UNAGI Model One Review 2023
- Fully folding
- IP54 waterproof rated
- Choose from two models
- Front, side and rear LED lights
- Incredibly sleek and slipstream design
- Extremely lightweight - weighs just 10.43 kg
- Innovative 7.5" puncture proof rubber wheels
- Super fast charging - Charges in just 4-5 hours
- Smart battery management system prevents malfunction
- Choose between 3 riding modes: beginner, expert & professional
- Fairly expensive
- Relatively low top speed
- Both models very similar
- Relatively unknown brand
Specification: UNAGI Model One Review 2023
| Support | ||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
||||||||||||||||||
| Company | ||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||
| Design | ||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||
| Speed and Performance | ||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||
| Features | ||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||
| Battery and Charging | ||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||
Overview
UNAGI Model One Review Overview
In this Unagi Model One review we cover a number of stats, specs and any other features included on this awesome electric scooter. The Unagi Model One is sleek, stylish and also deemed “a superior electric scooter” by Unagi themselves. This should give some idea as to the confidence that Unagi have in the quality of their creation.
Furthermore, in terms of specifications and performance, the Model One is certainly up there with other top performing eScooters on the market; a remarkable range, acute acceleration and phenomenal charge time are just a few examples.
All of this potent performance housed inside a lightweight, aluminium/carbon fiber frame means that the Model One weighs just 10.43 kg! These are just a few of the many incredible features included, so without delay, let’s start our Unagi Model One review for 2023.
Unagi Model One E250 vs E500
You may wonder, which of the two models is the right choice to make? Well, when it comes to the Model One E250 vs the E500, we believe that the E500 will outperform every time. This is simply due to the increased dual motor power (an additional 500 W); this allows for greater acceleration and a steeper climbing gradient of 15 degrees, 11 degrees more than the E250.
However, other than this, both models offer extremely similar performance and design; with both the E250 & E500 claiming the same max. speed, range, waterproof ratings, stopping distances and more. Whilst it’s hard to find a clear winner when its between the E250 vs E500, performance wise it’s obviously the E500. Furthermore, even when factoring price into the equation, the E500 is still favoured, as both models are also similarly priced.
Speed, Power & Distance
Speed, Power & Distance
As previously mentioned, the range and charge time offered by the Unagi Model One is certainly up to par with high-end eScooters. Travel up to 25 km off a single charge and be ready to go again after just 4-5 hours of charging. Compared to many high-end electric scooters with charge times of around 7-8 hours, this cuts your charge time in half. Whilst the top speed of 27.4 km is relatively low, the Unagi Model One definitely makes up for it with awesome acceleration power, with the E250 model offering 16N.m of torque power.
Furthermore, the E500 dual motor model possesses even greater power; offering double the torque power (32N.m) and 1000W of engine power. As a result of the increased torque/motor power, the Model One E500 is capable of tackling steeper inclines of up to 15 degrees; whereas the E250 only goes up to 6 degrees. However, both the E250 and E500 models still share the same top speed, range, charge time, etc.
All in all, both models perform fairly similarly, with acceleration and motor power as the obvious exceptions. Lastly, both models feature 3 riding modes, offering varying top speeds and acceleration power. Choose from beginner (14.5 – 17.7 km/h), advanced (17.7 – 20.9 km/h) & professional (24.1 – 27.4 km/h) and find the perfect mode to match your level. Continue reading our Unagi Model One review for information on speed, max. weight, charge time, materials used, waterproofing and much more.
How fast does it go?
Top speed of up to 27.4 km/h, with three riding modes to choose from (beginner, advanced & professional). Each of these modes offer varying top speeds and acceleration power.
- Beginner mode: 17.7 km/h
- Advanced mode: 20.9 km/h
- Professional mode: 27.4 km/h
What age/weight is it suitable for?
