Switching to the Solar P1 Pro electric scooter has been a game-changer for me, especially coming from previous experiences with other electric kick scooters. My journey started with a less-than-stellar Swagtron, which was quickly followed by a Speedway V “luxury” scooter. While the Speedway V lasted for five years, it had its own set of issues right from the start. Today, I finally got to take my first ride on the Solar P1 Pro in pleasant weather, and I have to share my thoughts.
One of the first things I opted for was the saddle, as I find it much more comfortable for riding. At 5’5″, it took a bit of adjusting to find the perfect saddle height. I immediately noticed that the Solar P1 Pro sits higher off the ground compared to the Speedway V. The Speedway V often struggled even with small curbs, which is something I don’t anticipate being an issue with the P1 Pro.
The thumb throttle is a significant improvement over the finger throttle. Due to wrist problems, I was hesitant about twist throttles, so the thumb throttle is ideal. The smooth acceleration and quietness of the ride are truly impressive! The Speedway V, in comparison, was jerky and quite noisy.
Living in an area where road maintenance isn’t always a priority, the off-road tires of the Solar P1 Pro are a major advantage. Street tires on my previous scooters made for a bumpy and uncomfortable ride on the often poorly maintained roads. These off-road tires contribute significantly to a smoother and more comfortable experience.
I also appreciate the wide display, which provides clear and easy-to-read information. The dual motor and the option to switch to single motor (front or rear) offer great flexibility depending on riding needs. The headlight is noticeably brighter and wider, enhancing visibility during evening rides. Features like cruise control, a quiet signal, and a car-like horn (much better than the “angry frog” sound of my old scooter!) are fantastic additions.
Security features like password protection and a car alarm are also welcome. While the Speedway V later offered a fingerprint reader option, it was perpetually out of stock, and I eventually lost interest. The kickstand on the Solar P1 Pro is much more stable and seems more robustly built to support the scooter. Overall, the scooter feels significantly sturdier and more durable than the Speedway V.
It’s not an exaggeration to say that the Solar P1 Pro is a considerable upgrade, especially considering it’s in the same price range as my previous scooters without any modifications. I am extremely pleased with this purchase.
If I had one minor criticism, it would be the need for a more detailed assembly manual, particularly for models that include saddles. However, the customer service at Solar Motors has been exceptionally patient and helpful in addressing my questions and confusions. Their support has been invaluable throughout the process.
