5 Best Electric Scooters For Climbing Hills (I Tested 30 Powerful Models)
Top Picks: Best Electric Scooters For Climbing Hills
To find the 5 best electric scooters for climbing hills, I shortlisted and tested 30 candidates.
Underpinning my assessment of each was their maximum and optimal incline rate, motor power (including torque, acceleration, and speed), battery power, and braking performance.
Combined, these are the key factors that affect hill-climbing performance. You need power to get up inclines, enough energy so that the scooter doesn’t call it quits while climbing, and strong brakes to ensure control.
Inclines Ratings:
Moderate (5-10 Degrees) – These electric scooters are suitable for the majority of urban inclines. For context, you’d be able to feel it in your legs if you tried to cycle up one of these.
Steep (10-15 Degrees) – These electric scooters can tackle challenging inclines. Imagine hills that sit in the mid-ground between typical city inclines and those in San Francisco.
Extremely Steep (15+ Degrees) – This is where things get serious. Take San Francisco’s Filbert Street (17.5-degrees), for instance, or the world’s steepest street, Baldwin Street (19-degree) – no incline is too steep for these electric scooters.
Best By Type: Electric Scooters By Use Case
Heavy Riders
- Varla Eagle One V2 – Supports up to 330 lbs
Further Information:
Heavy Duty Electric Scooters for Heavy Adults
Tall Riders
Further Information:
Electric Scooters For Tall Riders Up to 6ft 6″
Fastest
- Wolf King GT – 62 mph
Further Information:
Fastest Electric Scooters
Longest Range
- Wolf King GT – 70 miles (55 miles realistic)
Further Information:
Long Range Electric Scooters
Off-Roading
Further Information:
Best Off-Road Electric Scooters for All Types of Terrain
Biggest Wheels
- Wolf King GT – 11 x 3.5 inches
Further Information:
Big Wheel Electric Scooters
Most Portable
- SPLACH Mukuta – 66 lbs, foldable stem, and folding handlebars
Further Information:
Best Foldable Electric Scooters (Portable, Compact & Small)
Commuting
Further Information:
Best Electric Scooters For Commuting
Suspension
- Mantis King GT – Adjustable hydraulic shocks (scores 9/10 on my shock absorption scale)
Further Information:
Electric Scooters With Suspension: 5 Buttery-Smooth Rides
Waterproof
- Apollo City Pro – IP66 water-resistance rating
Further Information:
Waterproof Electric Scooters: Best Scooters For Riding in the Rain
Optional Seat
- Varla Eagle One V2 – Available for $159
Further Information:
Best Seated Scooters
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Filter, compare, and sort through all electric scooters for climbing hills.
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Filter, compare, and sort through all electric scooters for climbing hills.
Best Under $1,500
SPLACH Mukuta
Performance Report:
Tester: Josh Frisby (190 lbs, 6.1 ft)
- Top Speed: 28 mph
- 0-15 mph: 2.7 s*
- 0-25 mph: 6.7 s*
- Max Range: 39 miles
- Real Range: 22 miles*
- Braking: 2.1 meters*
- Suspension: 6.5/10*
- Weight: 66 lbs
- Load: 265 lbs
Incline Ability:
- Incline Rating: Moderate
- Max Incline: 22-degrees
- Optimal Incline: 13-degrees* - Learn more
SPLACH Mukuta Overview:
The result of a collaboration between industry mavericks SPLACH and new upstarts, Mukuta, the creatively named SPLACH Mukuta (hence my sarcasm), is a model that combines impressive speed and range with strong brakes to reduce inclines big and small to mere inconveniences.
Add a host of other exciting – and useful, yet oddball – features to the party, and you have one of the most entrancing releases of the past year.
As a result, it’s a scooter that’ll appeal to those looking for a practical, low-maintenance, yet powerful dual-motor scooter.
The Good:
- Top contender for the best solid tire electric scooter
- Highly competitive performance profile in its price class
- It offers dual motor performance on a budget
- Detachable battery that doubles as a power bank
- Bright headlight and a strong cast of supporting stem, deck, and turn signal LEDs
- NFC security system
- Puncture-proof tires
- Ergonomic cockpit that’s similar to the vastly more expensive Segway GT2
- Rock solid with no rattling or stem wobble
- Foldable handlebars make it compact
- Adjustable front and rear suspension
- Low maintenance
- IP54 water-resistance rating
The Bad:
- The chrome plastic cockpit controls are tacky
- The toggles to select the riding mode and engage the turn signals would be better if they gave more feedback (i.e more clicky)
- The plastic casing of the stem and deck lights feels a little cheap
- The profile of the tires prevents aggressive cornering
- The hook on the back of the handlebars doesn’t lock to the kickplate, making it difficult to maneuver when folded
- While the turn signals are exceptionally bright, they can’t be seen from the front or rear during the day
- Brake lights only glow brighter, instead of flashing
Why I Recommend the SPLACH Mukuta:
Where else can we start but with the Mukuta’s headline feature: its detachable 48V 15.6Ah battery. Why does it warrant such attention? Well, there’s the small matter of it also functioning as a mobile power bank, for one. With the addition of a DC-to-USB converter, you can use it to charge a laptop 11 times or an iPhone 56 times. Cool, right?
