VSETT 8 Electric Scooter Review

Vsett 8 Summary

The Vsett 8 is a convenient commuting choice that’s as easy on the eyes as it is on your wallet. Beyond its alluring, army-inspired colour scheme is a thoroughly thought-out design that will appeal to a wide range of riders.

This electric scooter has a single 48V 600-watt brushless hub motor that delivers better hill-climbing torque than other models in the Vsett range.

While electric scooters with dual motors offer excellent hill-climbing abilities and quick acceleration, they often cost double the Vsett 8. The Vsett 8 can easily climb 18-degree grade hills with ease, while its 48V 15.6 Ah LG battery enables it to hit an impressive top speed of 26 miles per hour and a range of up to 30 miles.

Also, the team who engineered this scooter had their eyes set on comfort. Notably, the Vsett 8 features the signature Swingarm suspension that’s customisable for diverse rider tastes. But that’s not all! This scooter also comes with some of the widest and most comfortable handlebars in its class.

Both tyres on the Vsett 8 are 21.6 cm in diameter, allowing for an even smoother ride. Its front wheel pairs with its solid rear tyre to provide a comfortable ride with lots of traction. What’s more, the solid rear tyre is resistant to flats, so you can rule out punctures when you hit the road.

In terms of build quality and durability, the Vsett 8 is spot on. It’s made of the same material as some of Vsett’s more premium models yet costs a fraction of the price. For starters, the Vsett 8’s rugged frame is made of an aviation-grade aluminium forging alloy, known as “6082-T6.” This is the same material used to make trusses, cranes and even bridges.

Overall, this scooter is a tough cookie that can withstand high-stress conditions with little or no fuss at all.

Speed & Acceleration

On acceleration, the Vsett 8 has almost the same power and acceleration as the 8R. However, it’s important to note that the latter costs about £400 more. Meanwhile, it stacks up well against a lot of similarly-priced scooters, including the EMOVE Touring and Zero 9.

There are several alternatives to consider for those looking for quicker acceleration within Vsett’s range, including the Vsett 9+ (15.6 Ah), which comes with dual 650W motors. It can propel you from a standstill in less than 2.7 seconds. It also delivers a faster max speed (33 mph) while offering a similar range (28 miles).

Finally, it’s worth mentioning that Vsett 8 features cruise control, which proves handy in helping you maintain a constant speed over long distances. With this function, your index finger won’t be tired, and your muscles won’t tire from trying to keep the throttle pulled down while riding.

Top Speed

A single 600W peak-power brushless hub motor allows the Vsett 8 to reach a maximum speed of 26 MPH. This is more than enough to meet the needs of most riders. But that’s not all! This machine has the upper hand over a wealth of other everyday scooters. Out of 25 electric scooters with a similar price and weight that we’ve reviewed before, the Vsett 8 is the second-fastest model, beating big names such as Horizon 13 and Apollo City.

Hill Climbing

I’ll cut to the chase; the Vsett 8 is an entry-level e-scooter. Therefore, you shouldn’t expect it to smash the steepest of slopes.

The scooter’s 600W brushless motor, situated in the rear, enables it to climb hills with up to 18-degree inclines. This may not seem like much, but it is, in fact, three degrees steeper than what you get from most scooters in the Vsett 8’s price range.

If you want machines that perform better at climbing hills in the Vsett e-scooters line-up, then try the 9 (15.6Ah), the 9+ (19.2Ah), or even the 9+R. The trio has a climbing range of 25 degrees.

Battery & Range

With its 48V 15.6 Ah 750 WH LG battery, the Vsett 8 can reach 48 kilometres (30 miles) on a single charge. This maximum range places the scooter in the same category as the Mantis 8 Base and Speedway Leger.

The INOKIM Quick 4 Super 70 km (43 mi) is the best mile-munching machine in the Vsett’s price range and weight bracket, but there’s a catch; the Quick 4 is devoid of suspension, meaning that its ride quality is inferior to that of the Vsett 8.

