5

About

If you have been following the electric scooter scene for any length of time, the name "Speedway" likely conjures up images of reliable, high-performance urban cruisers that bridge the gap between lightweight commuters and heavy-duty racing machines. The Speedway 5 is the fifth generation of this legendary lineage, brought to you by Minimotors-the same Korean powerhouse behind the world-famous Dualtron brand. While Dualtron scooters are often seen as the Ferraris of the scooter world, the Speedway line is more akin to a high-performance grand tourer: built for comfort, range, and reliability, but with enough hidden power to leave most other vehicles in the dust. The Speedway 5 was designed specifically to conquer the "urban jungle," addressing the need for a machine that can handle potholes, steep inclines, and long distances without breaking a sweat or the rider's back.

The philosophy behind the Speedway 5 is one of "accessible power." It positions itself perfectly in the upper-mid-range market. It is not trying to be the fastest scooter on the planet, nor is it trying to be the lightest. Instead, it aims to be the ultimate daily driver for the serious enthusiast. It features a dual-motor setup that was a significant upgrade from its predecessors, signaling a shift from single-motor commuting to dual-motor dominance. This scooter was built for the rider who realized that a standard 25 km/h scooter just doesn't cut it in real traffic, and who needs a machine capable of keeping up with the flow of the city while providing a ride quality that doesn't punish the knees.

What makes the Speedway 5 truly special is its pedigree combined with its value proposition. You are essentially getting Minimotors engineering-including the renowned EY3 dashboard and throttle system-at a price point that is significantly more palatable than the flagship Dualtron models. It is a scooter that feels substantial; it doesn't rattle like a toy. It has a presence on the road that commands respect. For many riders, the Speedway 5 represents the moment they graduated from "scooting for fun" to "scooting as a primary mode of transport." It is a machine designed to replace a car for urban trips, offering the torque to climb 37% grades and the battery capacity to explore the entire city on a single charge.

Safety

When you are riding a machine capable of hitting speeds over 60 km/h, safety stops being a luxury and becomes a necessity. The Speedway 5 addresses this primarily through its braking system. It is equipped with dual disc brakes-one on the front wheel and one on the rear. While these are typically mechanical disc brakes rather than hydraulic (depending on the specific batch and region), they provide strong stopping power. However, the real star of the show is the regenerative electric braking system. Minimotors is famous for this technology. When you pull the brake lever, the motors engage in reverse to slow you down while recharging the battery. This electronic braking is adjustable via the dashboard and can be set to be quite aggressive, allowing you to do most of your slowing down without even engaging the mechanical pads, which significantly reduces wear and tear on your physical brakes.

Visibility is another critical aspect of safety, especially for a scooter designed for long commutes that might extend into the night. The Speedway 5 is festooned with lights. It features dual LED headlights mounted on the deck, which are decent for being seen, though serious night riders often add an aftermarket handlebar light for better road illumination. At the rear, you have integrated brake lights and turn signals. One of the most unique and talked-about features is the side logo projection lights. These project the word "Speedway" onto the asphalt beside you. While some might call it a gimmick, from a safety perspective, it creates a larger visual footprint on the road, making cars give you a wider berth. The turn signals are a welcome addition, though like many deck-mounted signals, their low position can sometimes be missed by taller vehicles close behind you.

Stability at speed is ensured by the 10-inch tubeless pneumatic tires. Unlike solid tires that can skip over bumps and lose traction, these air-filled tires grip the road and absorb imperfections, keeping the contact patch firmly on the asphalt. The scooter's weight, while a downside for portability, acts as a stabilizer on the road, preventing the "twitchy" feeling you get with lighter scooters at high speeds. However, the community often advises checking the stem bolts regularly. Like many high-performance scooters, the vibrations can loosen screws over time, so a pre-ride safety check is highly recommended to ensure the folding mechanism and handlebars remain rock solid.

Performance

Performance is where the Speedway 5 truly shines, and it is the main reason enthusiasts choose this model over cheaper alternatives. It is powered by dual BLDC hub motors, each rated at 800 W nominal, but capable of a combined peak output of 3 600 W. To put that in perspective, a standard rental scooter usually has about 250 W to 350 W of power. The difference is night and day. When you pull the trigger in "Dual Motor" and "Turbo" mode, the acceleration is immediate and visceral. It doesn't just slowly build up speed; it launches. Riders often describe the torque as "neck-snapping" if you aren't leaning forward. This power isn't just for thrills; it's a safety feature that allows you to quickly merge with traffic or get out of a blind spot instantly.