But this is a guide to the best hill climbers, so the power bank narrative must take a backseat. What we’re really interested in is the scooter’s range – it’s this that ensures you get to the top of a hill, after all. The good news is that the Mukuta has a maximum of 39 miles in its locker, or 22 miles if you ride aggressively. With a spare battery in tow, this can be doubled.
Another key factor when it comes to assessing hill climbing prowess is motor power. Again, the Mukuta is up to the task. For starters, its dual 48V 600W howitzers deliver a top speed of 28 mph and an acceleration rate of 0-15 mph in 2.7 seconds.
Together, the motors can produce a peak power output of 2208W, which equates to enough torque and thrust to conquer challenging inclines of up to 22 degrees. However, my tests revealed that its performance will wane on inclines beyond 13 degrees.
The final biggie when it comes to hills is braking power. They need to be strong, or else you risk losing control. Thankfully, the dual discs and electronic braking system will bring you to a sharp stop from 15 mph in a hugely impressive 2.1 meters.
Among other highlights, the Mukuta offers an exceptionally ergonomic cockpit. This includes a twist throttle, a simple yet large and clear display, easy-to-reach buttons and toggle switches, and an NFC card reader. My only gripe is with the chrome plastic finish on the buttons. For me, it looks a little tacky.
This is also an accusation that I can level at the plastic casing on the stem and deck lights. Though, in fairness, these are aesthetic grumbles. The stem itself is solid, and the lights are extremely bright (in fact, the Mukuta has one of the best lighting rigs that I’ve ever tested).
Elsewhere, the deck is large and grippy, while the IP54 water-resistant frame is the epitome of durability. The handlebars, meanwhile, are super wide at 26.4 inches; their swept-back design is also a masterstroke when it comes to the sense of balance and security that the scooter invites.
Add to this the 8-inch solid tires and you have a scooter that not only combines a low-maintenance design with a confidence-inspiring geometry but also one that promises the perfect blend of practicality and reliability – two qualities further strengthened by the collapsable handlebars and secure folding mechanism.
Now, usually, I’m skeptical of any scooter that comes with solid tires – they are, after all, the arch nemesis to a scooter’s shock absorption capabilities. But, thanks to the adjustable front and rear springs, you needn’t worry about a bumpy ride. During my tests, the suspension did a surprisingly good job at absorbing nasty shocks and vibrations – in some cases, it delivered a better ride quality than scooters with air-filled tires. You do, however, need to be mindful to not bounce too hard up and down on the suspension as it does bottom out when compressed too much.
With everything considered, the SPLACH Mukuta is an intriguing scooter brimming with charm. Powerful, excellent on hills, and replete with useful features, it’s successfully carved its own little space in a saturated marketplace.
Best Under $1,750
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*
- Weight: 82 lbs
- Load: 330 lbs
Incline Ability:
- Incline Rating: Steep
- Max Incline: 30-degrees
- Optimal Incline: 18-degrees* - Learn more
Varla Eagle One V2 Overview:
The Varla Eagle One V2 is an apex predator equipped with the tools to strike fear into inclines across the land. A mammoth peak power output. Sizzling speed. Ferocious acceleration. Reliable range. Bone-crunching hydraulic brakes. It’s quite simply a hill-eating machine.
Bigger and bolder than its predecessor, the V2 is essentially an entirely new scooter that’s built to take everything you can throw at it in its stride. Fast, durable, and, above all else, versatile, it’s as equally at home on hilly off-road routes as it is on undulating roads. What more could you ask for from a sub-$1,750 scooter?
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:
A scooter that excels on hills must be strong in three key areas: motor power, battery power, and braking. So, let’s assess the Varla Eagle One V2 on each criterion.
First, its 52V 1000W motors. Together they can summon a peak power output of 3200W and a top speed of 40 mph. Factor in the presence of new Sine Wave controllers and an upgraded thumb throttle – which work with the motors to deliver a breathtaking acceleration rate of 0-15 mph in 2.3 seconds – and you have enough torque and propulsion to make mincemeat of steep inclines.
Next, we have the 52V 20.8Ah battery. Packing in an impressive 1082Wh, it’s 14% bigger than the one found on its predecessor. You can now expect a maximum range of 42 miles on one charge – or 24.37 miles if you ride aggressively (based on my tests, where I weighed 197 lbs, maintained an average moving speed of 17.9 mph, and climbed at a total of 1,063 ft). This is enough stamina to ensure that it doesn’t tap out mid hill climb.
And finally, braking power. The hydraulic calipers, heat-dissipating 160 mm rotors, and electronic braking system combine to bring the scooter to a complete stop from 15 mph in a stunning 2.0 meters – this outstrips the 2.5-meter average of its similarly priced rivals.