Like other scooters in Vsett’s range, the Vsett 8 has a dual-charging system situated at the top left of the deck. Its battery will take about 11 hours to recharge fully when using a single charger, but if you plug in a second charger, it is reduced to 5.5 hours. (Note: The Vsett 8 comes with only one charger. You might want to shell out the additional £45 for a second charger.)

Motor Configuration

The Vsett 8 packs a single 48V 600W brushless motor in its rear. This, combined with an upgraded LG 15.6 Ah, 750 WH battery, pushes the scooter up to 48km in Eco mode. (Note: The actual range will be based on your riding style and conditions, but for the price, this single-motor commuter scooter performs decently.)

Another bonus is that the motor delivers an 18-degree hill-climbing range. This is about three degrees steeper than most scooters similar to its size, and weight can handle. 

Performance Overview

With a top speed of 26 mph and a range of up to 30 miles, the Vsett 8 is truly an impeccable performer. This is especially the case if you bring the price into the equation.

Lest you forget, this scooter’s two big brothers, namely, the Vsett 8+ and the Vsett 8R, churn out nearly the same max speed as the Vsett 8. Yet, they carry a higher price tag! Additionally, the Vsett 8’s 30 miles range is on par with the likes of the Mantis 8 and Speedway Leger.

So, how does the Vsett 8 perform on rough surfaces? First, all of Vsett 8’s wheels feature premium coil-spring suspensions (also called the “swingarm suspension system”) that are typically found in high-end electric scooters.

In this suspension system, custom coil rings are fitted with advanced polyurethane bushings to absorb shocks from any rough surfaces thrown your way. The dual suspension combined with the front pneumatic and solid rear tyre delivers a more satisfactory ride on uneven terrains.

Additionally, the Vsett 8 outshines the competition in brake performance. Both its front and rear wheels are fitted with drum brakes with electric ABS. Better still, its brakes contain an automatic power-off function. This helps disengage the motor power when you engage the brakes.

Construction & Quality

The Vsett 8 may lack speed and hill-climbing range, but it’s certainly built to last. It’s made of the same material that Vsett’s more premium models, despite costing hundreds less!

This scooter’s frame uses an aviation-grade aluminium forgoing alloy (otherwise called “6082-T6”). This material is extremely resistant to high-stress environments.

To put it into perspective, this same material is used to build trusses, cranes, bridges, and even beer barrels. The Vsett 8’s shaft is constructed from carbon-chromium alloy steel (known as “SCM400”). This is a high-steel purity material with a strong composition that ensures minimal surface defects.

Its handlebars and fenders contain a mix of rubber and durable plastic. As for the suspension, Vsett’s engineers use polyurethane bushings to help balance the front and rear C-spring’s durability, comfort, and performance.

Finally, the whole package comes in an eye-catching, army-issue colour scheme. This gives the Vsett 8 an aggressive look and feel that benefits its performance and specs.

Suspension & Comfort

The Vsett 8 rocks the best suspension system in its price range; a pair of adjustable C-springs (known as “swingarm suspension”). Polyurethane coil-spring suspensions are better equipped to dampen the worst of what rough terrains can throw your way.

Also, the scooter’s front pneumatic tyre provides additional insulation from the ground, thereby ensuring a butter-smooth ride.

Of course, Vsett’s higher-end models, like the 10+R and 11+, come with terrain-trouncing hydraulic setups for better shock-absorption capabilities, but they cost around thrice as much as the Vsett 8 will!

Ride Quality

One hallmark of the Vsett 8 e-scooter is its ride quality. Its adjustable coil-springs and swingarms suspensions are tuned to absorb shocks from bad terrains, so you’re less likely to bottom out when hitting potholes.

There is plenty of space on the deck and handlebars to improve your rides when accelerating and taking corners.

Also, the Vsett 8’s stem is customisable to your liking. You can extend or retract the stem between 29.5”-40”, meaning this scooter is comfortable for riders of all heights, from older children to adults.

Braking

The Vsett 8’s brake system includes a pair of all-around mechanical brakes and an ABS electronic brake with an automatic power-off function. The system renders an average stopping distance of 3.2 metres from 24 kph.

