- 31% Josh Testing the Mantis Pro SE
Side Profile of Mantis Pro SE Mantis Pro SE Rear Motor Hub Mantis Pro SE Spring Supension Mantis Pro SE QS-S4 Display and Motor Selection Buttons Mantis Pro SE Lights

Mantis Pro SE Review

$1,595.00

9/10 (Expert Score)

DATE

August 3, 2021

Price When Reviewed: $1899.00

If you’re a fan of the original Mantis Pro, you could be forgiven for a sense of deja vu when admiring the Pro SE. Standing for ‘Special Edition’, the SE takes all the good stuff from its big brother and improves on them. With a rapid 40 mph top speed, a brutally fast acceleration rate, full hydraulic brakes, and reinforced stem for durability, the Pro SE isn’t just affordable – it’s one of the best performance scooters on the market. If you thought the Pro SE was content to sit in the shadow of the original, think again. This slick, style-conscious scooter has carved out its own identity.

Where to Buy:*

*Offers displayed are from retailers that we trust. If only one offer is available this is because they are the only retailer we recommend. To support our rigorous scooter review and editorial process, we rely on affiliate commissions. These are at no cost to you. Our work is independent and impartial. Read more here.

Video Review

What makes the Mantis Pro SE Special? Comparison of all Manti scooters

From its bright blue deck lights to the EY3 Minimotors display, gold trim, and powerful dual 60V 1000W motors, the Mantis Pro SE confidently makes it into my list of favourite scooters. There are several reasons why the Pro SE stand out from the rest of the Manti lineup. Watch the video to see what makes it special.

 

Who is it Best For?

Will the Mantis Pro SE Be a Good Fit For You?

Like other popular 40 mph scooters – the Mantis Pro SE sits in the mid to upper-tier of performance scooters. That means it’s ideal if you want to take the step up from a basic commuter or lower-tier performance scooter but aren’t ready for more powerful high-performance models like the Wolf Warrior.

Josh on the Mantis Pro SE

As with all performance scooters, the Pro SE isn’t for beginners, nor has it been designed for commuting – though it’ll still get you from A to B with ease (and in record time).

Who this scooter is for, however, is the budget-conscious. Currently available for just $1,899, the Pro SE represents one of the most affordable entry points into the market for cash-strapped performance scooter lovers.

It’s also suitable for most types of terrains, including dirt roads, forest trails, and urban environments. However, it’s worth noting that, unlike more dedicated off-road scooters – or models such as the Wolf King and Wolf Warrior – it doesn’t have the tires for this purpose, nor does Voro Motors (the Pro SE’s exclusive distributor) sell interchangeable off-road tires for it.

Pros and Cons

PROS:

  • Fantastic value for money
  • Rapid top speed and acceleration rate
  • Strong hill-climbing capabilities
  • Gold accents offer regal splashes of style
  • Chunky air-filled tires and spring suspension system make for a seriously comfortable ride
  • Reinforced stem for increased durability
  • Full hydraulic brakes
  • Effective anti-lock braking system

CONS:

  • No horn
  • No headlight
  • Rear fender is too short, meaning a mud shower is on the cards if it’s wet out

Value for Money

Is the Price Tag Worth it?

In my review of the Mantis Pro – the SE’s predecessor and fraternal twin – I spoke about how that scooter is worth every dime.

The Mantis Pro SE, however, is even better value for money than the original.

For one, the Pro SE’s base price – $1,899 – is a whole $400 cheaper than the original Pro. Plus, let’s take into account the fact that the SE shares almost all the same specs and features as the original – including its dual 60V 1000W motors, full hydraulic Zoom disc brakes, EY3 MiniMotors console, and mood deck lighting.

Mantis Pro SE Front Tire Tread

And, if all that wasn’t enough, the SE improves on the original model.

In addition to reinforcing the stem to prevent the wobble the original Pro was notorious for – and increasing the depth of the motor and its bolts to prevent them from shearing – the Pro SE also cranks the style factor up. Adding touches of gold on the handlebars and swingarms gives the SE its own personality, as does changing its deck lights from a plain white to an electrifying blue.

Mantis Pro SE Full Frame With Lights Turned On

The only real thing the original Pro does better than its ‘special’ successor is that it boasts a longer range – though this is negated if you splash a little extra cash, and plump for the additional mileage the 24Ah version of the Pro SE provides.

Plus, as far as bang for your buck is concerned, the Mantis Pro SE is head and shoulders above most of the non-Manti competition. For the specs and features on offer, it’s surprisingly affordable. The only scooter to stand out as a true contender when it comes to value for money is the VSETT 10+ (20.8Ah). However, as we’ll soon see, the 10+ is heavier, supports less rider weight, has an inferior QS-S4 display as opposed to the SE’s EY3 MiniMotors display, and is more expensive.

