At CES 2025, Segway made a splash with the unveiling of its latest lineup, including seven new e-scooters and, crucially for bike enthusiasts, two brand-new electric bikes. As someone new to the world of electric bikes and scooters, I jumped at the chance to test ride the Segway Xyber and Xafari e-bikes, along with the Max G3 and F3 Pro e-scooters, during an exclusive demo at the Las Vegas tech extravaganza. The experience was an eye-opener, turning a novice into an e-ride convert within just one hour.
Stepping onto the demo track, complete with simulated cobblestone streets and small ramps, felt like entering uncharted territory. Having only ever ridden traditional, non-electric bikes, the prospect of powered assistance was both intriguing and a little intimidating. However, after spending time with Segway’s new electric vehicles, particularly the Xafari and Xyber e-bikes, my initial apprehension quickly transformed into genuine excitement for the assisted riding experience.
The Segway Xafari electric bike immediately stood out as my personal favorite. Designed as a smooth city commuter, its classic bike frame is both familiar and inviting. What impressed me most about the Xafari was its balanced feel. It was light enough to pedal comfortably on my own around the test area, yet when I engaged the motor assistance, it responded smoothly and predictably. This seamless integration of power allowed me to confidently navigate the course’s curves and turns, maintaining a sense of control throughout the ride.
Hamsh Hector riding the Xyber e-bikes
The Segway Xyber e-bike, ridden by a person in a black jacket and helmet on an indoor track at CES 2025, showcasing its robust design and features.
Comfort was another key factor that made the Xafari so appealing. The bike’s suspension system effectively absorbed the bumpy faux-cobblestones, making the ride remarkably smooth and enjoyable. This level of comfort was noticeably superior to both the Xyber e-bike and the e-scooters, highlighting the Xafari’s strength as a comfortable and efficient city electric bike.
In contrast to the Xafari’s refined city demeanor, the Segway Xyber electric bike presented itself as a powerful machine, reminiscent of a streetwise electric motorbike. Its heavier build was immediately apparent, requiring more effort to maneuver without motor assistance. When riding the Xyber, I primarily relied on the throttle and the various motor assistance modes to propel and steer this substantial electric bike. Experiencing the Eco, Sport, and Race modes showcased the Xyber’s impressive acceleration capabilities.
I was informed that in Race mode, the Xyber could accelerate from 0 to 20mph in a mere 2.7 seconds. While I didn’t personally verify this claim with a stopwatch, the surge in power in Race mode was undeniable. The speedometer readings confirmed that speed was certainly not an issue for this high-performance Segway electric bike, offering a thrilling ride for those seeking more power.
Transitioning to the Segway e-scooters, mastering the initial kick-off required a bit of practice. The trick is to give a firm push with your foot while simultaneously engaging the throttle to activate the motor. Once I got the hang of it, I was soon gliding around the track with newfound confidence. The e-scooters proved surprisingly agile, and I even managed to tackle the demo ramps, albeit with some less-than-graceful landings on the steeper one.
The Max G3 being ridden on a road
A person riding the Segway Max G3 e-scooter on a paved road, illustrating the scooter’s urban mobility and ease of use.
My initial apprehension about electric personal vehicles completely dissipated after this test ride experience. The ease of use and the fun factor of both the Segway electric bikes and e-scooters have convinced me that they are far less intimidating than I originally imagined. In fact, I’m now genuinely considering getting one for myself.
For anyone contemplating purchasing their first electric bike or scooter, it’s essential to first investigate local regulations regarding their use, particularly concerning vehicle specifications and where they are permitted to be ridden. Ensuring your chosen electric vehicle is road-legal in your area is crucial, especially if you plan to use it for commuting.
Furthermore, resist the temptation to immediately opt for the most powerful model available. Even if your budget allows, starting with a less powerful electric bike or e-scooter is advisable, especially for beginners. The added motor power significantly impacts braking and turning, and the sensation of an electrically assisted ride can be quite different from traditional pedal bikes. A less powerful Segway electric bike will offer better control and a smoother learning curve as you adapt to this new riding experience.
If you’re ready to explore the world of electric personal transportation, resources like best e-scooter guides or best e-bike guides are excellent starting points to inform your decision.
Stay tuned for more updates and comprehensive coverage of CES news, including the latest innovations in 8K TVs, foldable displays, and AI, directly from the show floor.
