Gotrax GXL vs GXL V2 Electric Scooter: What’s New?
Are you looking for transport that is both affordable and beneficial?
Well, look no further because Gotrax brings you the most reliable electric scooters for easy daily commute: The Gotrax GXL V1 and V2.
Here, the “G” in the GXL stands for “Glider,” so both of these scooters are a part of the Glider XL series from Gotrax.
Gotrax GXL V2 is, in simple terms, a newer version of Gotrax GXL.
The manufacturers enhanced the features of Gotrax GXL and produced Gotrax GXL V2.
For example, the battery life of Gotrax GXL V2 is slightly extended compared to Gotrax GXL along with an EABS addition to the dual brakes in Gotrax GXL V2 to the simple dual brakes of Gotrax GXL.
However, this does not mean that Gotrax GXL V2 is a better choice than Gotrax GXL since both models have pros and cons.
They are incredibly similar in most aspects, but some attributes such as a decreased charging time and price tag are a plus for Gotrax GXL but not for Gotrax GXL V2.
Buyers have trouble deciding which is the best. Therefore we’ve included a thorough analysis of both. Besides, we have also included reviews for these eScooters from 1100+ buyers and testers worldwide.
This will spare you much effort, and you can choose the correct model to fit your needs.
Contents
- 1 Specification Comparison Table
- 2 Major Differences
- 3 Quick Features Comparison
- 4 Detailed Features Comparison
- 4.1 Design
- 4.2 Weight Capacity
- 4.3 Battery Life Per Charge
- 4.4 Charging Time
- 4.5 Speed Limit
- 4.6 Motor Power
- 4.7 Hill Incline
- 4.8 Lighting
- 4.9 Brakes
- 4.10 Tires
- 4.11 Handlebar
- 4.12 Suspension
- 4.13 Water Resistance
- 4.14 Portability
- 4.15 Price
- 4.16 Warranty
- 4.17 Boot Space
- 4.18 Display
- 4.19 Riding Modes
- 4.20 Bluetooth Connectivity and App Support
- 4.21 Navigation
- 5 Gotrax GXL and GXL V2: Who is the Winner?
- 6 FAQs
Specification Comparison Table
Gotrax GXL V1 | Gotrax GXL V2 | |
---|---|---|
Maximum Speed | 15.5 mph (25 km/h) | 15.5 mph (25 km/h) |
Range | 9 to 12 miles (14 to 19 km) | 12.5 miles (20 km) |
Maximum Weight Carrying Capacity | 220 lbs (99.8 kgs) | 220 lbs (99.8 kgs) |
Minimum Weight Carrying Capacity | 44 lbs (20 kgs) | 44 lbs (20 kgs) |
Tire Size | 8.5″ | 8.5″ |
Tyre Type | Pneumatic Tires | Pneumatic (Air-filled) Tires |
Color | Black | Black |
LED Lights | LED Headlight | LED Headlight |
Safety Reflectors | Rear and Side Reflectors | Rear and side reflectors |
App-Enabled | No | No |
Bluetooth | No | No |
Warranty | 180 days | 180 days |
Material | Aluminum Alloy Frame | Aluminum Alloy Frame |
Hill Incline | 15 degrees | 15 degrees |
Battery | 36 V Lithium-ion Battery (187.2 Wh Capacity) | 36V 5.2aH Lithium-ion Battery |
Charging Time | 3-4 hours | 4-5 hours |
Power Requirement for Charging | DC 42V 1.5A | DC 42V 1.5A |
Motor Power | 250 W – Brushless DC motor | 250 W – Brushless DC motor |
Wheel Material | Alloy | Alloy |
Grip Type | Rubberized | Rubberized |
Throttle Type | Push Button Throttle | Push Button Throttle |
Brake Style | Push Button for Front Electromagnetic Brakes and Foot Padel for Rear Disc Brakes | Hand-operated lever |
Braking System | (Front) Electromagnetic Brakes and (Rear) Disc Brakes | (Front) Regenerative Electromagnetic Brakes and (Rear) Disc Brakes |
UL Certified | UL2272 Certified | UL2272 Certified |
Operating Temperature | 32°F to 109°F (0°C to 43°C) | 32°F to 109°F (0°C to 43°C) |
Storage Temperature | -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C) | -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C) |
Handlebar Height | 37.5 inches (Approx.) | 37.5 inches (Approx.) |
Foldable | Yes | Yes |
Item Weight | 27 lbs. | 27 lbs. |
Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
Display | Yes | Yes |
Riding Mode | No, but 2 gears | No, but 2 gears |