That’s every hill-climbing box ticked. But the Varla Eagle One V2 has much more in its arsenal. Off-roading, for one, is second nature. Equipped with 10-inch tubeless tires (complete with an all-terrain tread pattern) as well as front and rear suspension, the scooter takes roads, dirt tracks, grass, forest trails, and rockier routes in its stride. Together, the tires and suspension achieve an 8 out of 10 on my shock absorption scale.
The V2’s excellent ride quality is further boosted by its 28-inch-wide swept-back handlebars, an ergonomic cockpit that grants you easy access to a plethora of p-settings, a 9-degree rake angle that maximizes stability and maneuverability, and a frame designed to deliver optimal weight distribution. A short 16.1 x 7.7-inch deck is the one minor misstep, though the kickplate – which offers an extra 5.1 inches of space – does mitigate this somewhat.
Another area of its design that aids its stability, yet could be easily overlooked, is its well-designed folding mechanism. The mechanism, which looks like an oversized thumbtack, screws into two grooves – one above and one below the folding point. Once tightened, it keeps the stem securely locked in place, with no sign of wobble – as evidenced by my tests where I exerted a lot of pulling and pushing force on the handlebars while riding up and down hills.
And then we have its lighting rig, which is superior to what came before it in every way. There’s now a headlight that’s both bright and well-positioned – making the need for extra clip-ons a thing of the past. Elsewhere, dual deck-embedded taillights boost your visibility to others while also functioning as brake lights, while an array of deck LEDs add considerable swag.
Rarely do you find a model that’s so capable in so many areas for such an affordable price. The Varla Eagle One V2 offers such serious value for money that’ll have you shouting about it from the hilltops.
Best Under $2,000
Apollo City Pro 2023
Performance Report:
Tester: Josh Frisby (190 lbs, 6.1 ft)
- Top Speed: 32 mph
- 0-15 mph: 2.3 s*
- 0-25 mph: 6.1 s*
- Max Range: 43 miles
- Real Range: 27 miles*
- Braking: 2.1 meters*
- Suspension: 7.5/10*
- Weight: 65 lbs
- Load: 265 lbs
Incline Ability:
- Incline Rating: Moderate
- Max Incline: 20-degrees
- Optimal Incline: 13-degrees* - Learn more
Apollo City Pro Overview:
Rarely has a scooter incited such feverish anticipation as the Apollo City Pro 2023 – a model that’s been through 10,000 km of simulated road tests and 300,000 component cycles (triple the standard tests completed by other brands).
Indeed, this is precision engineering at its most precise. Building on the exquisite formula enshrined by its predecessor, the City Pro 2023 delivers a handful of exciting upgrades that go above and beyond my wildest expectations.
It’s powerful. It’s rangey. It’s an absolute dream to ride, and it’s built like a Swiss watch. Bring all of these qualities together, and you have one heck of a hill-climbing machine.
The Good:
- Competitive performance profile
- Smooth power delivery
- Sublime handling
- Sleek aesthetic
- Feature-rich
- Proprietary design ensures top-class build quality
- Tubeless, self-healing tires
- Shock-absorbing triple spring suspension
- Regen brake recharges the battery by up to 10%
- Intuitive folding mechanism
- Good lighting setup with the best turn signals that I’ve tested
- Battery management system ensures long-term performance
- Integrated mobile app for customized performance
- Fast charging
- 10,000 km warranty
- Low maintenance
- Suitable for tall and heavy riders
- High IP66 water-resistance rating
The Bad:
- The display could be brighter
- Similarly priced models go faster, but the Apollo City Pro’s overall package is superior
Why I Recommend the Apollo City Pro:
So, why all the fuss? Let’s just say that, when it comes to its all-around package, the Apollo City Pro has few – if any – peers.
It ticks every box. Its dual 48V 500W motors produce a peak output of 2000W and a top speed of 32 mph to leave inclines of up to 20 degrees well within your grasp, though you’ll find it performs best on slopes of 13 degrees or less. This beauty delivers just the right amount of power and torque to make hill climbing a serene inevitability.
The City Pro’s capacity in this field is further bolstered by its ability to accelerate from 0-15 mph in 2.3 seconds – this is exceptionally quick for a scooter in the commuter category. If this sounds a little too spiky then the good news is that you can adjust its accelerative strength via the app.
That’s right – like its forebear, the City Pro comes with an integrated mobile app. As well as the accelerative strength, you can adjust its regenerative braking power, tweak the top speed of each riding mode, switch between kick-to-start and zero-start modes, activate the digital lock, and view the health and status of your battery.
The battery is perhaps the City Pro’s biggest upgrade. Whereas 2022’s vintage sported a 48V 18Ah unit, the one here is 48V 20Ah. This equates to 11% more stored energy and a longer range of 43 miles – though, based on my tests, 27 miles is more realistic.
Improvements can also be found across the supremely ergonomic cockpit. It now features 8th-generation paddles for your regenerative brake and throttle (complete with integrated buttons for your lights, turn signals, and riding modes), while the new handgrips are far more tactile.
The handlebars themselves are also 6% wider than those seen on the 2022 model. Measuring 26.4 inches, they’re the perfect size for maximizing balance and control.
