Faquir

About

When you first lay eyes on the VCHAINS Faquir, you realize you aren't looking at just another generic city commuter. This machine, often referred to by its technical designation V8.5X-10, is the result of VCHAINS' philosophy of creating what they call a "traveling scooter." While most manufacturers are obsessed with either making the lightest possible last-mile solution or the heaviest off-road beast, VCHAINS has carved out a niche in the middle. They've designed the Faquir for the rider who wants to actually enjoy the journey, not just survive the commute. It's a scooter built with the soul of a grand tourer, meant for those who want to explore their city or the countryside at a pace that allows them to soak in the scenery without feeling every pebble on the road.

The design team at VCHAINS, based in the manufacturing hub of Ningbo, has leveraged years of research and development to position the Faquir as a high-end alternative to the flood of budget scooters on the market. The name "Faquir" itself suggests a certain level of endurance and stoicism, and that's exactly what this scooter aims to provide. It positions itself as a premium "prosumer" device-offering features like advanced suspension and a high-capacity battery that you'd usually find on much more expensive models, but keeping the price point accessible for the dedicated enthusiast. It's a statement piece that says you value comfort and longevity over the disposable nature of entry-level electric transport.

What truly sets the Faquir apart in a crowded market is its balance. It doesn't try to win a spec-sheet war by offering 100 km/h speeds that no sane person would use on a 10-inch wheel. Instead, it focuses on the "Goldilocks" zone of performance: enough power to feel swift, enough battery to eliminate range anxiety for most daily trips, and a build quality that feels substantial under your feet. In the community, VCHAINS is often praised for this grounded approach. They aren't selling a toy; they are selling a legitimate vehicle for the modern urban traveler who wants a blend of style, reliability, and a touch of luxury in their daily ride.

Safety

Safety on an electric scooter isn't just about having a brake; it's about the confidence that the machine will respond exactly how you expect it to when things get dicey. The VCHAINS Faquir utilizes a dual-braking system that combines a rear disc brake with an electronic regenerative brake. In my experience, this setup is the sweet spot for scooters in this weight class. The disc brake provides that mechanical "bite" you need for emergency stops, while the electronic brake helps smooth out the deceleration and feeds a bit of energy back into the battery. For those who want even more stopping power, VCHAINS offers an optional hydraulic brake upgrade, which I highly recommend if you live in a hilly area or frequently ride in wet conditions. The feedback from the community suggests that the standard brakes are well-tuned, but the hydraulic option transforms the scooter into a truly elite stopper.

Visibility is another area where the Faquir shines, quite literally. It's equipped with a comprehensive LED lighting package that includes a powerful headlight, a clear taillight, and-crucially-cornering lights. These cornering lights are a game-changer for night riding, as they help illuminate the path where you are actually turning, rather than just pointing straight ahead. This level of visibility makes a massive difference when navigating poorly lit bike paths or city streets. Furthermore, the stability of the scooter at its top speed of 45 km/h is bolstered by its robust aluminum frame. Unlike cheaper scooters that can feel "twitchy" or develop a speed wobble, the Faquir feels planted, giving the rider the peace of mind needed to actually enjoy the speed rather than fearing it.

Beyond the hardware, the Faquir is designed with a "non-zero start" feature, which is a significant safety benefit for newer riders. This means the motor won't engage until you've given the scooter a small manual kick-off, preventing accidental "whiskey throttle" incidents where the scooter might bolt away from you while you're just standing next to it. The community often highlights how this feature, combined with the wide, grippy deck, makes the Faquir feel like a very "safe" platform. Even at its maximum load of 120 kg, the structural integrity of the frame remains uncompromised, ensuring that the safety features perform consistently regardless of the rider's size. It's clear that VCHAINS didn't just slap some lights on a frame; they thought about the real-world hazards of scooting and built a machine to mitigate them.

