An inside look at the very new and very fun DAHON e-scooter

Folding bike pioneer DAHON has unleashed a fabulous e-scooter dubbed the ES-2 on the North American market and it is a well-built and enjoyable option for those looking for everything from a short commute option to a lean and green option for neighbourhood travel and errands.

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The first thing to note, and certainly one that is not surprising coming from DAHON, is that the ES-2 folds down to a tidy package. A closure on the handlebars allows them to fold down and with the turn of one simple knob on the stem, it all folds together to a class-leading size of 104x32x15cm*.

The ES-2 features built-in smaller wheels at the rear to tote the scooter into the office, or onto the subway. There is also a small steel plate positioned to assist the scooter in standing on end. Weighing in at just 28 pounds, it can be tucked away in the corner of a room or office.

Another giant check on the pro side of the column is the size of the deck on the DAHON ES-2. Most scooters tend to be longer and the standing position isn’t as comfortable at an angle. With the DAHON, the wide deck means most riders can face forward if they chose without any difficulty. When we tested the scooter on city streets the forward position felt quite safe.

There is also a great little kickstand built-in for quick stops when out on the town. And, three speed modes that offer everything from a slow and steady eco-cruise mode for long distances to mid and high speed.

Wish list

There is very little to quibble about with the DAHON ES-2. Like most scooters, there isn’t an adjustment for height. One of the reviewers is 6’2” and could comfortably fit on the scooter. It is important to note, though, that the taller the rider the greater the tendency to push down on the handlebars, which is a mistake, and the mechanism could release. To that end, DAHON has strengthened the tripod structure of the handlebar, making it very stable, as well as maneuverable.

Once ridden a few times, it is easy to remember the correct riding position.

In terms of rideability, the handlebars are an ideal width, the grips comfortable, the disc brakes are quite solid, and the small fat tires can navigate over plenty of obstacles and even manage streetcar tracks in Toronto, which are always a challenge.

The backlit and bright display on the handlebar is easy to read and indicates speed, battery life, odometer, and riding mode — eco, mid, or high.

Ideal User

There is no ideal user for the DAHON ES-2 and we mean this in the best possible way. It’s well-built, comfortable for a wide range of users, and is nimble enough to navigate city streets and so fun to cruise around on pathways.

E-Scooters are becoming more common for commuters who combine their use with other transit modes such as trains. And, for those who live a shorter distance to their workplaces, the scooter is a fun, fast and affordable commute option especially in good spring, summer and fall weather.

The battery is a solid Samsung 36V10A that proves a range of approximately 40 kilometres depending on speed level. The motor is 36V 350W and can hit speeds of 25 kilometres per hour without issue. We even found that the E-Scooter could make it up some quite steep inclines, although at reduced speeds*.

This just adds to the variety of users for which the ES-2 would be ideal. We used it for commuting, shopping for groceries, running errands, cruising the beach, while other family members used it for visiting friends, and even going to school.

There is also a built-in lighting system that can be controlled by the handlebar display. The rear light is large and bright.

Summary

We know e-scooters aren’t for everyone, and some areas of North America allow them to use the same safe infrastructure as cyclists while some do not, which is important to note. So, we weren’t sure what to expect but were pleasantly surprised.

From the first moment the DAHON ES-2 landed at the office, we were hooked and found ourselves making up reasons to go for errands, or rides on it as much as possible. It is that fun and easy to ride. The only issue is that we have just one as demand is high due to the sheer comfort and versatility.

The ES-2 is available now directly from the DAHON site here.