- 7% VSETT 8 Full Frame
VSETT 8 Front Air-Filled Tires and Drum Brake VSETT 8 Kickplate & Rear Tire VSETT 8 NFC Lock Immobilizer VSETT 8 Folded Handlebars

VSETT 8 Review

$699.00

8/10 (Expert Score)

DATE

May 19, 2021

Price When Reviewed: $899.00

As the most affordable model in the VSETT range, the 8 offers a perfect combination of a scooter that’s as easy on the eye as it is on your budget, with the performance to match.

 

For the price and power on offer, you won’t get much better speed, range, and hill-climbing than what the 8 delivers.

 

Its stack of neat features – which includes an NFC key lock immobilizer, adjustable suspension, and telescopic stem – is a bonus to its alluring, army-issue color scheme that will appeal to a wide array of riders.

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Who is it Best For?

Will the VSETT 8 Be a Good Fit For You?

Similar to the VSETT 8R – with which it shares the vast majority of its capabilities – the 8 can be classified as somewhere between an advanced entry-level scooter and a basic performance scooter.

It has significantly more speed, range, and features than the likes of Segway-Ninebot, Turboant, GoTrax, and Hiboy’s more conventional scooters. But, unlike the VSETT 10+R and 11+ (the brand’s top performers), it doesn’t come close to the scope and specs in the high-performance category.

VSETT 8 Frame

The VSETT 8 will suit riders who aren’t yet experienced enough for the Dualtrons and Wolfs of this world, but who don’t want to cut their teeth on a sedate commuter scooter, either. Because of its adjustable handlebar height, the 8 is also ideal for riders of all heights to get accustomed to riding scooters.

Because the 8 is geared more towards urban, rather than off-road environments, it’s also a good fit for those who prefer to stay within the confines of the city. That said, it’s not (by my definition, at least) a commuter scooter.

Pros and Cons

PROS:

  • Great value for money
  • Excellent hill climbing and acceleration rate for the price
  • Good range
  • Telescopic stem makes it ideal for riders of all heights
  • Foldable handlebars
  • IP54 water-resistance rating
  • Adjustable spring suspension
  • NFC key-lock immobilizer

CONS:

  • Solid (rather than pneumatic) rear tire
  • Lacks a headlight

Value for Money

Is the Price Tag Worth it?

I’ll get straight to the point – the VSETT 8 is worth every cent of its $899 price tag.

The 8 is objectively a good scooter. It’s quick, adept at climbing hills, and is not only the lightest but also the cheapest model in the VSETT range. It’s when you start comparing it to other scooters of a similar weight and price that you start to see how much of a bargain the 8 is.

Rear View of VSETT 8

Compared to 25 similarly-priced models, it’s the second-fastest. It also ranks in the top 5 for maximum mileage. Elsewhere, its incline-tackling capacities are the best for the price and power on offer, while the 8’s dual mechanical braking setup is better than 80% of the closest competition.

Bargain hunters will also note that for $400 less than the 8’s big brother – the 8R – you get pretty much the same scooter. The 8 looks the same, rides the same, and does everything its big bro can but for a sliver of the price. You will have to sacrifice 12 miles of range, though.

Further Information:

Best Cheap Electric Scooters

Alternatives

What Other Scooters Should You Consider?

VSETT 9+ (15.6Ah)

Why is it Better Than the VSETT 8?

Why is it Worse Than the VSETT 8?

Price:

VSETT 8 (19.2Ah)

Why is it Better Than the VSETT 8?

Why is it Worse Than the VSETT 8?

Price:

Apollo City

Why is it Better Than the VSETT 8?

Why is it Worse Than the VSETT 8?

Price:

Design

Handlebars

Measuring up at 24 inches, the handlebars are some of the widest in their class, outsizing those on similarly-priced models, such as the Apollo City and Horizon 13. This is great news, because wide handlebars afford more control over the scooter’s handling, and add to the ride’s overall comfort and experience.