Age | 8+ | 8+ |
Suspension | No | No |
Bell | No | Yes |
Item Dimensions (Unfolded) | 43.3″ x 16.7″ x 44.1″ | 43.3″ x 16.7″ x 44.1″ |
Item Dimensions (folded) | 43.3″ x 6.7″ x 15″ (Approx.) | 43.3″ x 6.7″ x 15″ (Approx.) |
Kick Stand | Yes, Retractable | Yes, Retractable |
Phone Mount | No | No |
Water Resistance | IP54 Water Resistance | IP54 Water Resistance |
Seat | No | No |
Buy Now | Discontinued | Check Price on Amazon |
Major Differences
- Braking Style: In GXL V1, there were two braking methods. One was the front push button for electromagnetic brake and a rear foot pedal to operate rear disc brakes. However, in GXL V2, the Gotrax has removed the rear foot pedal. Instead, they have included a much more convenient bike-like hand-operated handlebar lever for engaging both brakes. Besides, in GXL V1, the electronic brakes doesn’t work unless the motor engages at a certain speed (still you can use the rear brake to stop), whereas this issue was resolved in GXL V2, where the hand-operated lever engages both brakes anytime you need.
- Safety Pin: To prevent the scooter from folding while riding, especially on bumpy roads, version 2 of Gotrax GXL is equipped with safety locking bolts that lock the handlebar to its place, while this feature was unavailable in the original version.
- Reinforced Deck and Rear Fender: Gotrax GXL V1 received complaints about weak fender and deck (baseboard). To counter this problem, Gotrax reinforced these parts in GXL V2.
- Power Button Timing: To turn off the electric scooter by pressing the power button for a couple of settings, the GXL V2 takes more time than the V1, so you may notice minor differences in configuration.
- Regenerative brakes: Although, GXL V1 features an electromagnetic brake. However, in GXL V2, it is upgraded to regenerative electromagnetic brakes, so it can increase the scooter’s range.
- Bell: Gotrax GXL V2 has a tiny bell attached to its handlebar, which wasn’t available in the original GXL.
- Charging Brick Size: The charging brick of both the scooters share exact specifications (voltage, ampere, etc.). However, they have different sizes.
- Availability: Gotrax GXL V1 is not available on its official site and other reliable online markets, whereas you can buy Gotrax GXL V2 easily.
Quick Features Comparison
Detailed Features Comparison
Design
Customers are drawn to trendy designs without effort.
When one drives in an electric scooter with an appealing appearance, their confidence is naturally boosted, thus a product that is pleasing to the sight is the first pick for everyone.
Talking about the designs of the Gotrax GXL V2 and GXL, you’ll note how identical they are.
Gotrax GXL V2 and GXL have very similar Aluminum alloy A6061 frames with minimalist design that is lightweight and foldable, except that the Gotrax GXL V2 features a safety pin to prevent handlebar stem from folding while riding.
There is also a difference in their braking system as the Gotrax GXL does not include an hand-operated brake lever which slightly improves its overall look as there are no obvious wires on the e-scooter.
However, a foot pedal to operate rear brake and thumb-push button for front eABS braking in Gotrax GXL is a bit confusing for riders. On the other hand, GXL V2’s brakes are synchronized to give better handling and safe braking.
So, the GXL scooter’s sleek, wireless design ensures that you arrive in elegance every time. However, you are may have to slightly sacrifice endurance and functionality for aesthetics.
Still this is totally our point of view, and you may differ with it!
Moreover, Gotrax GXL V2 also comes with reinforced deck and rear fender to improve its durability. It was done after a few riders reported breaking of deck and fender in original GXL.
