Nine

About

If you have been following the electric scooter scene in Europe, particularly in Germany, you have undoubtedly heard of the IO HAWK Legacy. It was a behemoth of a machine, celebrated for its comfort and power, but it had one major drawback: it was massive. Enter the IO HAWK Nine. Often affectionately dubbed the "Legacy Mini" by the community and the manufacturer alike, this scooter is an attempt to distill the premium, rugged DNA of its bigger brother into a package that can actually fit into the trunk of a standard Volkswagen Golf. But do not let the "Mini" moniker fool you; this is not a toy for children. It is a serious piece of engineering designed for enthusiasts who demand top-tier performance without needing a garage to park it.

The philosophy behind the IO HAWK Nine is fascinating because it addresses a very specific gap in the market. Most "compact" scooters feel flimsy, rattle over cobblestones, and struggle to carry riders over 85 kg. On the other hand, high-performance scooters are usually heavy, unwieldy, and intimidating. The IO HAWK Nine sits perfectly in the middle. It is built with ultra-strong aviation forged aluminum alloy, giving it a "tank-like" build quality that users rave about, yet it retains a footprint small enough for urban living. The designers clearly wanted to create a "do-it-all" machine-something agile enough for the city commute but robust enough for a weekend trail run.

What makes this scooter truly stand out in a crowded field is its refusal to compromise on features usually reserved for hyper-scooters. We are talking about high-end hydraulic suspension, premium lighting systems from renowned manufacturers like Kellermann, and an NFC locking system that makes physical keys feel archaic. It positions itself as a premium mid-range scooter, targeting the rider who has perhaps outgrown their entry-level Xiaomi or Ninebot and is ready for a machine that offers a genuine "vehicle" experience rather than just a gadget.

Safety

When you are riding a scooter that feels this solid, it is easy to get confident, and that is where safety features become paramount. The IO HAWK Nine takes braking very seriously. Depending on the version you choose, you are looking at either high-quality mechanical disc brakes (on the single motor version) or, the community favorite, fully hydraulic Zoom disc brakes on the dual motor model. If you have never ridden with hydraulic brakes, the difference is night and day. You can feather the brakes with a single finger, modulating your stopping power with incredible precision. In emergency situations, they bite hard and fast, bringing the 24 kg machine to a halt with reassuring authority. For a scooter capable of carrying 150 kg loads, this stopping power isn't just a luxury; it is a necessity.

Visibility is another area where the IO HAWK Nine absolutely shines-literally. Many scooters treat lights as an afterthought, slapping on a dim LED just to meet legal requirements. The Nine, however, comes equipped with an 80 Lux headlight that actually illuminates the road ahead, making night riding safe and practical. But the real showstopper here is the turn signal system. The scooter features Kellermann indicators on the handlebars and Sate-Lite blinkers at the rear. For those not in the know, Kellermann is a legendary brand in the motorcycle world. having these on a scooter ensures that cars actually see your intentions. The rear light also features an integrated brake light, further communicating your actions to traffic behind you.

Beyond the active safety of brakes and lights, the scooter includes an NFC key lock system. This is a fantastic security feature that prevents the scooter from being turned on without your specific NFC tag or card. While it won't stop someone from physically picking up the scooter (though at 24 kg, they won't run fast), it prevents joyriders and opportunists from powering it up. Furthermore, the stability provided by the chassis geometry means that even at its top speed, the scooter doesn't suffer from the dreaded "speed wobbles" that plague cheaper models. The extra-wide footboard allows you to adopt a stable stance, which is critical for safe maneuvering.

Performance

Let's talk about power, because the spec sheet can be a little deceiving here. The IO HAWK Nine is available in a single motor (500 W) or a dual motor (2 x 250 W) configuration. Now, if you just look at "250 W," you might think this is a weak entry-level scooter. You would be wrong. These are nominal power ratings designed to comply with strict regulations. In reality, the peak power output is significantly higher-up to 1 000 W for the single and a combined peak of 1 200 W for the dual motor version. The dual motor variant is the one that gets the enthusiasts excited. Having a motor in each wheel hub provides all-wheel drive, which translates to instant torque and incredible grip.

