About

If you have been following the electric scooter industry for any length of time, you know that for years, the market was divided into two distinct camps. On one side, you had the flimsy, rattling toys that felt like they might disintegrate if you looked at a pothole the wrong way. On the other, you had the industrial-grade, terrifyingly fast hyper-scooters that looked like they belonged on a Mad Max film set. For the longest time, there was a gaping void in the middle-a need for a machine that was refined, reliable, and powerful, yet civilized enough to park in a corporate lobby. Enter the APOLLO City. This isn't just another scooter; it is widely regarded by enthusiasts and journalists alike as the benchmark for the modern commuter vehicle.

Designed by the Canadian team at APOLLO, the City represents a philosophical shift in how we view personal electric transport. Unlike many competitors that simply slap their logo on a generic frame from a factory catalogue, Apollo designed the City from the ground up. Their goal was ambitious: to create the "iPhone of electric scooters." They wanted seamless integration of hardware and software, a proprietary design that eliminates the spaghetti of exposed cables, and a ride quality that prioritizes comfort over terrifying speed. It is a machine built for the rider who has graduated from rental scooters and wants something that feels like a legitimate vehicle rather than a gadget.

The Apollo City has gone through several iterations, with the 2022, 2023, and 2024 models progressively refining the formula. Whether you are looking at the single motor or the more popular dual-motor "Pro" variant, the DNA remains the same. It positions itself as the ultimate daily driver-a scooter capable of handling the crumbling infrastructure of urban roads while keeping the rider clean, comfortable, and safe. It is a bold claim, but as we dive deeper into the engineering and user feedback, you will see why this scooter has garnered such a dedicated cult following in the micromobility world.

Safety

When we talk about safety on electric scooters, the conversation usually starts and ends with brakes. However, the APOLLO City takes a radically different approach that frankly changes the game. The star of the show here is the dedicated Regenerative Braking System (RBS). Unlike most scooters where regen braking is just a secondary feature that kicks in when you pull the mechanical brake lever, Apollo has given the City a dedicated throttle paddle on the left handlebar specifically for braking. This allows for smooth, variable electronic braking that slows you down rapidly without ever needing to touch the physical drum brakes. It feels intuitive, almost like downshifting in a car, and because it uses the motors to slow you down, it recharges your battery while saving massive amounts of wear and tear on your mechanical brakes.

Speaking of mechanical brakes, the City is equipped with dual drum brakes. Now, before you roll your eyes and ask "why not disc brakes?", hear me out. For a daily commuter, drum brakes are superior. They are fully enclosed, meaning they are immune to water, mud, and road grit. They don't warp, they don't squeak, and they require virtually zero maintenance. When you combine the powerful regen paddle with these mechanical backups, you have a stopping system that is incredibly reliable in all weather conditions. In emergency stop tests, the dual-motor version has demonstrated stopping distances that rival some of the best in the business, bringing you to a halt safely and composedly.

Visibility and environmental protection are the other pillars of the City's safety suite. The scooter boasts an IP66 water resistance rating. This is not just a marketing number; it means the scooter is certified to withstand high-pressure water jets. You can ride this machine in the rain without the constant anxiety that you are about to fry the electronics-a peace of mind that is priceless for year-round commuters. Furthermore, Apollo has integrated turn signals into both the handlebars and the rear of the deck. While some users wish the headlight was a tad brighter for pitch-black night riding, the overall lighting package, including the distinct rear brake light, ensures you are seen by cars. The high mounting point of the handlebar signals is particularly effective, placing your intentions right in the driver's line of sight.

Performance

Let's talk about power, because this is where the "City" name might trick you into thinking this is a slow, sedate vehicle. It is anything but. The dual-motor version packs two 500 W motors that can peak much higher, delivering a combined output that transforms your commute from a chore into a thrill ride. The acceleration is not the jerky, neck-snapping violence you get from some racing scooters; instead, it is a surge of torque that feels endless and linear. You can zip from 0 to 25 km/h in a heartbeat, allowing you to confidently merge with bicycle lane traffic or get ahead of cars at a green light. It hits the sweet spot of being exhilarating without being terrifying.

Top speed on the dual-motor model reaches up to 51 km/h. In the real world, unless you are on a private track, you rarely need to go that fast, but having that headroom means the scooter is never straining. You can cruise comfortably at 35-40 km/h with the motors humming silently beneath you. The real magic of the dual motors, however, is hill climbing. If you live in a hilly city like San Francisco, Lisbon, or parts of London, a single-motor scooter will die a slow, humiliating death on steep inclines. The Apollo City, specifically the dual-motor variant, eats hills for breakfast. It maintains speed up steep grades where other scooters would require you to kick-push or walk.

