CLIMBER

About

If there is one phrase that perfectly encapsulates the essence of the InMotion Climber, it is "wolf in sheep's clothing." At a casual glance, parked outside a café or folded under a desk, it looks like your standard, reliable commuter scooter. It shares a similar silhouette to the ubiquitous rental scooters or the classic single-motor commuters that have dominated the streets for years. However, InMotion has done something quite radical here. They have taken a chassis that remains relatively portable and compact, and they have stuffed it with a dual-motor powertrain that delivers a level of torque and acceleration usually reserved for much heavier, bulkier "beasts." It is a machine designed to solve a very specific problem: the frustration of slowing down to a crawl when hitting a steep incline.

Designed by InMotion, a company that has largely built its stellar reputation in the high-stakes world of Electric Unicycles (EUCs), the Climber represents a shift in their scooter philosophy. While their previous models like the L9 focused heavily on comfort and range with large suspension systems, the Climber is stripped back, raw, and focused entirely on power-to-weight ratio. It positions itself uniquely in the market as the "hill killer" for the everyday commuter. It isn't trying to be a hyper-scooter that goes 70 km/h, nor is it a budget toy. It occupies a sweet spot for riders who live in hilly cities-think San Francisco, Lisbon, or Auckland-who need a machine that can actually maintain the speed limit while going uphill without weighing 40 kg.

The philosophy behind this scooter is utility through power. Many riders have experienced the embarrassment of a scooter dying on a hill or the danger of losing momentum in traffic. The Climber addresses this by using two 450 W motors. This might not sound like a lot on paper compared to racing scooters, but in a frame this light, it translates to immediate, punchy response. It is a scooter built for the urban jungle where flat roads are a luxury, not a guarantee. It is an unapologetic workhorse that prioritizes getting you from A to B efficiently, regardless of the topography in between.

Safety

When you have a scooter that accelerates as quickly as the InMotion Climber, stopping becomes just as important, if not more so. InMotion has equipped this model with a dual-braking system that combines an electronic brake (EBS) with a mechanical rear disc brake. In practice, this setup offers a reassuring amount of stopping power. The electronic braking is particularly clever; because InMotion has deep roots in self-balancing technology, their controller logic for regenerative braking is smooth and effective. When you pull the brake lever, the motors engage in reverse resistance to slow you down while recharging the battery, and the mechanical disc clamps down for that final bite. It prevents the "over-the-handlebars" feeling while still bringing you to a halt quickly.

Visibility is another critical aspect of safety, especially for a commuter vehicle likely to be used in autumn and winter evenings. The Climber features a high-mounted headlight that does a respectable job of illuminating the path ahead, though serious night riders might still want to attach an aftermarket beam for unlit trails. More importantly, the scooter includes side reflectors and a rear brake light that flashes when you decelerate, alerting traffic behind you. The low center of gravity, thanks to the battery placement in the deck, contributes significantly to stability. Even at its top speed of roughly 35 km/h to 38 km/h, the scooter feels planted, provided the road surface is relatively smooth.

One often overlooked safety feature is the waterproofing. The InMotion Climber boasts an IP56 rating for the overall body and an impressive IP67 rating for the battery pack. While no scooter is truly "waterproof" (and you should avoid submerging it), this high level of ingress protection means that getting caught in a sudden downpour or splashing through a puddle isn't the safety hazard it is on cheaper models. It reduces the risk of electrical shorts that could lead to motor cutouts or, in worst-case scenarios, battery fires. This reliability ensures that the scooter remains safe to operate even when the weather turns against you, which is a massive plus for daily commuters.

Performance

Performance is the headline act for the InMotion Climber. If you are coming from a standard single-motor scooter (like a Xiaomi or a basic Ninebot), the first time you pull the throttle on the Climber will be a revelation. The dual 450 W motors (peaking at a combined 1 500 W) deliver torque that is instant and addictive. Acceleration from a standstill is brisk, hitting 25 km/h in just over 3 seconds depending on rider weight. It doesn't just slowly build up speed; it surges forward. This is particularly useful in city traffic where you need to quickly get up to speed with cars after a traffic light turns green, putting you in a safer position in the lane.