The acceleration on the dual-motor model is zippy and fun. It doesn't just slowly build up speed; it pulls. This is particularly noticeable when you are facing an incline. One of the biggest complaints about standard electric scooters is their inability to handle hills. The IO HAWK Nine, especially in its AWD configuration, eats hills for breakfast. It is rated for inclines of 20% or more, and user reviews confirm that it maintains speed up steep gradients where other scooters would require the rider to kick-push. The "Mountain King" nickname it has earned in some circles is well deserved.

In terms of speed, the scooter is typically capped at 20 km/h to meet German road approval (eKFV) standards, though a 25 km/h version exists for other markets or private land use. While 20 km/h might sound modest to international riders used to 30 mph beasts, the way the IO HAWK Nine delivers that speed is what matters. It reaches top speed quickly and holds it effortlessly, regardless of rider weight or wind resistance. The throttle response is tuned to be smooth yet responsive, avoiding the jerky "on/off" feeling of cheaper controllers. Plus, for those long rides, the ability to switch off the front motor to save battery is a clever performance management feature.

Design

The IO HAWK Nine is, simply put, a handsome machine. It eschews the toy-like plastic aesthetic of commuter scooters for a rugged, industrial look that screams durability. Constructed from aviation-grade forged aluminum, the chassis is rigid and robust. It comes in several colors-Black, Red, Yellow, and Mint-allowing for a bit of personal expression, but the Black version remains the stealthy favorite. The finish is premium, with clean welds and high-quality paint that resists scratching. It looks like a piece of tactical gear rather than a recreational toy.

One of the most innovative design elements is the folding mechanism. Anyone who has struggled with a wobbly stem knows how important this is. The Nine uses a patented triple-locking mechanism. It is incredibly secure when upright, with zero play or wobble, giving you the confidence to lean into turns. When it's time to pack up, the stem folds down, and-crucially-the handlebars themselves fold inward. This transforms the scooter into a surprisingly compact package (122 x 23 x 49 cm). The ability to fold the handlebars is a game-changer for fitting the scooter into narrow car trunks or storing it in a hallway without tripping over it.

The deck design also deserves a mention. It is extra wide, accommodating larger feet comfortably, and features a dedicated rear footrest. This rear kickplate is essential for performance riding; it allows you to shift your weight back during braking and forward during acceleration, locking you into the machine. The placement of the charging ports (high up, easy to access) and the integrated LCD display on the handlebars show that a lot of thought went into the ergonomics of this device. It feels designed by riders, for riders.

Comfort

If there is one word that appears in almost every review of the IO HAWK Nine, it is "cloud." As in, "riding on a cloud." This is largely thanks to the proprietary Spring-R suspension technology. The suspension setup is a hybrid: the front uses a high-quality spring suspension, while the rear combines a hydraulic shock with traditional swingarms. This combination is magical. The hydraulic rear end dampens the harsh hits from potholes and curbs, while the front keeps the steering precise. It eliminates the bone-rattling vibration that usually accompanies riding on cobblestones or older asphalt.

Complementing the suspension are the tires. The IO HAWK Nine rolls on 8.5 x 3-inch pneumatic off-road tires. While 8.5 inches is a standard diameter, the 3-inch width is significant. These are wide, "fat" tires that provide a larger contact patch with the ground. This adds to the stability and allows the scooter to float over cracks and tram tracks that would trap thinner tires. The recommended pressure of 3.5 bar (50 PSI) strikes a good balance between range efficiency and shock absorption. Whether you are navigating a gravel path in the park or a construction-riddled city street, the Nine handles it with poise.

Comfort is also about stance. Because the deck is wide and long, you aren't forced to stand with your feet side-by-side like a statue. You can adopt a skateboard-style stance or keep your feet parallel, shifting your weight as needed. The handlebars are height-adjustable (implied by the rider height range of 130-200 cm), meaning tall riders won't be hunched over, and shorter riders won't feel like they are hanging from a pull-up bar. This ergonomic flexibility makes the IO HAWK Nine suitable for long rides without inducing back fatigue.