The throttle response is another area where Apollo has clearly spent time on software tuning. The acceleration curve is customizable via the app, but out of the box, it is tuned for "Ludo Mode" smoothness. There is no dead zone, and the power delivery is immediate but manageable. Riders consistently report that the scooter feels "planted" at high speeds. Thanks to the geometry of the stem and the rake angle, speed wobbles-the terrifying oscillation of the handlebars-are virtually non-existent on the City, even when you are pushing the speedometer toward its limit.

Design

Aesthetics are subjective, but it is hard to find anyone who thinks the APOLLO City is ugly. It is arguably one of the most handsome scooters on the market. Apollo has ditched the "bicycle parts bolted to a metal box" look for a cohesive, unibody-style design. The finish is a premium "Space Grey" with subtle orange accents that scream high-tech. One of the most striking features is the cable management-or rather, the lack of cables. Almost every wire is routed internally through the stem and chassis. This not only looks incredibly sleek but also prevents cables from snagging on door handles or bike racks.

The cockpit is a lesson in minimalism. Instead of a bulky, tacked-on display unit, the speedometer and ride data are integrated directly into the top of the handlebar stem using a dot-matrix display. It looks futuristic and is generally easy to read, although direct sunlight can sometimes wash it out slightly. The handlebars themselves are wider than average, curving slightly towards the rider, which provides a commanding, ergonomic stance. You don't feel cramped; you feel like a pilot.

The folding mechanism is another triumph of industrial design. It uses a solid claw-and-hook system that feels rock-solid when deployed. There is absolutely no "stem wobble"-a plague that haunts many other scooters. When folded, the stem hooks securely into the rear deck, allowing you to pick the scooter up. The overall build quality feels dense and substantial. There are no rattles or loose parts. It feels like a solid block of aluminum, which inspires tremendous confidence when you are leaning into a corner at 30 km/h.

Comfort

If you have ever ridden a solid-tire scooter on cobblestones, you know the bone-shaking misery that comes with it. The Apollo City is the antidote to that experience. It features a triple-spring suspension system-one spring in the front and two in the rear. The suspension is tuned perfectly for urban environments. It isn't "bouncy" like an off-road scooter, but rather "plush." It absorbs the sharp hits of manhole covers, bridge expansion joints, and potholes with a dull thud rather than a sharp crack. Community reviews often describe the ride feeling as "floating," which is high praise for a scooter with 10-inch wheels.

Supporting the suspension are the tires, which are a technological marvel in their own right. The City uses 10-inch tubeless pneumatic tires. Pneumatic (air-filled) tires are essential for traction and damping, but they usually come with the fear of flats. Apollo has solved this by pre-sliming the tires with a layer of self-healing gel. If you run over a nail or a shard of glass, the gel instantly seals the puncture around the object or the hole. This self-healing capability is a game-changer for commuters who cannot afford to be late to work because of a flat tire.

The deck is another component that contributes to the comfortable ride. It is spacious and tapers slightly towards the rear, giving it a surfboard-like shape. It is covered in a grippy, high-quality rubber mat that is easy to clean (unlike grip tape which gets dirty instantly). The rear of the deck features a dedicated footrest ramp. This allows you to shift your weight back and lock your feet into a power stance, which is crucial for stability during hard acceleration and braking. Even for taller riders (up to 190 cm), the handlebar height and deck length feel accommodating and natural.

Range

Range anxiety is real, and manufacturers are notorious for exaggerating their numbers. Apollo claims a maximum range of up to 69 km on the dual-motor model in Eco mode. Let's be real: nobody buys a dual-motor scooter to ride in Eco mode at walking speed. In the real world, riding in a mix of modes, tackling hills, and actually enjoying the speed, you can expect a realistic range of somewhere between 35 km and 45 km. If you are a heavier rider (100 kg+) or if you ride exclusively at top speed in "Sport" mode, you might see that drop closer to 30-35 km.

While this is significantly less than the theoretical maximum, it is still excellent for a city commuter. Most urban commutes are under 10 km one way. The City allows you to do a round trip, run some errands, and maybe grab dinner, all on a single charge. The 48 V system is efficient, and the battery management system (BMS) is smart, protecting the cells from over-discharge. The "Smart" aspect comes into play with the app, which gives you a much more accurate percentage reading than the simple battery bars on the display.

Charging time is respectable, taking about 4.5 hours with a fast charger to top up. This means if you do deplete the battery, you can easily get a full charge during a standard workday at the office. One minor critique from the community is the placement of the charging port, which is on the deck and can sometimes be fiddly to access, but it is well-protected with a rubber cap to maintain that all-important water resistance.

