About
If you have ever ridden a standard electric scooter through a city that has seen better days, you know the feeling of terror when a pothole suddenly appears in front of your tiny 10-inch wheels. It is a heart-stopping moment where physics is not on your side. Enter the DUALTRON City, a machine that seems to have been designed specifically to laugh in the face of crumbling infrastructure. This is not just another iteration of the famous Dualtron formula; it is a complete reimagining of what an urban commuter can be. By fitting this scooter with massive 15-inch pneumatic tires, Minimotors has essentially created a hybrid between a high-performance scooter and a light motorcycle, blurring the lines in the most exciting way possible.
Designed by the legendary team at Minimotors, the Dualtron City represents a shift in philosophy. While their other models like the Thunder or the Storm are chasing raw speed and adrenaline, the City is chasing "command." It positions itself as the ultimate solution for the rider who wants the power of a beast but the stability of a bicycle. It is an imposing, industrial-looking machine that screams durability. The goal here was clearly to solve the two biggest complaints of high-end scooter owners: "It's too dangerous on bad roads" and "I can't charge it because I live on the fourth floor." With giant wheels and a fully removable battery pack, the Dualtron City answers both with confidence.
However, do not let the name "City" fool you into thinking this is a tame, toy-like device for riding on the sidewalk. This is still a DUALTRON through and through. It carries the aggressive DNA of its racing siblings, packaged in a chassis that looks like it drove straight out of a cyberpunk movie. It is a machine built for enthusiasts who demand presence on the road, offering a ride quality that is arguably unmatched in the standing scooter sector. It is a bold experiment in geometry and physics, and for many riders, it is the endgame scooter they have been waiting for.
Safety
When we talk about safety on two wheels, stability is king, and this is where the Dualtron City reigns supreme. The defining feature-those colossal 15-inch wheels-provides a gyroscopic stability that smaller scooters simply cannot match. On a traditional scooter, taking a hand off the handlebars to signal a turn can feel like a death wish. on the City, the rotational mass of the large wheels keeps the machine upright and tracking straight with reassuring solidity. Furthermore, the angle of attack when hitting obstacles is significantly reduced. A pothole that would swallow a 10-inch wheel and send a rider over the handlebars is merely a bump in the road for the City. This changes the entire psychological experience of riding; you spend less time scanning the ground for pebbles and more time observing traffic.
Braking is another area where Minimotors did not cut corners. The scooter is equipped with a hydraulic braking system (often Zoom or Nutt, depending on the production batch and region) coupled with massive 160 mm discs. Hydraulic brakes are essential on a machine of this weight (over 40 kg) and power. The feedback is immediate and buttery smooth, allowing for precise modulation whether you need to gently shed speed or perform an emergency stop. The system also features ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System), a signature electronic feature from Minimotors. While the electronic ABS can be a bit jittery and loud-often sounding like a machine gun engaging-it prevents the wheels from locking up on slippery surfaces, which can be a lifesaver in wet urban conditions.
Visibility is the final pillar of safety, and the Dualtron City is lit up like a Christmas tree. It features the classic Dualtron stem lighting, which makes the steering column glow in customizable colors, ensuring you are seen from the side. It also sports dual LED headlights mounted low on the deck, a tail light, and brake lights. While the deck lights are decent for being seen by others, serious night riders often add a higher-mounted headlight to see further down the road. However, the integrated turn signals (indicators) are a welcome addition, integrated into the chassis to help communicate your intentions to cars, though their low position means you should still be careful.
Performance
Under the hood, or rather, inside the wheel hubs, the Dualtron City packs a serious punch. It is powered by dual brushless DC motors that can deliver a peak power output of around 4 000 Watts. To put that in perspective, most rental scooters you see on the street have about 350 Watts. When you pull the trigger on the City, the acceleration is instant and exhilarating. It doesn't just move; it launches. However, because of the larger wheel diameter, the torque delivery feels slightly different than the smaller-wheeled Dualtrons-it feels more like a surge of a powerful motorbike than the twitchy, wheel-spinning snap of a racing scooter. This makes it surprisingly manageable despite its immense power.
In terms of speed, this machine is capable of reaching upwards of 70 km/h on private land (though it is often sold restricted to 25 km/h to comply with European regulations). Riding at 50 km/h or 60 km/h on this scooter feels dramatically different than on others; because of the chassis geometry and big tires, it feels calm and composed rather than terrifying. The "wobble of death"-a terrifying phenomenon where handlebars shake violently at high speed-is virtually non-existent here thanks to the physics of the large wheels. It inspires a level of confidence that tempts you to push harder, knowing the machine remains planted.