Range

Range anxiety is the enemy of every electric vehicle owner, and IO HAWK has tackled this with a substantial 48 V, 15 Ah lithium battery. The manufacturer claims a maximum range of up to 70 km for the single motor and an impressive 77 km for the dual motor version (when running in single motor mode). However, as a knowledgeable enthusiast, I have to be real with you: manufacturer range estimates are usually based on a 75 kg rider going slow on a flat, windless indoor track. In the real world, where hills, wind, and full-throttle riding exist, you should expect something different.

Community feedback suggests that for a mixed riding style (some full speed, some hills), a realistic range sits closer to 40-50 km. This is still excellent for a scooter in this class. It means you can easily commute 10-15 km to work, ride around for lunch, and commute back home with plenty of juice to spare. If you are a heavier rider (100 kg+) or live in a very hilly area, expect the lower end of that spectrum. The ability to switch off the front motor on the dual version is a genuine range-extender, allowing you to limp home if you miscalculated your battery usage.

Charging is another area where the Nine excels. It features dual charging ports. The scooter comes with one 2 Ah charger, which takes about 6 hours to fill the battery from empty. However, if you purchase a second charger, you can plug them both in simultaneously to cut that time in half-down to just 3 hours. This is a fantastic feature for heavy users. You could ride to work, plug in two chargers, and be fully topped up before your morning coffee break is over. It transforms the usability of the scooter for long-distance days.

Use and Practicality

Living with the IO HAWK Nine is a mostly positive experience, but the weight is a factor you must consider. At 24 kg, it is not "light" in the traditional sense. You won't want to carry this up four flights of stairs every day. However, compared to other dual-motor performance scooters that often tip the scales at 30 kg or 40 kg, the Nine is relatively manageable. It strikes a balance: heavy enough to be stable and durable, but light enough to lift into a car trunk or carry up a short flight of subway stairs if you have decent upper body strength.

The folding mechanism is the star of the practicality show. Because the handlebars fold in, the scooter becomes very narrow. This means you can easily slide it under a desk at work or fit three of them in the back of a station wagon for a family trip. This compactness is rare in the performance sector. Most high-performance scooters have wide, fixed handlebars that make them a nightmare to transport in vehicles or on public transit. The IO HAWK Nine solves this problem elegantly.

Weather resistance is rated at IPX6, which is a strong rating. It means the scooter can withstand high-pressure water jets. While I would never recommend submerging a scooter or riding through deep lakes, an IPX6 rating gives you the confidence to ride home if you get caught in a sudden downpour. You don't have to panic about the electronics frying instantly. Combined with the off-road tires, this makes the Nine a viable all-season commuter, capable of handling wet autumn leaves or light gravel with ease.

General Assessment

Overall, the IO HAWK Nine is received exceptionally well by the electric scooter community. It is viewed as a "Goldilocks" scooter-just the right size, just the right power, and just the right features. Owners frequently praise the build quality, noting that it feels like a premium German-engineered vehicle rather than a cheap import. The suspension system, in particular, gets rave reviews, with many riders claiming it is the most comfortable ride they have experienced on 8.5-inch wheels.

There are, of course, minor gripes. Some users wish for larger 10-inch tires for even better pothole handling, and the price point is certainly higher than budget alternatives. However, the consensus is that you get what you pay for. The inclusion of name-brand components like Kellermann lights and Zoom brakes adds a layer of value that justifies the cost. It is a scooter that generates pride of ownership; people like showing it off.

The IO HAWK Nine has successfully carved out a niche for itself. It is powerful enough to thrill, comfortable enough to commute on, and compact enough to live with. It bridges the gap between the "last mile" toys and the "weekend warrior" beasts. If you are looking for reliability and performance in a package that doesn't require a dedicated parking space, the Nine is a top contender.

Who Is This Scooter For?

