GTS Air

About

If you have been keeping an ear to the ground in the world of electric micromobility, particularly coming out of the Southern Hemisphere, you have likely heard the buzz surrounding Mearth. Hailing from Australia, this brand has positioned itself as a homegrown hero, and the MEARTH GTS Air-often dubbed the "Gran Turismo Air"-is their attempt to bridge the gap between lightweight commuter scooters and heavy-duty performance beasts. The philosophy behind the GTS Air is intriguing: it aims to offer the adrenaline-pumping power of a dual-motor system without the back-breaking weight usually associated with such performance. It is designed for the urban jungle, specifically for riders who need to conquer steep hills but still need to carry their ride into an elevator or office lobby.

The "Air" in the name is doing a lot of heavy lifting here. In an industry where dual-motor scooters often tip the scales at over 35 kg, the GTS Air comes in at a remarkably trim 25 kg. This positioning makes it a unique proposition in the market. It is not a toy; it is a serious machine built with an ultra-strong 6061 aluminum alloy frame, designed to take a beating while looking sleek enough for a corporate commute. Mearth markets this as a "lifestyle choice," suggesting that it isn't just about getting from A to B, but about enjoying the journey with a sense of style and freedom.

However, the GTS Air is more than just a spec sheet. It represents a specific approach to maintenance and reliability. By opting for solid tires and drum brakes, Mearth has created a scooter that theoretically requires very little downtime. It is built for the rider who wants to "set it and forget it," avoiding the dreaded flat tire or the constant tuning of disc brakes. It is a machine that promises to be ready whenever you are, whether that is for a high-speed dash across the city or a leisurely cruise on a Sunday afternoon.

Safety

When you are dealing with a scooter capable of hitting speeds up to 50 km/h, safety stops being a luxury and becomes a necessity. The MEARTH GTS Air takes a somewhat traditional but highly effective approach to braking. It utilizes front and rear drum brakes, paired with an electronic braking system (E-ABS). For the uninitiated, drum brakes might seem "old school" compared to hydraulic discs, but for a daily commuter, they are a godsend. They are enclosed, meaning they are protected from dust, water, and debris, and they rarely require adjustment. In practice, the stopping power on the GTS Air is reliable and progressive. While you might not get that instant "bite" of a hydraulic caliper, the combination with the electric regenerative braking provides a smooth, controlled deceleration that won't send you flying over the handlebars if you panic-brake.

Visibility is another area where the GTS Air tries to shine-quite literally. The scooter is decked out with a comprehensive lighting package. You have your standard front headlight, which boasts a decent beam angle for night riding, but the real showstopper is the deck lighting. The scooter features acrylic side lights that not only add a futuristic "Tron-like" aesthetic but significantly increase your side profile visibility to cars. This is a crucial safety feature often overlooked; being seen from the side at intersections is just as important as being seen from the front or rear. The rear deck lights also serve as brake lights, pulsing to warn those behind you.

Stability is the third pillar of safety here. The scooter rides on 8-inch wheels. I will be honest-8 inches is on the smaller side for a high-performance scooter, which can make the ride feel "twitchy" at top speeds compared to 10-inch or 11-inch rivals. However, the solid nature of the tires means you never have to worry about a blowout at high speed, which is a significant safety plus. The IP54 rating ensures that getting caught in a light rain shower won't fry the electronics, though, with solid tires, wet traction is significantly reduced, so extreme caution is advised on damp tarmac.

Performance

This is the section where the MEARTH GTS Air truly comes alive. Under the deck, you will find a dual-motor setup, with two 600 W hubs delivering a combined nominal power of 1 200 W and a peak output of 2 000 W. In the world of electric scooters, this is the "sweet spot" for thrill-seekers. When you engage "Turbo" mode and activate both motors, the acceleration is instant and exhilarating. It doesn't just roll forward; it launches. The torque provided by the dual motors means that the GTS Air eats hills for breakfast. Inclines that would have a single-motor scooter wheezing and crawling are tackled with barely a drop in speed. If you live in a hilly city, this feature alone makes the scooter worth the price of admission.