Performance

Let's talk about the heart of the beast: the 800W motor. While some might look at the 800W rating and think it's modest compared to dual-motor monsters, on a single-motor scooter of this weight, it's actually a powerhouse. The acceleration is described by users as "swift and stylish," providing a rapid start that can easily keep pace with city traffic. You won't be winning any drag races against a 60V dual-motor scooter, but that's not the point of the Faquir. The 800W motor is tuned for smooth, linear power delivery. It pulls consistently from a standstill all the way up to its 45 km/h top speed, making it feel more like a sophisticated electric moped than a frantic kick-scooter. This power is managed by a 48V system that ensures the motor has plenty of "juice" to draw from even when the battery isn't at 100%.

When it comes to hill climbing, the Faquir is a surprisingly capable mountain goat. With a rated gradeability of 15°, it can handle most standard city inclines without breaking a sweat. Real-world feedback from riders in hilly urban environments suggests that while it might slow down slightly on the steepest grades, it never feels like it's going to give up. This is where the 800W of power really shows its worth; it has the torque necessary to maintain momentum where lesser 350W or 500W scooters would force you to hop off and push. The community often notes that the performance feels "reliable," meaning you get the same predictable acceleration every time you twist the throttle, which is vital for building confidence as a rider.

The top speed of 45 km/h is perfectly judged for the 8.5-inch pneumatic tires. At this speed, you are moving faster than most casual cyclists but still within a range where the scooter feels controllable. Riding at 45 km/h on the Faquir feels surprisingly serene, thanks to the motor's quiet operation and the lack of vibration through the handlebars. It's a performance profile that encourages you to take the long way home. Instead of just rushing from A to B, you find yourself looking for open stretches of pavement where you can open the throttle and feel the wind. It's this "fun factor" that users consistently mention in their reviews-the Faquir makes the act of moving from one place to another a genuine highlight of your day.

Finally, the "Smooth Power" mentioned in community reviews (/en/pevpedia/escooters/brands/2swift) isn't just marketing fluff. The controller mapping on the Faquir is excellent, avoiding the jerky, "all-or-nothing" throttle response found on many budget Chinese scooters. Whether you are crawling through a crowded pedestrian area at 5 km/h or cruising at 40 km/h, the motor responds with precision. This level of refinement in the performance department is what separates a professional manufacturer like VCHAINS from the "parts bin" assemblers. You can tell that engineers spent time tuning the power curves to ensure the rider always feels in total control of the 800W at their disposal.

Design

The aesthetic of the VCHAINS Faquir is one of understated elegance. It avoids the garish, over-the-top "gamer" look of many modern performance scooters, opting instead for a clean, industrial design that looks just as at home in front of a high-end office building as it does in a park. The frame is constructed from high-grade aluminum, which provides the necessary strength while keeping the weight at a manageable 25.3 kg. One of the coolest aspects of the VCHAINS design philosophy is the ability to customize the body color and logo, allowing owners to truly make the machine their own. This bespoke touch is something you rarely see outside of the ultra-premium market, and it speaks to the brand's commitment to the individual rider.

The folding mechanism is a critical part of any scooter's design, and on the Faquir, it's built to last. It uses a robust locking system that minimizes "stem wobble"-the annoying shaking of the handlebars that plagues many folding scooters. When unfolded, the stem feels like a solid piece of metal, providing a stable interface for the rider. When it's time to pack it away, the mechanism operates smoothly, allowing the scooter to collapse into a more compact form for storage in a car trunk or a hallway. The unfolded dimensions of 1 190 x 650 x 1 250 mm strike a good balance between providing a commanding riding position and being small enough to navigate through tight spaces.

Owners often rave about the "stylish and swift" appearance of the Faquir (/en/pevpedia/escooters/brands/2swift). The integration of the lights into the frame is seamless, and the wide pedals (deck) are not just functional but also add to the scooter's substantial, high-quality look. The deck is wide enough to allow for various foot positions, which is essential for comfort on longer journeys. Every weld and every bolt feels intentional, contributing to an overall sense of build quality that inspires trust. It's a design that doesn't just look good in photos; it feels premium to the touch, with a finish that community members say holds up well even after months of daily use.

