Hiboy S2R Review

Design

Handlebars

The handlebars offer good control, whilst also being resilient to everyday wear and tear thanks to the textured rubber grips. Small details like this set the S2R apart from cheaper alternatives that use less durable foam material.

On either side of the handlebars is the dual braking system. The electronic thumb brake is on the left, while the rear disc brake, operated via the handbrake, is on the right. You don’t often see dual brakes working independently on budget scooters. However, the electronic brake is not strong enough to bring you to a stop in quick succession, so you need to rely on the disc brake to do all the heavy lifting. Below the handbrake, you’ll also find the electronic thumb accelerator which is smooth to operate.

Reminiscent of the Xiaomi Mi 365, the elegantly constructed LED display rests in the center of the handlebars. It keeps track of your speed, rider settings, battery level, and cruise control.

Frame

Whilst I’ve already established that the S2R doesn’t hold up when it comes to performance, it certainly looks the part. It boasts a stylish matte-black finish with red highlights that line the circumference of the tires and make the exposed brake wires look aesthetically pleasing.

It is worth noting here that when it comes to build quality, the S2R is pretty good. Similar to the rest of the S2 range, Hiboy has not held back on building it with a robust frame. They, like most scooter manufacturers, follow the same protocol of using aviation-grade aluminum alloy for the majority of the scooter's components.

Deck

As with the rest of the S2 range, the S2R has been fitted with a grippy rubber matting that ensures a safe and secure ride. The length and width of the deck are fairly standard. You can avoid awkward positions and easily place your dominant foot towards the front of the scooter as you bring your other foot to sit perpendicular to it.

As discussed earlier, the S2R’s standout feature is the detachable battery. The battery is stored in the center of the deck. You simply plug the key into the keylock on the side of the deck and pop out the battery. Then, once you’re charged up, place the battery back in the deck and lock it into place with the key.

There is one glaring oversight of the placement of the keylock. Because it is located on the side of the deck, it is exposed to damage from scraping against curbs and other obstacles. Time after time I see electric scooter riders complain that they can no longer charge their scooter because the charging ports, which are located in the same place as the S2R’s keylock, have become so worn down and bent that the charging cable can no longer be inserted. This could be a potential issue with the keylock, but instead of the charging cable not plugging it, the key may no longer be able to enter the lock. I need to point out that this is a hypothetical scenario and we’ve not tested it but it is certainly a possibility.

Making our way to the rear of the deck, you’ll find Hiboy’s controversial reinforced fender. Other than deflecting mud and dirt, rear fenders, especially on budget scooters, are synonymous with foot brakes.

However, the rear fender on the S2R is not a brake so if you are used to stomping on fenders to come to a quick halt, you are forced to adjust your riding style. The bracket works to prevent the solid tires from being worn down.

Wheels

The upside of the 8.5 inch solid tires is that you’ll never have punctures or flat so you can save money on maintenance.

The downside, though, far outweighs the maintenance benefits. Despite having a honeycomb design, their solid nature means they have no dampening effect. It’s not just the Hiboy S2 range that is plagued by this issue, I’ve reviewed more expensive scooters like the Unagi Model One which shares a similar tire design but, yet again, they have virtually no shock absorption.

Ultimately, you are confined to riding on super smooth, well-maintained surfaces that present no obstacles. Under realistic conditions, it is highly unlikely that this will be the case unless you live, work, and socialize in a shopping mall.

Build Quality & Durability

The frame manages to hold up well with daily use. There’s no skirting around the fact that the S2R is a robust and sturdy scooter. However, it does have a low-lying deck that exposes the underside of the scooter to harsh hits. You need to be careful when riding the S2R to avoid taking damage to the deck, especially considering the battery is located here.

Alongside the reassuring build quality, the IP54 water-resistance rating adds a layer of durability, keeping the scooter protected from light rain.

Weight & Load

The S2R is one of the lightest adult scooters you can get coming in at 30.8 lbs. In fact, in our database of 100+ scooters in places in the top 25% of the lightest electric scooters.

The load-bearing capability of the S2R is not bad but also not great, especially when compared to the 260 lbs of the S2. At 200 lbs you can get by with the S2R but most adults will struggle to make the most of the scooter’s performance.

Folding & Portability

The S2R has a straightforward 3 step folding system.

First, loosen the folding lever holding the stem upright. Then, collapse the stem so that it lies flat above the deck. Finally, hook the back of the handlebars into the latch on the rear fender. Once the handlebar is clicked into place it is secure and easy to lift.

Despite the handlebars not being foldable themselves, the S2R has one of the best folding mechanisms I’ve ever reviewed.

Assembly

Assembly is super simple. You just need a few minutes to connect the handlebars and you’re good to go.

All the tools you need are provided in the box.

Ride Quality

Is the Hiboy S2R Comfortable to Ride?

Unfortunately, like the rest of the S2 range, the S2R just doesn’t cut it when it comes to ride quality.

There are no shock absorbers to balance out the already tough non-pneumatic tires, meaning there is no effective cushioning when going over bumps and cracks. This is disappointing, especially when considering that the S2R can push up to 18.6 mph. The knee-trembling and head rattling are immense. If you just ride across well-maintained roads and sidewalks then the S2R does the job, but anything rougher, and you are left wanting more.

To get a more comfortable ride you would be better suited with the plush 10 inch air-filled tires of the Turboant X7 Pro.

Performance & Safety

Speed & Acceleration

If zooming around the block is something you’re looking for then the S2R might be – quite literally – down your alley. Thanks to a 350W brushless motor, it manages to hit a top speed of 18.6 mph, making it one of the fastest budget scooters.