In terms of speed, the GTS Air is no slouch. While it is often shipped speed-limited to comply with local regulations (usually 25 km/h), in its unlocked, unlimited mode (for private land use), it can reach speeds between 45 km/h and 50 km/h. Riding at these speeds on a compact frame is an adrenaline rush. The power delivery is managed through a trigger throttle, which allows for granular control, although some riders find trigger throttles can cause hand fatigue on longer journeys. The controller does a good job of modulating the power, so you don't get jerky movements at low speeds, but the beast is always ready to be unleashed.

The scooter also offers a "Single Motor Eco Mode." This is a smart inclusion for days when you aren't in a rush or need to conserve battery. In this mode, the scooter behaves like a standard commuter-tame, manageable, and efficient. But the duality is what makes it special; it is a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde machine. You can commute politely to work in the morning, and then tear up the asphalt on an empty path on your way home. The transition between the two personalities is just a button press away.

Design

Visually, the MEARTH GTS Air strikes a balance between industrial ruggedness and modern sleekness. The frame is constructed from 6061 aluminum alloy, a material known for its high strength-to-weight ratio. The finish is typically matte black with accents from the acrylic lighting strips, giving it a premium look that doesn't scream "toy." The deck is spacious enough, measuring about 7.8 inches wide, which allows for a comfortable side-by-side foot stance for many riders. A nice touch is the non-slip rubber matting, which is far easier to clean than traditional grip tape and looks cleaner for longer.

One of the most critical design elements of any scooter is the folding mechanism, and Mearth has implemented a robust system here. It folds down at the stem, locking into place to make the unit compact. The folded dimensions (117 x 29 x 49 cm) are manageable for car trunks or under-desk storage. Mearth also integrated a clever design around the stem to facilitate the use of a cable lock-a small but thoughtful detail that shows they understand the practicalities of urban ownership. You don't have to struggle to find a secure point to loop your lock through.

However, design is also about durability. While the frame is strong, some community feedback has pointed to the stem assembly needing regular tightening. The handlebars are adjustable in height, which is a fantastic feature for accommodating riders of different statures, but adjustable stems can sometimes introduce a bit of "wobble" over time compared to fixed stems. It is a trade-off for ergonomics. The overall aesthetic is aggressive yet refined, fitting perfectly into the "Gran Turismo" branding-it looks fast even when it is standing still.

Comfort

Let's address the elephant in the room: the tires. The MEARTH GTS Air uses 8-inch solid tires. In the scooter world, solid tires are a polarizing topic. On the one hand, they are maintenance-free; you will never, ever get a flat tire. On the other hand, solid rubber has zero shock absorption compared to air-filled pneumatic tires. To counteract this, Mearth has equipped the GTS Air with a dual suspension system-springs in both the front and the rear. This suspension is absolutely vital. Without it, this scooter would be unrideable on anything but glass-smooth concrete.

So, how does it actually feel? On smooth asphalt, it glides. The suspension soaks up the minor vibrations, and the ride is planted and firm. However, when you hit rougher patches, cobblestones, or large cracks, you will feel it. The suspension does a valiant job of taking the sharp edge off impacts, but it cannot defy physics. The ride is "sporty" rather than "plush." You feel connected to the road, which is good for handling, but on a long 20 km commute over bad roads, your knees might get a bit of a workout. The 8-inch wheel size also means the scooter is more susceptible to potholes than scooters with 10-inch wheels, requiring the rider to be more attentive to road surfaces.

Standing comfort is generally good thanks to the wide deck. Being able to shift your weight and change foot positions helps mitigate fatigue. The adjustable handlebar height also plays a huge role in comfort; being able to set the bars so you aren't hunching over or reaching up too high allows for a more natural, relaxed riding posture. While it might not be the "cloud-like" ride of a large pneumatic-tire scooter, it is a calculated compromise for the sake of zero tire maintenance.

