The lousy winter weather has finally broken here in the NE, and I was able to spend some time actually riding the Hoverboard II and Stealth II that I recently dyno tested indoors.

Sometimes I wonder why these scooters are not more actively discussed by this group. They are solid, quiet, reasonably fast, and offer more range than many in their class, and the new "fuel gauge" is a great help in determining battery charge state on long rides. Speed control is outstanding! I can't imagine a better scooter for threading your way among pedestrians at an outdoor (or indoor) event.

Putting them in my trunk - to carry to the test area - I found them easy and quick to fold, and light enough to carry conveniently by their "handle". Unfolding is equally simple and fast. I've read comments regarding the "flexibility" of the steering tube. I don't, however, see this as a problem.....since the spring loaded locking tube is positive and strong. It's a pleasure not to fight with one of the various locks, clamps, catches, etc., associated with other scooters.

Two things I noticed immediately: quietness and ride quality. I knew they were quiet, based on SPL readings on the dyno, but it is all the more impressive under actual operating conditions in the field. Also, ride quality was a pleasant surprise. I must admit I was prepared for a "rough" or "harsh" feel from the solid tires. Not so! Of course, I was riding on an asphalt surface. But still, the ripples, cracks, and other assorted imperfections didn't transmit through the frame to the extent I expected. On rougher sections of the test area, the "sprung" Hoverboard was quite stable and comfortable. Even its less expensive counterpart, Stealth II, performed quite well.

The course I ride provides both moderate uphill and downhill sections, as well as level straight-aways. Where the uphill sections would slow a Zappy (or its equivalent) to half speed, these scooter made the grade with minimal slowing. On the downhill areas, a gentle squeeze of the brake lever engages the dynamic (electronic) brake. This feature causes an effective "slowing" of the scooter without actually applying the front wheel caliper brakes. Very useful on long gentle hills. If you need more brake action, squeeze the brake lever further, and the front brake is engaged.

After dyno testing and riding the Hoverboard and Stealth II, my impressions are all quite positive. As mid-size portable scooters, I give them "good to excellent" ratings on speed, quietness, transportability, and range.

-Scott MacGregor