But the real magic happens when you face an incline. The marketing materials claim it can handle a 36% slope, and real-world tests from the community back this up to a surprising degree. Where a 350 W single-motor scooter would struggle, whine, and eventually stall, forcing you to "kick" to help it along, the Climber simply eats the hill. For a rider weighing around 80 kg to 90 kg, you can expect to maintain speeds of 25 km/h or more up significant grades. This consistency of speed is what transforms the commute. You no longer have to plan your route to avoid the "big hill"; you just ride over it.

Top speed is generally capped around 35 km/h to 38 km/h, which is the sweet spot for urban commuting. While some enthusiasts always want more speed, 38 km/h on 10-inch tires is plenty fast for bike lanes and city streets. The throttle response is tuned well across the three riding modes. The "Pedestrian" mode is docile, "Dynamic" is great for navigating crowded areas, and "Sport" unlocks the full potential of both motors. It is worth noting that the controller handles the power delivery smoothly; it's punchy but not jerky, a testament to InMotion's refined firmware algorithms.

Design

Visually, the InMotion Climber is a study in functional minimalism. It doesn't scream "performance" with aggressive angles or RGB lighting strips everywhere. Instead, it sports a sleek, matte black finish with tasteful orange accents-InMotion's signature colour scheme. The frame is constructed from aviation-grade aluminum, giving it a robust and premium feel. It feels solid to the touch, with no rattling or loose parts, which is crucial for a vehicle that doesn't have suspension to dampen vibrations. The deck is rubberized for grip and is wide enough to accommodate a comfortable stance, though perhaps not as massive as some touring scooters.

One of the standout design features is the folding mechanism. It uses a simple, robust latch that is easy to operate and, more importantly, incredibly solid when locked. There is zero "stem wobble," a plague that affects many scooters in this price bracket. When folded, the stem hooks onto the rear fender, allowing you to pick up the scooter by the stem. The dimensions are compact enough that it can fit into the trunk of a standard sedan or be tucked away in the corner of an office without drawing too much attention.

InMotion has also made a brilliant design choice regarding maintenance: the split-rim wheels. Anyone who has ever tried to change a tire on a standard electric scooter knows it can be a wrestling match involving tire levers and frustration. With the split-rim design, you simply unscrew the bolts on the side of the wheel hub, the rim separates, and you can easily remove the tire and tube to patch a puncture. This user-friendly design element shows that InMotion understands that their customers are daily riders who need to get back on the road quickly.

Comfort

Here is where we have to address the Climber's most controversial feature: the lack of suspension. In the pursuit of keeping the weight low (around 20 kg) and the chassis rigid for power transfer, InMotion opted specifically not to include springs or hydraulic shocks. This means that the ride quality is entirely dependent on the 10-inch pneumatic tires. On smooth asphalt, freshly paved bike lanes, or concrete, the ride is sublime-smooth, direct, and connected. You feel the road, which gives you confidence in corners.

However, on rougher terrain, cobblestones, or pothole-ridden streets, you will feel the vibrations. The pneumatic tires do a decent job of soaking up the high-frequency buzz of slightly rough roads, but sharp impacts will be transmitted through the deck to your legs and through the stem to your hands. For riders in cities with terrible infrastructure, this might be fatiguing on long commutes. It is a trade-off: you get a lighter, more powerful, and mechanically simpler machine (less maintenance without suspension pivots), but you sacrifice the "cloud-like" ride of heavier scooters.

To mitigate this, many owners recommend playing with tire pressures slightly (without going too low to risk pinch flats) and adopting an "active" riding style-bending your knees slightly to act as your own suspension. The deck length helps here, allowing you to shift your weight back and forth. The handlebars are of a decent width, providing good leverage, which helps stabilize the ride over bumps. Ultimately, the comfort level is "adequate" for a commuter but not "luxurious."

