NIU KQi Air Electric Scooter Review: Lightweight, Smart & Urban-Friendly
Welcome to our NIU KQi Air Electric Scooter Review, where we explore this lightweight commuter model that balances portability, comfort, and smart features. If you want a scooter that’s easy to carry yet still powerful enough for city streets, the KQi Air delivers. Moreover, it includes practical perks like disc brakes, bright lights, and app support—all in a sleek urban design.
Design & Build Quality
The NIU KQi Air has a compact aluminum frame weighing just 12 kg (26.5 lbs) and supports riders up to 100 kg (220 lbs). Although it’s lightweight, the folding mechanism locks securely and feels durable. The scooter features 8.5-inch puncture-resistant solid tires, which minimize maintenance and provide decent ride stability. As a result, the KQi Air is ideal for commuters carrying it on public transit or up tight staircases.
Design & Build Quality: 4.0/5
Motor Performance
Powered by a 350 W rear hub motor (peak 500 W), the KQi Air reaches a top speed of 25 km/h (15.5 mph)—perfectly legal in many cities. Acceleration is steady yet responsive for traffic riding. Also, its lightweight design makes it easy to navigate corners and small gaps. Therefore, this scooter suits urban riders who need a nimble, clean-riding companion.
Performance & Power: 4.0/5
Battery & Range
The scooter uses a 36 V 7.8 Ah lithium battery, giving around 28–30 km (17–19 miles) of range per charge. That’s enough for most short commutes or errands. Charging takes about 4–5 hours, which works well overnight. In addition, NIU’s battery management system protects against overcharging and power loss. So, the KQi Air remains reliable for everyday urban use.
Battery & Range: 4.0/5
Comfort & Ride Quality
While the KQi Air lacks suspension, its solid tires absorb small cracks and uneven pavement comfortably. The wide, flat deck offers room for both feet, and handlebars feel ergonomic for shorter rides. Although rougher roads may transfer shocks more noticeably, overall ride stability remains strong thanks to the lightweight frame. Therefore, it’s best suited for smooth city streets.
Ride Comfort: 3.5/5
Safety Features
NIU equipped the KQi Air with a rear disc brake and electronic front brake (E-ABS), offering reliable and safe stopping power. Also, bright LED headlights and taillight improve visibility, while the integrated reflector strips boost your profile in low light. The scooter includes cruise control, which helps steady long stretches. As a result, safety stays solid for urban riders.
Safety: 4.2/5
Portability & Convenience
At just 12 kg, the KQi Air stands out for portability. Moreover, it folds down small and is easy to carry in hand or store in backpacks older style. The minimal design makes it ideal for commuters who combine scooting and transit. Therefore, it balances performance and storage efficiency starting with built-in transport ease.
Portability: 4.5/5
Ease of Use
Using the KQi Air is straightforward with its simple LCD ride display showing speed, battery level, and mode indicator. Also, the NIU app provides tracking, firmware updates, and ride data. Fast setup and intuitive throttle mean even beginners can ride confidently from the first trip. So, this scooter is friendly for both new and experienced users.
Ease of Use: 4.2/5
Real‑World User Feedback
Riders often praise the KQi Air for its portable size, solid brakes, and durability. However, some note that its range drops when riding uphill or with heavier weight, and suspension absence slightly limits rough-road comfort. Still, its lightness and dependable features earn high praise in compact scooter categories. Overall, users value its balance of portability and practicality.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Extremely light (12 kg) and portable
- Rear disc + E‑ABS electronic brake system
- Built‑in cruise control and smart app
- Low maintenance with solid tires
- Fast charge time and compact footprint
Cons:
- Limited range (~30 km) for longer trips
- No suspension system
- Top speed limited by legal regions (~25 km/h)
- Ride feels firm on rough pavement
NIU KQi Air Electric Scooter for Adults, Carbon Fiber Ultra Light 31 Miles Long Range, Max Speed 20MPH, 7.5in. Wider Deck, 9.5in. Tubeless Fat Tires, UL...
Final Verdict
This NIU KQi Air Electric Scooter Review shows the KQi Air is a standout choice for riders who want smart city commuting in a lightweight package. With reliable brakes, app connectivity, and easy portability, it’s a fit for urban short-range trips. If you ride streets and transit—and want minimal fuss—the KQi Air delivers solid value and convenience.
👉 For full technical specs and features, check our NIU KQi Air Specifications.