In terms of top speed, the Speedway 5 is capable of reaching approximately 60 km/h to 65 km/h, depending on the rider's weight and battery level. For urban environments, this is more than enough. You can comfortably cruise at 40-50 km/h, keeping pace with city traffic without maxing out the motors. This "headroom" in power means the scooter runs cooler and lasts longer because it isn't constantly being pushed to its absolute limit. The EY3 throttle allows you to customize this performance, letting you dial down the torque for a relaxed cruise or crank it up for an adrenaline-fueled run.

Hill climbing is another area where the dual motors prove their worth. The manufacturer claims a climbing ability of up to 37% (or roughly 20-23 degrees), and real-world tests largely back this up. Where a single-motor scooter would stall and force you to walk, the Speedway 5 powers up steep inclines with authority. Riders in hilly cities like San Francisco or Lisbon have praised the Speedway 5 for its ability to maintain speed even on significant gradients. You won't just make it to the top; you will accelerate while going up. This capability transforms your route planning, as you no longer have to avoid the "steep way" home.

Design

The design of the Speedway 5 is best described as "industrial functionalism." It doesn't have the futuristic curves of some newer models; instead, it has a rugged, boxy aesthetic that screams durability. The frame is constructed from aviation-grade 6082-T6 aluminum alloy, and the shaft is made from SCM440 steel. It feels like a tool built for a purpose. The deck is exceptionally wide (around 26 cm), which is a massive plus for rider comfort. It allows you to stand with your feet side-by-side or in a skateboard stance with plenty of room to shift your weight. The matte black finish gives it a stealthy look, accented only by the lighting system.

One of the distinct design choices is the folding mechanism. It uses a robust pin-and-clamp system that is fairly easy to operate. When folded, the steering column collapses down to the deck, making the scooter relatively compact for its class, although the handlebars themselves are quite wide. The dashboard is the classic Minimotors EY3 LCD, which is widely regarded as the gold standard for information display in the scooter world. It's bright (though can be hard to read in direct noon sunlight), reliable, and packed with settings (P-settings) that allow you to customize everything from start method (kick-start vs. zero-start) to electronic braking strength and screen brightness.

However, the design does show its age in a few places compared to ultra-modern scooters. The cable management is external, wrapped in spiral binding, which looks a bit "DIY" to some, though it makes repairs easier. The fenders are functional but can be prone to rattling if not tightened properly. Despite these minor points, owners generally love the look of the Speedway 5 because it looks like a serious machine. It doesn't look like a toy you bought at a supermarket; it looks like a vehicle. The inclusion of tubeless tires with split rims is a brilliant design choice for maintenance, as it makes changing a tire significantly easier than on motors with solid rims, saving riders hours of frustration.

Comfort

If you ask any Speedway 5 owner what they love most about their scooter, "comfort" is almost guaranteed to be in the top three answers. The scooter utilizes a dual air spring suspension system. Unlike the stiff rubber cartridge suspension found on the Dualtron series (which is designed for high-speed stability), the air springs on the Speedway 5 are tuned for plushness. It offers a "boat-like" ride quality that floats over cracks, cobblestones, and manhole covers. It is widely considered one of the most comfortable suspensions in its price class, making it ideal for cities with less-than-perfect infrastructure.

The 10-inch tubeless pneumatic tires work in harmony with the suspension to dampen road vibrations. Because there is no inner tube rubbing against the tire, the ride feels smoother and more responsive. The lack of tubes also means you are less prone to "pinch flats," a common annoyance with tube-style tires. The wide deck further contributes to comfort by reducing foot fatigue. On a narrow deck, your feet are cramped and your muscles tense up to maintain balance. On the Speedway 5, you have a stable platform that allows you to relax your legs, which makes a huge difference on rides longer than 20 minutes.

Long-distance touring is genuinely possible on this machine. The handlebars are adjustable in height, allowing riders of different statures to find an ergonomic riding position that doesn't strain their back or shoulders. The grips are standard rubber, which some riders choose to upgrade to ergonomic ones, but the stock setup is perfectly adequate for most. The combination of the soft suspension, air tires, and relaxed riding posture means you can drain the entire battery in one session without feeling like you've been in a boxing match with the pavement.