Circling back to the Mantis range, the Pro SE is also much better value than the Base model. The Pro SE is faster than the Base, has a superior console and brakes, and a much larger range to boot.

Check out the table below for more information about how all Manti models compare to one another.

Further Information:

Best Cheap Electric Scooters

Comparison of Manti Models

SpecsMantis Pro SEMantis ProMantis Base
Motors2 x 60V 1000W2 x 60V 1000W2 x 60V 1000W
Battery60V 18.2AH LG
(24Ah available)
60V 24.5AH LG60V 17.5Ah FST
(Chinese cells)
Range30-40 miles45-55 miles30-40 miles
BrakesZoom Full HydraulicsZoom Full HydraulicsSemi-Hydraulics
DisplayMinimotors EY3Minimotors EY3QS-S4
Motor ButtonsImproved DesignYellow/RedYellow/Red
Deck LightsBlueWhiteWhite
Price$1,899$2,299$1,649

As you can see, there are a number of differences between each Manti model. Throughout the review we will address each of these in more detail but, if you want to low down: the Mantis Pro SE offers the best value for money out of all 3 models.

Alternatives

What Other Scooters Should You Consider?

VSETT 10+ (20.8Ah)

Why is it Better Than the Mantis Pro SE?

Why is it Worse Than the Mantis Pro SE?

Price:

Mantis Pro

Why is it Better Than the Mantis Pro SE?

Why is it Worse Than the Mantis Pro SE?

Price:

Apollo Phantom

Why is it Better Than the Mantis Pro SE?

Why is it Worse Than the Mantis Pro SE?

Price:

Design

Handlebars

Wide, ergonomic, and made of a durable, hard-wearing alloy, the handlebars are every bit as comfortable and reliable as those on the original Mantis Pro.

I’d even go as far as to say that the handlebars – with a pair of gold rings capping the grips – add a much-needed injection of style to its predecessor’s gloomy aesthetic. That said, this improvement is coupled with the same foam hand grips as the original. These are more prone to wear and tear than grips of the rubber variety, but there’s no escaping them since all Manti models have them.

Mantis Pro SE Foam Handgrip

Putting these concerns aside for a second, I should also mention that the handlebars are where you’ll find all the buttons you’ll need to make this scooter tick. That includes buttons to activate the lights, change the riding mode, and select how many motors you want to engage.

Mantis Pro SE Button for the Lights

You’ll also find the scooter’s hand-operated hydraulic brakes on either side of the handlebars and the EY3 MiniMotors display that completes the scooter’s controls.

Mantis Pro SE Handlebars

Made by MiniMotors – one of the most illustrious players in the electric scooter industry – the EY3 display serves as both a display screen and finger throttle. Here’s where you’ll view your speed, battery life, and total distance traveled, and access a huge wealth of functionality that you didn’t even know you needed (but definitely do). But more on that later.

Mantis Pro SE Trigger Throttle

Frame

Like the original Mantis Pro, the SE plays it relatively straight when it comes to the aesthetic design of its frame. Unlike its predecessor, though, the Pro SE opts for a little more fun.

The frame is mostly a stripped-back stealthy matte black, but it benefits from red and gold accents that adorn portions of the scooter to add a dash of personality. The springs, for instance, are red, as are the streaks lining the treads of its tires. The scooter’s swingarms, by contrast, are rendered in a striking gold hue, meaning you’re sure to attract your fair share of admiring glances as you cruise by.

Mantis Pro SE Full Frame

Deck

At 23 inches long and 8.5 inches wide, the Mantis Pro SE’s deck is plenty spacious.

And, with the raised rear of the deck forming a kickplate – upon which you can place your back foot to lean into the ride at high speeds for extra traction and grip – it’s been made for comfort.

Mantis Pro SE Swingarm and Kickplate

The top of the deck is coated in a thin veneer of anti-slip rubber, which I prefer to grip tape because of how easy to clean it is. Rather than staying glued down, the rubber matting can be peeled up at the edges. While I initially had some concerns that the matting would flap up and down while riding, these were quickly put to bed following my first few test rides. The matting stays firmly in place at all times. Plus, by being able to peel the matting up, there is one key benefit – it’s easier to unscrew and lift the battery out.

Close up of the Mantis Pro SE Rubber Matting on the Deck

The deck is also predictably thick – a natural consequence of the big battery that’s stored in there – which also adds to the scooter’s sense of durability and dependability. What’s more, there’s a small hook at the end of the deck that the latch on the back of the handlebars locks into when folded, making it easy to lift.

Wheels

Do you know the saying: If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it? Well, I’m glad that the Mantis Pro SE retains the robust, 10-inch pneumatic tires that made the original Pro such a joy to ride.