The handlebars are also home to the QS-S4 display, which is where you’ll view your speed, riding mode, and trip distance insights – and which doubles as a finger throttle. Located just underneath this are the battery voltage meter and NFC immobilizer, while, on either side of the handlebars are the hand-operated drum brakes which are well within squeezing range.

VSETT 8 QS-S4 Display

Unlike several of the top-performing models in the world of performance scooters, the handlebars fold. It’s a nice touch and not one we see on all scooters in the 8’s class. Disappointingly, however, the handlebars are the only ones in the VSETT range that don’t sport a suave ergonomic design. The straight handlebars have their upside, though – they sit better against the scooter when folded for a more compact package.

Considering the 8 (15.6Ah), 8 (19.2Ah), and 8R are the only models in the VSETT line to boast a telescopic stem, I’m willing to give them a pass. With this feature, you can adjust the height of your handlebars from anywhere between 29.5 and 40 inches.

Frame

In my review of the 8R, I draw comparisons between the scooter’s steely khaki aesthetic and the armor of ‘Master Chief’, the central character of the Halo video game series.

Since the 8R and 8 are doppelgangers, I can say the same for this scooter. But, for those unfamiliar with sci-fi multimedia franchises from the 2000s, let me simply say this: Master Chief is a badass, and so is this scooter.

With its army-issue color scheme contrasting palpably with the palette of later VSETT scooters (which experiment with red, yellow, blue, and an in-your-face bubblegum teal), the 8 channels a mechanistic, militaristic look and feel, that suits its performance and specs. Its clean lines and the bunched, exposed cord sticking out of the top and base of its stem also lend it an industrial quality that oozes toughness.

Side Profile of VSETT 8 Frame

Yet, for all its commitment to looking dark and brooding, the 8 isn’t completely immune to little touches of class. The strip of LED light running the length of its stem hearkens back to the finest eye-popping qualities of the Segway-Ninebot Air T15, as well as the aesthetic of the Zero 9. Yet, unlike those scooters, the 8 doesn’t just look the part – it steals the show.

Deck

Like its handlebars, the VSETT 8’s deck is long, wide, and built to facilitate an enjoyable, secure riding experience.

Sizing up at 26.5 inches long and 8 inches wide, there’s easily enough room for even the tallest riders to stand comfortably. On top of this, the kick plate – which is located at the rear of the deck – adds 5 inches of foot room.

By placing your back foot on the kickplate, you can lean your body weight forward into the ride, making you both more balanced and more aerodynamic when pushing the 8’s top speeds.

VSETT 8 Deck and Kickplate

I have just a couple of gripes about the 8’s deck. Unlike VSETT’s later models – which utilize a silicone covering – it is coated with a pair of sparse columns of grip tape alone. As a general rule, I prefer silicone: it offers more traction and is much easier to clean.

Don’t get me wrong – grip tape is fine. It’s just that if a scooter’s going to choose it over silicone or rubberized surface, I at least want the whole deck to be covered (as it is on the Varla Eagle One). The two strips of grip tape alone do a passable job when it comes to grip, though.

Wheels

Not all wheels are created equal, and this is so with the VSETT 8’s pair.

Its front wheel is pneumatic – my preferred choice of tire – while the rear is a less favorable solid rubber. The reason I prefer pneumatic (or air-filled) tires over their solid counterpart is that the former offer so much more when it comes to shock absorption. Because they’re free from a rubber or foam filling, they’re better at soaking up impacts caused by rough terrain.

VSETT 8 Kickplate & Rear Tire

Solid tires have their advantages, though. They don’t pick up punctures, for one, and typically drive a scooter’s price point down.

The rear solid tire, at 8 x 2 inches, is smaller than its front pneumatic partner, which measures up at 8.5 x 3 inches. Neither are the widest I’ve seen, but they fit the frame of the scooter’s slim size to a tee and still provide enough of a contact patch with the road to offer up a smooth, stable ride.

Build Quality & Durability

The VSETT 8 may not be as fast, featureful, or flamboyant as some of VSETT’s more premium models, but it’s a fraction of the price… and made of the same stuff.

