Greetings everybody! Allow me to introduce myself. Name is Ric and I live Uptown Manhattan ("don't believe me just watch! -Uptown Funk") in NYC. I'm approaching Senior status; def. not a freshman anymore -lol; at 59 yrs old with a little weight on me (215 lbs). In the last 5 years, I've done some damage to my left leg; compound breaks with enough metal pins to be problematic waling long distances and need the extra help. I've owned a couple of folding scooters in the past (URB-E last mile, and Stigo Scooter); thing is the company also "folded" or it became impossible to get service & parts on these proprietary scoots. Sooooo, I decided to go full e-bike; but was (am) hoping for one that I can 1) manage 3 minor steps in my building (but also with a tight turn) and potentially subway stairs or other short lift situations, and 2) might allow me to travel to fun and exotic places (where are those by the way?) with it on airplane as checked luggage. I was fortunate enough to have my prior folding scooters classified as "mobility assist" vehicles which allowed me to ride up to the plane's door and have the airline folks gate-check for me. Was super convenient, luxurious even, to have my scooter waiting for me when I de-plane (anyone remember George Carlin, ha!). Drawbacks to those scooters were performance (at best a 250W motor); "squirrely stearing & ride" (never could handle scooter one-handed, not even for a second); performance; lack of service & parts; tiny non-inflate tires that make running over a nickel feel like the San Francisco earthquake; and, did I mention crappy performance!?
Like all of you, I've done hours (tens of hours) doing research with my wishlist of 500W or greater motor (actual, not peak); that folds. Most power, smallest form factor and with a reliable track record, even if coming out of China; and this is serviceable. Let me tell you I was excited discovering the X7 Plus! I was amazed at the specs of the newest model, an actual 750W motor (hopefully). I like the foldability, hopefully its not too heavy as not to be unmanageable for short lift/carry. So this is my first electric bike and I can't wait to take it out for a spin! I will be able to get some exercise and can also rely on the throttle. The good news is, this is a great foundation with standardized bicycle and ebike parts, tires, etc; so that the future of my X7 Plus looks much brighter than the dead-end proprietary electric scooters.
Placed my order on Saturday, by Sunday had the Order acknowledgement. Based on what I've seen here, I also ordered the new Color Screen (can't hurt to have two controllers, right?). I thank you all for the help I've received already (minnemike for the handlebar suggestion) and others who didn't know they helped thru their individual posts.
Looking for additional suggestions on travel, maintaining; after-market add-ons, etc. Great Community and glad to be a part of it! Keep on riding everybody!