Mantis Pro SE Front Plush Air-Filled Tire

Working in collaboration with the dual spring suspension, these tires – which are filled with air, rather than a solid rubber or foam – are built to help soak up the impacts of less forgiving surfaces. These wide, shock-absorptive tires make the Pro SE a comfortable ride, even on off-road surfaces – I just wish there was an interchangeable set of off-road tires available, like on the higher-performance models in Kaabo’s line, such as the Wolf Warrior.

Mantis Pro SE Slick Tire Tread

Oh, and one more thing – though this is more the fault of the plastic over the top of the wheel, rather than the wheel itself – the rear fender is too short, meaning that, in wetter off-road conditions, you’re liable to get mud splattered up your back.

Mantis Pro SE Rear Fender

Build Quality & Durability

When a scooter is released as a ‘Special Edition’ version of another scooter, it can be easy to dismiss it as just a gimmick, or a cynical cash grab on the part of the manufacturer. However (as you’ll have probably realized by now), the Pro SE isn’t that – and one of the reasons why is because it improves on the design and build quality of the original.

Like the regular Mantis Pro, the SE version is composed of an aviation-grade aluminum alloy that's been stress-tested and hardened to give it an extra dose of durability. After all, the SE is made by Kaabo – the same team that brought us the Wolf Warrior and Wolf King – so we should always expect the best when it comes to the tough-as-nails design the brand is known for.

Mantis Pro SE Rear Motor Hub

Unlike the original Pro, however, the SE improves some of the ‘bugs’ that plagued its predecessor’s ride quality and comfort. For instance, the bolts securing the original Mantis Pro’s motor hubs in place tended to shear and wear away, causing permanent damage to the scooter. Similarly, a defect to a mechanical part at the base of the stem made it prone to stem wobble, which compromised rider safety.

Fortunately, Kaabo’s engineers seem aware of these flaws because the Pro SE succeeds in ironing out the issues with the original. Thanks to the newly increased depth of the SE’s motors and the length of the bolts securing them, shearing is a thing of the past. Meanwhile, Kaabo has also reinforced the moving parts at the base of the stem, helping to eliminate the stem wobble that haunted the original Mantis Pro.

Mantis Pro SE Reinforced Stem and Stem Bolt Locking Mechanism

That said, no scooter (or human) is perfect, and the Pro’s special edition still hasn’t done anything to rectify its big brother’s lack of a water resistance rating. Most of its biggest competitors – the Apollo Phantom and VSETT 10+, for example – have IP water resistance certifications, so Kaabo is missing a trick here.

Weight & Load

The Mantis Pro SE weighs in at 65 lbs; the same as its sibling, the original Pro, and slightly heavier than the 61 lbs of the Mantis Base.

Mantis Pro SE Folded

While this kind of bulk is going to preclude the Pro SE from life as a dedicated commuter scooter – for that, I usually recommend a weight of no more than 42 lbs – it’s still fairly easy to pick up and move around.

The Pro SE can support a rider weight of up to 330 lbs, which – for a scooter of its price – is unmatched by any of its competitors. The only scooters in our database of 100+ models that do succeed in outstripping the Pro SE when it comes to load-bearing are the 352 lbs of the EMOVE Cruiser (which is much slower and less powerful than the SE), and fellow Kaabo scooter, the Wolf King (which has a maximum load of 400 lbs).

Mantis Pro SE Deck Covered in an Anti-Slip Rubber Veneer

Supporting up to 400 lbs of rider weight, this behemoth of a machine has the biggest load of any scooter on the market. It’s the only dual motor model you’ll find with more load-bearing capacity than the Pro SE – but has the price tag to show for it.

Folding & Portability

The Mantis Pro SE folds in half at the base of the stem via two quick-release ‘buckles’ that tighten the locking ring into place.

Mantis Pro SE Front of Locking Ring

You’ll need to make sure you tighten these when you assemble the scooter to eliminate the stem wobble that afflicted earlier versions of the Mantis Pro.

Mantis Pro SE Rear of Locking Ring With Quick-Release Levers Tightened

Could the SE’s folding mechanism be better?

Maybe – it does take a little time to fold and unfold the scooter, but mostly, it’s simple to do once you’ve got the hang of it. Plus, the stem bolt – which, on the Mantis Pro, was prone to snapping – has been replaced with a more reliable, stronger alternative to ensure the stem remains solid as a rock when locked into place.

It's also worth noting that there is a latch on the back on the handlebars that locks the stem to the deck via a small hook when folded.

Mantis Pro SE Folded Latch on the Back of the Handlebars

This makes maneuvering the scooter when folded far easier than similar performance scooters that don't lock into place.

Mantis Pro SE Handlebar Latch Locked into the Deck Hook

And, as the more seasoned scooter stalwarts out there will be all too aware of – an effective folding mechanism doesn’t always make a scooter portable. Like its big brother, the Mantis Pro, it’s still too heavy to be used for multimodal journeys, and – unless you’re planning on pumping your guns – you won’t want to be lugging this scooter around for too long.

