38 miles |
| Braking | 2.4 meters | 2.0 meters | 2.1 meters | 2.1 meters |
| Max Incline | 20 degrees | 30 degrees | 25 degrees | 30 degrees |
| Optimal Incline | 12 degrees | 18 degrees | 15 degrees | 18 degrees |
| Specs | ||||
| Motor | 52V 1000W (x2) | 52V 1000W (x2) | 52V 1200W (x2) | 60V 1100W (x2) |
| Nominal Power | 2000W | 2000W | 2400W | 2200W |
| Peak Power | 2600W | 3200W | 3200W | 4200W |
| Throttle | Finger | Thumb | Thumb | Thumb |
| Battery | 52V 20.8Ah FST | 52V 20.8Ah FST | 52V 23.4Ah FST | 60V 24Ah Samsung |
| Charge Time | 6 hours | 10 hours | 12 hours | 6 hours |
| Brakes | Discs (x2), Electronic | Hydraulic Discs (x2), Electronic | Discs (x2), Electronic | Hydraulic Discs (x2), Electronic |
| Suspension | Springs, Swingarms | Springs, Swingarms | Quad Springs, Swingarms | Adjust. Hydraulic Springs, Swingarms |
| Tire Size | 9 inch | 10 inch | 10 inch | 10 inch |
| Tire Type | Air (Tubeless) | Air (Tubeless) | Air (Inner-Tube) | Air (Inner-Tube) |
| Weight | 64 lbs | 82 lbs | 77 lbs | 79 lbs |
| Load | 220 lbs | 330 lbs | 300 lbs | 265 lbs |
| Foldability | Folds at Stem | Folds at Stem | Folds at Stem | Folds at Stem |
| IP Rating | IP54 | IP54 | IP54 | IPX5 |
| Lights | Headlight, Taillight, Deck, Customizable RGB | Headlight, Taillight, Deck | Headlight, Taillight, Turn Signals | Headlight, Taillight, Deck, Customizable RGB, Turn Signals |
| Terrain | Street, Off-Road | Street, Off-Road | Street, Off-Road | Street, Off-Road |
How Did I Test the Scooters?
To assess each scooter on a level playing field, I tested them across their top speed, acceleration, handling, and braking. I also assessed the size of their motors, throttle response, and peak power outputs. You can learn more about the test criteria below.
These tests were conducted alongside my full set of standardized tests that I complete for every electric scooter that I review.
Electric Scooters That I Tested:
Click through the photo carousel to see all of the scooters that I tested for this guide.
Test Criteria:
Top Speed
Before reporting on each scooter’s speed credentials I first had to make my selection of which models to test. To widen the field of choice, I selected all of the scooters that claimed to have top speeds of between 35 and 45 mph.
Following this, I tested each one on a dry, flat road, with their performance settings maxed out and their batteries fully charged.
Acceleration
Establishing insight into each scooter’s accelerative power played an important role in my selection of the top-performing models. While all of the scooters had fast top speeds, the key denominator was the time that it took them to reach specific speed intervals.
Similar to the top speed tests, I dialed up the performance settings of each scooter, charged up their batteries fully, pumped their tires up to the recommended PSI, and enabled zero-start modes.
I then completed 3x two-way directional runs across different intervals (i.e. 0-15 mph, 0-25 mph). For each interval, I averaged the data (in seconds).
Alongside the results of the tests, I reported on the responsiveness of the controllers and throttles to assess how smooth each scooter’s power delivery was.
How I Test Acceleration
Electric Scooter Controllers: A Beginner’s Guide
Motor Size & Peak Power
While the top speed and acceleration data laid the foundation for me to make assessments of each scooter’s real-world performance, I also noted the size and power of their motors relative to price.
Here, I compared data on each scooter’s volts and watts, as well as their nominal and peak power outputs.
In brief, the voltage figure indicated the intensity at which electricity was being pushed through the motors, while watts measured the size of the motors. Both of these were telling figures as a higher voltage typically equated to more torque and faster acceleration, while a higher wattage resulted in a faster top speed.
Nominal power, meanwhile, was a measurement of the power that the motors could produce continuously, while peak power indicated the maximum output that the motors could produce before overheating.
Based on my analysis and tests, I found that scooters capable of reaching top speeds of up to 40 mph had motors that operated between 52V and 60V with 2000-2500W of nominal power, and 2500-4500W of peak power (on occasion, this even reached up to 5040W).
Handling
Stability, control, and poise are key when riding scooters that can reach 40 mph.
To assess each scooter’s performance in these departments I first reported on the design and geometry of their frames including the width of their handlebars, their deck-to-handlebar heights, the angle of their steering columns, their usable deck space, and the angles of their kickplates.
The top performers had wide control-inducing handlebars, high deck-to-handlebar heights, rake angles of between 9 and 11 degrees to allow for stability and maneuverability, decks with enough space to accommodate a natural riding stance, and kickplate angles that offered comfortable platforms to lean into the ride.
Alongside these assessments, I judged each scooter based on how confident and secure I felt while riding at speed. For example, I took note of speed wobble, as well as any imbalances that may have caused the scooters to feel twitchy.
Braking
As to be expected, braking power was key in my selection of the best models.