And then you have the show-stopping frame. Apollo is a brand famed for its exquisite attention to detail – this is evident in the City Pro’s proprietary design. Every component has been custom-made to fit together; there are no vulnerabilities or tacky furnishings. Quite honestly, no other scooter comes close to the quality on display here.
There’s no let-up when it comes to ride quality, either. It sports a triple spring suspension system that, together with the 10-inch tubeless, self-healing tires, absorbs every shock in the road to leave you feeling like you're riding on clouds. On a scale of 1 to 10 – where 1 is extremely stiff and 10 is extremely soft – I rate it a respectable 7.5.
But roads can be unpredictable places, of course. Thankfully, it comes equipped with dual drums and a regenerative braking system that, together, will bring you to a sharp stop from 15 mph in just 2.1 meters. The regen brakes alone deliver a stopping distance of 4.8 meters. Surprisingly, this is better than the 5.0-meter average of other commuter scooters like the Horizon and EMOVE Touring (both of which rely on rear drum brakes). This shows you just how strong the regen brakes are. Plus, they recharge your battery by up to 10%. Quite the show-off.
Add to the party an IP66 water resistance rating, secure folding mechanism, outstanding turn signals, and a bright headlight, and the Pro’s all-rounder credentials become crystal clear. There may be other scooters that can go faster and further, but few score so highly across the board.
Best Under $2,500
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*
- 0-30 mph: 5.7 s*
- 0-35 mph: 7.8 s*
- Max Range: 56 miles
- Real Range: 38 miles*
- Braking: 2.1 meters*
- Suspension: 9/10*
- Weight: 79 lbs
- Load: 265 lbs
Incline Ability:
- Incline Rating: Steep / Extremely Steep
- Max Incline: 30-degrees
- Optimal Incline: 18-degrees* - Learn more
Mantis King GT Overview:
The most recent update to Kaabo’s supreme Mantis line, the King GT has some serious hill-climbing chops.
With numerous improvements that make this the best Mantis yet, the GT can hit 15 mph in a rapid 1.9 s, reach a top speed of 43 mph, and has a large battery capable of keeping the wheels rolling for 56 miles. All combined, it has the power and longevity to swat steep inclines aside.
If you’re searching for a model that’s at the cutting edge of scooter tech, then look no further than the Mantis King GT. It brings a wealth of exotic features to the table, including highly-efficient Sine Wave controllers, the ability to control the flow of power to each motor independently, and a set of adjustable hydraulic shocks that put the rest of the scooters on this list to shame.
While it's my top pick for steep inclines, it can easily scale hills that are in the extremely steep category.
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:
The Mantis King GT has done nothing short of exploding onto the electric scooter scene. With a stunning black and gold (or red) finish and programmable swag lights, it’s easy to see why so many heads have turned. But this is one scooter that’s got so much more to offer than just its good looks.
Based on earlier Mantis models like the Pro SE, the King GT perfectly walks the line between complete overhaul and reverent reissue. It retains a lot of what we loved but comes with a host of upgrades, reinventions, and completely new additions.
For instance, the designers at Kaabo have significantly upped the comfort factor by making the frame larger, the deck more spacious, and the build quality so tight it has Rolls Royce engineers looking over their shoulders in envy.
This redesign has also made it more robust. When you’re riding up steep slopes it puts a lot of pressure on the scooter and a poorly put-together frame will soon develop annoying rattles and vibrations. There’s none of that to worry about here. The hard-wearing aluminum alloy construction and the built-in steering damper are more than a match for unrelenting hills and keep you steady on your course.
Building on its top-notch build, the handlebars are home to several top-of-the-line features. It’s the first Mantis scooter to be equipped with a 4.2-inch TFT display. This was famed by the Wolf King GT and has been one of Kaabo’s most well-received additions. This has replaced the EY3 MiniMotors display and finger throttle. It’s now centrally mounted and is exceptionally clear letting you view various riding stats at a glance.
My favorite function of the display, though, is that it puts full control of the scooter’s power delivery in your hands. it allows you to regulate the power of the ferocious 1100W motors via 6 riding modes (Eco, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5). Even better, you can choose to engage either one – or both – of the motors. By controlling and capping the torque available, you can ease into the ride. This helps to build confidence by progressing through the speeds at your own pace but is crucial for maintaining momentum while scaling steep inclines.
A good throttle is key in your ability to modulate your pace, too. Instead of following the finger-throttle blueprint of previous Mantis scooters, it’s now completely separate from the display and is controlled with your right thumb. This is a better setup since it’s more intuitive.
Other useful features that are accessible via the cockpit include a loud horn, as well as a multi-switch console that lets you control the impressive array of lights. With a high-mounted headlight, responsive taillights, turn signals, and deck LEDs, you and your scooter are kept visible at night.
When I say that the Mantis King GT is an example of electric scooters at their best, you might think I’m exaggerating. But once you’ve seen the attention to detail that’s been applied, you’ll soon agree.
None more so is the detail noticeable than in the GT’s motor power. Able to reach 15 mph in 1.9 seconds, its acceleration can, at times, feel like you’ve been strapped to the back of a Formula 1 car.