Range

Range anxiety is the enemy of every electric vehicle owner, but the Speedway 5 fights back with a massive battery pack. It houses a 60 V, 23.4 Ah battery, boasting a total capacity of around 1 400 Wh. The manufacturer claims a maximum range of up to 80 km to 120 km (depending on the mode and rider). In the real world, range estimates are always optimistic, but the Speedway 5 still delivers impressive numbers. Under realistic conditions-riding at mixed speeds, with some hills, and a standard adult rider weight-you can reliably expect 50 km to 70 km of range. If you ride conservatively in Eco mode with single motor engaged, hitting that 80 km mark is entirely possible.

This extended range changes how you use the scooter. You don't have to charge it every single night if your commute is short. You can go to work, head to the gym, meet friends for dinner, and ride home, all on a single charge. It opens up the possibility of weekend exploration rides where you just pick a direction and go. The battery management system is robust, protecting the cells from overcharging and over-discharging, ensuring the longevity of your investment.

However, a big battery means a long charging time. With the standard 2A charger included in the box, a full charge from 0% to 100% can take around 13 hours. This is basically an overnight affair. To combat this, the Speedway 5 is equipped with dual charging ports. If you purchase a second standard charger, you can cut that time in half to about 6-7 hours. For those in a real hurry, it supports a fast charger (often 5A or 6.5A), which can bring the charging time down to under 5 hours. Most owners find that simply plugging it in overnight is sufficient, but having the option to fast charge is a great feature for power users.

Use and Practicality

While the Speedway 5 is a powerhouse, it is not a lightweight, toss-in-the-trunk scooter. Weighing in at approximately 31 kg, it is a heavy piece of machinery. Carrying this up a flight of stairs is a workout, and carrying it up three flights is a CrossFit session. It is manageable for short lifts, like getting it onto a train or up a curb, but if you live in a fourth-floor walk-up apartment without an elevator, this scooter might not be for you. The weight is the trade-off for the massive range and dual-motor power.

In terms of folding, the Speedway 5 is practical enough for storage. The handlebars fold down, and the stem collapses, reducing its vertical footprint significantly. It can fit into the trunk of a standard sedan or be tucked into a corner of an office. However, the handlebars are quite wide even when the scooter is folded (unless you have the folding handlebar version), so it takes up a bit of width. The locking mechanism when folded is generally secure, allowing you to lift the scooter by the stem, though many owners recommend lifting by the deck to avoid putting stress on the folding latch.

As a daily commuter, it excels in "last mile" scenarios only if that mile is actually 10 miles. It is really a "car replacement" vehicle rather than a "bus companion." You wouldn't want to drag this onto a crowded bus during rush hour. But for riding door-to-door from the suburbs to the city center, it is unmatched. It has a kickstand that is functional, though some users find it a bit short, causing the scooter to lean heavily. The water resistance is rated at IP54 by some sources, but Minimotors generally advises against riding in heavy rain. The open deck design and non-waterproofed motors mean you should be careful with puddles, although many riders do light waterproofing modifications (silicone sealing) to make it an all-weather commuter.

General Assessment

The general consensus in the electric scooter community is that the Speedway 5 is a "modern classic." It has stood the test of time in a rapidly evolving market. Owners often describe it as the best "bang for your buck" in the high-performance category. It offers 80% of the performance of a Dualtron for 60% of the price. The community appreciates that it uses standard Minimotors parts, meaning spare parts are easy to find, and there is a wealth of knowledge online regarding repairs and modifications.

Reliability is generally rated as high, with the motors and battery being particularly robust. The most common complaints usually revolve around mechanical adjustments-tightening bolts, adjusting brake calipers, or eliminating stem wobble-rather than catastrophic failures. It is seen as a "mechanic's scooter," meaning if you are willing to do basic maintenance like checking screws and adjusting brakes, it will run forever. The ride quality is frequently cited as superior to newer, stiffer scooters, keeping a loyal fanbase who refuse to "upgrade" to harsher rides.

Overall, the sentiment is that the Speedway 5 is a serious machine for serious riders. It commands respect on the road and delivers a grin-inducing experience every time you pull the throttle. It isn't the newest, shiniest toy on the block anymore, but it is a proven workhorse that has earned its reputation through millions of kilometers ridden by the community worldwide.