Whilst the Vsett 8 may not deliver the same excellent brake performance as e-scooters with hydraulic or disc setups; it’s still a lot better than most similarly-priced scooters. Also, as a bonus, the Vsett 8 features an automatic power-off function which helps to cut the motor power off when you use the brakes. The result is a convenient electric scooter that’s responsive to braking.

Portability

The Vsett 8 electric scooter weighs 20 kg (46lbs). While it isn’t the lightest scooter, it isn’t bulky, either. We love that it folds into a neat package for effortless portability. You can collapse the scooter in half at the neck and reduce it to just 15” high, which is less than 1/3 of its total unfolded height.

To further aid its compact form, the scooter’s telescoping stem and handlebars are also foldable. When folded, the scooter shrinks to 37” long, which is ideal for stowing it away in your car’s boot.

Tyres

The Vsett 8 features a rear 8” x 2” solid tyre and a front 8.5” x 3” pneumatic tyre. The solid rear tyre is puncture-proof, while the front pneumatic tyre absorbs any impact caused by rough terrain to deliver a smooth, stable ride.

Be that as it may, solid tyres have their own set of advantages; they don’t get flat, and they drive a scooter’s price point down.

Deck

The Vsett 8’s deck measures a staggering 26.5” long and 8” wide to facilitate a more secure, enjoyable riding experience. As if that’s not enough, its kick plate, which is found at the rear of the deck, increases foot space by 5”. As a result, you won’t feel cramped while riding your scooter, regardless of your size.

There is just one caveat to the Vsett 8’s deck, although it’s not a deal-breaker per se. Unlike Vsett’s newer models, which come with silicone covering, the Vsett 8 utilises only two grip tape strips. We’d have loved it if they stuck with silicone because it guarantees better traction and is easier to clean. For the price, though, we’re willing to give it a pass!

Controls & Display

Positioned just above the right side of the Vsett 8’s handlebars is the QS-S4 display. This is where you’ll see your scooter’s speed, ride time and ride mode, total mileage and trip mileage, and battery status.

The device also doubles as the scooter’s instrument panel eye throttle for customised performance configuration. Located beneath the QS-S4 display is the NFC key lock motor immobiliser, a handy anti-theft function that helps deter would-be thieves.

Finally, there is the cruise control feature that you can activate to maintain a constant speed over long distances.

Water Resistance

The Vsett 8 has an IP54 water-resistance rating, meaning it is completely splash-proof. However, take caution when riding in adverse environmental conditions because distributors don’t cover water damage.

Reliability

Overall, the Vsett 8 is a sturdy and reliable scooter built to withstand the treacherous elements that might get thrown its way.

Warranty & Customer Support

It comes with a 12-month warranty when you purchase it through an authorised distributor of the Vsett line-up.

Additionally, you will have the opportunity to extend your warranty by up to three years. Most certified distributors of Vsett’s electric vehicles that we came across offer superb post-purchase support via phone and email.

Known Issues

When reviewing this electric scooter, the biggest complaint we came across is that its lights are inferior for night commuting. Similarly, its turn signals – albeit brighter than the vast majority of scooters in the same price point – are not bright enough to be seen during the day.

Worse still, the turn signals sit too low to the ground, making it even harder to attract much-needed attention.

Maintenance

The Vsett 8 follows pretty much the same maintenance routine as other electric scooters, including:

• Checking tyre pressure regularly
• Recharging your scooter only if the battery is dead or close to being completely drained
• Storing your scooter inside, preferably at 30C (80F)
• Confirming if the drum brakes are working properly
• Cleaning electric scooters regularly

Vsett 8: Is it worth the money and is it worth buying?

If you’re rooting for urban commuting, then I don’t think you’ll get better value elsewhere. At just £695, the Vsett 8 gives riders a max speed of 26 mph and a decent range of up to 30 miles.

Furthermore, it comes with impressive features such as an NFC key lock immobiliser, an adjustable telescoping stem, and adjustable suspension, to mention just a few.

Overall, the Vsett 8 is worth every penny of its asking price!