Finally, one of the most popular Segway MAX series has received an update! This year, the third generation Segway Ninebot MAX G3 is already in our hands. There are a lot of changes in this scooter - a 2000W motor, hydraulic shock absorber suspension, a more detailed screen with GPS function, fast charging, an additional external battery, 3 times more powerful lighting, etc.

The improvements promise a lot. But what about in reality? Without further ado, I invite you to review all the advantages and disadvantages of the G3 together, and compare it with the previous generation model. Ready? Let's roll!

Unboxing

Perhaps the least distinctive thing about scooters is their packaging in a box. However, this is where Segway managed to stand out. It is not only the careful and safe packaging, but also the information on the box itself (how to properly remove the scooter) that creates the feeling that we are dealing with a premium product.

The box contains a scooter with the handlebar removed, which is attached with the 4 screws included in the kit. Also inside is an additional rear mudguard part, all the necessary tools and user instructions. Everything is simple, but well thought out, and we have no complaints about the packaging.

First impressions and build quality

"Ooo, what are those shock absorbers in the front?" - the first question when you see this scooter in person. This is the most striking thing. The shock absorbers themselves are actually much smaller than they appear at first glance and are hidden under plastic guards.

Now that the surprise has subsided, let's take a closer look at this scooter. While the G2's handlebars are straight with an integrated minimalist screen, one button and one brake lever, the G3 is completely different. The handlebars are more ergonomic - curved, so they are more comfortable to hold. The integrated TFT screen is large and colorful.

On the left side, a control button block with a mechanical bell has appeared. Here are the buttons for on/off, lighting, turns and changing modes (ECO, DRIVE, SPORT). Also, one programmable button has been allocated for a user-selected function.

The speed control lever on the right side surprised me. The latter is a hybrid - it can be controlled both with your thumb and by turning (reminiscent of a motorcycle). This solution will please even the most demanding, and I give Segway a big plus for such a simple but effective solution.

There is also an integrated LED strip at the top of the handlebars that lights up when the scooter is turned on (can be turned off in the app). It is highly visible even during the day, contributing to overall safety.

Below is the main headlight. Unlike the G2, the latter's lighting angle is easily adjustable by hand. The road is illuminated widely and brightly, and this headlight is almost 3 times brighter than the G2 (6W versus 2.1W). This is probably the brightest factory headlight I've ever seen on a scooter or bike.

An additional connector has appeared at the junction of the stand base and the handlebar stem, which has two purposes. First of all, the G3 scooter can be charged with 2 chargers at the same time, thus accelerating the charging by about 30%. An additional charger must be purchased separately. An additional external battery can also be connected here, but the latter is not yet available.

Overall, this scooter is fundamentally different from its predecessor. It's hard to even imagine it as the next generation, as there are quite a few familiar and seen aspects here. The quality seems impeccable - the parts don't look cheap, and everything you touch is made of pleasant materials. At first glance, this is one of the highest quality scooters I've seen under €1000.

Ride quality

The first ride is unusual, in a good sense of the word. The MAX G3 has a noticeable "offset" of the front wheel fork - it protrudes forward from the center of the wheel. When driving at higher speeds, this helps to keep the steering wheel straight, and when cornering, it makes it easier to turn the steering wheel. A bit unusual, but you quickly get used to it.

The G3 also has a completely new, intelligent driving algorithm SegRide. This system adapts to the driving, changing torque, acceleration and stability in real time. In reality, the driving is smooth, but the acceleration is sensitive. When accelerating, you can feel the "dead zone", that is, when you turn the gear lever, it does not start moving immediately. Also, in order to slightly increase the speed, you need to turn the latter with millimeter precision, which is quite difficult when driving.

This scooter has a lot of power - the maximum instantaneous power is 2000W, which is twice as much as the G2 model. In fact, when accelerating to the maximum 25 km/h (more on unlocking the speed a little later) you feel like you're stopping far too early, and it can definitely go faster.

The tires on the MAX G3 scooter have grown since the previous generation and now reach 11” inches. Minimally, but this improves riding comfort. Due to this change, the ground clearance has increased by 2 cm and reaches 13 cm, but the length of the scooter has increased to 130 cm, which may cause inconvenience when transporting this model by car.