The dual motors are capable of producing tremendous amounts of torque that peak at 4200W. To put this into perspective, this is 68% more powerful than the Apollo Ghost which is already a thrilling ride. As to be expected, it makes light work of hills.
However, it’s not just a blistering 43 mph top speed that you get; each motor is paired with a 30A Sine Wave controller to regulate the flow of power as they surge into action.
Electric scooter controllers manage the flow of power between the battery and the motors. Previously, Kaboo scooters have been fitted with Square Wave controllers and when you’d press the throttle, power was pulled in an erratic motion. This would jerk you back and forth (and is a reason I’m not the biggest fan of Dualtron scooters since the majority have these types of controllers). A Sine Wave controller, on the other hand, pulls power in a consistent and controlled manner, resulting in a smooth throttle response.
Controlling your speed via the throttle alone, however, would be foolish. Here’s where the brakes come into play – and the Mantis King GT doesn’t hold back. With Zoom hydraulic discs on both wheels, you get exceptionally responsive stopping power that’s more than a match for its mighty performance. When activated, you’ll come to a stop from 15 mph in a short 2.1 meters.
Strong brakes are vital when you need to slow while going downhill, but a standout feature is the ABS function (which you can turn on or off). ABS, otherwise known as an anti-locking braking system, works by sensing when the wheels are about to lock. It then rapidly reduces and increases the braking pressure multiple times per second, applying optimal pressure. This allows the wheels to keep moving as the scooter slows down, instead of locking up.
So, we’ve established that the Mantis King GT has the pedigree to effectively scale steep inclines, but the final topic of discussion is ride quality.
Thankfully, the newly introduced adjustable suspension system is the best you can get for an electric scooter priced under $2,500. Thanks to its hydraulic design, the compression and rebound of the springs are controlled via pistons that contain a compressed liquid. Using the simple dial, you can adjust the rate at which the springs rebound. Ultimately, this means that you can customize the suspension to your weight and terrain for the smoothest ride possible.
Working in cahoot with the beefy 10 x 3 pneumatic tires that are equipped with a terrain-agnostic tread, the Mantis King GT delivers a level of ride quality that far surpasses its rivals. It’s the only scooter on this list that can tackle all kinds of terrain without making any major adjustments (i.e. swapping street tires for off-road variants).
Whether you're riding up hills or burning rubber on the flats, the Mantis King GT has an impressive arsenal of functions and features. It chews up any hill you point your wheels at and ensures you have fun while doing it.
Best Under $3,000
Wolf King GT
Performance Report:
Tester: Josh Frisby (190 lbs, 6.1 ft)
- Top Speed: 62 mph
- 0-15 mph: 1.7 s*
- 0-25 mph: 3.0 s*
- Max Range: 70 miles
- Real Range: 55 miles*
- Braking: 3.0 meters*
- Suspension: 7/10*
- Weight: 105 lbs
- Load: 330 lbs
Incline Ability:
- Incline Rating: Extremely Steep
- Max Incline: 50 degrees
- Optimal Incline: 30 degrees* - Learn more
Wolf King GT Overview:
The Wolf King GT is a feared titan of the ultra-performance scooter category. No other model in its price class can go faster or climb hills as quickly. It’s quite simply a beast.
With dual 72V 2000W motors delivering a barely plausible top speed of 62 mph, dual 50A Sine Wave Controllers producing an eye-wateringly fast acceleration rate, and a humongous battery that has the potential to keep the wheels rolling for up to 70 miles, it turns steep inclines into mere molehills.
In fact, it generates so much torque that even the steepest street in the world (Baldwin Street) is no match for it.
The Good:
- Extremely powerful acceleration
- 50A Sine Wave controllers effectively modulate its mighty power
- Dual stem affords unparalleled control at high speeds
- Expansive 29-inch handlebars ensure excellent handling
- Packs enough battery power to ride in its fastest setting for extended journeys
- Anti-locking braking system ensures safety during emergency stops
- Puncture-proof 11-inch tubeless tires
- Motorcycle-grade suspension
- Ergonomic thumb throttle and controls
- Best lighting rig of any scooter
- Bright and information-rich TFT display
- IPX5 water-resistance rating
The Bad:
- Extremely heavy
- Horrible to fold – it gets longer when you collapse it
Why I Recommend the Wolf King GT:
The Wolf King GT has the reputation of being one of the most extreme scooters that money can buy. It’s ultra-performance in every sense of the word; I mean, it can go as fast as a car!
This is all down to its spectacular motors and controllers. Together, they summon a ridiculous peak power output of 8400W and a sizzling acceleration rate that’ll see you hitting 15 mph in 1.7 seconds, 25 mph in 3.0 seconds, and 40 mph in a preposterous 5.8 seconds. Add to this its Sherpa-esque hill-climbing abilities and you’re looking at a profoundly powerful machine.
There are, however, safety measures available if this all sounds a little too much. The superb TFT display grants you access to six riding modes and the choice of enabling either both or just one motor. The result is a scooter that can be tamed and grown into – this is a far cry from other ultra-performance models that drop you in the deep end (i.e. those from Dualtron).
