Freshly Charged is back with another deep dive into the electrifying world of personal electric vehicles, and this time we’re putting the brand new InMotion V9 through its paces. InMotion has a solid reputation for building reliable and user-friendly EUCs, and the V9 is their latest offering aimed squarely at commuters and those just dipping their toes into the wonderful (and sometimes wobbly) world of electric unicycles.
We spent a good chunk of time with the V9, racking up the miles and scrutinizing every detail. So, does the V9 live up to the InMotion name and carve out its own space in the crowded EUC market?
Check out our full video review here. You can buy the Inmotion V9 from Alienrides here.
First Impressions: Lightweight Contender
Pulling the V9 out of the box, the first thing that strikes you is its relatively svelte profile. At just 48 lbs, it’s genuinely the lightest suspension EUC we’ve encountered. For commuters who have to navigate stairs or public transport, this reduced weight is a significant win. The design language is classic InMotion – clean lines and a robust-looking, albeit plastic, shell.
Setting it up is straightforward, utilizing InMotion’s familiar “Ride Connect” app. Activation is a breeze, and the app provides essential functions like remote locking and tracking – a welcome security feature. We did encounter a minor annoyance while inflating the suspension chambers; the little rubber covers seem destined to get lost inside the shell, a small but frustrating design oversight.
Tech Specs That Matter: Commuter Focused
The InMotion V9 packs a respectable punch for its class:
Top Speed: 28 mph (45 km/h)
Max Range: Up to 37 miles (60 km)
Battery: 750Wh
Motor Power: Not explicitly stated, but feels adequately torquey for its intended use.
Wheel Size: 16 x 3 inch tubeless pneumatic tire
Suspension: Block and pin design, adjustable air pressure
Weight: 48 lbs (21.8 kg)
Water Resistance: IPX6
Safety Certifications: UL Certified Battery
These specs position the V9 as a capable commuter wheel, offering a good balance between speed, range, and portability. The UL certified battery provides peace of mind regarding safety, a crucial factor in the PEV world. The IPX6 water resistance is also a welcome addition for those unexpected rain showers.
Riding Experience: Smooth Sailing
Hopping on the V9, the tall stance and comfortable pedal placement immediately stand out. This EUC feels designed for longer rides. The inclusion of adjustable air suspension is a game-changer in this price range. Dialing in the right pressure allows you to tailor the ride to different terrains, soaking up bumps and cracks with surprising effectiveness, especially considering the block and pin design has been improved from previous InMotion models.
We put the V9 through its paces on various surfaces around Provo, Utah, from smooth bike paths to slightly rougher roads. The 16×3 inch tubeless tire offers a good balance of stability and maneuverability, and the tubeless design is a significant advantage for minimizing flats and making repairs easier.
However, the stock pedals are a bit on the slick side. During harder braking or when tackling steeper inclines, we found ourselves wishing for more grip. This is definitely an area where aftermarket pads will be a worthwhile investment to enhance control and comfort.
Standout Features: More Than Just a Wheel
Standout Features: More Than Just a Wheel
InMotion has packed some interesting tech into the V9:
Ride Connect App: Beyond basic tracking and locking, the app allows for customization of riding modes and LED light patterns.
Integrated Speaker with Group Ride Audio Sync: This is a unique feature! The built-in speaker actually sounds surprisingly decent, offering good bass for its size. The group ride audio sync feature allows multiple riders to listen to the same music simultaneously – a fun addition for group rides.
Adjustable Headlight: A bright and adjustable headlight is crucial for nighttime commuting, and the V9 delivers.
Trolley Handle: A retractable trolley handle makes lugging the V9 around when not riding significantly easier, especially given its (relatively) lighter weight.
Areas for Improvement:
While the InMotion V9 has a lot going for it, it’s not without its shortcomings:
No Stock Pads: As mentioned earlier, the lack of included pads and the inherently slick pedal surface is a notable omission.
Plastic Shell Durability: While it contributes to the lower weight and is likely replaceable, the plastic shell feels prone to scratches and scuffs from inevitable falls.
Display Visibility: The small front display, while providing basic information, is quite difficult to read in direct sunlight.
Suspension Chamber Access: The design for accessing the top suspension chambers with those tiny rubber covers feels like an afterthought.
Ineffective Turn Signals: The rear turn signals are small and not particularly bright, making them less effective for signaling intentions in traffic.
Unstable Kickstand: The narrow, tapered design of the kickstand makes the V9 feel less stable when parked.
Who is the InMotion V9 For?
The InMotion V9 carves out a sweet spot for:
Commuters: Its lighter weight, decent range, and adjustable suspension make it a practical choice for daily urban commutes.
Beginners: The user-friendly app, stable 16-inch wheel, and manageable power delivery make it a less intimidating option for those new to EUCs.
Students: Its blend of affordability, portability, and features makes it a compelling option for navigating college campuses.
The Verdict: A Solid Contender in the Mid-Range
The InMotion V9 is a well-rounded electric unicycle that offers a compelling package for its $1,299 price tag. It strikes a good balance between portability, comfort, features, and performance, making it a strong contender in the mid-range EUC market. While it has a few minor drawbacks, its strengths in commuter-friendliness, beginner accessibility, and unique features like the integrated speaker make it a worthy consideration for anyone looking for a reliable and enjoyable electric unicycle.
Just remember to invest in some good aftermarket pads – your shins will thank you!
Pros:
Lightweight and relatively portable for a suspension wheel.
Comfortable ride thanks to adjustable suspension.
Good range and top speed for commuting.
UL certified battery for safety.
Unique integrated speaker with group ride audio sync.
User-friendly app.
Excellent value for the price.
Cons:
No stock pads included.
Plastic shell may be prone to scratches.
Display can be hard to read in sunlight.
Minor design flaws with suspension access and kickstand.
Ineffective turn signals.
What are your thoughts on the InMotion V9? Have you had a chance to ride one? Let us know in the comments below! And as always, ride safe and stay charged! Check out our full video review here.