Buyers and testers reviews on design:
- Many reviewers and testers praised the reinforced baseboard (deck) and rear fender of Gotrax GXL V2. This makes it sturdier and crack-resistant than the GXL V1.
- Reviewers loved the addition of a bell in GXL V2 that makes it much safer to ride on the streets.
- One of the buyers bought GXL V1 instead of V2, fearing that V2’s brake wire, which runs from handlebar to rear wheel, may break while carrying the scooter (folded) from the ground floor to upstairs or vice versa.
- One of the testers appreciated GXL V2’s breaking as it is synchronized due to a single operating lever. In contrast, the GXL V1’s separate breaking method for both front and rear caused mishandling and crazy wipe-outs.
- Many reviewers confirmed that both of these scooters are way easy to assemble.
Weight Capacity
The weight capacity of an electric scooter is an important consideration if you want your electric scooter to endure a long time.
Substantial risk of internal damage to the electric scooter is present if someone riding it is weighing more than the electric scooter’s weight capacity.
The reason behind it is that the motor will be subjected to greater weight than it is designed to withstand.
Although the weight restriction for the Gotrax GXL V2 and GXL is 220 pounds, the GXL V2 will be more reliable in carrying this much weight due to the reinforced baseboard (deck).
However, Customers who weigh greater than this should avoid purchasing any of these e-scooter types.
Buyers and testers reviews on weight capacity:
- Reviewers and testers confirmed that both these rides could carry 220 lbs. of weight, as claimed by the manufacturer. However, achieving the claimed speed and range with a heavy rider weighing 200 to 220 lbs is nearly impossible. So, to get the best performance out of these machines, you should weigh below 200 lbs.
Battery Life Per Charge
Both the Gotrax GXL V1 and V2 share a similar 36 V Lithium-ion Battery with 187.2 Wh Capacity, so range is almost similar.
According to the manufacturer, the battery life per charge of Gotrax GXL V2 is 12 miles whereas for Gotrax GXL it is 9-12 miles per charge.
The battery life per charge for these scooter is variable because sometimes on a rugged pathway or on a steep road, it takes more effort for the motor to get the electric scooter to keep running.
Besides, temperature, riders weight, tire pressure, battery health and driving style also affect the battery life significantly.
This in turn decreases the speed, hence decreasing the distance the electric scooter covers in a certain time.
Buyers and testers reviews on battery life per charge:
- Most of the reviewers and testers confirmed that 12 miles range for both of these scooters can only be achieved in ideal conditions (low incline, normal speed, smooth road, optimal temperature and rider weight < 180 lbs.). On regular basis the range is not more than 8 to 10 miles per single charge.
- A few reviewers complained about faulty battery due to which scooter didn’t last more than 3 to 4 miles.
Charging Time
When a rider must go great distances but not for an extended period of time, charging time is critical.
In such a case, he or she would prefer that their electric scooter charges rapidly so that they may return home without delay.
The charging time for Gotrax GXL V2 is 4-5 hours.
On the other hand, the charging time for Gotrax GXL is 3-4 hours.
Some customers for whom even an hour or 30 minutes are of a lot of value when it comes to charging their e-scooter might choose Gotrax GXL in place of Gotrax GXL v2.
Buyers and testers reviews on charging time:
- Most reviewers and testers had no issues while charging these scooters. However, a few claimed that the scooter battery stopped charging after a few months of use. It can be due to faulty battery or charger.
Speed Limit
To minimize disasters, the speed limit of an electric scooter is maintained low.
Because an electric scooter is built of light material and powered by low-power motors, really high speeds may cause it to overheat and cause the scooter to skid when riding.
A speed limit thereby minimizes the possibility of such incidents.
Both the Gotrax GXL V2 and GXL can achieve a top speed of 15.5 mph in about 10 seconds.
This pace is appropriate for daily travel. However, some adults may find it slow.
Moreover, both these rides have two gears; 1st gear can achieve 10 mph speed, while 2nd gear can go up to 15.5 mph under certain conditions. Please note that these gears are more of a speed limiter than an actual gear. It can limit the speed but doesn’t affect motor torque.
