Smart city scooter with comfort and range - NIU KQi300x review

The NIU KQi300x is a well-thought-out e-scooter for urban daily use. It scores with high-quality workmanship, safe handling, comfortable tires, and useful smart features. The app connectivity and lighting setup especially set it apart from many competitors.

Criticisms include the permanently installed battery, which makes charging less flexible, and the longer charging time. Additionally, the loud turn signal sounds cannot be turned off, which can be annoying. However, if you can live with these limitations, you’ll get a reliable and comfortable companion for everyday use.

The NIU KQi300x can be purchased directly from NIU, but is also available at Amazon.

The NIU KQi 300X e-scooter features 10.5-inch tires, offers a range of up to 60 km / 37.3 miles. Compared to its predecessor, NIU has finally added turn signals, improved suspension, and a larger energy storage unit.

The RRP is around $1,299, but the street price is lower.

The NIU KQi300x arrives mostly pre-assembled. The box is large but sturdy, and the packaging reliably protects the scooter from transport damage. After unpacking, you only need to insert the handlebar and secure it with the included screws. The necessary tools and a clear step-by-step manual are included. Even users with little technical experience can get the scooter ready in just a few minutes. A positive aspect is that no electrical wiring needs to be connected – assembly is purely mechanical.

At first glance, the KQi300x makes a robust impression. The aluminum frame is well-crafted, and the wide rubberized footboard provides good grip, even in wet conditions. The 10.5-inch pneumatic tires significantly improve ride comfort compared to solid rubber tires.

The handlebar features a central LED display showing speed, battery level, riding mode, and Bluetooth status. Control is via a throttle on the right and a hand brake on the left, supplemented by an electronic brake. Operation is intuitive and quickly learned. The power button allows switching between riding modes (Eco, Standard, Sport), adjusting speed and acceleration to the situation.

The KQi300x can be folded for easier transport, with the handlebar serving as a carrying handle. However, at over 22 kg, it’s not lightweight, so this is more suitable for short distances. In a Škoda Karoq trunk, the NIU scooter barely fit – in most cases, the rear seats will need to be folded down.

Lighting is one of the safety aspects where the KQi300x excels. The LED headlight is mounted high and illuminates the path broadly and brightly. The rear light is always on, intensifies when braking, and increases visibility for following vehicles. Side reflectors on the footboard further enhance visibility from angled perspectives. 

Turn signals are operated via a toggle switch on the right grip and emit a loud beeping sound when active. A volume control would have been appreciated here.

In everyday use, the KQi300x impresses with a good balance of comfort and stability. Thanks to the wide tires, it handles cobblestones and uneven bike paths much better than many competitors with smaller wheels. Steering is responsive without feeling twitchy.

Acceleration is more than sufficient for city traffic, quickly reaching and maintaining the Germany-specific top speed of 20 km/h – sometimes even exceeding it slightly. New e-scooter riders should be cautious during acceleration, as it can be quite powerful depending on the mode.

The scooter also handles moderate inclines with ease. Safety is ensured by the dual braking system: a mechanical disc brake at the rear and an electronic brake at the front. Braking distances are short, and deceleration is smooth. Ride noise is pleasantly quiet.

The 624 Wh battery is permanently installed and cannot be removed. This makes the scooter more stable but reduces charging flexibility. If there’s no power outlet near the parking spot, the entire scooter must be transported.

NIU claims a range of up to 60 kilometers. In practice – depending on riding style, weight, and weather – a realistic range of 40 to 55 kilometers is achievable. This makes the KQi300x perfectly suitable for daily urban commuting. Charging is done via the included power adapter, which plugs into a standard outlet. A full charge takes about 6 hours.

The NIU KQi300x offers a comfortable ride, smart app features, and strong safety – only the fixed battery and longer charging time are slight drawbacks.