Mantis Pro SE Folded From Rear

Assembly

Like most performance scooters, the Mantis Pro SE comes pretty much fully assembled, and only requires minimal installation on your part.

Your main task will be to use the bank of Allen wrenches provided to attach the handlebars to its steering column. It’s all pretty simple – there’s a small ridged area in the center of the handlebars that shows you the exact place they need to be attached. If you run into any issues, the included paper copy of the manual should help you out.

That’s pretty much it for the assembly. If you’d like to see it in action, check out my video guide to what makes the Mantis Pro SE so special. There, I unbox and assemble the scooter on screen, as well as discussing its specs and performance, and how it differs from the other scooters in the Manti range.

Now you’ve assembled your shiny new SE, there are just a few more things to think about before you hit the road:

  • As I’ll get to in the ‘Extra Features’ later in the review, the front-facing lights on all Manti scooters aren’t particularly bright. So, if you’re riding at night, I recommend strapping on an extra headlight for added visibility.
  • You should also make getting to grips with the EY3 display a priority – there’s a huge amount of stuff you can do with it, so you don’t want to miss out.
  • Charge the scooter in full, and double-check the tire pressure.
  • And finally, don’t forget your safety gear.

Ride Quality

Is the Mantis Pro SE Comfortable to Ride?

Kaabo scooters rarely belong in the same sentence with the word ‘uncomfortable’, and the Mantis Pro SE is no different.

With adjustable suspension complimenting the shock absorptive capabilities provided by its 10-inch pneumatic tires, the SE is ideal for both light off-roading and city rides alike.

Mantis Pro SE Front Plush Air-Filled and Gold Swingarm

The comprehensive suspension system makes it a silky-smooth ride, but it’s also worth giving a shout-out to its hydraulic brakes. After all, you’re not going to enjoy a comfortable ride if you can’t stop with confidence. Plus, the reinforced kickplate – which not all scooters of its ilk can lay claim to – allows you to lean into the ride at top speeds for more traction and comfort.

Ultimately, when it comes to rider comfort, the Pro SE ticks all the boxes.

Mantis Pro SE Rear Swingarm and Spring Suspension

Performance & Safety

Speed & Acceleration

Capable of hitting up to 40 mph, the Mantis Pro SE shares its top speed with fellow models, the Mantis Base and Pro.

Now, as we know, there are a lot of 40 mph electric scooters on the market – so how can you be sure that the Pro SE offers good value for money? Let’s compare it to similar scooters that sit in its price and weight class to find out.

Speed vs Price Comparison

Looking at the Mantis Pro SE alongside the 12 comparable models that sit within a $500 price range of the SE’s price tag, the scooter comes out favorably.

Mantis Pro SE Speed vs Price Comparison

In fact, it emerges in joint-second place, sharing the silver spoils with the Mantis Base, as well as the Speedway 5 and a couple of EVOLV models: the Pro and Pro Plus. Of course, all of these are merely runner-ups to the zippy, powerful VSETT 10+ (20.8Ah), which, with a top speed of 50 mph, offers 25% more speed than the chasing pack.

I should note here that, while it’s easy to lose the Pro SE amidst the four other models it shares its 40 mph top speed with, the SE has a much faster acceleration rate than these other contenders – which means it can reach that top speed much quicker than the rest. For context, the EVOLV Pro Plus and Mantis Base take 25% longer to hit 15 mph (2.5 seconds) than the SE does (2 seconds), while – when we stretch that to 30 mph – the Base and EVOLV Pro Plus both take almost 8 seconds (7.8, to be exact), while the Pro SE does it a whole 2 seconds faster (5.8 seconds).

Speed vs Weight Comparison

Now, let’s take another bracket, this time looking at weight – or, in other words, how the Pro SE compares to the 8 other models in its 60 to 70 lbs class.

The verdict? It performs admirably – though again, things get a little congested. The SE shares the crown here with the rest of its Manti siblings (the Pro and the Base), as well as the Speedway 5, and two Dualtron models including the Compact and Eagle Pro.

Mantis Pro SE Speed vs Weight Comparison

Of course, you’ll see that I’ve placed both the SE and the Mantis Pro at the top of the graph here, with the reason being that they boast the most rapid acceleration rate of the bunch.

Acceleration

Sparked by the scorching levels of torque its dual 60V 1000W motors provide, the Mantis Pro SE has one of the fastest acceleration rates around. Like the original Pro, it’s capable of going from 0 to 15 mph in 2 seconds flat, and 0 to 25 mph in just 4.1 seconds.