Hill climbing is effortless. With a climbing grade ability of roughly 37% (or about 20 degrees), the Dualtron City eats steep inclines for breakfast. Where other scooters might whine and slow down to a crawl, the dual motors of the City maintain momentum, powering you up bridges and steep driveways without breaking a sweat. The controller setup allows you to switch between Eco and Turbo modes, as well as Single and Dual motor modes. While riding in Single motor mode saves battery, the true soul of this machine is only unlocked in Dual Turbo, where the acceleration pulls your arms straight and puts a massive grin on your face.
Design
The design of the Dualtron City is polarizing, industrial, and undeniably robust. It follows the design language of Minimotors: sharp angles, exposed bolts, and a generous use of aviation-grade 6082-T6 aluminum alloy. It looks like military hardware. The most striking aspect is the ground clearance. The deck sits significantly higher off the ground than standard scooters to accommodate the battery and the suspension travel. This gives the rider a towering vantage point, almost eye-level with SUV drivers, which is excellent for traffic awareness.
One of the most clever design elements is the battery compartment. Unlike most scooters where the battery is buried inside the deck and requires a workshop to remove, the City features a locking, removable battery pack that slides out of the rear of the deck. This is a game-changer for design utility. The mechanism is solid, secure, and allows you to leave the heavy scooter in a garage while taking just the battery inside to charge. The frame itself feels incredibly rigid, with no squeaks or flex, which is vital when you are thundering down the road at speed.
The folding mechanism is the classic Dualtron heavy-duty clamp system. It involves a double clamp with quick-release levers and a safety pin. While it is incredibly strong and eliminates stem wobble when tightened correctly, it is not the fastest system to operate. It requires a bit of muscle and patience. Once folded, the steering column collapses, but the scooter remains quite long and bulky due to the wheel size. It's not a "compact" fold by any stretch of the imagination, but it gets the job done if you need to slide it into the back of a station wagon.
Comfort
If you are looking for a "magic carpet" ride, you have found it. The comfort level on the Dualtron City is in a league of its own, largely due to the synergy between the pneumatic tires and the suspension system. The 15-inch tires act as the first line of defense, absorbing high-frequency vibrations from asphalt texture that solid tires or smaller pneumatic tires would transmit directly to your knees. You can ride over cobblestones-the nemesis of all scooter riders-and actually remain comfortable. It turns jarring impacts into dull thuds.
Supporting those big wheels is an adjustable rubber cartridge suspension system with swingarms. This is a signature Dualtron feature, allowing riders to customize the suspension stiffness by swapping out cartridges (though this requires some effort). Out of the box, the suspension is tuned to be plush but supportive. It has enough travel to handle significant bumps without bottoming out. The combination of the high deck and the suspension travel gives you a floating sensation, separating you from the harsh reality of the road surface beneath you.
The deck itself is wide and covered in grip tape, providing ample room to change your stance during long rides. Because the deck is quite high, stepping on and off requires a bit more effort than a low-slung scooter, but once you are up there, the commanding view is fantastic. The handlebars are wide, offering good leverage, and the ergonomic grips help reduce hand fatigue. For riders who plan to cover long distances, the fatigue reduction provided by this chassis cannot be overstated-you arrive at your destination fresh, not shaken.
Range
The Dualtron City is equipped with a 60 Volt, 25 Amp-hour battery pack using high-quality LG 21700 cells. In the world of electric vehicles, LG cells are the gold standard for reliability and longevity. Minimotors claims a maximum range of around 80 to 90 km. However, as any experienced enthusiast knows, manufacturer range estimates are often based on a lightweight rider going slowly on flat ground. It is important to be realistic.
In real-world conditions, riding aggressively in dual motor mode with mixed terrain and a rider of average weight (75-85 kg), you can expect a solid 50 to 60 km of range. If you are heavy on the throttle and constantly climbing hills at top speed, that might drop to 40-45 km. Conversely, if you stick to Eco mode and cruise at 25 km/h, you might actually approach that 80 km figure. For the vast majority of urban commuters, this is more than enough for a round trip without needing to charge at the office.
The charging situation is versatile. The scooter has two charging ports, allowing you to cut charging time in half if you buy a second charger. With a standard charger, a full top-up from empty takes quite a long time-upwards of 14 hours. However, with a fast charger (highly recommended for daily users), you can get that down to about 3-4 hours. The fact that the battery is removable means you can buy a second battery pack if you need unlimited range, effectively doubling your distance by carrying a spare in a backpack (though be warned, the battery is heavy!).