Surprisingly, the acceleration curve on the S2R is quicker than all GoTrax’s budget models, and even the Turboant X7 Pro. However, as I’ve noted in my other Hiboy reviews – as the speed increases, the ride quality equally nose dives. It’s frustrating, the S2R could be a great scooter but the solid tires prevent it from being so.

Range

With a 36V 7.5Ah battery that rivals most GoTrax scooters, the S2R delivers a maximum range of 17 miles. This, however, pales in comparison to the Turboant X7 Pro’s 36V 10Ah battery that almost doubles the mileage (30 miles) of the S2R’s.

As with all scooters, you need to take into account your riding style to truly understand how much mileage you can expect. This includes your weight, the terrain you’re traversing, and the speed at which you are riding. Under realistic conditions, if you weigh around 170 lbs and ride aggressively, you can expect to get 8-10 miles out of the S2R.

However, what you do get with the S2R is the option to extend the battery. For $149 you can get another battery which you can charge separately so it's ready to replace once your other battery runs dry. Or, you could opt for the Turboant X7 Pro and pick up another 30 mile battery for $199.98.

Hill Climbing

As is typical with budget scooters and all of the S2 range, the S2R can scale 15% inclines allowing you to take on most inner-city hills.

You should remember that the more weight on the scooter and steeper the incline, that you will find yourself climbing rather sluggishly.

Shock Absorption / Suspension

Get ready for your wrists to vibrate, knees to shake, and your brain to rattle around your head. The S2R has not been built with rider comfort in mind.

I won’t repeat myself too much but to recap – just like the rest of the S2 range you have to put up with solid tires that have no cushioning, and with the S2R you are also deprived of the rear springs that the S2 and S2 Pro are thankfully equipped with.

If you want to save a buck or two, I’d recommend seriously considering the Turboant X7 Pro. The level of ride comfort of the X7 Pro vs the S2R is unparalleled.

Braking

Unconventionally, it boasts a dual braking system. The electronic thumb brake on the left and the rear disc handbrake on the right.

Just like with the S2 and S2 Pro, using them simultaneously offers strong and efficient braking.

One standout feature when it comes to braking is that you can adjust the responsiveness of the electronic brake using the mobile app. Nevertheless, using the electric brake alone gives you enough time to call your nan, make lunch, and meet a friend for a coffee. In brief, you can’t rely on it to bring you to a quick stop. Plus, if the scooter’s power cuts, the electronic brake is rendered useless.

The upside of the electronic braking system is that the scooter uses regenerative braking by storing excess kinetic energy to prolong battery life.

Using the rear disc brake by pulling on the handbrake is the most effective way to slow your speed.

Charge Time

A 6 hour charging time for the S2R is reasonably long, especially when compared to the Turboant X7 Pro, which at the same time gives you a 30 mile range. Even the S2 Pro gives you 25 miles in 6 hours.

Extra Features

Detachable Battery

The standout feature of the S2R is the fact you can remove the battery from the deck. There are several benefits to this.

First, you can charge the battery separately resulting in a more convenient charging experience – wave goodbye to hauling your scooter to the nearest power outlet.

Second, it can act as an anti-theft deterrent. If you remove the battery when you leave your scooter in public, it practically renders it worthless.

The third and final benefit is that you can buy an extra battery ($149) to extend the maximum mileage to 34 miles without needing to recharge.

LED Dashboard

The alluring LED panel placed in the center of the handlebars offers a premium feel to the S2R.

Thanks to its bright and simple display you can keep track of your speed, battery level, riding mode, and cruise control function.

LED Lights

It doesn’t have the most powerful lighting setup but its efforts can be applauded.

Featuring a headlight capable of illuminating 5-7 meters in front of you and a red taillight that is responsive to the handbrake, the S2R is equipped to keep those around you alert to your presence.

Cruise Control

It's now rarer to not find cruise control on an electric scooter, so what makes the functionality good or bad? Well, it’s how it is activated.

On the S2R you have to triple tap the button on the LED dashboard, something which can end up being a bit awkward when going at speed. Other models like GoTrax’s line of budget scooters and the Turboant X7 Pro all have automatic activation after 8-10 seconds of riding at a constant speed which is far easier to navigate.

Mobile App

It’s becoming more common to see scooters with integrated mobile apps – but only on premium models. Therefore, the addition of the app gives this budget scooter an edge over its rivals.

In the app, you get a detailed breakdown of your riding stats, and you can even adjust speed settings, including acceleration strength, allowing new riders to get to grips with the scooter before turning the dial up.

Digital Lock

Another feature of the app is the digital lock system. When activated, the lock disengages the throttle locking the front tire into place.

You should still be careful when leaving the S2R unmanned since it only weighs 30.8 lbs and is light enough to pick up and walk off with.

Bell

The bell on the S2R does exactly what is asked of it – it gives a heads up to pedestrians.

Water-Resistance Rating

Based on our independent research of over 100 scooters, less than half have water-resistance ratings – even premium models that cost upwards of $3,000.

Luckily, the S2R has been kitted out with an IP54 rating, shielding it from light rain, puddles, and dirt.

Warranty & Post-Purchase Support

Warranty

The S2R offers a 12-month warranty that covers scooter defects from the date of purchase.

Hiboy will only attend to your claim if you have ordered directly from them or any of their authorized distributors.

After replacing a defective item, the warranty remains for the same timeframe as the original defective item.

If you aren’t happy with the scooter for any reason, there is a 30 day returns policy, provided the scooter remains unused.

Post-Purchase Support

Hiboy claims to “respond to emails within 24 hours”. However, as mentioned in my other reviews of Hiboy scooters, I’ve waited for over a month for a reply despite having reviewed their scooters.

To get in touch with them, simply email us.support@hiboy.com. Remember to include your scooter's serial number (this can be found under the deck).