Range

The InMotion Climber is equipped with a 533 Wh battery (54 V system), and the manufacturer claims a maximum range of roughly 56 km. As with all electric vehicles, this number is achieved under ideal conditions-light rider, flat ground, low speed, and no wind. In the real world, especially given that this scooter begs to be ridden fast and up hills, you should expect different numbers. Most independent tests and user reviews suggest a realistic range of between 30 km and 40 km for an average-weight rider using a mix of riding modes.

If you are a heavier rider (pushing the 140 kg limit) and you are constantly attacking steep hills in Sport mode, that range might drop closer to 25 km. Conversely, if you ride conservatively in Dynamic mode on flat ground, you might creep closer to 45 km. This range is perfectly sufficient for the vast majority of urban commutes, covering a round trip to work and back with juice to spare. However, it is not a long-range cruiser designed for cross-country trekking.

Charging the scooter takes approximately 9 hours from empty to full. This is on the slower side, largely because it uses a standard 2A charger. For most people who charge overnight, this is a non-issue. However, if you forget to charge it and need a quick top-up before heading out, you won't get much range in an hour. The Battery Management System (BMS) is sophisticated, offering cell balancing and protection against overcharging, which prolongs the overall lifespan of the battery pack-a critical component for a daily driver.

Use and Practicality

Living with the InMotion Climber is generally a very positive experience. At 20,8 kg, it sits on the boundary of what is considered "portable." It is significantly heavier than a 12 kg ultra-light scooter, but it is remarkably light for a dual-motor vehicle. Most dual-motor scooters weigh upwards of 25 kg or 30 kg. A fit individual can carry the Climber up a flight or two of stairs, lift it onto a train, or hoist it into a car trunk. This portability is its superpower; it gives you the performance of a heavy scooter without the back-breaking penalty.

The folding mechanism is quick, taking only a few seconds to collapse and lock. This makes it ideal for multi-modal commuting-riding to the train station, folding it up, and riding the last mile to the office. The kickstand is sturdy and placed well to prevent tipping. The IP56 rating adds a layer of practicality that cannot be overstated; you don't have to panic if the weather forecast changes while you are at work. You can ride home in light rain with confidence, knowing the internals are sealed.

However, potential buyers should consider storage. While compact, 20,8 kg is still a fair bit of metal to maneuver in tight hallways. The lack of suspension means you need to be mindful of curbs; you cannot just smash into them like you might on a rugged off-roader. You have to slow down or bunny hop. The companion app is also a practical tool, allowing you to lock the motor electronically (though a physical lock is always recommended), adjust acceleration curves, and monitor precise battery data, adding a layer of modern tech convenience to the ownership experience.

General Assessment

The general consensus in the electric scooter community is that the InMotion Climber is a fantastic "sleeper" hit. It is widely praised for filling a gap in the market that many didn't realize existed: the high-power, low-weight commuter. Owners frequently express surprise and delight at the torque, often giggling at how easily they leave cyclists and other scooter riders behind at traffic lights. It has earned a reputation as a reliable, no-nonsense machine that does exactly what it says on the box-it climbs.

While the lack of suspension is the most common point of contention, many riders accept it as a worthy sacrifice for the portability and raw power. The build quality is consistently rated highly, with users noting that the scooter feels "tight" and durable even after hundreds of kilometers. The community appreciates that InMotion didn't just slap two motors on a cheap frame but engineered a chassis capable of handling the stress. The "bang for your buck" factor is often cited as a major reason for purchase.

However, it is not without its critics. Some users find the ride too harsh on older European cobblestone streets. Others wish for a faster charging solution out of the box. But overall, the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. It is seen as a serious tool for serious commuters, moving away from the "toy" aesthetic of cheaper models. It is a scooter that earns respect not by being the flashiest, but by being the most capable in its weight class.

Who Is This Scooter For?