Comfort

If there is one area where the Faquir truly earns its "traveling scooter" title, it is in the realm of comfort. The standout feature here is the "front and rear four suspensions" system. Unlike basic scooters that might have a single spring in the front, the Faquir uses a sophisticated quad-suspension setup that acts like a plush cushion between you and the road. This system is specifically described as "moderate suspension"-it's not so soft that it feels bouncy and disconnected like an off-road pogo stick, but it's far more forgiving than the rigid frames of city commuters. It's designed to soak up the high-frequency vibrations of rough asphalt and the jarring impact of small potholes or sidewalk cracks.

The riding experience is often described by the community as "extremely comfortable" (/en/pevpedia/escooters/brands/2swift). When you're standing on that wide deck, the suspension works silently beneath you, allowing you to glide over surfaces that would be bone-shaking on a lesser machine. This comfort is further enhanced by the 8.5-inch pneumatic tires. Air-filled tires provide a natural secondary layer of suspension, and when combined with the mechanical quad-system, the result is a ride quality that feels remarkably smooth. You can spend 45 minutes on this scooter and step off feeling refreshed rather than fatigued, which is the ultimate test of a long-range vehicle.

The ergonomics of the Faquir also play a huge role in its comfort. The handlebar height and the width of the deck are optimized for an upright, natural standing position. This reduces strain on your back and shoulders during extended rides. Because the deck is so spacious, you can shift your weight and change your stance to prevent stiffness, a luxury you don't get on narrow-deck commuters. Whether you are navigating a cobblestone street in an old European city or cruising down a smooth suburban bike path, the Faquir maintains a level of composure that makes every ride feel like a premium experience. It's this focus on the rider's physical well-being that makes the Faquir a top choice for those who use their scooter for more than just a five-minute dash to the train station.

Range

Range is the "holy grail" of electric scooters, and the VCHAINS Faquir comes prepared with a substantial 48V 18.2Ah battery, giving it a total capacity of 873.6 Wh. On paper, VCHAINS claims a maximum range of 60 km. Now, as any seasoned scooter enthusiast will tell you, "maximum range" is usually calculated under ideal conditions-a 70 kg rider on flat ground at a constant 20 km/h. In the real world, where we deal with hills, wind, and the irresistible urge to use the full 45 km/h top speed, you should expect a bit less. However, even with spirited riding, the Faquir is a long-distance champion. Most users report getting a very respectable 40 to 50 km of real-world range, which is more than enough for a full day of errands or a substantial cross-city commute.

The beauty of having an 18.2Ah battery is the "range overhead" it provides. Even if your daily commute is only 15 km, having a 60 km capacity means you aren't constantly stressed about the battery percentage. You can ride aggressively, tackle hills, and still have plenty of juice left for an unexpected detour. The community feedback suggests that the battery is high-quality and holds its voltage well throughout the discharge cycle, meaning you don't experience a massive drop in performance when the battery gets below 50%. This consistency is crucial for a scooter marketed for travel and exploration.

Charging this massive battery does take some time-approximately 10 hours with a single charger. While this might seem long, it's perfectly practical for an overnight charge. You plug it in when you get home from work, and by the time you're ready to head out the next morning, the Faquir is fully replenished and ready for another 60 km adventure. For those who need a quicker turnaround, the reliability of the charging system is a common point of praise in the VCHAINS community. It's a "set it and forget it" affair, with the charger and battery management system (BMS) working together to ensure the cells stay balanced and healthy for the long haul. If you're looking to kill range anxiety once and for all, the Faquir's battery setup is a very compelling solution.

Use and Practicality

When discussing the daily usability of the VCHAINS Faquir, we have to address the elephant in the room: the weight. At 25.3 kg, this is not a "featherweight" scooter that you'll want to carry up five flights of stairs every day. It's a substantial piece of machinery. However, this weight is a direct result of the large battery, the robust suspension, and the sturdy aluminum frame. For most users, the trade-off is well worth it. The Faquir is designed for riders who have access to an elevator or a ground-floor storage area. It's a vehicle first and a portable gadget second. That said, the folding mechanism is efficient enough that you can easily toss it into the back of an SUV or a large sedan for a weekend trip to the coast.

