Segway-Ninebot eKickScooter ZT3 Pro D Review

Revolution on Two Wheels: The Segway eKickScooter ZT3 Pro D in Review

With an impressive range of 43 miles and robust off-road tires, the Segway eKickScooter ZT3 Pro D raises the question of how urban commuting and leisure rides can be redefined. Is this two-wheeled powerhouse the long-awaited all-rounder for city and trail, or is there a compromise hidden behind the impressive specifications? We put the e-scooter through its paces to find out if Segway lives up to expectations for a premium kickscooter with this model.

First Impression & What's in the Box

Even when unboxing the Segway eKickScooter ZT3 Pro D, it's clear: this is not a conventional city scooter. The weight of 63.9 lbs and the voluminous packaging indicate a stable construction. The scooter itself comes pre-assembled; only the handlebars need to be attached, which is quickly done thanks to the included tools and clear instructions. In addition to the scooter and charger, the box contains a short operating manual and documents for road approval in Germany (ABE). The material quality is convincing at first glance; high-quality plastics and stable metal components characterize the appearance. The 3-inch LED color display is easy to read even at first glance and promises intuitive operation.

Design & Build Quality

The design of the ZT3 Pro D is both functional and aggressive. The wide 11-inch off-road tubeless tires dominate the look and immediately signal its intended use beyond smooth asphalt paths. The frame is solidly built and appears extremely durable. Segway uses a matte black finish, which gives the scooter a modern yet robust appearance. The cables are well-routed and largely integrated into the frame, which improves both aesthetics and protection against damage. Particularly noteworthy is the high-quality workmanship of the welds and the precise fit of the individual components. Nothing rattles, nothing wobbles – the build quality is at a level you would expect from a premium product. The footboard offers ample space and is coated with a grippy material, ensuring a secure footing even when wet.

Technical Data & Performance

The Segway eKickScooter ZT3 Pro D comes with impressive specifications. The powerful 1600 W (max.) motor ensures rapid acceleration and allows for effortless climbing of inclines up to 24%. In our test, the scooter effortlessly reached the restricted top speed of 12.4 mph, which corresponds to German road approval. The 11-inch off-road tubeless tires not only contribute to the rugged exterior but also offer excellent grip and suspension comfort off paved roads. The double suspension system, consisting of a double telescopic suspension at the front and a rear suspension, effectively absorbs bumps and ensures a comfortable ride, even on cobblestones or forest paths.

The braking systems, consisting of disc brakes at the front and rear, work reliably and offer high braking power without over-braking. Even with a full load of 264.5 lbs, the braking performance remains consistent and safe.

Operation & Functions

Operating the ZT3 Pro D is intuitive and easy to understand. The centrally located 3-inch LED color display provides all relevant information at a glance: current speed, battery level, riding mode, and any error messages. The display is easy to read even in direct sunlight. The scooter is controlled via an accelerator lever on the right handle and a brake lever on the left handle, supplemented by another brake lever for the second brake. This dual setup may be unfamiliar at first but increases safety and allows for fine modulation of braking force.

Various riding modes allow adaptation to different situations. In Eco mode, the range is maximized, while Sport mode unleashes the motor's full power. A pedestrian mode makes it easier to push the scooter in busy areas. All settings can be conveniently made via the display or the associated smartphone app. A special feature is the integration of Apple Find My, which significantly simplifies locating the scooter in case of loss or theft.

Battery & Runtime

The manufacturer's specification of 43 miles range is impressive and positions the ZT3 Pro D at the top of its class. Our test showed that this figure is achievable under optimal conditions (low rider weight, flat terrain, Eco mode). In a mix of city traffic with frequent starts and stops, moderate inclines, and the use of Sport mode, the range settled at about 34-37 miles, which is still excellent. For a daily commute of, for example, 12.4 miles, this means you only need to charge the scooter every two to three days. A swappable battery is not provided with this model, which is understandable given the high capacity and the associated size and weight of the battery. The charging time for the battery is in the usual range for this capacity, and while no exact figure is given here, experience suggests about 6-8 hours for a full charge.

Practical Test

In an urban environment, the Segway eKickScooter ZT3 Pro D proved to be a reliable companion. The large tires and suspension smoothly absorb cobblestones and smaller potholes, which significantly increases riding comfort. Thanks to the powerful motor, the scooter handles traffic light starts quickly, and maintaining 12.4 mph is no problem even on slight inclines. Especially on longer distances, the high range shows its advantages, as you don't have to worry about an intermediate charge.