Whilst there is no official statement on the minimum recommended weight for the Model One; with it weighing just 10.43 kg, controlling this scooter shouldn’t pose any issue at all. The light yet highly durable aluminium/carbon fibre frame allows for a maximum weight limit of up to 125 kg!
However, Unagi don’t recommend this scooter for anyone over the height of 198 cm (6″49). Due to these factors, we believe that this ride is perfect for anyone between 4″5-6″4 between 35-125 kg.
What is the range/distance?
Max. range of approx. 24.95 km (15.5 miles). Please note, variables such as rider weight, speed, terrain, incline, etc. will impact overall performance. For best results, try to ride on smooth and flat surfaces.
Battery Life & Charging
Battery Life & Charging
What really sets this electric scooter apart from the rest is it’s crazy fast charging time of just 4-5 hours; making it one of the fastest charging electric scooters currently available on the market. The only other high performance scooter we’ve reviewed to offer such rapid charging time is the Boosted Rev. Giving credit where it’s due, we believe the secret is in the premium 9.0Ah capacity ion battery used.
Furthermore, Unagi have gone to great lengths to ensure the protection and continued operation of the Model One’s battery. Their intelligent battery management system ensure protection against short circuiting, over current, over charging, over discharge protection and also temperature abnormality. It even includes under voltage automatic sleeping to ensure that your battery doesn’t drain from low voltage charging. In terms of actual battery life, you should expect an average lifespan of 3+ years, or 500-1000+ charges before any faults arise.
How long does it take to charge?
Charging time of just 4-5 hours; making the Unagi Model One ‘one’ of the fastest charging electric scooters currently available on the market.
Battery protection & safety
Unagi have gone to great effort to ensure optimal performance and lifespan of their battery. As mentioned previously, the intelligent battery management system protects against over charging, over current, over discharge protection, temperature abnormality, short circuiting, etc. Furthermore, the Model One also claims an IP54 waterproof rating, meaning adequate protection for inner circuitry and electricals against moderate water pressure, dust and other small particles.
How long will the battery last for?
Being a high quality lithium ion battery, expect 500-1000+ charges of use minimum. Even if you were charging every day, it would still take around 2-3+ years before running in to any potential problems. However, the ever growing efficiency of these premium ion batteries mean you should expect these issues to come much later rather than sooner.
Design & Ergonomics
Design and Ergonomics
Moving on to the design and ergonomics section of our Unagi Model One review; the design of the Unagi Model One is extraordinarily sleek, shiny and polished to perfection. Fully folding yet maintaining full functionality, this stylish scooter is sure to turn some heads.
The design of the Model One is very much “less is more”, taking a marvelous minimalist approach to deliver a slick and streamlined scooter. Looking at the Model One, it’s hard not to see the future of electric scooter design; the old & outdated brake levers have been replaced by electric brake buttons, with gear levers situated directly below. An additional rear fender foot brake is also included.
The 7.5″, puncture proof, solid rubber tires further attest to the game-changing design of Unagi; air pockets spread throughout the wheel circumference, acting as both front and rear suspension systems. A perfectly placed central display shows riders their speed, battery life, total distance travelled and also current gear.
Front, rear and side lights also featured to ensure riders are seen and safe, no matter what time of the day. However, when riding at night, we recommend wearing a high-visibility jacket and helmet. Learn more about this in our safety & usability section.
What material is it made from?
Super lightweight yet highly durable aluminium & carbon frame, with 7.5″ solid rubber, puncture proof tires and magnesium alloy handlebar.
Can it be used as a regular scooter?
No information on whether the wheels lock once the scooter is out of battery. There is no mentioned locking system in place; once you run out of battery, expect to start working those legs.
Does it connect to your smartphone via app or Bluetooth?
No – unfortunately, there is no Unagi mobile app or support.
Build quality and ease of use
Starting off with ease of use, getting to grips with this electric scooter is extremely easy. Operating just the same as a conventional scooter, minus the brake levers and horn, which have been replaced with electric buttons. Alongside that, an anti-lock rear brake fender is also included. Everything is conveniently located, with comfortable spacing and also ample foot room on the deck.