The shock absorbers are soft enough, but their travel is not large. When driving on cobblestones or gravel, the steering wheel does not "beat", but deeper, larger and longer potholes are felt with your feet. Although the ride is not tiring, I expected a little more from such visually challenging shock absorbers.

The buttons on the left side of the steering wheel are easy to reach. It's easy to show a turn, switch driving modes or lock cruise control (the latter is not available on the EU model). The screen is bright and visible in direct sunlight even through polarized glasses.

After the first ~50 km, I was disappointed with the brakes. To stop quickly, I had to squeeze the levers "with force". However, after riding more, it seemed that the pads found their place and everything settled down. The pressure force required was much less, and braking became much smoother. Of course, hydraulic disc brakes on this scooter would be a big advantage. 

Maximum speed

Our test model (G3 E) is intended for the EU market, so the maximum speed is factory-limited to 25 km/h. However, this limitation can be unlocked by changing the region to US. Then the maximum speed changes to 45 km/h - at least with the rear wheel raised. In reality, with a load, it is possible to achieve a little less.

Changing the region brings even more benefits: additional LED strips on the bottom of the body turn on, cruise control and zero start are activated (you can move off without kicking).

So, the maximum speed I achieved with a fully charged battery is 41 km/h. Acceleration is smooth - there is no slowdown here at about 35 km/h. This allows us to believe that the motor really reaches 2000W. For this scooter, it does not matter at all whether the driver weighs 70kg or 90kg, the maximum speed is achieved effortlessly and confidently.

Driving uphill

While the Segway Ninebot MAX G2 can climb hills up to 22%, the G3, according to the manufacturer, can climb hills up to 30%. After various tests, I think this is completely true. All the mountains I know are overcome with incredible ease.

Narbuto St. hill in Vilnius? Overcome at no slower than 33 km/h. Želvos St., whose steepest point is about 14 degrees? The slowest 23 km/h. I also tried short steep hills on the sides of the stairs - all were overcome. Summary? Segway Max G3 exceeded all expectations.

Distance covered

A traditional test, where I test the roads of Vilnius with a fully charged battery. So, the battery is charged to 100%, the tires are inflated to maximum (50 PSI), the weight with clothing is about 80 kg, the air temperature is about 20°.

Distance covered - 36.84 km. Average speed - 22.8 km/h. It should be emphasized that the average speed was significantly reduced in the last 8 km, when the scooter slows down to a speed of 15-25 km/h. Although the distance does not seem long, I rode in Sport mode without saving battery at all. 

According to the manufacturer, in ECO mode you can cover a distance of up to 80 km, and in Sport about 40 km. Although it was 3 km short of the declared distance, the result of this scooter satisfies me. Also, those who want a greater range will be able to purchase an additional external battery (460Wh).

MAX series scooters are charged with the same cable - the converter unit is built into the scooters, so this cable can be easily carried with you. When discharged, the G3 is charged in ~3 hours 30 minutes. This is twice as fast as the G2, which in reality charges for about 7 hours. Those in a hurry and want to charge the G3 even faster can use a second charger (must be purchased separately), thus saving an hour of charging time.

Segway app

Segway has always stood out from other manufacturers with its app. There is a lot of useful information and settings here. The main ones are changing driving modes, and adjusting the speed for each mode separately. You will also find software updates, lighting, sound level settings, and many others. I would like to highlight a few of the more interesting features.

First of all, it is a software lock. You can come up with an activation code, and the scooter turns on only after entering it. If the scooter is locked, its rear wheel is blocked and does not rotate at all. Even better - Segway Airlock. After configuring this function, the scooter is unlocked if the phone is detected nearby. This function works flawlessly and imperceptibly - during the entire testing, I even forgot that it was turned on.

Those using the Apple ecosystem will also be able to connect this scooter to Apple Find My. Unfortunately, there is no such solution for the Android system. With the exception of Airlock, these security features are not new, the G2 also has them. Nevertheless, these security features are useful and come in handy in everyday life.

Another interesting feature that the G2 doesn't have is navigation. Using Here maps (which are fairly accurate and use the bike as a vehicle), you can enter an address in the Segway app, and the scooter's screen will show you navigation arrows and the remaining distance to the next turn. 