For starters, the 8’s frame is composed of an aviation-grade aluminum forging alloy called 6082-T6. It’s the same stuff bridges, cranes, trusses, milk churns, and even beer barrels are made of and is designed specifically to withstand high-stress environments.

The 8’s shaft has been constructed from a carbon chromium alloy steel called SCM400. This type of material has the advantages of high steel purity, a strong composition, and minimal surface defects – it’s as durable as can be.

VSETT 8 Full Frame

For the more superficial components of the VSETT 8’s build – such as the handlebar grips and fenders – a mix of rubber and reinforced plastic has been employed.

When it comes to the suspension, polyurethane bushings have been used to balance the front and rear coil spring’s performance, durability, and comfort.

The 8’s telescopic stem is another great value add from VSETT’s engineers, and – along with that of the 8R’s – is unheard of on all other scooters in the VSETT range.

Weight & Load

The VSETT 8 weighs in at 46 lbs, which – while by no means heavy in the world of scooters – isn’t all that light, either. It’s 4 lbs beyond the maximum weight I recommend for commuter scooters making it just a little bit too bulky to carry for long stints without breaking a sweat.

VSETT 8 Folded Handlebars

In line with the majority of the VSETT range – including all 8, 9, and 9+ models – the 8 can support a rider load of up to 265 lbs.

For the cost, it’s fair to say the 8 is punching above its weight here. After all, the only similarly-priced scooter to truly rival this level of load-bearing capacity is the heavy-lifting EMOVE Touring which can support up to 330 lbs (but that scooter is slower than the 8, and offers less mileage).

Folding & Portability

As just mentioned, the VSETT 8 is a little too heavy to be a conventional commuter scooter, but it still collapses down into a neat package.

Collapsing the 8 in half at the neck shrinks its height to just 15 inches – less than a third of its maximum unfolded height (48 inches). Needless to say, it’s ideal when it comes to tucking it away in the trunk of your car to take on vacation, or slotting it neatly out of sight in the utility closet when at home.

VSETT 8 Folded

The foldable handlebars and telescopic stem also aid in its compact folded form, reducing it to just 37 inches in length which puts it in the same class as the smallest folded dimensions of ultra-portable scooters like the INOKIM Light 2 (it’s just a shame the 8 isn’t as light as these scooters).

Assembly

The VSETT 8 comes fully assembled, with the DIY section consisting of tightening the scooter controls (brakes, display, etc) to the handlebars. A multitool is included.

Before you set out on your inaugural ride, it’s worth familiarizing yourself with the QS-S4 display, and its range of settings. Make sure you know how to fold and unfold the stem and handlebars, and that they’re the correct height for your posture (if you’re leaning over too much, they’re too low). Charge your scooter in full – you don’t want to be kicking it home – and check the air pressure of the front pneumatic tire, too.

As always, if you’re heading out at night, it doesn’t hurt to strap on some additional lights for visibility. The 8’s LED strip and front and rear lights aren’t sufficient on their own, so kitting yourself out with some extra illumination is vital.

Ride Quality

Is the VSETT 8 Comfortable to Ride?

With a pair of coil-springs and swingarms, the VSETT 8 offers almost everything you need to enjoy a smooth-sailing ride experience.

The springs are adjustable, so you can be comfortable no matter how treacherous the terrain is. Tighten them for high-speed roads over well-maintained routes and loosen them for rougher urban terrain. Plus, the deck and handlebars both ofter plenty of width. This improves your handling when it comes to accelerating and turning corners, while the deck’s kick plate helps you lean into the ride for maximum comfort and traction.

VSETT 8 Durable Frame

Sure, it would be nice to see that rear solid tire replaced with one of the air-filled variety, which would deliver more dampening when it comes to navigating less even ground. The straight handlebars could benefit from employing the curved, ergonomic shape of those on VSETT’s more premium models as well.

But all this is relative. For the price you pay, you won’t get a more comfortable ride.

Performance & Safety

Speed & Acceleration

The VSETT 8 can reach top speeds of up to 26 mph. We already know this is identical to the maximum velocity of the scooter’s two big brothers, the 8 (19.2Ah) and 8R.