It doesn't disappoint with its tried and tested dual hydraulic discs, either. Unlike previous models, the discs are slightly thicker to prevent warping. During my tests, they brought the scooter to a responsive stop in 3.0 meters from 15 mph.
But the Wolf King GT has a gentler side, too. It's not all teeth and claws, with hydraulic front suspension and dual rear springs coalescing with large 11-inch tires that are both tubeless and self-healing. As a result, it's primed for fast-paced, yet comfortable rides.
Its ride quality is further augmented by the iconic dual-stem. This, along with the ultra-wide, 29.5-inch handlebars, and gargantuan deck, delivers a level of control that’s unmatched by any other scooter – especially while accelerating and hitting top speeds.
Suffice to say, there’s plenty of room for the cockpit, which consists of brake levers, button consoles, and the TFT display. The star for me, however, is the ergonomic thumb throttle. This makes the GT’s power delivery feel smooth despite its whiplashing savagery.
The easy-to-use throttle also aids your comfort on long rides, which you’ll be grateful for if you drain the massive 35Ah battery. This beast promises a maximum range of 70 miles, making it a fantastic choice if you live in an ultra-hilly area and need the battery power to match. However, it’s important to note, that under these conditions you’re more likely to see 50-55 miles.
Add an IPX5 water-resistance rating and a super bright lighting rig into the equation, and you have a scooter that can scale hills all year long, no matter the weather or time of day.
And believe me when I say that you’ll want to ride this scooter day and night. Its breathtaking fusion of ferocious power and refined grace will ensure that the Wolf King GT remains a legend of the industry for years to come.
Compare Electric Scooters For Climbing Hills
SPLACH Mukuta | Eagle One V2 | Apollo City Pro | Mantis King GT | Wolf King GT |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Where to Buy | SPLACH | Varla | Apollo | Kaabo | Kaabo |
| Price | $999 | $1,41=49 | $1,649 | $1,899 | $2,999 |
| Price Category | Under $1,500 | Under $1,750 | Under $2,000 | Under $2,500 | Under $3,000 |
| Incline Rating | Moderate | Steep | Moderate | Steep / Extremely Steep | Extremely Steep |
| Review | Review | Review | Review | Review | Review |
| Performance | |||||
| Top Speed | 28 mph | 40 mph | 32 mph | 43 mph | 62 mph |
| 0-15 MPH | 2.7 s | 2.3 s | 2.3 s | 1.9 s | 1.7 s |
| 0-25 MPH | 6.7 s | 5.8 s | 6.1 s | 4.0 s | 3.0 s |
| Max Range | 39 miles | 42 miles | 43 miles | 56 miles | 70 miles |
| Tested Range | 22 miles | 24.4 miles | 27 miles | 38 miles | 55 miles |
| Braking | 2.1 meters | 2.0 meters | 2.1 meters | 2.1 meters | 3.0 meters |
| Max Incline | 22 degrees | 30 degrees | 20 degrees | 30 degrees | 50 degrees |
| Optimal Incline | 13 degrees | 18 degrees | 13 degrees | 18 degrees | 30 degrees |
| Specs | |||||
| Motor | 48V 600W (x2) | 52V 1000W (x2) | 48V 500W (x2) | 60V 1100W (x2) | 72V 2000W (x2) |
| Throttle | Twist | Thumb | Thumb | Thumb | Thumb |
| Battery | 48V 15.6Ah FST | 52V 20.8Ah FST | 48V 20Ah FST | 60V 24Ah Samsung | 72V 35Ah LG |
| Charge Time | 8 hours | 10 hours | 4.5 hours | 6 hours | 12 hours |
| Brakes | Discs (x2), Electronic | Hydraulic Discs (x2), Electronic | Drum (x2), Electronic | Hydraulic Discs (x2), Electronic | Hydraulic Discs (x2), Electronic |
| Suspension | Springs, Swingarms | Springs, Swingarms | Triple Springs, Swingarms | Adjust. Hydraulic Springs, Swingarms | Hydraulic Forks, Springs, Swingarms |
| Tire Size | 8 inch | 10 inch | 10 inch | 10 inch | 11 inch |
| Tire Type | Solid (Rubber) | Air (Tubeless) | Air (Tubeless, Self-Healing) | Air (Inner-Tube) | Air (Tubeless) |
| Weight | 66 lbs | 82 lbs | 65 lbs | 79 lbs | 105 lbs |
| Load | 265 lbs | 330 lbs | 265 lbs | 265 lbs | 330 lbs |
| Foldability | Folds at Stem & Handlebars | Folds at Stem | Folds at Stem | Folds at Stem | Folds at Neck |
| IP Rating | IP54 | IP54 | IP66 | IPX5 | IPX5 |
| Lights | Headlight, Stem Strip, Deck LEDs, Taillights, Turn Signals | Headlight, Taillight, Deck | Headlight, Taillight, Turn Signals | Headlight, Taillight, Deck, Customizable RGB, Turn Signals | Dual Headlights, Taillight, Deck, Turn Signals |
| Terrain | Street | Street, Off-Road | Street | Street, Off-Road | Street, Off-Road |
How Did I Test the Scooters?
