Unagi Model One Voyager review

Unagi Model One Voyager review

If the phrase "luxury scooter" strikes you as strange, you obviously haven't seen an Unagi. These scooters provide something far more sophisticated and stylish in contrast to the current trend of large, bulky, and clunky-looking e-scooters. The updated Unagi Model One Voyager electric scooter keeps the upscale design we've grown to love while delivering improved performance for an even more thrilling ride.

Do not misunderstand me; I adore a large, powerful scooter just as much as the next person. However, I've yet to see a potent scooter that didn't resemble a blacked-out tactical piece of equipment that a SWAT team would employ in the event of a hostage scenario.

The Unagi Model One Voyager may be for anyone who wants to travel at higher speeds than other budget scooters without appearing to be riding a big, clumsy Erector Set scooter.

Despite its flaws, it's a great scooter for riders looking for a stylish design that doesn't compromise on performance.

View my video review below to see what I mean, then read on for even more information.

Unagi Model One Tech Specs

•Motors: Dual 250W continuous motors (each motor peaks at 500W)

•Battery: 36V 10Ah (360Wh)

•Top speed: 20 mph (32 km/h)

•Range: 12-25 miles (20-40 km)

•Weight: 29.6 lb. (13.4 kg)

•Frame: Aluminum, magnesium and carbon fiber

•Load capacity: 220 lb (100 kg)

•Brakes: Front and rear regenerative brakes, rear stomp brake

•Tires: 7.5″ hollow void air-less tires

•Lights: Front and rear LED

•Price: $1,190 (or $69 per month subscription)

What makes it so special?

The Unagi Model One Voyager weighs only 29.6 lb (13.4 kg), which is significantly less than heavier electric scooters. And I can attest from personal experience that it seems even lighter than that.

The carbon fibre stem is nice in the hand and likely adds to it seeming even lighter than it is when carrying the scooter thanks to its gently sloping curves.

The unusual material selection aids in the lightweight design. Of course, the deck is made of aluminium for robustness. But the magnesium handlebar, which is machined to match that particular display and has built-in buttons as well as twin throttle/brake thumb paddles, is mounted on top of the carbon fibre stem.

Even minor details like the kickstand are elegantly created to enhance the scooter's overall upscale appearance. Most other electric scooters have afterthought kickstands that are only functional and appear to have received little design consideration. However, the kickstand of the Unagi appears to match the scooter. A nice scooter with a matching kickstand won't matter to you if all you care about is getting there. But if you want your vehicle to appear appealing on the way, then small details like this really add up.

The new Voyager has a number of improvements over the older Unagi Model One electric scooter. The new battery pack is maybe the most crucial. It now has a bigger 360Wh battery with a higher 36V voltage.

Depending on how fast and hard you ride, the new battery can power the dual 500W peak-rated motors for 12 to 25 miles (20 to 40 km) of range and up to 20 mph (32 km/h).

Even the interaction with the scooter may be done through a new app interface, which EV enthusiasts who adore technology will appreciate.

Other elements from earlier Unagi models are still present on the Voyager, like as the incredibly smooth one-button folding mechanism, which is probably the simplest scooter folding setup I've ever seen, and the incredibly powerful twin wheel driving braking. In fact, since the motor braking is sufficient in virtually all braking situations, I hardly ever utilise the rear stomp brake.

What about the downsides?

In terms of engineering design, the Unagi Model One Voyager electric scooter is a poetic masterclass, yet it is not without flaws. The drawback of a scooter as stylish and sleek is that it isn't as durable as larger models. Despite fitting most of us, this lightweight scooter's weight limit of 220 lbs (100 kg) still excludes more riders than many other larger e-scooters.

The ride is a little harsher on less-than-ideal roads due to the smaller wheels and absence of suspension. The honeycomb-shaped tyres do a good job of absorbing the little road shocks while I'm on a smooth road. However, the lack of suspension is apparent on those smaller 7.5′′ tyres on surfaces with repetitive patterns, such as pavers, brick walkways, or anything else. When I anticipate difficult sections, I find that I must maintain my flexibility in the knees.

Of course, there is also the benefit of never having a flat tyre thanks to the airless tyre design. Therefore, if you commute primarily on pleasant trails and bike lanes, you might be willing to accept this tradeoff.

Finally, the scooter is so attractive that I'm very concerned about scratching or otherwise harming it. Although it feels sturdy and like I could throw it around, each scratch would still hurt more than if I were riding an unattractive scooter. Additionally, stylish scooters are certainly magnets for theft, but the Unagi is so light that you can easily transport it inside so you won't be tempted to leave it outdoors frequently.

Is it worth the price?

This scooter costs $1,190, so it's not cheap. Many manufacturers offer these performance specifications for substantially less money. No one will purchase an Unagi because it is a "deal." That'd be absurd. Because it is easy to use and has a good appearance, they will buy it.

Few scooters have a performance-to-pound ratio as good as this one. Furthermore, no other scooters can equal its design elements.

For anyone searching for a sexier scooter than what you'll find on the regular Amazon bestseller scooter list, the fact that it also incorporates "typical" scooter amenities like headlights and brake/tail lights, horn, stomp brake, and other features is simply the cherry on top.

So this is probably not the scooter for you if you're on a tight budget. There aren't many scooters more distinctive than the Unagi Model One Voyager, though, if you have a little extra money to spend and want something unusual. It not only looks amazing, but it also works well. The price for that elusive combo will simply have to be high.

Alternatively, if you prefer not to pay in full, you might be able to use Unagi's subscription service. It has a low monthly starting price of $69, free shipping, and handles all the service for you. Not bad for a high-end electric scooter!