The Nosfet Apex is making waves with its promise of being the “one wheel to rule them all,” thanks to its adjustable suspension that aims to conquer both street and trail. Here at Freshly Charged, we got our hands on it to see if it lives up to the hype, and especially compared it to our Veteran Lynx, with which it shares many similarities, throughout the review.
Watch our full video review of the Nosfet Apex here. You can purchase the Nosfet Apex from Alienrides here.
First Impressions: Versatility in its Veins
The Apex immediately grabs attention with its aggressive styling and a focus on practicality. The adjustable suspension is the star of the show, promising a ride that can be dialed in for smooth pavement or rugged terrain.
Key Specs at a Glance
Suspension: Adjustable, 55mm to 150mm travel (Tested with DNM air suspension)
Battery: 151V 2700Wh (Samsung 50S cells)
Motor: 3200W (8000W Peak)
Tire: 2.75-14 tubeless pneumatic (20-inch tire on a 14-inch rim)
Top Speed: 55+ mph (89kph)
Weight: 85.5 lbs
Water Resistance Rating: IPX6
Design and Features
Adjustable Suspension: A primary feature, enabling riders to customize suspension travel for either stable street performance or increased shock absorption on trails.
Leaperkim-like Firmware: The system uses Leaperkim-like firmware, contributing to a smooth and predictable power delivery.
Aesthetics: The design presents a narrower profile, which may appeal to riders seeking a more streamlined appearance.
Weight Management: At 85.5 lbs, the Apex is relatively lighter than some comparable high-performance models, which can aid in maneuverability.
Practicality: It includes top-mounted charge ports for convenience and pedals with aggressive spikes to ensure foot grip.
Ergonomics: Multiple grab handles are incorporated for easier lifting and handling of the wheel when not in motion, and aggressively spiked pedals mean your feet aren’t going anywhere, no matter how gnarly the terrain gets.
Safety Conscious: A tubeless tire, a smart Battery Management System (BMS), and redundant hall sensors all contribute to a safer riding experience, which we always appreciate.
Riding Experience
The adjustable suspension significantly influences the riding experience. A lower setting provides increased stability for higher speeds and street use, while a higher setting offers more travel for absorbing impacts on rougher terrain. The power delivery is consistent, allowing for confident control across various conditions. We liked the feel of this wheel and the confidence it inspires. It also is quite comfortable for seated riding.
Areas for Improvement
While capable, the Apex has some aspects that could be refined:
- Suspension Adjustment Mechanism: The process for adjusting suspension height can be somewhat cumbersome and may require tools. Additionally, the suspension isn’t swappable, due to the modular design, so you have to stick with the stock options. This is a huge drawback for some trail riders, who have specific preferences in shocks.
- App Compatibility: The companion application is currently limited to Android devices, excluding iOS users from potential customization and monitoring features.
- Velcro Durability: On the test unit, the Velcro for pad attachment showed signs of peeling prematurely. It should be noted that the velcro included on the sides of the Apex are likely intended to be a mounting point for a fairing panel, and then the user is meant to put their pads on that fairing panel. However, if this is the intention, that’s another thing for riders to buy, adds additional weight, and the additional layer of vecro is just redundant and is a step behind other EUC manufacturers like Begode who have good quality velcro already built onto their wheels.
- Trolley Handle Omission: The absence of a built-in trolley handle can reduce convenience when transporting the wheel without riding it, though it does reduce weight and a potential breaking point.
- Suspension Maintenance: Regular cleaning of suspension sliders may be necessary, particularly after off-road use, to prevent debris accumulation. Some riders have reported needing to clean the stanchion tubes after every off-road or trail ride, which defeats the ‘ease of use’ advertising of this wheel. Proper lubrication can reduce this pain point and is essential for this EUC.
- Pump Access: The design of the air valve for suspension inflation can make it difficult to use certain air pumps.
Who should buy the Nosfet Apex
The Nosfet Apex is best suited for riders who require a single EUC capable of performing effectively across different environments. Its adjustable suspension makes it a viable option for those who transition between street riding and off-road trails. It also presents a potentially lighter and cost-effective alternative to other high-performance models like the Veteran Lynx, especially for riders prioritizing adaptable suspension.
Conclusion
The Nosfet Apex delivers on its promise of versatility. Its adjustable suspension system is a notable feature, allowing riders to fine-tune the wheel’s performance for varied conditions. Despite some minor limitations, including the suspension adjustment process and the lack of a trolley handle, its combination of performance, adaptability, and design features positions it as a competitive option in the high-performance EUC market. It is a capable choice for riders seeking a versatile electric unicycle.
Watch our full video review of the Nosfet Apex here. You can purchase the Nosfet Apex from Alienrides here.
