Segway-Ninebot ZT3 Pro review: Fun, sporty scooter is packed full of tech

A new electric scooter with a very distinctive look has arrived in Australia — and it’s hiding lots of hi-tech surprises inside.

The future of the world is electric - and the latest offering from Segway-Ninebot is providing Aussies another way to power around.

The ZT3 Pro, a sporty-looking electric scooter, launched in October and is packed full of new tech.

The team at Segway-Ninebot shipped me over a unit, and after playing around with it for a few weeks, this is what I found out.

Distinctive design

The ZT3 Pro arrived in a large cardboard box almost completely assembled. I just needed to attach the handlebars with a few screws.

Out of the box, the scooter stands proudly. The red and black design is sleek and front quad light gives it a distinctive look.

The ZT3 Pro is an all-terrain electric scooter. Picture: Supplied

Tech functions

Downloading the app is a must. You can connect it to the scooter, which unlocks heaps of functions.

You can lock the scooter using your own digital code or pattern lock. There’s also the new AirLock System which allows autonomous locking and unlocking.

Another feature is the traction control system, which keeps the scooter steady on a slippery road.

You can also set it to park on a slope, meaning it won’t reverse even when the power is on.

It’s possible to apply different speed modes, such as drive, sport, eco, and walk (they can then be accessed on the control panel of the scooter).

On sport, it really jumps out of the blocks while on walk you cruise along at a sedate pace.

It has good safety features too like settings to make the light brighter, or flash, when you’re braking.

Thick tyres and long range mean you can go off-road.

It’s also designed for exploring the city. Picture: Supplied

Rideability

Having never ridden an electric scooter before, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect.

The first descriptor that comes to mind is: fun.

The ZT3 Pro is an all-terrain electric scooter, designed primarily for exploring the city and for off-road adventures.

It can also double as a workhorse for the daily commute.

The 11-inch thick tubeless tyres along with 152mm of ground clearance provide a level of security in case of unexpected cracks and bumps.

As mentioned I’m a newbie when it comes to scooters, but from what I can gather the ZT3 Pro has some major advantages over other models.

The ZT3 Pro features a new design concept centring on a suspension frame, and features a telescopic front fork and rear swingarm coil-suspension.

It’s powered by a 1600-watt high-torque brushless motor and flash-charging means you can plug it in for 30 minutes and ride up to 10km.

The BMS 2.0 (a battery management system), helps protect the battery in the long-term.

It’s foldable - and although a bit heavy to take on the train - it’s very easy to shift it around. 

It easily folds and can be packed into the car. Picture: Supplied

Key specs

Weight: 29.7kg

Max payload: 120kg

Max speed: 25km/h

Range: 70km (eco), 50km (sport)

Max power: 1600W

Max climbing slope: 25% gradient

Charging time: 4 hours

Brake: Dual disc brake

Tyre type: 11 inch off-road tubeless 

Jurisdiction

An important thing to keep in mind is the cross-stitch of laws and regulations that apply to the use of electric scooters in Australia.

NSW is currently the most restrictive of the states, with riders banned from streets and footpaths, meaning the scooters can only be ridden on private property. However, the NSW government is reportedly moving to legalise them.

Other states like Qld are much more progressive, although regulations apply.

I recommend thoroughly checking out the local laws that apply.

My thoughts

The ZT3 Pro is a technically impressive electric scooter with a unique and classy look.

The long range gives people another option for commuting.

I particularly like how the designers gave riders options like the different speed modes and the ability to lock the scooter using a pattern lock.

It’s easy to use, meaning anyone can pick it up and ride.

It has power under the hood, but is also a smooth ride. It’s a lot of fun and worth checking out. 

Originally published as Segway-Ninebot ZT3 Pro review: Fun, sporty scooter is packed full of tech