Buyers and Testers reviews on Top Speed:
- Many reviewers and testers confirmed that both GXL V1 and V2 can only achieve top speed of 15.5 mph in ideal operating conditions, such as rider’s weight, incline, riding style, and temperature. For most riders, both these scooters can reach average maximum speed of 13.5 mph.
Motor Power
The motor power of an electric scooter will provide you with information on many other aspects of the electric scooter.
The reason for this is that several major properties of the electric scooter, including its speed or slope gradient, are dependent on its motor power.
Both Gotrax GXL and GXL V2 features a Brushless DC motor with the motor power of is 250 Watts.
This means the overall performance would also be the same as they have the same motor power.
Buyers and testers reviews on motor power:
- A few Gotrax GXL users complained about noisy motor, while other claimed that motor stopped working after a few months of use.
Hill Incline
The hill gradient is an important component to consider for your everyday travel if you know the route you are going to follow contains steep portions as well.
Even in case, your typical route is flat, it is best to buy an electric scooter with a steep angle of hill inclination since you never know when you might wish to go on another route than your usual one.
In the case of Gotrax GXL and GXL v2, the hill incline is 15 degrees.
This hill incline is perfect when traveling on regular purpose-built roads.
Buyers and testers reviews on hill incline:
- One of the testers stated that these scooters can conquer urban inclined roads easily if rider’s weight is below 100 lbs. However, higher load will affect the ride’s performance.
- Most reviewers were satisfied with overall performance of these scooter while climbing hills below 10 degrees incline. Anything above this and below 15 degrees may require kicks to move.
Lighting
Lighting is a vital consideration since driving a vehicle without lights at night is quite risky.
If you will be traveling largely at night, it is recommended to obtain an electric scooter with both front and backlights so that others can see you readily.
Both the Gotrax GXL and GXL V2 have LED headlights which make it very clear for the rider to see the road in front.
In the dark, it also allows other vehicles to notice that an electric scooter is present on the path as well.
This prevents the rider from many accidents that might possibly occur if the electric scooter had no lights present.
However, both these rides would be much safer if they had taillight instead of rear reflectors.
Buyers and testers reviews on lighting:
- Almost all reviewers of Gotrax GXL V1 and V2 were satisfied with the brightness of headlight, however, they missed the taillights.
Brakes
Both the Gotrax GXL V2 and V1 feature a dual braking system with front eABS and a rear disc braking system. However, there are two significant differences.
The Gotrax GXL V1 has a push thumb button to operate the front electromagnetic brakes and a rear foot pedal to engage the rear disc brakes.
This is somewhat similar to a motorcycle.
However, the front eABS only engages when the V1’s motor is engaged after reaching a certain speed. Else it is useless.
Besides, beginners found it hard to get used to these separate braking methods, which cause the ride to skid or dis-balance.
To counter these issues, Gotrax removed the push thumb button and the rear foot pedal in GXL V2 and introduced a hand-operated brake lever to operate both brakes simultaneously.
This synchronized braking significantly improved the handling and braking. The GXL V2 can be stopped from a max. speed to zero, in approximately five meters without skidding.
On top of that, the Gotrax GXL V2 comes with regenerative eABS brakes that can recharge your battery and increase the scooter’s range if brakes are used wisely.
Buyers and testers reviews on brakes:
- One of the GXL V1 buyer complained that the ride somehow accelerates when brakes are applied.
- GXL V1’s Reviewers claimed that brakes failed to work, especially when riding down hill.
- Most GXL V2’s reviewers and testers were satisfied with overall braking performance.
- Testers appreciated Gotrax to introduce a reliable dual braking system in GXL series at this price point, where many other competitors are offering single brakes.
Tires
The riding quality of an electric scooter is determined by its tires.
Air-filled tires are generally ideal for a smoother ride, but their drawbacks prevent them from being a viable option for some consumers.
Air-filled tires are more likely to be punctured, which raises their maintenance costs.
As a result, many consumers choose non-pneumatic tires, particularly when buying electric scooters for children.