Based on the data from hundreds of my braking tests, stopping distances from 15 mph can be interpreted as follows: Excellent (less than 2.5 meters), Very Good (2.5 – 3.0 meters), Good (3.0 – 3.5 meters), Fair (3.5 – 4.0 meters), and Poor (more than 4.0 meters).
With the above in mind, I only selected scooters that achieved stopping distances of less than 2.5 meters.
I repeated the braking tests 5 times per scooter and made sure to only include data from controlled stops (i.e. without skidding). The data from the tests was then averaged.
Results From My Performance Tests:
See how the electric scooters stack up against each other across the metrics of top speed, acceleration, maximum range, tested range, and braking.
Top Speed
Ordered from fastest to slowest – Learn about how I test top speed.
| Scooter | Price | Top Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Mantis King GT |
$1,899
| 43 MPH |
| Apollo Phantom |
$1,999
| 41 MPH |
| Varla Eagle One V2 |
$1,449.00
| 40 MPH |
| SPLACH Titan |
$1,399
| 37 MPH |
Acceleration (0-15 MPH)
Ordered from fastest to slowest – Learn about how I test acceleration.
| Scooter | Price | 0-15 MPH (Seconds) |
|---|---|---|
| Mantis King GT |
$1,899
| 1.9 s |
| Apollo Phantom |
$1,999
| 2.3 s |
| Varla Eagle One V2 |
$1,449.00
| 2.3 s |
| SPLACH Titan |
$1,399
| 2.5 s |
Acceleration (0-25 MPH)
Ordered from fastest to slowest – Learn about how I test acceleration.
| Scooter | Price | 0-25 MPH (Seconds) |
|---|---|---|
| Mantis King GT |
$1,899
| 4.0 s |
| Apollo Phantom |
$1,999
| 4.5 s |
| SPLACH Titan |
$1,399
| 4.9 s |
| Varla Eagle One V2 |
$1,449.00
| 5.8 s |
Maximum Range (Riding Slow)
Ordered from longest to shortest range.
| Scooter | Price | Max Range |
|---|---|---|
| Mantis King GT |
$1,899
| 56 miles |
| SPLACH Titan |
$1,399
| 44 miles |
| Varla Eagle One V2 |
$1,449.00
| 42 miles |
| Apollo Phantom |
$1,999
| 40 miles |
Realistic Range (Riding Fast)
Ordered from longest to shortest range – Learn about how I test real-world range.
| Scooter | Price | Max Range |
|---|---|---|
| Mantis King GT |
$1,899
| 38 miles |
| Apollo Phantom |
$1,999
| 29 miles |
| SPLACH Titan |
$1,399
| 29 miles |
| Varla Eagle One V2 |
$1,449.00
| 24.4 miles |
Braking (From 15 MPH)
Ordered from shortest to longest stopping distance – Learn about how I test braking performance.
| Scooter | Price | Braking From 15 MPH |
|---|---|---|
| Varla Eagle One V2 |
$1,449.00
| 2.0 meters |
| Mantis King GT |
$1,899
| 2.1 meters |
| Apollo Phantom |
$1,999
| 2.1 meters |
| SPLACH Titan |
$1,399
| 2.4 meters |
Recent Updates
In the interest of delivering the most timely, relevant, and credible reviews/guides in the industry, I have detailed the recent updates and changes to my list of the best 40 mph electric scooters. Learn more about my editorial policy.
- November 7, 2024: Removed the Mantis V2 and NAMI Klima following their unavailability. Changed the SPLACH Titan from the "Best Under $1,400" to the "Best Under $1,600", the Varla Eagle One V2 from the "Best Under $1,750" to the "Best Under $1,800", the Apollo Phantom from the "Best Under $2,000" to the "Best Under $2,200", and the Mantis King GT from the "Best Under $2,200" to the "Best Under $2,400". Refreshed the text throughout.
- September 26, 2024: Confirmed my picks for relevancy and availability.
- July 24, 2024: Confirmed my picks for relevancy and availability.
- April 29, 2024: Improved the design of the page and confirmed my picks for relevancy and availability.
- March 4, 2024: Replaced the Apollo Ghost 2022 with the Varla Eagle One V2. Following this, I refreshed the text throughout, expanded the commentary about how the scooters were tested and selected, added the results from my performance tests, and made significant improvements to the design of the page to make it easier to digest.
- November 16, 2023: Confirmed my picks for relevancy and availability.
- August 3, 2023: Replaced the Apollo Phantom V2 with the Apollo Phantom V3. Added the NAMI Klima. Re-categorized the scooters by budget (i.e. the best budget, best mid-range, and best premium models). Refreshed the text throughout.
- April 1, 2023: Replaced the INOKIM OxO with the Mantis King GT. Added the SPLACH Titan.
- February 28, 2023: Added a quick list module and comparison table, as well as commentary explaining how the scooters were tested and selected.
- November 22, 2022: Removed the Mantis Pro V2 and Wolf Warrior X Pro. Added the Apollo Ghost 2022.
- September 7, 2022: Confirmed my picks for relevancy and availability.
- June 15, 2022: Refreshed my top picks with 5 new electric scooters (including the Mantis V2, Apollo Phantom V2, Mantis Pro V2, Wolf Warrior X Pro, and INOKIM OxO).