But, when we bring the variables of price and weight into the equation, how does the VSETT 8 compare to the wealth of similar scooters on the market? Let’s take a look.

Speed vs Price Comparison

Drawing up a $500 price range – with the VSETT 8’s $899 in the middle – the scooter emerges as the second fastest out of 25 comparable models. The 8 narrowly beats the 25 mph top speed of both the Apollo City and Horizon 13, as well as a bunch of other models, while just falling short of the Speedway Leger’s 28 mph limit.

VSETT 8 (15.6Ah) Speed vs Price Comparison Chart

Meandering its way along at the wrong end of the rankings is the much-maligned Segway-Ninebot Air T15. With a top speed of a snooze-inducing 12.4 mph, it may look cool but it’s the slowest scooter you can buy for a similar price as the VSETT 8.

Speed 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 punch for its size.

Having established the VSETT 8 is among the quickest scooters in its price range, how does its pace weigh in against competitors of a comparable mass?

VSETT 8 (15.6Ah) Speed vs Weight Comparison Chart

The answer is not bad, but not that impressively, either. When we take the weight range of 41 – 51 lbs (with the 8’s 46 lb bulk in the middle), the scooter’s top 26 mph speed places it in the mid-ground.

For the best speed to weight ratio in the 8’s ballpark, riders hungry for a scooter that packs a punch need look no further than the excellent Dualtron Spider. With a top speed of 37 mph, the Dualtron Spider comes out on top and is 42% faster than the VSETT 8, but you’ll have to pay for it. The Spider is 2.5 times more expensive than the 8 ($2,450 vs $899).

The scooter that picks up the unwanted accolade of the worst performer in this category goes to the Segway-Ninebot Max with a measly 18.6 mph. The VSETT 8 is 49% more powerful than the Max.

Acceleration

In my review of the VSETT 8R, I criticized its acceleration rate. This is because – owing largely to its single motor– it’s unable to generate as much torque and speed from a standing position as the bulk of its competitors, some of which boast dual motors.

But my harsh critique of the 8R was also down to its higher price point (it’s $400 more expensive than the 8). Because it’s more expensive, it naturally got compared with better models than its younger brother.

As basically the same scooter when it comes to the majority of features and specs, the VSETT 8’s acceleration rate isn’t amazing, either. However, unlike the 8R, the 8 benefits from a comparison with cheaper models as a result of its lower price.

Remember, the 8 and 8R models have an identical acceleration rate. Though the 8R may contain a bigger battery, that doesn’t deliver any better speed or acceleration – just longer range. This is because, despite the size differences, both motors and batteries share the same voltage, and therefore have equal power. As a general rule of thumb, higher amp-hours (Ah) provides more mileage, while higher voltage equates to more power.

Looking at similarly-priced scooters, the VSETT 8 acceleration is a close match to the 0-15 mph 4.1 seconds of the Apollo City, as well as the EMOVE Touring, and Zero 9. The scooter with the fastest acceleration in the same price class as the VSETT 8 is the WideWheel Dual which can hit 0-15 mph in just 2.9 seconds thanks to its dual 500W motors.

Taking a look at the acceleration rate against the scooters I recommend as alternatives, the VSETT 8 (19.2Ah) shares the same power and acceleration so there’s no advantage here (aside from a longer range). However, if you can afford to push the boat out a little further, I recommend checking out the VSETT 9+ (15.6Ah). This scooter sports dual 650W motors that are capable of propelling you to 15 mph from a standstill in just 2.7 seconds. You’ll also benefit from a faster top speed (33 mph) and a similar range (28 miles).

Range

The VSETT 8 is capable of a maximum range of 30 miles.

While this pales in comparison to the 42 mile range of the VSETT 8R (as almost all scooters of the 8’s ilk do), let’s dig deeper, and see how the 8’s mileage compares to its nearest competitors on the metrics of both price and weight.