Here’s an exact roundup of how the Mantis Pro SE’s acceleration rate compares to that of the competition:

Scooter0-15 MPH (Seconds)0-25 MPH (Seconds)
VSETT 10+ 20.8Ah ($1,999)1.73.6
Mantis Pro SE ($1,899)2.04.1
Mantis Pro ($2,299)2.04.1
Apollo Phantom ($2,099)2.55.6

Or, for a more visual representation, check out this graph:

Mantis Pro SE Acceleration Comparison

As you can see, a familiar trend is occurring, with the VSETT 10+ again emerging victorious. Considering it costs just $100 more than the Pro SE’s base price of $1,899, it’s certainly a worthy investment – particularly with those enormous 60V 1400W motors providing more speed, faster acceleration, and superior hill-climbing credentials.

In addition to the zippy acceleration rate – which also happens to be a whole 15% faster than that of the Mantis Pro SE – the VSETT 10+ also boasts a ‘Sport’ mode, which allows you to benefit from a 2-minute injection of an additional 5Ah of power to initiate Turbo mode and turn your scooter into a certified land rocket. If this sounds like something you’re after, check out my review of the VSETT 10+R.

Last in the rankings is the Apollo Phantom. Now, you’ll notice that throughout the other performance comparison sections the Phantom wasn’t mentioned but this doesn’t mean it should be overlooked. The Phantom is a feat in electric scooter engineering. It delivers the perfect balance of all areas to deliver the complete package. So, while it is slightly slower than the Pro SE, it’s still a fantastic alternative if you are searching for a model that can tick all the boxes, including good speed and mileage, fantastic ride quality, sturdy build quality, 20 adjustable settings for customized performance, a powerful lighting setup, a water-resistance rating, and many other features.

Range

The Mantis Pro SE has a range of up to 40 miles off a single charge – though it’s worth bearing in mind that you’ll need to be riding in the scooter’s ‘Eco’ mode to have any chance of hitting this distance in practice. How much you get out of the SE’s mileage will also depend on how heavy you’re going on its throttle.

When comparing the Mantis Pro SE’s 40 mile range against its fellow Manti models, it outperforms the Base (30 miles) but falls short of the longevity offered by the original Mantis Pro (45 miles). But, how does the SE’s range compare to similarly-priced models?

Let’s take a look.

Mileage vs Price Comparison

Returning to the 12 comparable models in the Pro SE’s price range (so, anything falling within $250 on either side of its $1,899 base price), we see that the SE winds up finishing in the lower end of the pack.

Mantis Pro SE Mileage vs Price Comparison

At first glance, this suggests that – when it comes to range, at least – you’re able to get a lot more for your money than what the Pro SE offers. Dig a little deeper, though, and you start to get a sense that the SE is still a finer scooter than most of the models topping it.

The Speedway 5, for instance, has a couple of design flaws that are hard to overlook. Its spring-loaded handlebar folding mechanism makes the handgrips prone to wobbling while you’re riding.

The Apollo 52V models and the INOKIM Ox Super are the next best options on paper when it comes to mileage. But again, this is caveated. For one, those Apollo Pro 52V variants have been phased out (and replaced with the vastly improved Phantom model), which means that they’re hard to come by. The Ox Super is a bit easier to get your hands on, but – because of its single 800W motor – it lacks a zippy acceleration rate, and feels sluggish when compared to the Mantis Pro SE.

In my view, the best choice for mileage when it comes to scooters in the Pro SE’s price range is the EVOLV Pro Plus. It boasts a range of 53 miles – a whole 13 miles more than the Mantis Pro SE – and shares the same frame as the Apollo Pro 52V and Zero 10X 52V – which means you can expect high levels of build quality and durability.

It also goes without saying that the VSETT 10+ (20.8 Ah) is another great alternative to both the Mantis Pro SE and EVOLV Pro Plus. It has an almost identical range to the latter, but is superior with a better build and ride quality. Plus, it wins extra points for its stylish design.

The VSETT 10+’s range is also 30% greater than that of the Mantis Pro SE’s – so it’s definitely worth thinking about if mileage is your top priority.

Mileage vs Weight Comparison

Price isn't always the determining factor when it comes to choosing an electric scooter, weight plays a pivotal role too. So, if weight is important to you, this next section details which scooter packs the most mileage for its size.

Applying a 60 to 70 lbs weight range reveals 8 comparable models to the Mantis Pro. But, which offers the longest ride? The results are as follows.

Mantis Pro SE Mileage vs Weight Comparison

Once more, the Speedway 5 hogs the plaudits, but – as I discussed earlier – its design issues but a dampener on its ride quality. Likewise, the INOKIM Ox Super’s single motor (and corresponding weaknesses in terms of speed and acceleration) makes it a less well-rounded selection than the Mantis Pro SE.