The air-filled tires of the Gotrax GXL v2 and GXL are 8.5 inches. These pnematic tires nicely compensate for suspensions on bouncy rough roads and ensure smooth comfortable ride. Besides, they also provide enough traction on wet condition, and prevent the ride from slipping.
However, these tires are highly prone to get puncture, so one ride it safely, and learn to fix the flat tires.
Note: For best riding experience, the Gotrax recommended to keep the tire pressure to 50 PSI.
Buyers and testers reviews on tires:
- Like other e-scooter with air-filled tires, riders of GXL V1 and V2 also complained about flat tires. Moreover, they also find it hard to fix it, and suggested to watch proper teutorials before fixing it.
Handlebar
Both these GXL e-scooters have a dynamic handlebar display in the middle, which allows you to monitor your battery life, headlights, and speed with the touch of a finger.
Besides, they also have comfortable rubber handlebar grips and push the thumb throttle button on its right side to accelerate and activate cruise control.
However, there are a few differences between GXL V1 and V2.
The V1 features a push button on the left side of the handlebar to engage electromagnetic brakes. In contrast, V2 has a brake lever and a bell. Moreover, GXL V2 also features a safety pin that locks the handlebar stem to its place and prevents it from folding during a bumpy ride.
The height of an electric scooter’s handlebar matters a lot. It is perfect for you if it reaches a bit above your waistline. A little height difference won’t be a problem, but more differences may make it hard for the rider to drive with ease.
The Gotrax GXL and GXL v2 have a handlebar of almost the same height. Their height from deck to handlebar is nearly 37.5 inches, whereas the total handlebar height of these electric scooter is 44.1 inches. So, you can choose either of them if they are compatible with your height.
Morever, both of these GXLs have foldable handlebar stems, which increase their portability. However, their handlebars themself is not foldable.
Buyers and testers reviews on handlebar:
- A bunch of buyers find it hard to assemble the handlebar.
- A few GXL V1 reviewers reported wobbling of handlebar.
- Almost none of the reviewers and testers complained about handlebar height.
Suspension
Even though the suspension is a great way to improve the ride quality by avoiding a bumpy ride, a lack of suspension does not mean that the electric scooter isn’t comfortable.
The manufacturers use other ways such as comfortable tires and a heavier frame to prevent the ride from being rough.
This is the case for both Gotrax GXL and GXL V2 as they both do not have a suspension but they do have other features such as pneumatic tires to provide comfort.
Buyers and testers reviews on suspension:
- Although all reviewers and testers missed the suspension in both scooters, they agreed that air-filled tires have somewhat compensated for this.
Water Resistance
The IP54 certification of the Gotrax GXL v2 and GXL indicates that they are only partially waterproof.
This does not indicate that you may practically immerse your electric scooter in water, but rather that it will not be affected if a few sprinkles of water reach it.
It is still critical to safeguard your electric scooter against rain, puddles, or standing water everywhere.
Buyers and testers reviews on water resistance:
- A few buyers living in heavy rainy areas were disappointed to see that these scooters are not safe to operate in the rain.
Portability
There are two ways to make an electric scooter more portable.
One of them is the development of lightweight electric scooters.
Another option is to manufacture foldable electric scooters.
Both of these concerns were considered during the development of the Gotrax GXL v2 and GXL.
They are both lightweight and foldable.
Both these Gotrax GXL scooters weigh 27 lbs. While its competitors like Mi M365 weigh 26 lbs. and Segway Ninebot E22 weighs 29.8 lbs. So, both Gotrax GXL V1 and V2 are somewhat easy to carry.
Besides, the foldability characteristic makes make both these scooters excellent for keeping within the house if you do not have an appropriate storage location, as well as keeping in the trunk of the car during long-distance excursions.
Both these scooters feature a one-step folding mechanism which is reliable, quick and smooth. Besides, they both feature a robust lock that locks the handlebar stem to its place when unfolded. However, Gotrax GXL V2 also comes with a safety pin that prevents the scooter from folding while riding.
Buyers and testers reviews on portability:
- Most reviewers and testers loved its lightweight structure, while a few reviewers found it a bit heavy to carry upper floors.
