Urban Colossus or Agile All-Rounder? The VMAX VX4 in a Practical Review
The VMAX VX4, released in May 2024, boasts 2800 watts of nominal power and a 68-mile range. We put this e-scooter through its paces to see if it lives up to the high expectations.First Impression & Scope of Delivery
Immediately upon unboxing, the substantial weight of 69.8 pounds is noticeable, positioning the VX4 as a robust companion. The packaging is functional and protects the pre-assembled device, which comes with a power supply, owner's manual, and tools. This first impression conveys quality and stability, though the heavy weight might be a challenge for some commuters if the scooter frequently needs to be carried or taken on public transportation.The substantial weight of the VMAX VX4 (69.8 pounds) makes it less ideal for frequent carrying or navigating public transportation. Consider your daily commute needs before purchasing if portability is a high priority.
Design & Workmanship
The design of the VMAX VX4 is functional and modern. The matte black finish is striking, and the materials used are high-quality. The massive construction of the frame and footboard is particularly noticeable, easily accommodating larger and heavier riders. All welds are cleanly finished, and gaps are hardly present. Controls are clearly arranged, with ergonomically shaped throttle and brake levers. The 4-inch TFT display is a highlight: it is perfectly readable even in direct sunlight and provides all relevant information intuitively. The stable folding mechanism allows for compact folding. The handlebar is secured by a reliable clamp. Integrated lighting and a sturdy kickstand complete the well-thought-out overall impression and underscore VMAX's focus on functionality and robustness.Motor & Riding Performance
With 2800 watts of nominal power, the VMAX VX4 offers excellent acceleration and a remarkable climbing ability of 40%. On our test track with significant incline, the VX4 showed its strength by powerfully climbing hills where other scooters lose power. The manufacturer's specification for climbing ability is not only met but subjectively even exceeded, as performance remains constant even with a heavier rider. The maximum speed of 12.5 mph is quickly reached and consistently maintained. The riding experience is confident, with enough reserves for overtaking or quickly crossing intersections. The motor's response is direct and precise, with smooth and well-dosed power delivery.Utilize the high power reserve of the VMAX VX4 to conquer challenging inclines or headwinds without significant speed loss. This not only increases riding comfort but also road safety.
## Range & Battery The VMAX VX4 boasts an impressive range of 68 miles, powered by a 52V 20.3Ah battery. Our range test under realistic conditions (headwind, cold temperatures, 187-pound rider weight) resulted in a realistic range of approximately 50-56 miles. This is still an absolute top value and significantly surpasses most competitor models, making the VX4 an excellent choice for commuters with long travel distances. The battery charging time is 5 hours according to the manufacturer, which was confirmed in the test and is acceptable given the high battery capacity. Unfortunately, a swappable battery is not provided. A minor drawback is the lack of a solar charging option. The only point of criticism is the single USB-C port.The VMAX VX4's real-world range of 50-56 miles, even under challenging conditions, positions it as a leader for commuters needing to cover significant distances daily.
Riding Comfort & Suspension
The VMAX VX4 proves to be a comfort marvel, especially due to its excellent suspension (front and rear). Cobblestones, bumps, and smaller potholes are reliably absorbed. Our cobblestone test showed how remarkably smoothly the VMAX VX4 glides, while other e-scooters shake the rider considerably. The generous suspension effectively minimizes vibrations and shocks. Even on gravel paths, the 10-inch off-road tubeless tires combined with the suspension offer excellent traction and a secure riding experience. Tubeless tires not only reduce the risk of flats but also contribute to the smooth ride and offer excellent damping. The width of the tires ensures good stability. The handlebars are comfortably wide, which improves control. Even during longer rides, no signs of fatigue occurred.Brakes & Safety
Safety is of paramount importance when riding an e-scooter, and here the VMAX VX4 relies on a comprehensive system: front drum brake, recuperation brake, and rear disc brake. This combination offers excellent braking performance. Our emergency braking test at 12.5 mph on wet ground showed impressive results. The brakes responded promptly, and the scooter came to a controlled stop. Especially the combination of the rear disc brake and the regenerative brake ensures efficient deceleration. The brake levers can be precisely metered. Tubeless tires also offer advantages here, as they ensure good grip on wet roads. The integrated lighting is bright enough to ensure good visibility. The brake lights are also clearly visible.Although the VMAX VX4 has a robust braking system, it is crucial to adjust braking distances depending on road conditions. Ride defensively and always maintain an adequate safety distance.
Street Legal & Legal Aspects
The VMAX VX4 has a valid General Operating Permit (ABE), which allows legal use on public roads. The maximum speed in the US is typically 15 mph, and the VX4 is appropriately limited. Illegal modifications invalidate the operating permit. Liability insurance is mandatory.Always ensure you have valid liability insurance for your VMAX VX4. It's a legal requirement and protects you financially in case of accidents on public roads.
App & Smart Features
The VMAX VX4 offers app connectivity for iOS and Android, which enhances the riding experience with smart features. The app allows for settings and reading riding data: * **Display of riding data:** Speed, distance, battery level, remaining range. * **Riding mode adjustment:** Selection of different riding modes. * **Light control:** Turning lights on and off. * **Cruise control function:** Activation and deactivation. * **Lock function:** A digital lock against unauthorized activation. * **Firmware updates:** Possibility to update the firmware. In the test, the app proved to be stable and user-friendly. The Bluetooth connection was established quickly. The interface is clear. For the average user, the functions offered are more than sufficient and provide meaningful added value.Comparison with the Competition
In the segment of powerful e-scooters with US street legality, the VMAX VX4 faces growing competition. Models like the **Ninebot KickScooter MAX G2 D** or the **IO HAWK Legend** offer good range and suspension but fall far short of the VX4's motor power (450W or 500W vs. 2800W). However, they are significantly lighter at approximately 50-53 pounds and usually more affordable. The VMAX VX4 clearly positions itself as a premium e-scooter for demanding users who seek maximum performance, above-average range, and ultimate riding comfort and are willing to accept a higher price and the substantial weight. The strengths of the VMAX VX4 clearly lie in its **power delivery** and **excellent suspension** in combination with its **long range**.FAQ
How heavy is the VMAX VX4 e-scooter?The VMAX VX4 is quite substantial, weighing in at 69.8 pounds (31.7 kg).
What is the realistic range of the VMAX VX4?Under realistic conditions (headwind, cold, 187-pound rider), the VMAX VX4 achieved a range of approximately 50-56 miles, though the manufacturer claims up to 68 miles.
Is the VMAX VX4 street legal in the US?Yes, the VMAX VX4 has a valid General Operating Permit (ABE) allowing its legal use on public roads in the US, with its speed appropriately limited to 12.5 mph (below the typical 15 mph limit).
Does the VMAX VX4 handle hills well?Absolutely. With 2800 watts of nominal power and a 40% climbing ability, the VX4 showed excellent strength in climbing hills, even with heavier riders, often exceeding manufacturer claims subjectively.
What kind of tires does the VMAX VX4 use?The VMAX VX4 is equipped with 10-inch off-road tubeless tires, which contribute to its smooth ride, excellent damping, and reduced risk of flats.
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Pros
- Enormous power and capacity
- High output power (2800 W)
- Robust, durable casing
- Clearly labeled, logical controls
- Clear TFT color display
- Excellent output voltage stability
Cons
- Very heavy (69.8 lbs)
- No solar charging option
- Only one USB-C port
- High price
Verdict
Ideal for heavier riders and commuters with long distances. Impressive performance and comfort are its strengths. A clear recommendation for demanding users, despite its heavy weight.