Range

The GTS Air is powered by a 48 V 15.6 Ah lithium-ion battery, providing a total capacity of roughly 748 Wh. Mearth claims a maximum range of up to 55 km on a single charge. As with all electric vehicle manufacturer claims, this number should be taken with a grain of salt. This figure is usually achieved in "Eco" mode, with a light rider, on flat ground, with no wind. In the real world, where you are likely to be using the dual motors to accelerate and climb hills, the range reality is different.

For a typical rider weighing around 75 kg to 80 kg, riding in a mix of modes but enjoying the speed, you can realistically expect between 30 km and 40 km of range. If you are heavy on the throttle in "Turbo" mode constantly, that might drop closer to 25 km or 30 km. This is still a very respectable range for a scooter of this weight class. It is more than enough for most round-trip urban commutes without needing to charge at the office. The battery system is robust, but users should be aware that voltage sag is real-as the battery percentage drops, the top speed and punchiness of the acceleration will decrease slightly.

Charging time is standard for this battery size, clocking in at around 7.5 hours from empty to full. This means it is perfectly suited for overnight charging. If you are a heavy user, you just plug it in when you get home, and it is ready to go by morning. The charging port is generally well-protected, but as always, keeping it clean and dry is essential for longevity.

Use and Practicality

The "Air" in the name suggests portability, and at 24.95 kg, the MEARTH GTS Air sits right on the boundary of what is considered "portable." For a dual-motor scooter, this is actually quite light-many competitors are 30 kg+. Most able-bodied people can lift this into a car trunk or carry it up a short flight of stairs. However, carrying it up four flights of stairs to an apartment every day would be a workout. It is not a lightweight "last-mile" scooter like a Xiaomi; it is a substantial piece of machinery.

In terms of daily usability, the folding mechanism is quick and secure, making it easy to transition from riding to stowing. The compact folded size means it can fit under a desk at work or in the luggage rack of a train (if allowed). The inclusion of an NFC key card system is a fantastic practical feature. It adds a layer of security, meaning you can't just turn the scooter on and ride away without the fob. While it doesn't stop someone from picking it up and walking off with it, it deters the opportunistic joyrider.

The solid tires add a massive layer of practicality for the daily commuter. The peace of mind of knowing you won't be late to work because of a puncture is invaluable. For many urban riders, this reliability outweighs the comfort trade-off. However, the lack of water resistance (IP54 is splash-proof, not waterproof) and the slippery nature of solid tires on wet surfaces limit its practicality in heavy rain. It is a fair-weather friend that can handle a damp road but shouldn't be swimming in puddles.

General Assessment

The MEARTH GTS Air occupies a fascinating niche in the electric scooter market. It is a "mid-tier hero" that attempts to offer high-end performance specs at a mid-range price point and weight. Generally, the reception from the community is positive regarding its power-to-weight ratio. Riders love the torque. They love that they can overtake cyclists and tackle steep driveways without breaking a sweat. The lighting and the aesthetic also get high marks; it is a scooter that turns heads.

However, the scooter is not without its critics. The ride quality on the solid tires is a frequent point of contention, with some users finding it too harsh for older city streets. Furthermore, while the motors are powerful, there have been reports in the community regarding quality control consistency. Some users have reported issues with stem wobble developing over time or electrical gremlins appearing after a few months of hard use. The customer support experience from Mearth has also been described as a "mixed bag," with some customers receiving excellent help and others feeling left in the lurch regarding warranty claims.

Overall, the sentiment is that the GTS Air is a fantastic machine when it is working well. It offers a level of thrill and utility that is hard to find in a sub-25 kg package. It feels like a "muscle scooter" that went on a diet. If you prioritize performance and low maintenance over plush comfort, it is a strong contender.

Who Is This Scooter For?