Mileage vs Price Comparison

Out of a comparable 25 models (that’s all scooters within $250 on either side of the 8’s $899 price), the 30 mile range places it in the top 24% joint with the Speedway Leger. It’s topped by the likes of the mile-munching GoTrax GMAX (45 miles) and the Segway Ninebot-Max (40 miles). However, both of these scooters lack suspension, meaning their ride quality is inferior to that of the VSETT 8. With this in mind, the best option is the VSETT 8 (15.6Ah).

VSETT 8 (15.6Ah) Mileage vs Price Comparison Chart

The worst scooter in this mileage to price comparison is the Segway Ninebot Air T15, which is capable of a pitiful 9.3 miles.

Mileage vs Weight Comparison

As with the speed to 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 scooters pack the most punch for their size.

Looking at the VSETT 8 alongside 16 other models that sit within its 41 – 51 lbs bracket, the 8 once again finishes amongst the middle of the pack.

VSETT 8 (15.6Ah) Mileage vs Weight Comparison Chart

With a range of 30 miles, the 8 is on a par with the Speedway Leger and Mantis 8 Base. Laying claim to the best range in the VSETT 8’s weight bracket is the INOKIM Quick 4 Super with 43 miles. But yet again, there’s a caveat. Because the Quick 4 lacks suspension, the VSETT 8R is the better scooter for staying comfortable on long rides – as is the VSETT 8 (19.2Ah).

The loser among the 16 comparable models is the WideWheel Single with half of the 8’s 30 miles (15 miles in total).

Further Information:

Long Range Electric Scooters

Hill Climbing

Like its big brothers, the VSETT 8 (19.2Ah) and 8R – with which it shares the same voltage, and therefore speed and acceleration – the VSETT 8 can climb hills of up to 18 degrees.

That may not seem like much, particularly given the incredible slope-smashing capabilities of performance scooters. But looks can be deceiving because the VSETT 8 is one the best hill climbers for the price and power on offer.

Technically, the WideWheel Dual, with its dual 500W motors, is the best hill climbing scooter in the VSETT 8’s price range. However, this model is outdated. Since its release in 2019, an updated version hit the market in 2020 – known as the WideWheel Pro.

If being able to tackle larger inclines is a top priority for you, there’s better value elsewhere in the VSETT lineup. The 9+ (15.6Ah), 9+ (19.2Ah), or 9+R, for instance, are more powerful and reliable options. All three models can scale slopes of 25 degrees.

Hill climbing capabilities, however, aren’t free, and to benefit from the VSETT 9+’s prowess you’ll have to spend extra (between $325 and $725, depending on the model).

Shock Absorption / Suspension

I’ll cut to the chase, the VSETT 8 has the best suspension in its price class.

It is the only scooter to boast swingarm suspension (alongside the 8 19.2Ah, of course) – this makes all the difference to the amount of travel the tried-and-tested front and rear polyurethane coil springs deliver.

VSETT 8 Front Tire and Swingarm Suspension

With a pair of adjustable springs that are well-equipped to soak up the worst of what uncertain terrain can throw at you, you can be confident of a buttery-smooth ride across urban terrain.

Adding to the VSETT 8’s overall shock absorptive capabilities is its front pneumatic tire, which – being air-filled – offers more insulation from the ground than its rear solid counterpart.

Of course, there’s no avoiding the fact that the 8’s suspension pales in comparison to the terrain-trouncing hydraulic setups of VSETT’s later models, such as the 10+R and 11+. But it’s worth remembering that those scooters will cost you around three times as much as the 8 will, and – against that canvas, at least – the 8’s suspension offers some serious value.

Braking

The VSETT 8 obtains its considerable stopping power from a pair of mechanical drum brakes.

This endows it with an average stopping that is on a par with the likes of the Apollo City and the Zero 9 – both of which have rear drum and front disc brakes capable of an average stopping distance of 3.2 meters from 15 mph.

At first glance, this may seem a little lackluster – particularly considering that drum brakes don’t possess the same caliber of braking performance as those of the disc or hydraulic variety. But look at the 8 in relation to similarly-priced scooters, and the picture starts to change.