Who Is This Scooter For?

The Speedway 5 is the perfect match for the heavy-duty commuter. If you weigh over 90 kg, smaller scooters will feel sluggish and drain their batteries quickly. The Speedway 5, with its 120 kg max load and high torque, will carry heavier riders without complaining, maintaining speed up hills where other scooters would crawl. It is also ideal for the long-distance rider who has a commute of 20+ km each way and needs a machine that can do the round trip with a safety buffer.

This scooter is also for the comfort seeker. If your city has cobblestones, potholes, or rough asphalt, the dual air suspension will save your knees and back. It's for the rider who wants speed but doesn't want to feel every pebble on the road. Furthermore, it's a great choice for the DIY enthusiast who wants a platform that is easy to work on, modify, and maintain, thanks to the massive community support and parts availability.

However, this scooter is NOT for the multi-modal commuter who needs to carry their scooter onto a bus or subway train daily; 31 kg is simply too heavy for that. It is also not for the absolute beginner. The throttle response can be aggressive, and the top speed is dangerous for someone without riding experience. It is best suited for someone who has owned a smaller scooter (like a Xiaomi or Ninebot) and is ready to graduate to the "big leagues."

Community Feedback - Pros

• Torque and Power: Users consistently praise the hill-climbing ability, noting it conquers steep inclines effortlessly.
• Plush Suspension: The dual air spring suspension is frequently cited as "cloud-like" and superior to stiffer rubber suspensions.
• Battery Life: Real-world range is excellent, with many riders getting 60+ km on a charge.
• Deck Size: The wide deck is a favorite feature, allowing for comfortable foot placement and stance changes.
• Lighting System: The side lights and turn signals are appreciated for added visibility at night.
• Tubeless Tires: The split-rim design makes tire changes much easier than on other scooters, a huge plus for maintenance.
• Regenerative Braking: Owners love the strong electronic braking, which saves brake pads and extends range.
• Value: Widely considered the best performance-per-euro ratio in the Minimotors lineup.
• EY3 Display: The customizable settings and clear display are a community favorite.
• Stability: Feels planted and secure at high speeds (50+ km/h).

The most praised aspect of the Speedway 5 is undoubtedly the combination of power and comfort. Riders often mention that they expected the speed, but were surprised by how smooth the ride was. The suspension system seems to hit a "sweet spot" that absorbs sharp shocks from potholes while still providing enough feedback for spirited riding. Additionally, the split-rim design for the tires is a technical detail that earns massive points from anyone who has ever struggled to change a solid tire or a standard tubeless tire; it turns a nightmare maintenance job into a 20-minute task.

Community Feedback - Cons

• Weight: At ~31 kg, it is universally described as heavy and difficult to carry up stairs.
• Charging Time: The 13-hour charge time with a single charger is a common complaint (though solvable with a second charger).
• Stem Wobble: Some users report the folding mechanism developing play over time, requiring tightening or shims.
• Stock Tires in Wet: The stock tires can be slippery on wet surfaces, leading some users to swap them for PMT tires.
• Fender Rattle: The rear fender can vibrate and make noise on rough terrain.
• Brake Adjustments: The mechanical disc brakes require frequent adjustment to maintain optimal performance.
• Kickstand: Often described as too short or flimsy for the scooter's weight, making it lean precariously.
• Waterproofing: Lack of an official high IP rating makes riders nervous in heavy rain.
• Throttle Finger Fatigue: The EY3 trigger throttle can cause finger cramping on very long rides.
• Old Folding Mechanism: Compared to newer clamp systems, the pin system feels a bit dated to some users.

The most significant issue reported by the community is the maintenance of the folding mechanism and stem. Because the scooter is powerful and heavy, the forces on the stem are high. Over time, the bolts can loosen, leading to a "wobbly" feeling in the handlebars. While this is easily fixed with tools and Loctite, it is a maintenance item that owners must stay on top of. Additionally, the "spongy" feel of the mechanical brakes on some units leads many enthusiasts to upgrade to full hydraulic brakes (like Magura or Nutt) to match the scooter's high speed with equally high stopping power.