The InMotion Climber is squarely aimed at the urban commuter who faces challenging terrain. If you live in a city like San Francisco, Seattle, Sheffield, or Lausanne, where hills are an unavoidable part of life, this scooter is built for you. It is perfect for the rider who needs to maintain speed on inclines to feel safe in traffic but doesn't have the garage space or the physical desire to manage a 40 kg heavy-duty scooter. It bridges the gap between portability and performance beautifully.

It is also an excellent choice for heavier riders. Many standard scooters have a weight limit of 100 kg and struggle significantly as you approach that limit. The Climber, with its 140 kg max load and dual motors, handles heavier riders with grace, ensuring that performance doesn't fall off a cliff just because the rider is carrying a backpack and winter gear. It provides a dignified riding experience where the machine doesn't feel like it's struggling under you.

Who should avoid it? If you have back problems or sensitive joints, the lack of suspension might be a dealbreaker, especially if your local roads are in poor condition. It is also not for the speed demon looking to go 60 km/h-it is capped for safety and range. And finally, if you need to carry your scooter up five flights of stairs every day, 20,8 kg will eventually become tiresome. But for the "last mile" commuter who wants a bit of thrill and zero hill anxiety, it is arguably the best in class.

Community Feedback - Pros

• Hill Climbing Ability: Universally praised as the best in its weight class for tackling steep inclines without losing speed.
• Torque and Acceleration: Riders love the "zesty" take-off and the ability to quickly maneuver in traffic.
• Portability vs. Power: The ratio of power (1500 W peak) to weight (20 kg) is frequently cited as a major advantage.
• Build Quality: Described as solid, robust, and rattle-free, with a premium feel to the materials.
• Water Resistance: The IP56/IP67 ratings give riders peace of mind in wet climates.
• Maintenance: The split-rim wheel design is a favorite feature for DIYers, making tire changes significantly easier.
• Load Capacity: Heavier riders (100 kg+) report excellent performance where other scooters fail.
• Braking: The combination of regen and disc brakes is felt to be strong and reliable.
• App Integration: The InMotion app is considered one of the better companion apps, offering useful customization.
• Aesthetic: The clean, stealthy look is preferred by adults who don't want a "toy-like" appearance.

The most consistently praised aspect is, unsurprisingly, the hill-climbing capability. User reviews are full of anecdotes about overtaking cyclists on steep grades or conquering local hills that previously required walking. This single feature seems to transform the commuting experience from a struggle into a joy. The reliability of the build also gets high marks; owners feel like they bought a durable tool rather than a disposable gadget, which justifies the price point for many.

Community Feedback - Cons

• No Suspension: The biggest complaint. The ride can be harsh and jarring on rough surfaces, cobblestones, or potholes.
• Charging Speed: 9 hours is considered slow by modern standards; many wish for a faster charger in the box.
• Headlight Brightness: While adequate for the city, some users find it too dim for unlit paths and install aftermarket lights.
• Throttle Sensitivity: In Sport mode, the throttle can be a bit "jerky" for beginners, requiring a gentle thumb.
• Real-World Range: Aggressive riding in dual-motor mode drains the battery quickly, often falling short of the advertised 56 km.
• Display Brightness: The dashboard can be hard to read in direct, bright sunlight.
• Handlebar Height: Fixed height means very tall riders (over 190 cm) might feel slightly hunched.
• Brake Noise: Some users report the disc brake squeaking out of the box, requiring adjustment.
• Kickstand: A few users find the kickstand a bit small for the scooter's weight, though generally functional.

The lack of suspension is the recurring theme in negative feedback. It is the primary reason why some potential buyers look elsewhere. Users warn that you "feel every crack in the sidewalk." However, many counter this by saying that the pneumatic tires help and that the rigidity makes the scooter feel more responsive. It is a polarizing feature-or lack thereof-that potential buyers need to be well aware of before purchasing. The charging time is a secondary gripe, mostly for those with high daily mileage who need a quick turnaround.

Value for Money

At a market price of around 641 €, the InMotion Climber represents exceptional value. When you scan the market at this price point, you are mostly looking at premium single-motor scooters like the Ninebot Max G30 or the Niu KQi3 Pro. While those are excellent machines, the Climber offers two motors for roughly the same money. You are essentially getting double the powertrain and significantly higher performance capabilities without a massive jump in price.