Of all the scooters in the VSETT 8’s price range, 80% lack dual mechanical brakes. That means they rely either on a single mechanical brake (usually on the back wheel, as is the case with the Horizon 13), or an electronic braking system (which the VSETT 8 also has).

VSETT 8 Front Air-Filled Tires and Drum Brake

The VSETT 8 is never going to sport the superlative stopping power of its oldest brothers (the 10+R and 11+), which rely on hydraulic disc brakes. But, for the price, the 8 has some of the best brakes around.

What’s more, the 8’s dual braking setup isn’t just relatively unique among its class – it’s also super low maintenance. The brakes require surprisingly little attention, although you may want to toggle the strength of the regenerative braking system (which is more or less a standard feature among electric scooters). You can do this by heading to setting P11 on your QS-S4 display.

My only recommendation for VSETT to improve the brakes would be to encase the brake wires. For instance, the brake wire for the rear drum is positioned outside of the swingarm, meaning it is more susceptible to damage.

Charge Time

Like the rest of the VSETT range, the 8 has a pair of charge ports, which you’ll find located at the top left of the deck, adjacent to the base of the scooter’s folding plate.

When you utilize a single charger, the 8’s 15.6Ah battery can reach a full charge in around 11 hours. Plugging in a second charger cuts that turnaround time in half, and means you can be back out on the asphalt in just 5.5 hours.

The 8 comes with a single charger as standard. With this in mind, I’d recommend shelling out the extra $62 it costs for a second charger.

Extra Features

QS-S4 Display & Throttle for Customized Performance Configuration

If the VSETT 8’s 48V 600W motor is the scooter’s brawn, then its QS-S4 display is the brains. This dynamic device is positioned just above the right side of the handlebars for easy visual access and also doubles as the scooter’s finger-throttle. It may be small, but don’t let its size fool you, because the QS-S4 has an admirable arsenal of capabilities.

VSETT 8 QS-S4 Display

For one, it’s where you’ll view live insights into your scooter’s speed, ride time, ride mode, total and trip mileage, and battery life. It’s chunky, backlit, and luminescent (for when natural light is low), and even has a USB port for recharging your phone or other devices while riding.

For all the convenience this offers, plugging your phone into your VSETT 8’s QS-S4 display isn’t advisable. It’ll drain your battery, for one, and shorten the length of the range that the scooter is capable of. I’ve also heard reports that using the port to charge accessories can result in the unit becoming fried – so plug in at your peril.

If you’re the kind of scooter owner that enjoys getting to grips with every nook and cranny of your new machine’s capabilities, then you’ll love learning the ins and outs of the QS-S4’s functions. You can toggle the strength of the regenerative braking and acceleration speed, personalize the brightness of the display, and conserve the battery by configuring its auto-turn-off settings to your liking.

The serious scooter stalwarts out there will know that the QS-S4 isn’t as customizable or feature-rich as the smart EY3 display showcased on the Wolf Warrior, Wolf King, and all of Dualtron’s finest high-performance models. However, the QS-S4 does have user-friendliness and visual appeal on its side. And, with brands as far and wide as Apollo, Kaabo, Varla, Zero, and EVOLV all equipping their scooters with the QS-S4, it comes with some seriously strong backing, too.

Battery Voltage Display

Sandwiched conveniently between the QS-S4 display and its NFC key-lock immobilizer is the scooter’s battery voltage display.

VSETT 8 Battery Voltage and NFC Reader

Its role is to support the 8’s display screen in letting you know just how much juice your scooter’s battery has left. Having just one responsibility, the battery voltage meter is far less multi-functional than the QS-S4 display. But at the job it’s built for, the meter is capable of far superior levels of detail and accuracy than the QS-S4 display’s more basic battery bar visualization.

Cruise Control

While the 8 doesn’t have the longest range on the market – particularly not compared to the far greater 42 miles of the 8R – it’s still easy for your index finger to get tired when keeping the throttle pulled down while riding.

That’s why the VSETT 8’s cruise control – a feature that’s by now more of an expectation than a bonus on scooters – will come in handy. To activate it, head to setting P-17 on your QS-S4 display.

