6 Best Off-Road Electric Scooters (Selected From 45 Models)

Apollo scooters are always ahead of the game; the main reason for this is the process of continual updates that ensures its models remain on the cutting edge. The Ghost 2022 embodies this commitment. Having listened to customer feedback on the original 2021 Ghost, the brand has introduced a raft of upgrades that improve on a winning blueprint in various ways.

Sure, it has the same geometric design and many of the features that made its predecessor so popular. But this time there are key enhancements that raise the bar and improve its off-road credentials even further.

Let’s start by taking a look at its suspension system. Easily on a par with the Ghost’s pricier, quadruple-springed sibling – the Phantom – the ride quality on offer is second to none within its price category. The front and rear springs work in cahoots with the swingarms and traction-loving 10-inch pneumatic tires to deliver an impressively smooth ride across any surface. In fact, its suspension system registers a respectable 7 out of 10 on our shock absorption scale.

Riders of the previous Ghost, however, will remember that despite the quality of this suspension, it would occasionally bottom out when going over big bumps. Thankfully, the new 2022 has added preload on the springs, meaning the system doesn’t compress as much when traversing rough terrain.

Regarded as the most popular entry-point into performance scooters for a reason, the dual 52V 1000W motors – new for the 2022 model – can summon top speeds of 37 mph from their bubbling cauldron, which is 3 mph faster than what its predecessor’s 800W offerings could muster.

This power allows it to reach 15 mph from a standstill in a hair-flapping 2.5 seconds and 0-25 mph in 5.3 seconds, bringing inclines of up to 25 degrees well within its spectral grasp. This climbing ability is more than sufficient for most trails, parks, and fields.

The raw speed and acceleration of the Ghost can be intimidating for scooterists who aren’t used to this level of power, which is where its impressive brakes enter the equation. The regular discs will allow you to come to a stop in 3.4 meters from 15 mph – while there’s also the option of upgrading to hydraulics for an extra $150, which will reduce your stopping distance to a shuddering 3.0 meters.

Despite wielding the same 52V 18.2Ah battery as found on the 2021 model and sharing the same maximum range of 39 miles, the updated Ghost now has a higher realistic range of 25 miles (compared to its forerunner’s 22 miles). This equates to a 14% increase. I believe this is down to the improved efficiency of the new motors, which have a better ratio between power input and output.

The high-quality battery also delivers an impressive number of charge cycles. If you charge the Ghost 3 times a week on average, you can expect the battery to last around 4 years before the performance will start to drop. This is an important, often overlooked quality unique to Apollo scooters.

When it comes to the rest of the scooter's build, quality exudes from every angle. This is no more evident than with the frame. A newly designed and more robust stem is now 50% stronger than the original. Aside from its geometrically-inspired revamp, the reinforced design eliminates wobble and instability at speed. Similarly impressive are the rims which are now 50% stronger, making them more resistant to cracks and splits.

And the fine workmanship doesn’t end there. The handlebars provide the width required to master the unpredictability of grassy knolls, forested trails, and pot-marked fields. Plus, riders of any weight up to 300 lbs can be assured of complete control, while the spacious, grippy deck adds that all-important layer of stability.

Confidence is reaffirmed by the QS-S4 display console, which facilitates the monitoring of riding stats as well as the modulation of acceleration and regenerative braking strength. This comes fitted with a finger throttle for maximum control, while motor and turbo control buttons give you the option of seamlessly managing your power output.

As a scooter that’s built for off-road terrain, the Apollo Ghost 2022 is awash with added design features that embellish its enigmatic black frame. From the tire-hugging fenders and smart power management system to its big, palm-hugging handgrips and reliable folding mechanism: the 2022 Ghost is made to withstand whatever the day throws at you – as typified by its all-weather IP54 dust and water-resistance rating.

The only areas where the Ghost could benefit from improvement are if it came with a bright headlight high up the stem and if the flimsy key-lock ignition was to be replaced with a simple on/off button. However, it must be noted that the deck LEDs are a nice touch and give the Ghost a Fast & Furious-esque aesthetic.

The fact is, if it’s parks, fields, and other green spaces that truly stir your soul, then the Apollo Ghost 2022 will take you to the stratosphere. It’s wholly deserving of its place in our list of the best off-road electric scooters – and for its $1,699 price, we think you’d be a ghoul not to put your faith in it.