To find the 5 best electric scooters for climbing hills, I shortlisted and tested 30 candidates.
Underpinning my assessment of each was their maximum and optimal incline rate, motor power (including torque, acceleration, and speed), battery power, and braking performance.
Combined, these are the key factors that affect hill-climbing performance. You need power to get up inclines, enough energy so that the scooter doesn’t call it quits while climbing, and strong brakes to ensure control.
These tests were carried out as part of a wider, standardized testing process. Find out more about how I test electric scooters below:
Electric Scooters That I Tested:
Click through the photo carousel to see all of the scooters that I tested for this guide.
Test Criteria:
Maximum and Optimal Incline
It’s customary for manufacturers to specify the maximum incline capability of their scooters, but this doesn’t mean that they’ll perform optimally at those incline rates.
For instance, if a scooter has a maximum 20-degree incline rate, it may be able to reach this, but it’s highly likely that once it ventures beyond 12 degrees it’ll become progressively slower. With this in mind, it’s important to level up the power that you need to ensure that you can effectively scale hills. This was taken into account during the tests and selection process.
Based on my independent test data, optimal incline performance is typically 60% of the maximum.
It's also worth noting that some retailers use either degrees or percentages to indicate hill-climbing ability. However, it’s important to not get these mixed up. The percent figure can be misleading – for example, a 20% incline rating is very different from a 20-degree rating. Here, the 20% grade equates to 12 degrees.
Motor Power (Torque, Acceleration and Speed)
Following my extensive tests, it was clear that the top-performing scooters had powerful dual motors. After all, scaling inclines require considerable torque, acceleration, and speed. So, to report on this I employed a series of tests and assessments.
First on the agenda was motor power. Here, I assessed the voltage and watts of each scooter.
Voltage indicated the intensity at which electricity was being pushed through the motors, while watts determined the amount of power that the motors could produce. The higher the voltage, the greater the torque and acceleration, and the higher the watts, the greater the top speed.
Together, each scooter’s voltage and watts played important roles in their ability to scale slopes of varying inclines.
Taking this analysis a step further, I reported on nominal and peak power outputs, as well as top speed and acceleration.
Most notably, I tested each scooter’s acceleration from 0-15 mph and 0-25 mph since these are the most crucial intervals – especially when climbing from a standstill.
To do this, the scooters were subject to 3x two-way directional runs for each interval. Following this, the results were averaged. To ensure consistency, zero-start modes were enabled, the performance settings were dialed up to the max, the tires were pumped up to their recommended PSI, and the batteries were fully charged.
Battery Power
Battery power is just as important as motor power when it comes to conquering hills. To determine the amount of energy stored in each scooter’s battery, I reported on three key metrics: voltage (V), amp-hours (Ah), and watt-hours (Wh).
The voltage of a battery signifies the strength of its electrical charge. Amp-hours refer to how much electricity can be funneled to the motors and other electrical components in an hour. And last, but by no means least, watt-hours are used to measure battery capacity – it’s calculated by multiplying the voltage and amp-hours together.
Typically, the higher the voltage, amp-hours, and watt-hours, the larger the battery, and the better the scooter’s ability to tackle hills.
Taking this a step further, I reported on maximum and real-world range. Although manufacturers list maximum range figures, these are often based on a 165 lb rider, flat terrain, and riding in the slowest setting. To give a more accurate insight into performance, I detailed how each performed under real-world conditions – including undulating environments, my 190 lb weight, periods of fast acceleration, cruising, and multiple stops.
I also paid particular attention to each scooter’s battery management system by assessing how their protection features ensured the healthy and safe operation of their power delivery (i.e. protection against over-voltage, low-voltage, over-discharge, over-current, and over-temperature).
Braking Power
The last thing that anyone wants is a scooter that rolls down a hill uncontrollably. This could spell disaster, so a strong set of brakes is a must.
To test braking performance, I measured the distance that it took each model to stop from a speed of 15 mph.
Based on my many braking tests, stopping distances 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).
In the interest of safety, I selected the scooters that achieved stopping distances of 3.5 meters or less. I also assessed the position and responsiveness of the brake levers.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Wolf King GT |
$2,999
| 62 MPH |
| Mantis King GT |
$1,899
| 43 MPH |
| Varla Eagle One V2 |
$1,449.00
| 40 mph |
| Apollo City Pro |
$1,649
| 32 MPH |
| SPLACH Mukuta |
$999
| 28 mph |
Acceleration (0-15 MPH)
Ordered from fastest to slowest – Learn about how I test acceleration.| Scooter | Price | 0-15 MPH (Seconds) |
|---|---|---|
| Wolf King GT |
$2,999
|
1.7 s |
| Mantis King GT |
$1,899
|
1.9 s |
| Apollo City Pro |
$1,649
|
2.3 s |
| Varla Eagle One V2 |
$1,449.00
|
2.3 s |
| SPLACH Mukuta |
$999
|
2.7 s |
Acceleration (0-25 MPH)
Ordered from fastest to slowest – Learn about how I test acceleration.