Once engaged, it’ll maintain a constant speed over long distances, without troubling the already overburdened muscles in your hand.

NFC Key-Lock Immobilizer (Anti-Theft Function)

With a key-lock immobilizer powered by NFC (near-field communication) technology – the same thing that powers tap and go credit cards – the 8 does a lot to deter would-be thieves.

VSETT 8 NFC Lock Immobilizer

To unlock your VSETT 8, you’ll just need to wave the scooter’s card in front of the NFC reader. It’s located just under the battery voltage meter to the right side of the handlebars and is marked with the familiar triple semicircle design that typically indicates contactless devices.

There’s no key lock – which, if the thief is dedicated enough, can be picked – while the lack of a more advanced fingerprint or biometric immobilizer allows the 8 to retain its bargain-basement price point.

Plus, the flat card you’ll use to unlock your VSETT 8 can slot easily in your wallet alongside your credit cards. That helps prevent you from accidentally forgetting it when leaving the house in a rush, and means you’re less likely to lose it.

Adjustable Suspension

One hallmark of the VSETT range is its customizability. So it comes as no surprise that the 8 follows suit with fully adjustable swing arm suspension. Both the front and rear shock-absorbing coil springs can be tuned to your liking, to fit the type of terrain you’re traversing.

While the well-paved, predictable roads of the city are where you’ll always get the best results with the 8, its adjustable suspension means that it still offers a moderate amount of versatility on rougher terrain. Simply tighten or loosen the springs to provide either a firmer ride – ideal for zipping across flat asphalt surfaces – or a softer one that’s better for absorbing the ups and downs of compacted dirt trails.

Telescopic Stem for Adjustable Handlebar Height

The 8 is one of just three scooters in the VSETT range (along with the 8 (19.2Ah) and 8R) to boast a telescopic stem.

For anyone immediately visualizing a big, bearded pirate using his one good eye to scope out the sea’s horizon for rival ships, you can be forgiven. But a telescopic stem doesn’t have all that much to do with actual telescopes – and it’s not for spying on people.

VSETT 8 Telescopic Stem

What it means is that you’re able to extend and retract the VSETT 8’s stem – in a similar way to the zoom-in and out functions on a real telescope – to adjust the height of the handlebars to the individual rider. You can customize the stem to a height of between 29.5 and 40 inches, which means it’s suitable for riders of all heights.

When you’ve selected your ideal handlebar height, the stem locks in place via a quick-release clamp.

Foldable Handlebars for Enhanced Portability

While the 8’s handlebars lack the same curved, ergonomic design that makes the later models in the VSETT line so comfortable to ride, their straight shape does lend them one key advantage.

Namely, they collapse down more easily, making the 8 (and, by proxy, the 8 19.2Ah and 8R) the most compact folded scooters in the VSETT series. The shape of the curved handlebars you see on the VSETT 9 and models above don’t quite sit flush against their frames when folded.

VSETT 8 Folded Handlebars

IP54 Water-Resistance Rating

With an IP54 water resistance rating, VSETT 8 is, surprisingly, one of the few scooters of its ilk to boast this certification.

You won’t see an IP rating, for instance, on any of the scooters in the Dualtron lineup, nor INOKIM models.

For the uninitiated, an IP54 water resistance rating means that the 8 is completely splash-proof.

Against this backdrop, you should feel comfortable taking your VSETT 8 for rides in the rain. It’s worth keeping in mind, however, that, should any damage occur as a result of adverse environmental conditions, it won’t be covered under warranty.

VSETT 8 Kickstand

LED Lights & Turn Signals

At its fore, the VSETT 8 sports both front and rear button lights, while a set of turn signals keep other road users aware of your intentions.

More impressive (from an aesthetic point of view, at least) is the scooter’s stem light – a narrow LED strip that runs the vertical length of the steering column. While it certainly looks cool and sets the scooter apart from the majority of the rest of the VSETT line, it’s made for visual – rather than visibility – purposes.

