Skip to main content

Scoot around town on the Kiwano K01 electric scooter — or have it follow you

Kiwano KO1 Electric Scooter
Since the reveal of the original Segway, self-balancing transportation has taken off in a variety of styles and methods. Joining the market is the Kiwano K01 electric scooter.

The Kiwano electric scooter uses a sleek design to provide a stable, intuitive mode of transportation. Like other self-balancing scooters on the market, the Kiwano features responsive body control. What truly sets it apart is its ability to control wirelessly. Users can get off, press a button, and the Kiwano will follow along.

Using a lightweight structure of carbon fiber and zinc alloy, the Kiwano electric scooter is able to pack a punch even with its slim design. The powerful wheel hub motor can push riders up to 20 miles per hour. Even riders in hilly areas like San Francisco can get around on inclines of up to 35 percent. If the scooter feels too fast or powerful, riders can easily switch between modes for a more comfortable riding experience.

Electricity stores in individual LC battery cells located in the central neck of the scooter. With all the issues around exploding phones and hoverboards, a fireproof safety shield encases the batteries to prevent this from happening. Charging the batteries takes only an hour for up to 20 miles of range.

Other features of the Kiwano allow for some fun. A shock suspension system not only creates a smooth ride in bumpy areas, it also allows riders to perform jumps like on a pogo stick. The scooter has also been IP54 certified. What this means is that the body protects against dust and splashing water. Riders should have no problem driving through puddles and dirt patches. For sharing the excitement, the Kiwano also features a free mount for a GoPro camera to attach above the wheel.

Using the companion app, owners gain extra features such as wireless control. Here the scooter can either be controlled at the press of a button or set to follow along as riders walk. Additionally, owners can calibrate their desired launch positioning depending on how much they would like to lean forward. Other features of the app include checking the speed, battery, distance, and route map. Regular firmware updates to the battery and motor processors will also ensure that the scooter is at its best.

For safety, the foldable footpegs feature anti-slip grip to keep the rider on board. Head and tail lights also keep the rider visible even during low-light conditions. To keep track of the essential data like battery level and speed, a small LCD display sits at the top of the central neck. When the ride is done, a discreet kickstand folds out for easily storing the scooter anywhere.

The Kiwano K01 is available for pre-order for a discounted price of $800. Consumers can choose between road or all-terrain tires, fender and grip color and other accessories like a helmet and rapid charger. Shipments go out in July.

Garrett Hulfish
Garrett is the kind of guy who tells you about all the tech you haven't heard of yet. He also knows too much about other…
The best golf apps for iPhone and Android: 8 best ones in 2023
smart golf club

If you play golf, then it's likely you live and breathe golf, and like everyone else, you're probably always looking to improve your game. Hiring a coach and other methods are great ways to improve, but have you considered starting out by downloading an app? Golfing apps are some of the most advanced applications out there and make heavy use of artificial intelligence and GPS to both track your movements and analyze your swing. Golf apps can track an enormous amount of data about the way you play and can help you to turn those bogeys into birdies. Here are the best golf apps for iPhones and Android phones.

Looking for more useful apps? Check out our lists of the best Android apps and best iPhone apps you can download today.

Read more
Goal Zero’s new Skylight is an LED palm tree for emergencies
A Goal Zero Skylight shining LEDs lights into a darkened hallway.

Goal Zero is expanding its lighting range today with a backup LED system called the Skylight. The Goal Zero Skylight is an all-in-one set that includes a 33Wh battery built in and six LED panels that can blast out 6,000 lumens all told.

There are four brightness settings available, if that much light is overkill for your needs, and the panels can angle outwards as needed to cover a larger area. Combined with the 12 feet of telescoping available from the tripod, you can cover quite the range with visibility. A handle with a one-button release allows you to quickly deploy the Skylight for outdoor work or play, and stakes stored in the legs give you the option to keep it in place. A dedicated spool stows the charging cable when you're not using it, and a carrying case is included to store and move the whole kit.

Read more
The best electric bikes for 2023
Aventon Pace 500.3 with rider on it

Whether you're wondering what the fuss is all about with e-bikes, or you're an enthusiast shopping for a new model, the options have never been broader. There is an e-bike for just about anyone who wants to try electric two-wheeling, whether you want to spend $500 or $5,000. Using e-bikes for commuting is an eminently practical and cost-saving alternative form of transport for some people, but most riders choose e-bikes for fun and adventure.

Here are eight of the best e-bikes available today, from our favorite overall pick to more specialized choices for every type of rider, whether you're looking for something fast, portable, and just more affordable.

Read more