This scooter is perfect for the heavy-duty commuter. If you weigh over 90 kg and have found that rental scooters or entry-level models struggle to move you up hills, the IO HAWK Nine (especially the dual motor version) is built for you. With a max load of 150 kg, it is one of the most inclusive scooters on the market. It is also ideal for the multi-modal traveler. If you need to drive part of the way and then scoot, or take a train and then scoot, the folding handlebars and manageable size make it a great companion.

It is also a great choice for tech enthusiasts and safety-conscious riders. If you love gadgets, the NFC lock, the app connectivity, and the advanced display will appeal to you. If safety is your priority, the automotive-grade turn signals, bright lights, and hydraulic brakes make this one of the safest options for sharing the road with cars. It offers peace of mind that cheaper scooters simply cannot match.

However, this scooter is not for the ultra-light traveler. If you live in a fifth-floor walk-up apartment with no elevator, 24 kg will become a burden very quickly. It is also not for the budget hunter who just wants the cheapest thing with wheels. This is a premium product with a price tag to match. Finally, speed freaks looking for 60 km/h+ speeds will need to look elsewhere (or at the bigger Legacy model), as the Nine is tuned more for torque and legal compliance than raw top-end velocity.

Community Feedback - Pros

• Suspension: The Spring-R suspension (hydraulic rear) is universally praised for providing a "cloud-like" ride.
• Hill Climbing: The dual-motor version is a beast on inclines, carrying heavy riders up steep hills without slowing down.
• Folding Mechanism: The triple-locking stem and folding handlebars make it incredibly compact for car transport.
• Lighting: The Kellermann turn signals are considered best-in-class for visibility and safety.
• Brakes: The hydraulic Zoom brakes offer excellent stopping power and modulation.
• Load Capacity: Rated for 150 kg, making it accessible for larger riders.
• Dual Charging: The ability to cut charging time to 3 hours with a second charger is a favorite feature.
• Build Quality: Described as "tank-like," rigid, and durable with no stem wobble.
• NFC Security: Users love the keyless start system for added theft protection.
• Tires: The extra-wide 3-inch tires provide great stability on various terrains.

The most consistently praised aspect of the IO HAWK Nine is undoubtedly the ride quality relative to its size. Riders are often shocked that a scooter with 8.5-inch wheels can feel so smooth. The combination of the wide tires and the sophisticated rear hydraulic suspension seems to be the "secret sauce" that allows this compact scooter to ride like a much larger vehicle. It gives riders the confidence to tackle less-than-perfect bike lanes without fear of being thrown off.

Community Feedback - Cons

• Weight: At 24 kg, it is heavier than many people expect for a "compact" scooter.
• Tire Diameter: Some enthusiasts wish it had 10-inch tires for even better obstacle clearance.
• Fender Protection: A few users report that the fenders could be longer to prevent water spray on wet roads.
• Customer Service: There are mixed reviews regarding IO HAWK's support response times, with some users citing delays.
• Kickstand: Some users find the kickstand a bit too vertical, making the scooter prone to tipping on uneven ground.
• Price: It is expensive compared to mass-market Chinese scooters with similar paper specs.
• Display Visibility: In direct, bright sunlight, the LCD display can sometimes be hard to read.
• Availability: It is primarily focused on the European market, making it hard to get parts or units elsewhere.

The most common complaint revolves around the weight-to-size ratio. Because it is marketed as the "Legacy Mini," some buyers expect a featherweight scooter. When they have to lift 24 kg into a trunk, reality sets in. It is dense. Another recurring theme in forums is the customer service experience; while the product is great, interacting with the company for repairs or parts can sometimes be slow, which is a frustration for daily commuters who rely on their machine.

Value for Money

At a price point around 1 061 €, the IO HAWK Nine sits in a competitive bracket. You can certainly find scooters with "1000W" motors for less money on Amazon or AliExpress. However, value is not just about specs per Euro. With the Nine, you are paying for the integration of high-end components that you usually have to add yourself as aftermarket upgrades. A set of hydraulic brakes and Kellermann indicators alone would cost a significant amount to retrofit onto a cheaper scooter.