In terms of practicality, the Faquir excels as a "last-mile" or even a "only-mile" solution. Because it has the range and speed to handle 20+ km trips comfortably, many owners find themselves using it instead of a car or public transport for their entire journey. The wide deck and stable handling make it practical for carrying a backpack, and the integrated lighting means you don't have to worry about carrying extra gear for night rides. The 8.5-inch tires are small enough to keep the scooter nimble in tight city traffic but large enough to handle the occasional transition from road to sidewalk without drama. It's a versatile tool that adapts to your needs, whether you're commuting to work or exploring a new city on vacation.

The community often points out that the Faquir is a "reliable daily rider" (/en/pevpedia/escooters/brands/2swift). This reliability comes from the simplicity of its design and the quality of its components. It's a scooter that "just works." You don't need to be a mechanic to keep it running; regular tire pressure checks and the occasional brake adjustment are usually all that's required. For the busy professional or the student who just needs to get where they're going without a fuss, the Faquir's blend of performance and low-maintenance operation makes it an incredibly practical choice. It might be a bit heavy to carry, but once you're on it, the weight disappears, replaced by a sense of solid, dependable momentum.

General Assessment

The general consensus among the electric scooter community is that the VCHAINS Faquir is a hidden gem in the mid-range market. While it might not have the name recognition of some of the massive global brands, it has earned a loyal following through word-of-mouth and positive user experiences. Riders consistently praise the scooter for its "extremely comfortable" ride and its "smooth power" delivery. It's seen as a mature choice-a scooter for someone who has perhaps owned a cheaper, budget model and is now looking for something that feels more like a real vehicle and less like a toy. The sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many owners expressing surprise at the level of quality they received for the price.

One of the most telling signs of the Faquir's success is the lack of major "deal-breaker" complaints in enthusiast forums. While every scooter has its quirks, the Faquir seems to avoid the catastrophic failures (like snapping stems or frying controllers) that plague some of its competitors. Instead, the discussion usually revolves around how to customize the lights or which hydraulic brake kit to install. This suggests that the core engineering of the V8.5X platform is sound. VCHAINS has clearly listened to rider feedback over the years, and the Faquir represents a refined, "version 2.0" feel that many other brands are still struggling to achieve.

Overall, the Faquir lives up to its marketing as a "traveling scooter." It delivers on its promises of comfort, range, and style without over-promising on things it can't deliver. It's a honest machine. In a world of over-hyped tech, there's something incredibly refreshing about a product that simply does exactly what it says on the tin, and does it with a bit of flair. Whether you're a tech journalist like me or just someone looking for a better way to get around, the VCHAINS Faquir is a scooter that earns your respect one kilometer at a time. It's a solid, well-rounded performer that sets a high bar for what a 1 000 € scooter should be.

Who Is This Scooter For?

The VCHAINS Faquir is the perfect match for the "serious commuter"-someone who has a daily round trip of 10 to 30 km and wants to do it in total comfort. If your route involves a mix of smooth bike paths, cracked city sidewalks, and the occasional hill, the Faquir's quad-suspension and 800W motor will make your life significantly easier. It's also an excellent choice for the "weekend explorer." If you love the idea of throwing a scooter in your car and spending a Saturday afternoon exploring a new town or a coastal path, the 60 km range gives you the freedom to wander without constantly checking your battery gauge. It's for the rider who values the quality of the ride as much as the destination.

On the other hand, this is probably not the right scooter for someone who needs to carry their ride up multiple flights of stairs or frequently use crowded public transport during peak hours. At 25.3 kg, it's a bit of a beast to manhandle in tight spaces. It's also not for the "speed demon" who won't be satisfied with anything less than 80 km/h. The Faquir is about sophisticated, controlled speed, not raw, terrifying power. Experience-wise, it's accessible enough for a beginner thanks to the smooth throttle and non-zero start, but it has enough performance to keep an intermediate rider engaged. It's a "grown-up" scooter for someone who wants a reliable, stylish, and comfortable alternative to a car.

In short, if you are looking for a "traveling companion" that feels premium, rides like a dream, and won't leave you stranded halfway to your destination, the Faquir should be at the top of your list. It's perfect for the rider who wants to "elevate their commute" (/en/pevpedia/escooters/brands/2swift) and turn a mundane task into a daily highlight. It's a machine for those who appreciate good engineering and aren't afraid to pay a little more for a significantly better experience. If you fit that description, the Faquir isn't just a good choice; it's probably the best choice in its price bracket.