| Scooter | Price | 0-25 MPH (Seconds) |
|---|---|---|
| Wolf King GT |
$2,999
| 3.0 s |
| Mantis King GT |
$1,899
| 4.0 s |
| Varla Eagle One V2 |
$1,449.00
| 5.8 s |
| Apollo City Pro |
$1,649
| 6.1 s |
| SPLACH Mukuta |
$999
| 6.7 s |
Maximum Range (Riding Slow)
Ordered from longest to shortest range.
| Scooter | Price | Max Range |
|---|---|---|
| Wolf King GT |
$2,999
| 70 miles |
| Mantis King GT |
$1,899
| 56 miles |
| Apollo City Pro |
$1,649
| 43 miles |
| Varla Eagle One V2 |
$1,449.00
| 42 miles |
| SPLACH Mukuta |
$999
| 39 miles |
Realistic Range (Riding Fast)
Ordered from longest to shortest range – Learn about how I test real-world range.
| Scooter | Price | Real-World Range |
|---|---|---|
| Wolf King GT |
$2,999
| 55 miles |
| Mantis King GT |
$1,899
| 38 miles |
| Apollo City Pro |
$1,649
| 27 miles |
| Varla Eagle One V2 |
$1,449.00
| 24.4 miles |
| SPLACH Mukuta |
$999
| 22 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 City Pro |
$1,649
| 2.1 meters |
| SPLACH Mukuta |
$999
| 2.1 meters |
| Wolf King GT |
$2,999
| 3.0 meters |
FAQs
Can Electric Scooters Climb Steep Hills?
Yes. However, not all scooters can conquer all steep hills.
Different models have different hill-climbing abilities. This is mostly determined by how much power and torque their motors put out, as well as the size and longevity of their battery.
Scooters with a nominal power output of 2000W or above have a better chance of getting you to the top of steeper hills whilst maintaining speed.
What is the Maximum Slope Climbing Speed of an Electric Scooter?
This depends on the degree of the slope and the power of the scooter's motor. The steeper the slope and the smaller the motors, the slower the scooter will go.
For example, the SPLACH Mukuta – a scooter with dual 600W motors – can easily climb a 5-degree slope while gaining speed. If the incline was to increase to 10 degrees, however, the scooter would slow.
Ultimately, if you want to go fast up hills then it's best to opt for a scooter with large motors and a high peak power output.
Can You Go Downhill on an Electric Scooter?
Yes, you can go downhill on an electric scooter. There are, however, a couple of important things you should be aware of.
Firstly, while it may be tempting to go full throttle to reach new heights of top speed, exerting this much force on a scooter can have a detrimental effect on the integrity of the motors. After all, the motors have been designed with a set number of revolutions per minute, and going beyond this can be dangerous. Here, it's best to remain under the maximum speed limit set by the manufacturer.
Secondly, going downhill requires strong brakes. For the best braking performance, we suggest choosing a scooter with hydraulics. It's also worth opting for a model that has larger-than-normal rotors. Rotors that measure 160 mm are a good choice since there is more surface area to dissipate heat. As a result, these deliver more reliable stopping power compared to smaller 140 mm rotors.
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 electric scooters for climbing hills. Learn more about my editorial policy.
- November 7, 2024: Removed the Mantis V2 and NAMI Klima following their unavailability. Restructured entire guide and refreshed the text throughout.
- September 4, 2024: Confirmed my picks for relevancy and availability.
- August 9, 2024: Confirmed my picks for relevancy and availability.
- March 28, 2024: Made improvements to the design of the page.
- March 2, 2024: Replaced the SPLACH Twin with the SPLACH Mukuta as the "Best Budget Scooter For Moderate Inclines", and the Apollo Ghost 2022 with the Varla Eagle One V2 as the "Best Budget Scooter For Steep Inclines". The text was refreshed throughout.
- November 20, 2023: Replaced the SPLACH Titan with the Apollo Ghost 2022 as the "Best Budget Scooter For Moderate Inclines", and the Mantis King GT with the NAMI Klima as the "Best Premium Scooter For Moderate Inclines". I also refreshed the text throughout.
- November 15, 2023: Expanded the commentary about how the scooters were tested and selected. I also added performance reports for each scooter, and made significant improvements to the structure of the page to make it more digestable
- August 11, 2023: Confirmed my picks for relevancy and availability.
- May 10, 2023: Confirmed my picks for relevancy and availability.
- February 27, 2023: Added a quick list module and comparison table, as well as commentary explaining how the scooters were tested and selected.
- February 8, 2023: Replaced the EMOVE Cruiser with the Apollo City Pro, and the Apollo Ghost 2022 with the SPLACH Titan
- October 6, 2022: Replaced the Apollo Ghost 2021 with the Apollo Ghost 2022, and the Apollo Phantom V1 with the Mantis King GT.
- May 26, 2022: Refreshed the guide with 6 new top-performing scooters.