The same can be said for the rest of the 8’s LED setup. While the range of lights on show certainly seems comprehensive, it lacks an all-important headlight. If you’re planning on taking your 8 out after dark, you’ll need to attach an additional headlight.

However, there’s still plenty to admire when it comes to the 8’s eclectic array of LEDs. Its turn signals, for instance, aren’t a common find when it comes to scooters in the 8’s price bracket. What’s more, they manage to escape the blueprint blunder of the turn signals on the VSETT 11+, which – because they’re located on the side of the deck, rather than at the front and back of the scooter – are all but redundant.

Specification: VSETT 8 Review

Brand
Brand

VSETT

Type
Suitable For

Adults

Terrain

Street

Design
Portability

Folding Frame, Folding Handlebars

Weight (lbs)

46

Rider Weight (lbs)

265

Tire Size (inches)

8.5

Tire Type

Pneumatic (Inner-Tube), Solid (Rubber)

Performance
Top Speed (mph)

26

Max Range (miles)

30

Max Incline (%)

32

Charge Time (hours)

11

Suspension Type

Front & Rear

Brake Type

Drum

Extra Features
Extra Features

Cruise Control, Display, Lights, Water Resistance Rating

Warranty & Post-Purchase Support

Warranty

When you buy it through REV Rides – which, as the only authorized distributor of the VSETT line in the U.S. – the 8 comes with a 12-month warranty.

While this guarantee is reasonably generous in and of itself (some scooters come with warranties that last weeks, rather than months or years), it doesn’t cover wear and tear. Plus, peek closer at the fine print and you’ll see that the warranty comes with a few limitations.

Any damage caused by accidents, collisions, or your otherwise neglect or abuse of the VSETT 8 aren’t covered, nor are any issues that arise from unauthorized modifications you may have made to the scooter. Ultimately, if it’s your fault, the warranty won’t cover it.

As it does for the rest of the scooters in the VSETT range, the 8’s warranty also stipulates that labor isn’t included. This means there’s a chance you may face an additional bill for the costs of repair or replacement – even if the damage itself is legitimately covered under the warranty.

And, as I alluded to in the previous section, the warranty doesn’t allow for water damage, along with any faults as a result of wind, fire, or other elemental forces.

Finally, REV Rides – via ‘Extend’, a third-party product protection company – offers the opportunity to extend your warranty by between one and three years. Here’s how the costs break down:

  • One year: $149
  • Two years: $229
  • Three years: $299

Overall, the warranty is pretty standard.

Post-Purchase Support

With superb phone and email-based support, REV Rides’ customer care is of the highest caliber.

You can get in touch with the company’s Washington-based support team by dialing 1-360-8887433 between 8 am and 4 pm PST, Monday to Friday. Alternatively, shoot them an email at contactus@revrides.com for quick answers.

There’s also a ‘Service Center’ – an online interface through which you can submit requests for scooter maintenance.

REV Rides’ have a great YouTube channel, too. Granted, the VSETT range is quite new, so most of REV Rides’ current videos and blog posts revolve around its flagship brand Zero, rather than VSETT. For now, we’ll have to wait patiently for further content around the 8 and its fellow VSETT models – and it would be great to see REV Rides post digital copies of its scooters’ manuals online, too.

Discover What the VSETT 8 Has to Offer

With a steely khaki color palette, telescopic stem, and a mileage that’s almost the best in its class, discover why the VSETT 8 straddles the worlds of entry-level and performance scooters.

Specification: VSETT 8 Review

Brand
Brand

VSETT

Type
Suitable For

Adults

Terrain

Street

Design
Portability

Folding Frame, Folding Handlebars

Weight (lbs)

46

Rider Weight (lbs)

265

Tire Size (inches)

8.5

Tire Type

Pneumatic (Inner-Tube), Solid (Rubber)

Performance
Top Speed (mph)

26

Max Range (miles)

30

Max Incline (%)

32

Charge Time (hours)

11

Suspension Type

Front & Rear

Brake Type

Drum

Extra Features
Extra Features

Cruise Control, Display, Lights, Water Resistance Rating

VSETT 8 Review

$699.00

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