It sits in a very aggressive position. To get similar dual-motor performance from other brands, you often have to step up to the 1 000 €+ category (like the Mantis or VSETT lines), which also brings added weight. The Climber democratizes dual-motor power, making it accessible to the mid-range budget. You aren't paying for fancy suspension arms or carbon fiber trim; you are paying for motors, battery, and a solid frame. For riders prioritizing performance per Euro, it is hard to beat.

Is it a bargain? Yes, if your priority is torque. If your priority is comfort, you might find better value in a slower scooter with suspension. But for the specific utility of flattening hills and carrying heavy loads reliably, the Climber punches well above its weight class financially. It feels like a more expensive scooter than it is, simply because of how effortlessly it moves.

About the Brand

InMotion is not a newcomer to the personal electric vehicle space. Founded in 2012, the company made its name by dominating the Electric Unicycle (EUC) market. EUCs require incredibly sophisticated self-balancing technology, robust safety cut-outs, and high-performance batteries. InMotion brought this engineering pedigree into the scooter world. They are known for innovation-often being the first to introduce features like water resistance ratings and smart app integration into their devices.

The brand has a reputation for "polished" engineering. Unlike some "parts bin" scooter brands that assemble generic components, InMotion designs their vehicles from the ground up. Their community is vast and active, particularly on forums and Reddit, meaning there is plenty of peer-to-peer support available. While customer service experiences can vary depending on the local distributor, the core product is generally regarded as high-quality and reliable. They position themselves as a tech-forward company, focusing on the intersection of robotics and transportation.

If you are interested in seeing how their engineering translates to other form factors, or if you want to see their high-end suspension scooters, it is worth checking out the other offerings from InMotion. They have a range that spans from beginner-friendly lightweight scooters to absolute monsters capable of highway speeds, all sharing the same DNA of robust build quality and smart technology.

Specifications

• Weight: 20,8 kg
• Range (Claimed): 56 km
• Top Speed: 35 km/h - 38 km/h
• Rated Power: 900 W (2 x 450 W)
• Peak Power: 1 500 W
• Battery: 54 V / 533 Wh
• Charging Time: 9 hours
• Dimensions (Folded): 116,5 x 55 x 51 cm
• Dimensions (Unfolded): 116 x 47 x 118,6 cm
• Motors: Dual Hub Motors
• Brake Type: Front Electronic (EBS) + Rear Disc
• Suspension: N/A (Rigid)
• Wheel Size: 10 inches
• Tire Type: Pneumatic (Inner Tube)
• Max Load: 140 kg
• Water Rating: IP56 (Body), IP67 (Battery)
• Price: ~641 €

Known Alternatives

While the InMotion Climber is a standout, it isn't the only fish in the sea. Shoppers looking for a similar price point or feature set might consider the ISINWHEEL GT2 or the ISINWHEEL S10MAX. These scooters often compete on price and offer decent specs for the money, usually catering to the budget-conscious rider who wants an "all-rounder" with perhaps a bit more focus on comfort features like basic suspension, though they may lack the refined dual-motor torque curve of the Climber.

For those who simply cannot live without suspension, the KAABO Skywalker 8S is a strong contender. Kaabo is known for performance, and the Skywalker series brings that into a compact form factor. It offers a wider deck and a dual-suspension setup that makes rough roads much more bearable. However, the trade-off is often a slightly less refined build quality compared to InMotion's industrial design, and smaller wheels which can be less stable at speed.

If brand prestige and customization are high on your list, the DUALTRON Togo Plus is an interesting alternative. Dualtron is the "Ferrari" of the scooter world, and the Togo is their entry-level model. It offers style and the famous Dualtron suspension geometry, but often at a higher price for similar specs. Finally, the MUKUTA Mukuta 10 Lite is gaining traction as a robust, feature-rich alternative that offers a good balance of power and comfort, often appealing to those who want a rugged look and feel.