Off paved roads, the ZT3 Pro D's off-road capability comes into its own. Light gravel paths or compacted forest trails are no obstacle for this scooter. The off-road tires provide good grip, and the suspension system absorbs roots and larger bumps. Here, the riding experience feels almost like a small mountain bike, albeit with the limitations of a kickscooter. The additional weight of 63.9 lbs, noticeable when stationary, contributes to high riding stability when moving and conveys a secure riding feeling, even at higher speeds.

The scooter's folding mechanism is robust and easy to operate, allowing for transport in public transportation or the trunk of a car. However, one should not underestimate the heavy weight here.

Smart Features & App

The integration of connectivity features is standard for modern e-scooters, and the Segway ZT3 Pro D does not disappoint here. The associated app, available for iOS and Android, significantly extends the scooter's functionality. Through the app, various riding modes can be selected, software updates performed, lighting controlled, and ride statistics viewed. A special feature is the integration of Apple Find My, which allows the scooter to be located via Apple's "Find My" network. This is a significant safety gain and a feature that many other manufacturers lack. The connection between the scooter and the app always worked reliably and smoothly in our test.

Comparison with the Competition

In the segment of powerful e-scooters with road approval and off-road ambitions, the Segway eKickScooter ZT3 Pro D faces growing competition. Comparable models such as the Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Ultra or the Niu KQi3 Max also offer high ranges and good motor performance. However, the Segway ZT3 Pro D stands out with its combination of double suspension, large 11-inch off-road tires, and particularly robust construction. The integration of Apple Find My is also a unique selling point that is not a given in this price range.

In terms of price, the ZT3 Pro D positions itself in the upper mid-range of its segment. However, for the asking price, you get a complete package that convinces in terms of riding comfort, workmanship, and smart features. While some competitors may score points in individual disciplines, the Segway offers a very balanced performance that appeals to both commuters and leisure riders who also want to go off-road from time to time.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Segway eKickScooter ZT3 Pro D

For use on public roads in Germany, the Segway eKickScooter ZT3 Pro D requires a General Operating Permit (ABE), which is included in the box and ensures compliance with local traffic regulations.

While the manufacturer claims 43 miles, our test found a range of approximately 34-37 miles in mixed city traffic with frequent starts, stops, moderate inclines, and Sport mode usage. Achieving the maximum 43 miles is possible under optimal conditions (low rider weight, flat terrain, Eco mode).

Yes, the ZT3 Pro D is equipped with 11-inch off-road tubeless tires and a double suspension system, allowing it to handle light gravel paths and compacted forest trails with good grip and comfort. However, it is not designed for extreme off-road conditions with large obstacles or loose ground.

The ZT3 Pro D integrates with a smartphone app (iOS/Android) for selecting riding modes, performing software updates, controlling lighting, and viewing ride statistics. A key feature is the integration of Apple Find My, which helps locate the scooter if lost or stolen.

Yes, due to its robust construction and powerful components, the scooter weighs 63.9 lbs. While it has a robust folding mechanism for transport, its weight should be considered when carrying it or loading it into a vehicle.

Related Reads

• VX4 E-Scooter review
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• Segway-Ninebot brand page

Pros

• Offers an impressive real-world range of 34-37 miles even in mixed city conditions.
• Robust 11-inch off-road tubeless tires provide excellent grip and comfort on various surfaces.
• Features a double suspension system (telescopic front, rear) for a comfortable ride over bumps.
• Powerful 1600 W motor delivers rapid acceleration and effortless climbing of up to 24% inclines.
• High-quality build with durable metal components and precise fitment ensures stability and longevity.
• The 3-inch LED color display is easy to read, even in direct sunlight.
• Integrated Apple Find My feature simplifies locating the scooter if lost or stolen.
• Front and rear disc brakes provide reliable and powerful stopping performance.
• The large footboard with grippy material ensures a secure standing position.
• Multiple riding modes (Eco, Sport, Pedestrian) allow for optimized performance and battery life.
• Road legal with ABE approval for use on public roads in Germany.

Cons

• Weighs a substantial 63.9 lbs (29 kg), making it difficult to carry.
• The top speed is limited to 12.4 mph (20 km/h), aligning with road legal restrictions but reducing agility.
• Does not feature a swappable battery, requiring the entire scooter to be charged.
• Charging time is estimated to be around 6-8 hours for a full charge.
• Dual brake lever setup might require an adjustment period for new users.

Verdict

Ideal for demanding riders seeking off-road capabilities. Its greatest strength lies in its robust construction and suspension. High weight and price might be limiting factors, but it's a clear recommendation for off-road adventures.