Use and Practicality

Here is where we have to address the elephant in the room: weight. The dual-motor Apollo City tips the scales at roughly 29,5 kg. For context, that is about the weight of a fully grown Dalmatian or three cases of water. If you live in a fourth-floor walk-up apartment with no elevator, this scooter is probably not for you. Carrying nearly 30 kg up stairs is a workout, not a commute. However, if you have an elevator, a garage, or ground-floor storage, the weight is manageable. The trade-off for this weight is the incredible stability and build quality we discussed earlier.

For "last mile" commuting (e.g., taking the scooter on a train or bus), the City is a bit bulky. The handlebars are wide and do not fold down, which can make it tricky to squeeze into a packed subway car during rush hour. However, the folding mechanism is quick and secure, taking only a few seconds to collapse. Once folded, the stem locks into the deck, making it easy to lift into the trunk of a car. It fits in the trunk of most standard sedans, making it a great "park and ride" companion.

One of the most practical aspects of the City is the Apollo App. While many scooter apps are garbage, Apollo's is actually useful. It allows you to navigate, track your rides, lock the scooter digitally (adding resistance to the wheels), and crucially, customize your acceleration and braking strength. You can tune the regen brake to be gentle or strong enough to throw you over the bars (don't do that). This level of customization allows the scooter to grow with you as your skills improve.

General Assessment

The consensus among the electric scooter community is overwhelmingly positive. The APOLLO City is frequently cited as the "gold standard" for mid-range commuters. It occupies a unique space where it offers premium features usually reserved for much more expensive scooters, but at a price point that is accessible for a serious vehicle replacement. Owners love the refinement; they often talk about how "quiet" and "smooth" it is compared to the rattly scooters they owned previously.

There are, of course, critiques. The kickstand has been a point of contention; on earlier models, it was a bit too short, making the scooter prone to tipping over on uneven ground. The front fender also received some complaints for not being long enough to block all splash-back in heavy rain, although Apollo sells extended fenders now. Some users also find the integrated headlight a bit underwhelming for unlit paths. However, these are relatively minor gripes in the grand scheme of things.

Overall, the sentiment is that this is a scooter you buy when you are tired of compromising. It is for the person who wants a vehicle that just works, day in and day out. It requires very little maintenance thanks to the drum brakes and tubeless tires, and it looks professional enough to ride in a suit. It manages to be fun enough for the weekend joyride while being serious enough for the Monday morning commute.

Who Is This Scooter For?

The Apollo City is squarely aimed at the dedicated urban commuter. If you are someone who wants to replace a car for trips under 10-15 km, this is your machine. It is perfect for the rider who values reliability and build quality over raw, terrifying speed. It is ideal for tech-savvy professionals who appreciate the integration of the app and the sleek, modern design. The high weight limit (up to 120 kg) also makes it a fantastic choice for heavier riders who often find that budget scooters feel sluggish or unstable under their weight.

This scooter is also for the safety-conscious rider. The combination of the best-in-class lighting system, the high IP66 water resistance rating, and the phenomenal braking performance makes it one of the safest two-wheeled electric vehicles you can buy. If you live in a climate where it rains frequently-like Seattle, London, or Vancouver-the weatherproofing alone makes this a top contender.

Who is it not for? It is not for the "portability first" crowd. If you need to carry your scooter onto a crowded bus or up multiple flights of stairs daily, look for something lighter like the Apollo Air or a carbon-fiber model. It is also not for the adrenaline junkie who wants to go 80 km/h on the highway; for that, you need a KAABO or a high-end MS ENERGY beast. The City is a civilized tool, not a racing toy.

Community Feedback - Pros

Regenerative Braking: The dedicated thumb paddle for regen braking is universally loved for its smoothness and stopping power.
Ride Quality: The triple spring suspension and pneumatic tires create a "floating" sensation that eats up road imperfections.
Build Quality: Owners consistently praise the solid, rattle-free construction and premium materials.
Water Resistance: The IP66 rating gives riders confidence to commute in wet weather without fear of damage.
Design: The sleek, integrated look with no exposed cables is a major selling point.
Low Maintenance: Self-healing tires and drum brakes mean very little time spent fixing the scooter.
App Integration: The ability to customize acceleration and braking curves is a favorite feature for tech-lovers.
Turn Signals: The inclusion of handlebar and deck turn signals is highly praised for safety.
Hill Climbing: Dual motors provide effortless torque for conquering steep urban inclines.
Ergonomics: The wide handlebars and spacious deck accommodate riders of various sizes comfortably.

The aspect that gets the most praise is undoubtedly the braking system. It changes the way people ride. Many owners report that they go weeks without ever touching the mechanical brake levers, relying entirely on the regen paddle. This not only feels futuristic but saves money on maintenance. It turns the chore of stopping into a fun, interactive part of the ride, allowing for precise speed control in traffic.