Value for Money

At a price point of approximately 1 731 €, the Speedway 5 represents exceptional value. In the current market, you often have to choose between range, speed, or build quality at this price. The Speedway 5 gives you all three. It sits in a unique spot where it is significantly cheaper than the "hyper-scooters" (which cost 3 000 €+) but offers performance that blows away the 1 000 € commuter class. You are paying for the motor and battery technology that has been refined by Minimotors over a decade.

When you compare it to competitors, you might find scooters with flashier lights or more modern designs, but rarely do you find the same reliability and raw battery capacity for the money. The 23.4 Ah battery alone is a major cost component, and getting a branded Minimotors battery of this size at this price is a steal. Furthermore, the resale value of Speedway scooters tends to hold up better than generic brands because of the name recognition and parts availability.

Is it a bargain? Yes, if you prioritize performance and utility. If you just want a toy for the weekend, it might be overkill. But if you are calculating the cost per kilometer for a daily commute that replaces a car or public transport pass, the Speedway 5 pays for itself relatively quickly. It is an investment in a serious transport tool.

About the Brand

SPEEDWAY is a product line manufactured by Minimotors, a South Korean company established in 1999. Minimotors is arguably the most famous name in the high-performance electric scooter industry. They are the creators of the "Dualtron" brand, which set the standard for what an electric scooter could be. The Speedway line was developed as the more accessible, urban-focused sibling to the off-road, monstrous Dualtron line. While Dualtrons are built like tanks for extreme abuse, Speedways are built as refined cruisers for the city.

Minimotors has a reputation for engineering excellence. They were among the first to introduce dual-motor scooters and advanced LCD dashboards (the EY3) to the mass market. Their reputation is built on raw power and the "fun factor." In the scooter world, owning a Minimotors product is like owning a BMW or Mercedes; it signifies a certain level of quality and performance enthusiast status.

Customer support and community for the brand are unrivaled. Because they have been around so long, there are distributors in almost every major country. This means you can actually find a phone number to call or a shop to visit if something goes wrong, which is a stark contrast to many "drop-ship" brands that disappear after a year. The global community of Minimotors owners is vast, with endless forums, Facebook groups, and YouTube channels dedicated to mods, repairs, and group rides.

Specifications

• Motor: Dual BLDC Hub Motors (1 600 W nominal, 3 600 W peak)
• Battery: 60 V 23.4 Ah (1 404 Wh) Li-Ion
• Max Speed: 60 km/h - 65 km/h (limited to 25 km/h in some regions)
• Range: 70 km - 80 km (Eco mode up to 120 km stated)
• Weight: 31 kg
• Max Load: 120 kg
• Brakes: Dual Disc Brakes + Regenerative Electric Braking (ABS standard)
• Suspension: Dual Air Spring Suspension (Front & Rear)
• Tires: 10-inch Tubeless Pneumatic (70mm wide)
• Charging Time: 13 hours (Standard 1.7A), ~5 hours (Fast Charger)
• Dimensions (Unfolded): 121.9 cm x 56.4 cm x 118 cm
• Dimensions (Folded): 125 cm x 25 cm x 40 cm
• Climbing Grade: 37% (approx. 20-23 degrees)
• Display: EY3 Smart Dashboard
• Price: ~1 731 €

Known Alternatives

While the Speedway 5 is a fantastic machine, the market is competitive. Shoppers looking for a rugged, off-road capable alternative might consider the KAABO Wolf Warrior X Pro. The Wolf Warrior series is known for its dual-stem stability and motorcycle-grade hydraulic forks, making it a better choice if your commute involves dirt paths or very rough terrain, though it often comes at a slightly higher price point and different aesthetic.

For those who prioritize suspension above all else, the ZERO 10X is the classic rival. The Zero 10X features a massive spring suspension that offers incredible travel, making it very bouncy and fun. However, the Speedway 5 generally offers better battery range and a more refined throttle curve than the standard 10X. Another strong contender is the VARLA Eagle One Pro, which is essentially a modernized version of the 10X platform with updated displays and styling, offering a very similar "muscle scooter" experience.

If budget is a tighter constraint but you still want dual-motor power, the Nanrobot N6 is worth a look. It offers high speed and decent range for a lower price, though the build quality and refinement of the electronics may not quite match the Minimotors standard. Finally, for those who want the newest tech, the KAABO Warrior X Max offers updated features like sine-wave controllers for smoother acceleration, presenting a more modern, albeit sometimes more expensive, alternative to the classic Speedway 5.