Unagi claim the Model One as the first “one click” folding scooter; using a patented steel hinge system to fold and lock in one motion, making transporting your scooter just that much easier. This really is an incredibly straightforward eScooter to use, partially in thanks to the sleek, minimalist design Unagi have pioneered. All controls are perfectly placed and within easy access of each other, with the convenient display to keep you updated.
Brilliant build quality & game-changing design
Overall, the build quality of the Model One is certainly up there; Unagi place rigorous quality standards throughout design and manufacturing, whilst taking great pride in their work. As such, both the production and material quality is superb, with the frame using rarer, highly sought-after carbon fiber.
In fact, Unagi use the same carbon fibre as used in Space X’s rockets. Alongside this, the batteries also attest to their rigorous standards, using only premium lithium ion batteries to maximise performance. This high performance battery is protected with a number of protection protocols, alongside taking residence in IP54 waterproof rated housing.
All of these amazing features and performance, whilst still weighing only 10.43 kg; showing that the Model One really is masterfully engineered. The brakes further show that Unagi have spared no expense on production, offering extreme response and a stopping distance of 4 metres from top speed.
Furthermore, their innovative air-pocketed wheels are a marvel, operating as both front and rear suspension, whilst also puncture-proof. Such design innovation propels the build quality of the Model One and Unagi themselves to the upper echelon of electric scooters.
Safety & Usability on the road
Safety and usability on the road
Starting off with safety, the Unagi Model One features additional side lights, alongside a front and rear headlight; helping you stay seen and safe, no matter the time. Believe us, the LED lights are certainly bright enough; however for night rides, we recommend wearing a high-visibility jacket and your helmet – better safe than sorry. The brakes offer ample performance and excellent responsiveness, giving the Model One a braking distance of just 4 metres from top speed (27.4 km/h). With everything so conveniently located, reaching for your horn whilst pushing on the electric brakes is effortless, as it’s all in the same region. As such, performing multiple actions in the heat of the moment is easily possible for even newer riders.
Speaking of newer riders, the Model One also features 3 ride settings or gears, each with varying acceleration power and top speeds; perfect for new and experienced riders alike, select the gear to best suit your skill level. Furthermore, those incredible puncture-proof rubber tires soak up harsh hits and offer incredible grip; perfect for roadside performance, as a puncture on the road is potentially dangerous. Whilst this eScooter is suitable for roadside use, the relatively low top speed puts riders at risk from cars and other motor vehicles. As such, we recommend you stick to the roadside and pavement like glue; stay safe – wear a high-visibility jacket and your helmet whenever you can.
Is the UNAGI Model One waterproof?
Yes – The Unagi Model One claims an IP54 waterproof rating, offering moderate protection against powerful water jets, dust and other small particles. Find out more about IP ratings here.
Restrictions and availability
As far as we’re aware, Unagi ship the Model One worldwide, with obvious exceptions for certain countries. However, we recommend that you check your local laws and regulations to ensure your region allows for such Personal Electric Vehicles alternatives.
Thanks for reading our Unagi Model One review, we hope we answered any questions you may have about your dream eScooter; ensure that you check back throughout 2023 and stay updated!
Black Friday / Coupons
Unagi Model One Black Friday & Cyber Monday 2023
Bringing our Unagi Model One review to Black Friday / Cyber Monday section; many savings-starved eScooter enthusiasts will be hoping for some Unagi Model One Black Friday & Cyber Monday deals this 2023. However, we were unfortunately unable to find any price chart data on recent listings; as such, we cannot make an accurate prediction.
On the other hand, Black Friday & Cyber Monday are huge events and great opportunities for companies to increase market value and brand presence; Unagi won’t want to miss out on that, so ensure you check back for updates closer to Black Friday 2023.