However, navigation has its own nuances - it is free only for 1 year after activation, after which you will need to purchase a subscription, the price of which has not yet been officially announced. Also, it is quite difficult to use when driving through the Old Town, where there are many turns. It is difficult to decide from the arrows whether this is the turn or the next one. The idea itself is innovative and welcome. 

The Segway MAX G3 has a new phone interface where you can see the details of an incoming call on the scooter's screen (and hear the call itself). The function works, but only the phone number is displayed here, even if it is saved as a contact on the phone. It is likely that Segway will release an update for these features, but for now it is a bit disappointing that not everything works as it should.

What did we like?

It's hard to single out what I like about this scooter, because there are so many aspects to like. The biggest noticeable influence is the engine, which is more than enough for city driving. Steep hills are a minor challenge for the Segway MAX G3.

When you encounter a boring straight section, a steep hill, or just want to go crazy, you can activate boost mode. You stop, press the brakes, and turn the speed lever for a few seconds. Once activated, the front wheel is guaranteed to lift from a standstill, as is a smile on your face. It would be amazing if boost could be activated with a programmable button while driving.

The IPX6 rating (IPX7 for the battery) allows you to ride in the rain without any worries. Shallow puddles are no problem for the MAX G3, and the mudguards protect your clothes perfectly. Although the scooter cannot be washed with a high-pressure jet, all components can be safely cleaned with a damp cloth. 

Smart security features and the ability to track the scooter with Apple Find My are huge pluses. A barely visible light sensor next to the screen will automatically switch the lighting, so you don't have to switch it yourself. The G3 also has an automatic brake that activates when you stop on a hill.

If you want to charge the scooter at a certain time, you can use the app to schedule the time when charging will begin. The speedometer and remaining distance displayed here are some of the most accurate I've seen. Compared to GPS on your phone (Waze, Strava), the speed error is ~1-2 km/h, and the distance traveled is ~37 km, just a few hundred meters.

What we didn't like?

While there are many pluses and praises for this scooter, there are much fewer negative things. Personally, I expected that the G3 would already have a support for placing your foot at the back. However, when driving at higher speeds, it is more convenient and safer. Unfortunately, like the G2, there is only a rear mudguard at the back, on which you cannot place your foot. 

At first glance and the photo on the official Segway website makes you believe that the front handle is the ideal place for a lock. However, the latter is fastened with screws that are easily accessible… However, we discovered the functions of this handle ourselves. It is protection of the fork and shock absorbers in the event of a fall, structural reinforcement, and an additional handle for carrying the folded scooter. 

When the Segway MAX G3 is in cruise control, there are micro-jerks and constant speed corrections. Also, due to the intense acceleration and the rather sensitive speed lever, it is quite difficult to maintain a constant speed.

MAX G3 E vs G3 (US)

Segway Ninebot electric scooters sold in Lithuania are intended for the EU market and are marked with the letter “E” (e.g. G3 E). This is because the EU has certain stricter restrictions that the manufacturer must comply with. So, if you purchase the G3 E model, it will be limited to 25 km/h, will not have cruise control, the “zero-start” function, and additional lighting at the bottom of the body.

The good news is that the Ninebot MAX G3 (US) model will soon be available to order from the DHgate online storeThis model has a more powerful 850W motor and has no restrictions, meaning that after taking it out of the box and connecting to the Segway APP, you will have the ability to increase the speed to 45 km/h and access all settings.

How to "unlock" the G3 E?

The Scooter Hacking Utility APP team is currently working on integrating the Ninebot MAX G3 model, so that scooters from different regions can be "unlocked" easily and quickly - using Bluetooth connectivity. So, if you have a European G3, you can expect an updated APP to soon provide the ability to free your scooter from software restrictions.

Verdict

So, what is my opinion of the Segway Ninebot MAX G3 after all the testing? It is one of the best city scooters. The powerful motor allows you to reach speeds that are more than enough for city driving. Also, while riding every day, I did not encounter a single mountain that I could not overcome.

The design has changed significantly compared to the G2 and will definitely not please everyone. At first I thought that the G3 had too many mechanical elements (especially at the front), but over time I got used to it. I see the Segway Ninebot MAX G3 as a scooter designed for today - both in terms of design and the technologies it has.