Easing our way further down the list, we have the Dualtron Eagle Pro. While this scooter closely mirrors the Mantis Pro SE’s quick acceleration and top speeds, it too suffers from blueprint blunders. Unlike the SE, the Eagle Pro lacks hydraulic brakes, which, for a scooter of its price point and caliber, should come as standard. It also doesn’t have a kickplate which makes it difficult to lean into long-range rides at fast speeds.

Similarly, the Dualtron Compact – despite being a good scooter overall, has solid rubber tires which counteract its suspension system and make it less comfortable to ride.

All of this leaves me with one conclusion: that the Mantis Pro is the best two-wheeled choice in this weight bracket if mileage is your main concern.

Further Information:

Long Range Electric Scooters

Hill Climbing

Like the original Mantis Pro, the SE version can climb hills up to a 30-degree incline, which makes it one of the best in its class.

Close up of the Mantis Pro SE Rear Air-Filled Tire

As far as similar scooters are concerned, the only scooter that performs better for hill climbing is the VSETT 10+ (20.8Ah). Thanks to its pair of souped-up motors, the 10+ tops the Mantis Pro SE for hill-climbing where it can scale absurd 35-degree inclines.

Shock Absorption / Suspension

Like the original Mantis Pro, the ‘Special Edition’ boasts dual front and rear springs. The SE’s brawny, tightly-packed red coils are fully adjustable, too, meaning you can set the pre-load to fit your body weight, and enjoy an exquisitely comfortable, buttery-smooth ride, no matter what terrain you’re taking on.

Mantis Pro SE Spring Supension

The pneumatic tires help here, too. The air inside them helps cushion against bumps and rough patches of less even terrain. This is another reason why I recommend the Pro SE – or, for that matter, the original – over a scooter with solid tires, such as the Dualtron Compact.

Braking

The Mantis Pro SE draws its superlative stopping power from fully hydraulic, hand-operated Zoom disc brakes.

Before we explore the braking setup in more detail, I’d like to offer some perspective in terms of what else is out there. It’s worth noting that the vast majority of scooters in the Pro SE’s pricing bracket are equipped with dual disc brakes. However, around a third (31%) of models sport superior hydraulic disc brakes. Fortunately, the Mantis Pro SE is one of them.

Mantis Pro SE Zoom Hydraulic Disc Brake

I say it’s fortunate because, in my oh so humble opinion, hydraulics are the best kind of brakes you can buy. This is especially the case when they’re fully hydraulic (as the brakes of the Mantis Pro and Pro SE are), rather than merely semi hydraulic (as the Mantis Base’s braking setup is).

Really, then, there are no complaints here. Not only are the Pro SE’s brakes highly responsive, bringing you to a complete stop within just 3 meters from 15 mph, which is very good, they even rival the stopping power of the Pro SE’s big bro and powerhouse that is the Wolf King.

There are also no discernible differences between the stopping power of the SE and all of the scooters that I recommend as alternatives.

Mantis Pro SE Hand Operated Brake

To top off the already impressive braking setup, Pro SE sports a regenerative braking system that helps preserve your scooter’s battery life, and assists its hydraulics in helping you come to a safer stop. There’s also an ABS (anti-lock braking system) in the mix that stops your wheels from locking up when you engage the brakes. This prevents skidding and reduces the risk of losing control as a result of rapid or emergency braking.

With the ABS function engaged, you’ll feel a vibrating and shuddering feeling when you pull aggressively on the brakes. I like having ABS engaged but you can easily toggle it on or off by heading to the P-settings in the scooter’s EY3 display if you don’t like how it feels.

Charge Time

The Mantis Pro SE takes just over 12 hours to reach full charge. This is less than the 16 hours the original Mantis Pro requires to get fully juiced up, owing to the SE’s slightly smaller battery.

With a fast charger, this window of inactivity is driven down to as little as between 4 and 5 hours. You can pick up a 60V fast charger for $139.

Extra Features

EY3 MiniMotors Display & Throttle For Customized Performance Configuration

Doubling as both a finger throttle and smart display, you’ll find the EY3 console to the right side of the handlebars. This luminescent LED screen – which is ringed in a frame of reinforced black plastic – is easy to read, even in conditions of low visibility. It provides at a glance insights into your battery life, speed, current and total ride time, as well as your riding mode.

The EY3 display – a result of years of innovation in the labs of MiniMotors, who are the brand behind the high-performance Dualtron and Speedway lines – also takes the crown as one of the most customizable finger throttle display consoles.

Mantis Pro SE QS-S4 Display and Motor Selection Buttons

You can use it to activate cruise control, for example, as well as disable or enable the ABS (anti-lock braking system) setting. Better still, you can adjust the amount of torque you want your double motors to put out, which affords you a greater degree of control over your acceleration rate. And, you can customize the strength of the regenerative brakes.