Community Feedback - Pros

• Exceptional Comfort: The quad-suspension system is frequently cited as the best in its class, making for an "extremely comfortable" ride.
• Smooth Power Delivery: The 800W motor and controller are tuned for a refined, non-jerky acceleration experience.
• Impressive Build Quality: The aluminum frame and folding mechanism feel solid and durable, with very little stem wobble.
• Great Visibility: The inclusion of cornering lights is a standout safety feature that users love for night riding.
• Customization Options: The ability to choose custom colors and logos is a huge hit with riders who want a unique look.
• Generous Deck Space: The wide pedals allow for multiple foot positions, reducing fatigue on long journeys.
• Reliable Range: The 18.2Ah battery provides enough real-world range to eliminate anxiety for most daily users.
• Stylish Aesthetic: The clean, industrial design is often described as "stylish and swift," turning heads on the street.
• Stable at Speed: Even at 45 km/h, the scooter feels planted and secure, giving the rider confidence.
• Good Hill Climbing: The 800W motor provides enough torque to handle most urban inclines with ease.

The most praised aspect of the Faquir is undoubtedly its ride quality. In a market where many scooters feel like "vibration machines," the Faquir's ability to smooth out the world is its greatest strength. Riders often mention that they find themselves taking longer routes just to enjoy the sensation of gliding. This comfort, combined with the predictable and smooth power delivery, creates a "zen-like" riding experience that users find addictive. It's not just about getting from A to B; it's about how good you feel when you arrive.

Community Feedback - Cons

• Weight: At 25.3 kg, it is heavy and can be difficult to carry for long distances or up stairs.
• Charging Time: A full charge takes about 10 hours, which requires some planning for heavy users.
• 8.5-inch Tires: While comfortable, some riders would prefer 10-inch tires for even better stability over large obstacles.
• Single Motor: While powerful, it won't satisfy those looking for the extreme acceleration of dual-motor setups.
• Rear-only Disc Brake: Some users wish for a front disc brake as standard, though the electronic brake helps.
• Portability: Its size when unfolded can make it tricky to navigate through very narrow doorways or crowded elevators.
• Fender Design: A few users have noted that the rear fender could be more robust to better protect against splashes in heavy rain.
• Display Visibility: In direct, very bright sunlight, the LCD screen can sometimes be a bit difficult to read at a glance.

The most common complaint is, unsurprisingly, the weight. For riders who live in walk-up apartments, the 25.3 kg can be a significant hurdle. However, most users acknowledge that this is the price you pay for the excellent suspension and large battery. It's a trade-off that the community generally accepts, but it's something every potential buyer needs to consider. The other minor gripes, like the fender or display visibility, are seen as small compromises in an otherwise stellar package. None of these issues are considered "deal-breakers" by the majority of the community, which speaks to the overall strength of the Faquir's design.

Value for Money

At an average market price of 1 017 €, the VCHAINS Faquir sits in a very competitive segment of the market. You can certainly find cheaper scooters with similar top speeds, but you will almost certainly be sacrificing the sophisticated suspension, the high-capacity battery, and the overall build quality that the Faquir offers. When you break down what you're getting-an 800W motor, a 48V 18.2Ah battery, quad-suspension, and a premium aluminum frame-the value proposition becomes very clear. You are paying for a "traveling scooter" that is built to last, not a disposable commuter.

Compared to many of its rivals, the Faquir feels like a bargain. Many scooters in the 1 000 € range still use basic spring suspension or smaller batteries. VCHAINS has managed to pack in features that are usually reserved for the 1 300 € to 1 500 € price bracket. When you factor in the 12-month warranty and the brand's reputation for after-sales support, the investment feels even more secure. It's a classic case of "you get what you pay for," and in this instance, you're getting a lot of machine for your money. For the rider who plans to use their scooter every day for the next few years, the Faquir represents excellent long-term value.