- Reviewers were overall satisfied with its folding mechanism; it is quick and smooth and makes the scooters compact enough to carry, even in car trunk.
Price
The cost of any product is really important.
Most clients have a set budget in mind before leaving to purchase an expensive item.
Every one of them attempts to get high quality at a reasonable price.
Both Gotrax GXL and GXL V2 are available under $400, which is within an affordable buying range making them a great choice for customers in search of a reasonable price.
Being old, the Gotrax GXL. However, is slightly less in price as compared to Gotrax GXL V2 (Check Price). Besides, price of both these scooter is less than Gotrax XR Ultra, and Segway Ninebot F.
Buyers and testers reviews on price:
- Most reviewers and testers confirmed that these scooters provide great value for money. Besides, all of them appreciated Gotrax to provide features that are usually not provided by other brands under this price tag.
Warranty
The warranty of an expensive product is vital to examine since it reveals a lot about the firm and the product’s quality.
A reputable firm always gives a warranty, which may be viewed as a symbol of the company’s confidence in its own product.
The Gotrax GXL and GXL V2 have a 180-day warranty which allows you to get a refund or a replacement in case you find a defect in your electric scooter.
Buyers and testers reviews on warranty:
- A few reviewers complained that warranty period is a bit less, while a few were disappointed with warranty service.
Boot Space
There is no purpose-built boot space in either of the two Gotrax models, Gotrax GXL and Gotrax GXL v2.
Some people however hand shoppers on the handles of the electric scooter to create space for things.
Even though this might seem like a great method for carrying stuff, it is not very reliable as it can cause the scooter to disbalance and cause accidents.
Buyers and testers reviews on Boot Space:
- Although, its very uncommon for electric kick scooters to have a boot space, however, reviewers wished it has atleast a phone mount like some other brands offer.
Display
Both Gotrax GXL and GXL v2 have the same LED display built into the handlebar.
Through this display, you can monitor your battery life, headlights, and speed with the touch of a button with a finger.
This button also let you turn on and off the scooter, control the headlight and activate or deactivate the cruise control. (All this can be done according to the instructions provided in user manual)
Buyers and testers reviews on display:
- Most reviewers and testers were satisfied with display quality, it is well-organized and easy to read, especially in sunlight.
- A few reviewers claimed that the battery and speed displayed on console is not accurate.
Riding Modes
The Gotrax GXL and GXL V2 do not have any riding modes. However, they both a dual gears, first one reaches the speed of 10 mph, while the second one can reach up to 15.5 mph. You can control the gears using the power button.
Buyers and testers reviews on riding mode:
- Most riders didn’t miss the riding mode other electric scooter brands offer, as dual gears somewhat serve the same purpose.
Bluetooth Connectivity and App Support
Neither Gotrax GXL nor GXL v2 has any bluetooth or app support.
Buyers and testers reviews on bluetooth and app support:
- Reviewers and testers missed the bluetooth and app support, especially for locking the scooter through smartphone.
Due to no app support or bluetooth connectivity, the Gotrax GXL and GXL v2 do not have any navigation system either.
Buyers and testers reviews on navigation:
- Buyers didn’t really missed the navigation feature as it is quite rare in scooter under this price tag.
Gotrax GXL and GXL V2: Who is the Winner?
The Gotrax GXL and Gotrax GXL V2 have almost exactly similar features.
After properly reviewing them we declare Gotrax GXL V2 as the Winner mainly due to its improvement in braking method, and reinforced rear fender and deck.
However, Gotrax GXL V1 isn’t far behind, as many Gotrax fans preferred buying GXL V1 due to different breaking system and lower price tag.
In conclusion, both these models are great for regular use and are rider friendly considering their bump-free tires, portability features, and a low charging time as compared to many other electric scooters.
So, if you are buying Gotrax for the first time, go for Gotrax GXL V2, but if you are planning to upgrade from GXL V1 to V2, we wont recommend that!
Gotrax GXL vs GXL V2: Comparison Video
Check out this amazing Gotrax GXL vs GXL V2 comparison video made by PowerOnFun:
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