Moreover, the EY3 display sports an abundance of settings designed to extend the scooter’s battery life, and ensure that you’re cresting that maximum 40 mile’s worth of range every time you take to the streets. On top of this, you can tinker with the level of the EY3 display’s brightness, select the scooter’s auto-timer off settings, and tweak its battery saver mode to be on or off.

New and Improved Single/Dual and Eco/Turbo Buttons

Located just below the EY3 display are the new and improved Single/Dual and Eco/Turbo buttons.

Why new and improved, you ask? Well, the SE’s vertically stacked black buttons – aside from being waterproof – replace the cheap, gimmicky-looking red and yellow buttons you’ll find on the SE’s predecessors.

Mantis Pro SE Motor Selection Buttons

The button on top, which reads “Eco/Turbo”, enables you to switch between the scooter’s two riding modes and regulate the amount of power you’re channeling.

‘Eco’ mode – which reduces the top speed and torque -makes for a more sedate experience, and is necessary if you want to exploit the upper echelons of the 40-mile range.

Conversely, riding in ‘Turbo’ mode turns the dial for torque and acceleration up to the max, allowing you to take advantage of its lightning-quick acceleration rate. But be warned – riding in ‘Turbo’ mode will significantly reduce the maximum mileage by around 35-40%. In the case of the SE, this equates to a maximum mileage of around 25 miles.

Right Side of Mantis Pro SE Handlebars

The button below – named “Single/Dual” – is your way of toggling how many of your motors you wish to engage.

Engaging both motors, predictably, will score you the maximum capabilities when it comes to speed, power, and acceleration. On the other hand, single motor rides will help conserve your battery and let you hit the top threshold of its range in exchange for a much slower top speed and more restrained riding experience.

If I had one gripe in regards to these buttons, it would be that they don’t make it all that easy to see which riding mode you’re in, or how many motors you’re engaging at any given time. For this info, you need to become more familiar with how the scooter feels to ride. Before you know it, it’ll become second nature.

Further Information:

Best Dual Motor Electric Scooters

Mood Deck LEDs and Button Lights

Though it adds some jazz to the color scheme, the Mantis Pro SE keeps a lot of the visual style of the original Pro – and that includes its lighting setup.

Side Profile of Mantis Pro SE

The SE sports a set of deck-embedded front and rear button lights, which – though they certainly look cool – don’t offer all that much when it comes to illuminating the road ahead of you. That’s mainly down to how close they are to the ground, and that they appear to have been designed more with intention of boosting the scooter’s style credentials, rather than its visibility.

Mantis Pro SE Rear Tail Light

In a similar vein, the Mantis Pro SE lacks a headlight. This is a little annoying – particularly if you’re planning to ride at night – because it means the scooter simply isn’t equipped to handle low-visibility conditions. What makes it doubly frustrating, though, is that Kaabo had the chance to add in a headlight as part of the SE’s new and improved design, but (evidently) forgot.

All that said, I can’t be too harsh on the lighting setup, because I haven’t even got to the good part yet – the strip of blue LED mood lights that run the length of the scooter’s deck.

Mantis Pro SE Bright Blue Deck Lights

Much like the impressive swag lighting we’ve seen over the years – on scooters as diverse as the Segway Ninebot Air T15 and Apollo Explore, all the way to the Dualtron Thunder and NAMI Burn-ethe LED strip puts an extra stamp of style on what’s already a very easy on the eye scooter. I love it.

Mantis Pro SE Deck Lights Illuminating the Ground Below

Effective Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

Similar to cruise control, ABS technology is quite common across most electric scooters of the SE’s ilk. I won’t go into too many details here, but essentially what it does is stop your wheels from locking up when you brake too suddenly.

It’s primarily a safety feature that’s designed to aid the hydraulic brakes to bring you to a safer stop.

The Mantis Pro SE’s ABS, however, is very strong – so it won’t be for everyone. ABS technology has gained some notoriety for the shuddering sensation it causes when it kicks in. While this isn’t the most disruptive feeling – and probably won’t be an issue for most riders – it might be uncomfortable for some.

Not to worry, though – you can switch the ABS off in the P-settings, which are accessible from the EY3 display.

Reinforced Stem and Stronger Bolt

As many others have noted, one of the key setbacks of the original Mantis Pro was stem wobble.

Fortunately, the Pro SE fixes its predecessor’s issue, with a reinforced stem and stronger bolt adding more security and stability to the ride.

Mantis Pro SE Reinforced Stem and Stem Bolt Locking Mechanism

Motor Depth is Slightly Thicker and Bolt Length Longer (Approx. 4 mm) to Prevent Bolts From Shearing

To further improve the durability of the SE over the original Pro, the depth of the motors has been increased by around 4 mm, as have the supporting bolts.

While these small changes may, at first, seem trivial, they’re important improvements to the scooter’s design and build quality. One of the issues with the Mantis Pro was bolt shearing on the motor hub, but by increasing the motor’s depth, along with the length of the bolts, shearing isn’t anything you’ll have to worry about with the Pro SE.