Use and Practicality
Here is where the reality check comes in. The Dualtron City is a beast, and beasts are heavy. Weighing in at approximately 41 to 42 kg, this is not a scooter you can casually carry onto a bus or up three flights of stairs. If you live in a walk-up apartment without an elevator, this scooter is likely not for you, unless you are a powerlifter or plan to leave the chassis locked downstairs and only carry the battery up. The weight makes it a vehicle, not a gadget.
However, the practicality for a specific type of user is unmatched. If you have a garage, or an elevator, the weight becomes irrelevant. The removable battery is the star feature here. Being able to leave a muddy, wet scooter in a bike room or parking garage and simply bring the clean battery pack into your office or living room to charge is a luxury that transforms the ownership experience. It removes the "charging anxiety" of wondering where you will plug in such a massive vehicle.
Storage can be tricky due to its length. Even folded, the 15-inch wheels mean it takes up more horizontal space than a standard scooter. It will fit in the trunk of a mid-sized car or SUV, but a compact city car might struggle unless you drop the rear seats. As a "last mile" solution, it fails; it is too big for crowded trains. But as a "door-to-door" vehicle that replaces a car or a moped for the entire journey, it excels brilliantly.
General Assessment
The Dualtron City is a triumph of engineering that successfully creates a new category of personal electric vehicle. The community reception has been overwhelmingly positive regarding its ride quality. Owners frequently describe it as the "safest feeling" scooter they have ever owned. The transition from small wheels to these 15-inch giants is often described as a one-way trip; once you experience the stability, it is very hard to go back to twitchy 10-inch wheels.
That said, it is not without its quirks. Some early adopters noted issues with valve extenders being difficult to access, and the sheer size of the machine intimidates some. It is also expensive, positioning it as a luxury item. However, the consensus is that the premium price pays for premium durability and safety. It doesn't feel like a toy that will break in six months; it feels like a vehicle that will last for years.
Overall, the Dualtron City is widely regarded as one of the best "cruisers" on the market. It isn't trying to be the fastest scooter in the world (though it is very fast), nor the lightest. It is trying to be the best *riding* scooter, and in that regard, it succeeds. It offers a level of refinement and road presence that commands respect from cars and pedestrians alike.
Who Is This Scooter For?
This scooter is perfect for the heavy-duty commuter who faces a route filled with potholes, tram tracks, and uneven pavement. If you have a 10-20 km commute each way and want to do it faster than a car without arriving shaken and sweaty, this is your machine. It is also ideal for heavier riders (100 kg+) who find smaller scooters flimsy or underpowered; the City's robust frame and suspension handle weight effortlessly.
It is also the perfect choice for apartment dwellers who have secure parking (like a bike room) but no power outlet there. The removable battery feature targets this demographic squarely. If you love the idea of an e-bike but prefer the standing position and the ability to wear normal clothes without pedaling, the City hits that sweet spot.
Conversely, you should avoid this scooter if portability is your priority. If you need to mix your ride with public transport (bus/metro) or if you have to carry your scooter up spiral staircases, the Dualtron City will be a nightmare. It is also overkill for someone who just wants a toy for a 1 km ride to the corner store on smooth pavement. This is a serious machine for serious transport.
Community Feedback - Pros
- Ride Quality: Almost universally praised as the smoothest ride in the game due to the 15-inch tires.
- Removable Battery: A favorite feature for those living in apartments, making charging incredibly convenient.
- Stability: Riders report feeling safe at high speeds and stable when riding one-handed for signaling.
- Braking Power: The hydraulic brakes are frequently cited as excellent, providing confidence-inspiring stopping power.
- Hill Climbing: Owners love that it doesn't slow down significantly on steep inclines.
- Lighting: The integrated lighting system is considered stylish and improves visibility significantly.
- Build Quality: Described as a "tank" and "solid," with no rattling parts.
- Aesthetics: The large wheels and industrial design attract a lot of positive attention and compliments.
The aspect that gets the most love is undoubtedly the stability provided by the wheels. Many users in forums share stories of hitting unexpected potholes that would have caused a crash on their previous scooters, but on the City, they simply rolled over them. This "safety factor" is the primary reason owners justify the high price tag and the heavy weight.
Community Feedback - Cons
- Weight: The 40kg+ weight is the number one complaint; it is simply too heavy to carry for more than a few seconds.
- Portability: Even folded, it is bulky and difficult to fit into small car trunks or elevators.
- Valve Access: Several users have complained that the valve stems on the tires are hard to reach, making inflation frustrating without an extender.
- Kickstand: Some riders feel the stock kickstand is a bit too short or leans the scooter too much, making it feel precarious.
- Fender Protection: Reports that the rear fender could be longer, as it sometimes allows water spray to hit the rider's back in wet conditions.
- Price: It is a significant investment, and some feel it should come with a fast charger included at this price point.