In my professional opinion, the Faquir is one of the best-priced "comfort-first" scooters on the market today. It doesn't waste money on gimmicky features or unnecessary "racing" specs. Instead, every Euro is spent on things that actually improve the riding experience: better suspension, a bigger battery, and a safer braking system. If you have a budget of around 1 000 € and you prioritize comfort and range over raw speed, the Faquir is arguably the best investment you can make. It's a high-quality tool that will pay for itself in saved transport costs and pure riding enjoyment.

About the Brand

VCHAINS (Ningbo Vchain Technology Co., Ltd.) is a manufacturer that has quietly built a strong reputation in the electric scooter world. Based in Ningbo, China-a global hub for electric vehicle production-they have leveraged their location to access high-quality components and engineering talent. Unlike many "white-label" brands that simply slap their logo on a factory-standard design, VCHAINS prides itself on its extensive R&D experience. They are a professional manufacturer that actually designs and refines their own platforms, which is why their scooters, like the Faquir, often feel more cohesive and well-thought-out than the competition.

The brand's philosophy is centered around "ultimate service" and a commitment to the rider's experience. This is reflected in their 12-month warranty and their active engagement with the community. In an industry where after-sales support can be hit-or-miss, VCHAINS has made a concerted effort to be accessible and helpful to their customers. This has earned them a lot of goodwill in enthusiast circles, where they are known as a brand that stands behind its products. Their focus on the "traveling scooter" niche shows a deep understanding of how people actually use these vehicles in the real world.

The community's experience with VCHAINS is generally very positive. They are seen as a reliable, "no-nonsense" brand that delivers high-quality hardware without the inflated prices of some Western-branded imports. By maintaining control over the manufacturing process, they can ensure a level of quality control that is often missing in the budget sector. If you're interested in seeing what else this innovative brand has to offer, I highly recommend checking out their full range of scooters at /en/pevpedia/escooters/brands/2swift. Whether you're looking for a compact city carver or a long-range cruiser, VCHAINS likely has a well-engineered solution that will exceed your expectations.

Specifications

• Model: VCHAINS Faquir (V8.5X)
• Price: 1 017 €
• Motor: 800W Single Motor
• Battery: 48V 18.2Ah (873.6 Wh)
• Max Speed: 45 km/h
• Max Range: 60 km
• Weight: 25.3 kg
• Charging Time: 10 hours
• Suspension: Front and rear four suspensions (Quad-system)
• Brakes: Electric + Rear disc brake (Optional Hydraulic)
• Tires: 8.5 inch Pneumatic
• Max Load: 120 kg
• Frame Material: Aluminum
• Unfolded Size: 1 190 x 650 x 1 250 mm
• Lights: LED Headlight, taillight, and cornering lights
• Gradeability: 15°

Known Alternatives

If you're considering the VCHAINS Faquir, you might also want to take a look at the HILEY Tiger 8 Pro. The Tiger 8 Pro is a strong competitor that offers a similar focus on suspension and ride quality. It's often praised for its compact folding size and nimble handling, making it a great alternative if you need something slightly more portable but don't want to sacrifice the "plush" feel of a dual-suspension system. It's a fantastic choice for the urban commuter who has to navigate tight spaces but still wants a premium ride.

For those who are willing to trade a bit of the Faquir's refinement for raw power, the BOYUEDA S3-11 is a beast worth considering. It's a much larger, heavier scooter that focuses on extreme speed and off-road capability. While it lacks the "traveling scooter" elegance of the VCHAINS, it's a favorite among adrenaline junkies who want to tackle rough terrain. Similarly, the DRAGON Ninja offers a more aggressive performance profile that might appeal to those who find the Faquir's 800W motor a bit too polite. Both of these alternatives move further away from the "city traveler" niche and into the "high-performance" category.

Finally, the VARLA Pegasus and the FLJ C8 are two other mid-range contenders that offer their own unique takes on the dual-suspension commuter. The VARLA Pegasus is known for its distinctive styling and solid tires (which eliminate flats but offer a slightly firmer ride), while the FLJ C8 often provides a very competitive price-to-performance ratio. Each of these scooters has its own strengths, but the VCHAINS Faquir remains the standout choice for those who prioritize the specific blend of quad-suspension comfort, long-range battery capacity, and sophisticated design that VCHAINS has mastered.