Mantis Pro SE Rear Motor Hub

Cruise Control

Heading to setting P6 on the EY3 display will activate the cruise control feature. First, you’ll need to be riding at a constant speed that you wish to maintain. Then, when the cruise control function automatically kicks in, you can take your finger off the throttle and enjoy gliding along.

While cruise control is a baseline expectation when it comes to scooters – especially those with the pedigree and profile of the Pro SE – it’s still important to remember that it's there. After all, keeping the finger throttle pulled down for a long ride can be uncomfortable.

Specification: Mantis Pro SE Review

Brand
Brand

Kaabo

Type
Terrain

Off-Road, Street

Design
Portability

Folding Frame

Weight (lbs)

65

Rider Weight (lbs)

330

Tire Size (inches)

10

Tire Type

Pneumatic (Inner-Tube)

Performance
Top Speed (mph)

40

Max Range (miles)

40

Charge Time (hours)

12

Suspension Type

Front & Rear

Brake Type

Disc (Full-Hydraulic), Regenerative

Extra Features
Extra Features

Cruise Control, Lights, Dual Motors

Specification
Max Incline (degrees)

30

Water Resistance Rating

None

Warranty & Post-Purchase Support

Warranty

Unlike the Mantis Pro and Base – which are sold through FluidFreeRide – the Mantis Pro SE is available exclusively via Voro Motors.

That means that, in contrast to the six-month warranty FluidFreeRide supplies with the Base and Pro models, the Mantis Pro SE comes with a full one-year warranty that covers manufacturer defects.

That’s the good news – but here’s the fine print:

  • There’s a maximum 10,000 mile usage limitation – ride more than that, and your warranty will no longer be valid.
  • Any unauthorized modifications you make will void the warranty, as will any weather or environment-related damage.
  • As you’ll find with pretty much every electric scooter warranty under the sun, wear and tear isn’t included. Here, we’re talking surface defects, rips, or any other superficial damage incurred.
  • Damage caused by the application of improper chemicals or solvents to your scooter will void the warranty.
  • Natural corrosion of your scooter’s nuts and bolts isn’t covered.
  • Any issues that arise from negligence will not be covered.
  • Labor and shipping fees aren’t covered.

Despite the Pro SE’s new and improved design, it still doesn’t have a water resistance rating. And, even if it did, the relatively strict stipulations above suggest that you’re better off avoiding the rain.

Post-Purchase Support

First things first, the Mantis Pro SE comes with 24/7 dedicated customer support in the form of live chat on the Voro Motors’ website. For phone inquiries, you can get in touch with the customer care team via (1) 323-709-7329 between 9 am and 6 pm PST, Monday to Friday.

For email-based support, try the team on support@voromotors.com for a guaranteed response within 1 business day.

Quality control is also a top priority for Voro Motors, with the team checking every scooter before shipment. The company stocks all parts and accessories for the Pro SE, too, meaning it’s easy to maintain your scooter.

Plus, to top things off, Voro Motors go the extra mile by providing a dedicated support center that’s tailored for Pro SE. There, you’ll find a whole range of guides, videos, and tutorials for helping you set up and maintain the Pro SE. You can even learn how to attach and assemble a steering damper, change the brake pads, and refill the brake fluid – plus a whole lot more: from the routine stuff to the uber-technical.

Specification: Mantis Pro SE Review

Brand
Brand

Kaabo

Type
Terrain

Off-Road, Street

Design
Portability

Folding Frame

Weight (lbs)

65

Rider Weight (lbs)

330

Tire Size (inches)

10

Tire Type

Pneumatic (Inner-Tube)

Performance
Top Speed (mph)

40

Max Range (miles)

40

Charge Time (hours)

12

Suspension Type

Front & Rear

Brake Type

Disc (Full-Hydraulic), Regenerative

Extra Features
Extra Features

Cruise Control, Lights, Dual Motors

Specification
Max Incline (degrees)

30

Water Resistance Rating

None

Mantis Pro SE Review
Mantis Pro SE Review

$1,595.00

How We Conduct & Support Our Electric Scooter Research:

To support our rigorous scooter review and editorial process, we rely on affiliate commissions. These are at no cost to you.

 

If you read our guides and reviews, find a scooter that you like, and click through to the retailer then we may earn a commission. We only earn a commission if you purchase a scooter and are happy with it. If you decide that you don’t like it and return it, we don’t earn a commission.

 

Our work is independent and impartial. Retailers and manufacturers do not influence our reviews. This is extremely important to us as our mission is to help you find your perfect scooter.

 

Read more about our four core values, the scooter review process, editorial policy, and how Electric Scooter Insider is supported.

Electric Scooter Insider
Logo