When you factor in the chassis durability, the IPX6 waterproofing, and the advanced suspension, the price begins to look very reasonable. This is a scooter designed to last thousands of kilometers, not just a summer season. For a daily commuter, the reliability and safety features offer a return on investment that cheaper, flimsier scooters cannot match. It holds its value well in the used market, too.

If you compare it to other premium compact scooters, the IO HAWK Nine often comes out ahead on features. Few competitors offer the dual-charge capability or the folding handlebars at this price point. It is an investment, yes, but one that feels justified every time you hit a pothole and don't feel it, or every time you climb a hill that leaves other riders walking.

About the Brand

IO HAWK is a company with a significant history in the personal electric mobility space. Based in Krefeld, Germany, they were one of the pioneers of the "hoverboard" craze years ago. Since then, they have pivoted hard into high-performance electric scooters, establishing themselves as a premium brand in Europe. They are known for pushing the boundaries of what is legal and possible within the strict German eKFV regulations.

The brand has built a reputation for listening to its community. The "Legacy" line, and now the "Nine," are direct responses to rider demands for better suspension, more power, and higher quality builds. They position themselves as the "AMG" of the scooter world-performance-oriented, stylish, and German-engineered. While they import chassis elements (often partnering with top manufacturers like VSETT or similar factories), their customization and tuning for the European market are extensive.

Community experience with the brand is generally positive regarding the product, though as mentioned, support can be a bottleneck due to their popularity. However, buying from a German company offers legal protections and warranty security that buying a grey-market import does not. They have a physical showroom and service center, which adds a layer of legitimacy and trust for buyers in the region.

Specifications

• Weight: 24 kg
• Range: Up to 77 km (Dual Motor version in single drive mode)
• Max Speed: 20 km/h (25 km/h unlockable for private use)
• Rated Power: 500 W (Single) or 2 x 250 W (Dual)
• Peak Power: 1 000 W (Single) / 1 200 W (Dual)
• Battery: 48 V / 15 Ah (720 Wh) Lithium
• Charging Time: 6 hours (1 charger) / 3 hours (2 chargers)
• Motors: Single or Dual Hub Motors
• Brakes: Disc (Single Motor) / Hydraulic Disc (Dual Motor)
• Suspension: Spring-R Technology (Front Spring, Rear Hydraulic + Swingarm)
• Tires: 8.5 x 3 inch Pneumatic Off-road
• Max Load: 150 kg
• Water Rating: IPX6
• Dimensions (Folded): 122 x 23 x 49 cm
• Dimensions (Unfolded): 122 x 69 x 121 cm
• Price: ~1 061 €

Known Alternatives

If the IO HAWK Nine isn't quite ticking all your boxes, there are several other high-performance compact scooters on the market worth considering. The electric scooter market is fierce, and depending on your specific needs-whether it's more speed, larger wheels, or a lower price-you might want to shop around.

One of the most direct competitors is the KAABO Mantis 10 Lite. The Mantis series is legendary for its nimble handling and "surfer" feel. The Mantis 10 Lite offers larger 10-inch tires, which some riders prefer for stability, though it may lack the ultra-compact folding handlebars of the Nine. It's a great choice if you prioritize ride dynamics over trunk portability.

Another strong contender is the KUGOO KuKirin G2 Max. This scooter often comes in at a lower price point and offers robust performance with a rugged design. It features a powerful motor and good suspension, making it a favorite for budget-conscious off-roaders. However, it may lack the refined German-spec lighting and the premium finish of the IO HAWK.

For those looking for something different, the EGRET EY 1 is another German-market favorite known for exceptional build quality and design, though often at a premium price. Alternatively, the GLION MODEL 335 offers a different take on portability, and the KUGOO G5 provides a balance of urban performance and value. Each of these brings something unique to the table, but the IO HAWK Nine remains unique in its blend of power, legal compliance, and compact folding.