The MEARTH GTS Air is tailor-made for the "Power Commuter." This is someone who lives in a city with varied terrain-perhaps you have a steep hill on your way home that a rental scooter just can't handle. You need the raw torque of dual motors, but you don't have the garage space for a massive 40 kg off-road scooter. You likely live in an apartment with an elevator or have to lift the scooter into a train carriage occasionally.

It is also perfect for the "Flat-Phobe." If the idea of changing a tire on the side of the road fills you with dread, or if you ride through areas with lots of glass and debris, the solid tires on the GTS Air make it an ideal choice. It is for the rider who views their scooter as a tool that needs to be ready 100% of the time.

Conversely, this scooter is not for the speed demon looking to race cars on the highway-you would need a 60 V or 72 V system for that. It is also not for the ultra-portable seeker who needs to carry their scooter on a bus during rush hour; it is too bulky for that. Finally, if you have back problems or live in a city with cobblestone streets, the harsh ride of the solid tires might be a dealbreaker for you.

Community Feedback - Pros

• Hill Climbing Beast: Users consistently praise the dual motors for flattening steep inclines that other scooters struggle with.
• No Flat Tires: The solid tires are a favorite feature for commuters who want zero maintenance reliability.
• Portability for Power: Owners appreciate getting dual-motor performance in a package that weighs under 25 kg.
• Lighting System: The side acrylic lights and bright deck lights are frequently mentioned as a cool safety and style feature.
• Acceleration: The "Turbo" mode acceleration is described as zippy and fun, making traffic navigation easy.
• Braking Reliability: The drum brakes are praised for being low maintenance and quiet (no squeaking discs).
• NFC Security: The key card start system is seen as a premium touch that adds peace of mind.
• Adjustable Stem: Taller riders appreciate the ability to raise the handlebars to a comfortable height.

The most consistently praised aspect of the GTS Air is undoubtedly its power-to-weight ratio. Users are often surprised by how much torque the scooter generates given its relatively slender frame. It hits a "sweet spot" where it feels substantial enough to be safe at 45 km/h, but not so heavy that it becomes a burden to own. The "zero maintenance" aspect of the tires and brakes also resonates strongly with daily commuters who just want to get to work without getting their hands dirty.

Community Feedback - Cons

• Harsh Ride: The combination of 8-inch wheels and solid tires transmits a lot of road vibration, even with suspension.
• Slippery in Wet: Users report that the solid tires lose traction easily on wet paint or metal covers.
• Stem Wobble: Long-term owners often mention the need to tighten the folding mechanism and stem to prevent play/wobble.
• Customer Service: There are significant complaints in online forums about slow or unhelpful support from the manufacturer regarding warranty issues.
• Small Wheels: The 8-inch wheel size is felt to be a bit small for the top speeds the scooter can reach, affecting stability.
• Range Exaggeration: Real-world range is often reported as significantly lower than the advertised 55 km, especially in dual motor mode.
• Trigger Throttle Fatigue: Some riders find the finger trigger uncomfortable on long rides compared to a thumb throttle.
• Fender Durability: Reports of rear mudguards cracking or rattling loose over time.

The most common complaint revolves around the ride quality. While the suspension helps, the physics of small, solid wheels means that rough roads are punishing. This is the trade-off for the "no flats" benefit. Additionally, the mixed reputation of Mearth's customer support is a recurring theme in forums (particularly in Australia), with some users feeling frustrated when trying to source parts or claim repairs. Potential buyers are often advised by the community to be handy with a wrench for basic tightening and maintenance.

Value for Money

At a price point of approximately 1 078 €, the MEARTH GTS Air presents a compelling value proposition. In the current market, finding a reliable dual-motor scooter with a 48 V system for around the 1 000 € mark is becoming increasingly difficult. Most competitors in this price bracket are single-motor scooters that top out at 30 km/h. By offering 2 000 W of peak power and 50 km/h speeds, Mearth is punching above its weight class in terms of raw specs per Euro.