Community Feedback - Cons

Weight: At nearly 30 kg, it is heavy to lift, which is a deal-breaker for walk-up apartment dwellers.
Kickstand: Frequently criticized for being too short or unstable, causing the scooter to tip easily.
Headlight: The integrated headlight is considered too dim for unlit roads, forcing many to buy aftermarket lights.
Charging Port: Some users find the location on the deck awkward to access.
Splash Protection: The stock fenders are sometimes criticized for being too short to fully stop water spray in heavy rain.
Display Visibility: The integrated dot-matrix display can be hard to read in direct, bright sunlight.
Turn Signal Buttons: Some riders find the button placement takes time to get used to compared to motorcycle-style switches.
Price: It is on the expensive side for a commuter, pricing out budget-conscious buyers.

The most common complaint is definitely the weight versus portability. It sits in an awkward middle ground-too heavy to be truly portable, but small enough that you expect to be able to carry it. Riders often warn prospective buyers to measure their elevator or check their gym's storage policy before buying. However, most agree that once you are rolling, the weight disappears and actually contributes to the stability.

Value for Money

Priced typically around 1 208 € (prices vary by region and sales), the APOLLO City is certainly an investment. It costs significantly more than the budget scooters you see flooding Amazon. However, when you break down what you are getting, the value proposition is strong. You are paying for a fully integrated system, not a collection of parts. You are paying for IP66 waterproofing, which extends the life of the scooter significantly compared to cheaper, non-rated models that might die after the first heavy rain.

Think of it this way: if you buy a cheaper 700 € scooter, you might spend another 300 € over two years on flat tire repairs, brake pad replacements, and general maintenance, not to mention the frustration of downtime. The Apollo City's low-maintenance design (drum brakes, self-healing tires) means the cost of ownership over time is very low. For a daily vehicle that you rely on to get to work, reliability is worth the premium. It competes with high-end scooters like the Segway GT series, often undercutting them in price while offering a more commuter-friendly package.

About the Brand

APOLLO is a Canadian company based in Montreal, and they have rapidly become one of the most influential players in the North American electric scooter market. Founded by a team of young entrepreneurs, they started by distributing other brands but quickly pivoted to designing their own proprietary scooters. Their mission is to transition the world to electric mobility by creating vehicles that people actually want to ride. They are known for their heavy engagement with the community, often iterating their designs based on direct feedback from Reddit and Facebook groups.

Reputation-wise, Apollo has had growing pains, particularly with customer service response times during peak seasons, but they have invested heavily in improving their support infrastructure and creating self-help repair guides. They are unique in that they offer a dedicated design philosophy-they don't just clone existing scooters. They focus on safety, aesthetics, and software integration. If the City isn't quite right for you, it is worth checking out their other models, such as the ultra-portable Apollo Air or the high-performance Apollo Phantom.

Specifications

Weight: 25,8 - 29,5 kg (depending on model)
Range: 37 - 69 km (Eco mode)
Max Speed: 40 - 51 km/h
Rated Power: 500 - 1000 W (Dual Motor)
Peak Power: 800 - 2000 W
Battery Voltage: 48 V
Battery Capacity: 13,5 - 20 Ah (up to 960 Wh)
Charging Time: 4 - 4,5 hours
Brake Type: Drum + Dedicated Regenerative Paddle
Suspension: Front spring + Rear dual spring
Wheel Size: 10 inch
Tire Type: Pneumatic Tubeless Self-Healing
Max Load: 120 kg
Water Resistance: IP66
Price: ~1 208 €

Known Alternatives

If the Apollo City doesn't quite tick all your boxes, there are several other excellent scooters in this category worth considering. The market is competitive, and depending on your specific needs-be it more speed, less weight, or a lower price-you might want to shop around.

For those who want raw power and a more aggressive ride, the KAABO Mantis line is a strong contender. Specifically, the MUKUTA 8 Plus (often compared to the Mantis 8) offers a punchy dual-motor experience with solid tires, eliminating flat anxiety entirely, though at the cost of some ride comfort. It has a more rugged, industrial look compared to the City's sleek aesthetic.

If brand heritage and flashy lights are your thing, the DUALTRON Mini Special LB is a fantastic alternative. Dualtron is the "Ferrari" of the scooter world, known for insane build quality and suspension. The Mini Special is their compact entry, offering great suspension and that classic Dualtron stem lighting, though it lacks the water resistance rating of the Apollo. Similarly, the standard DUALTRON Mini is a great single-motor option if you want to save some money but keep the premium feel.

Finally, for a robust European option, the MS ENERGY Urban X series often provides great value for money with similar performance specs. While they may not have the polished app integration of the Apollo, they are solid workhorses that can take a beating.