- Deck Height: The high deck means a higher center of gravity and a bigger step up, which takes getting used to.
- Charging Time: The standard charger is very slow (14+ hours), practically forcing owners to buy a fast charger.
While the weight is the most obvious drawback, the issue with the tire valves is a specific annoyance that comes up often in enthusiast groups. Because the hub motors are large, there isn't much space for the valve, and if you don't have the right extension, checking tire pressure can be a hassle. However, most owners agree that these cons are trade-offs they are willing to accept for the superior ride quality.
Value for Money
At a price point hovering around 2 900 € to 3 000 €, the Dualtron City sits firmly in the premium segment. It is not a budget purchase; it is an investment. When you look at the raw specs-4000W, 60V battery, hydraulic brakes-you might find other scooters that offer similar power for slightly less money. However, value is not just about watts per euro. The value here comes from the unique chassis and the swappable battery system.
If you compare it to buying a car or a high-end motorcycle, it is cheap. If you compare it to a generic 500 € scooter, it is astronomical. But the generic scooter will likely vibrate your teeth out on bad roads and might snap in half after a year of abuse. The Dualtron City is built to last. You are paying for the R&D that went into fitting those massive wheels, the brand reputation, and the availability of spare parts.
For the rider who needs a reliable, daily vehicle that can replace a car for urban trips, the value is high. The fuel savings, lack of parking fees, and pure enjoyment factor offer a return on investment over time. It holds its value well in the used market too, which is a testament to its desirability. It is expensive, yes, but it delivers a unique experience that cheaper competitors simply cannot replicate.
About the Brand
Minimotors, the parent company of DUALTRON, is essentially the "Mercedes-Benz" or perhaps the "Lamborghini" of the electric scooter world. Founded in South Korea in 1999, they have been in the game longer than almost anyone else. They are credited with creating the first dual-motor electric scooter, the Dualtron, which revolutionized the industry and started the "hyper-scooter" craze. They have a reputation for over-engineering their products, prioritizing raw power and durability.
The brand commands a cult-like following globally. There are Dualtron owner groups in almost every major city, and the aftermarket support is incredible. You can buy custom decks, carbon fiber parts, upgraded clamps, and lighting kits specifically designed for these scooters. This community support is a huge asset; if you have a technical issue, thousands of other owners can help you troubleshoot it.
Customer support depends largely on the local distributor, but generally, parts availability for Minimotors products is superior to lesser-known Chinese brands. When you buy a Dualtron, you are buying into an ecosystem. They are constantly innovating, and the City is a prime example of their willingness to take risks and push the boundaries of what a scooter can be.
Specifications
- Weight: 41.2 kg
- Max Range: 88 km (Eco mode, optimal conditions)
- Max Speed: 70 km/h (often limited to 25 km/h)
- Motor Power (Rated): 3 984 W (Dual Motors)
- Motor Power (Peak): 4 000 W
- Battery Voltage: 60 V
- Battery Capacity: 25 Ah (1 500 Wh)
- Battery Type: Swappable LG 21700 Li-ion cells
- Charging Time: 14h (standard), 3h+ (fast charger)
- Dimensions (Unfolded): 157.48 x 58.42 x 132.08 cm
- Wheel Size: 15 inch
- Tire Type: Pneumatic (Tube)
- Brakes: Zoom or Nutt Hydraulic Disc + ABS
- Suspension: Adjustable Rubber Swingarm (Front & Rear)
- Max Load: 120 kg
- Price: ~2 943 €
Known Alternatives
If the Dualtron City captures your interest but isn't quite the perfect fit, there are several other high-performance machines worth considering. For those who want the Dualtron pedigree but in a slightly more traditional and sportier package, the DUALTRON Victor is a fantastic option. It offers similar explosive power and range but comes with smaller 10-inch wheels, making it lighter (around 33 kg) and more agile for carving corners, though less forgiving on potholes.
For riders who prioritize raw power and visibility, the KAABO King GT Pro is a direct competitor in the "beast scooter" category. It features massive TFT displays, sine wave controllers for ultra-smooth acceleration, and a distinctive gold design. It is faster than the City and has great suspension, though it lacks the removable battery feature and the 15-inch wheel stability. Another strong contender is the VSETT 10+, known for its incredible "Sport Mode" boost button and excellent suspension, offering a great balance of price to performance.
Finally, if you are looking for something newer on the market, the MUKUTA 10 Plus is gaining traction. It offers a removable battery system similar to the City but in a more traditional 10-inch wheel form factor, making it a middle ground for those who want the battery convenience without the massive footprint of the City. Each of these alternatives offers a different flavor of high-performance riding, but none quite match the "rolling over everything" capability of the City.