When you compare it to high-end brands like Dualtron or Apollo, the GTS Air is significantly cheaper. While you might sacrifice some refinement in ride quality and perhaps some long-term build quality compared to those premium brands, you are getting 80% of the performance for 50% of the price. For the budget-conscious enthusiast who wants the "big scooter" feel without the "big scooter" price tag, the GTS Air is a bargain.

However, the value calculation changes if you factor in potential longevity. If you ride on terrible roads, the wear and tear on a solid-tire scooter might lead to rattles and repairs sooner than on a pneumatic one. But for the average urban rider, the savings on tire tubes and brake pads alone add to the long-term value. It is a lot of scooter for the money.

About the Brand

Mearth is an Australian technology company that has been making waves in the personal electric vehicle (PEV) scene since around 2015. They position themselves as Australia's first e-scooter developer, with a mission to make transportation easier, more sustainable, and more affordable. They have cultivated a brand image that is very much about "homegrown innovation," designing scooters specifically to handle the varied and often hilly terrain of Australian cities.

The brand has a reputation for pushing the envelope on specs-per-dollar. They are known for releasing scooters that look good and go fast. However, as they have grown, they have experienced the growing pains typical of expanding tech hardware companies. Their reputation in the community is a mix of admiration for their product design and frustration with their after-sales support infrastructure. While they have a strong presence in Australia, international support can sometimes be dependent on the local distributor.

Despite the support hiccups, Mearth has built a loyal following. They are seen as a serious alternative to the ubiquitous Xiaomi and Segway-Ninebot scooters, offering more power and "enthusiast" features for riders who have outgrown the entry-level market. They are a brand for the rider who wants something a little different, a little faster, and a little more rugged.

Specifications

• Model: Mearth GTS Air
• Motor Power: Dual 600 W (1 200 W Nominal, 2 000 W Peak)
• Battery: 48 V 15.6 Ah (748 Wh) Lithium-ion
• Max Speed: 25 km/h (limited), 45-50 km/h (unlimited)
• Range: 35-55 km (depending on mode and terrain)
• Weight: 24.95 kg
• Max Load: 120 kg
• Tires: 8-inch x 2.5-inch Solid Rubber (Maintenance-free)
• Brakes: Front & Rear Drum Brakes + Electric ABS
• Suspension: Front & Rear Spring Suspension
• Charging Time: Approx. 7.5 hours
• Lights: Front LED, Rear Brake Light, Acrylic Side Deck Lights
• IP Rating: IP54 (Dust and Splash Resistant)
• Climbing Angle: Approx. 30 degrees
• Frame Material: 6061 Aluminum Alloy
• Price: ~1 078 €

Known Alternatives

If the MEARTH GTS Air doesn't quite tick all your boxes, there are several other scooters in the "mid-weight dual-motor" category worth considering. One of the most direct competitors is the KAABO Mantis 8. The Mantis 8 is legendary for its handling and suspension. Unlike the GTS Air, the Mantis 8 usually comes with pneumatic (air-filled) tires and a more sophisticated suspension geometry, offering a much smoother ride. However, it is slightly wider and the air tires do bring the risk of flats.

Another strong contender is the KINGSONG KS-N12 Pro. While Kingsong is famous for unicycles, their scooters are robust. The N12 Pro often features larger wheels, which significantly improves stability and comfort over potholes compared to the 8-inch wheels on the Mearth. It is a great alternative if your local roads are in poor condition and you need that extra rollover capability.

For those who want to stick with the Mearth brand but want more, there is the MEARTH GTS Evo (or Max). This is the big brother to the Air. It is heavier and more expensive, but it offers significantly more range and power. If the 25 kg weight limit isn't a hard constraint for you, the Evo offers a more "touring" capable experience. Alternatively, if you are looking for a rugged dual-motor scooter that also uses solid tires but has a different design philosophy, the MERCANE G2 Max is worth a look. Mercane is known for industrial, tank-like designs, though they can be heavy. Finally, for the budget-conscious who want raw power for the lowest price, the ANGWATT CS1 PRO offers high specs, though often with a trade-off in build refinement compared to the Mearth.