My Experience with the Ninebot / Segway Mini
 

I was able to get a Mini a few months ago. I'm a disabled user whose owned every model since the 180, including a p133. I currently have an i2 and i2 SE. I've also got the X2 tires and fenders. Given my experience, I thought I'd give you some feedback:

1: Control Shaft: the between the legs thing is a DUH feature that should have been on the device since day 1. You have MUCH more control than using a handlebar. Since about a year into my i2, I modified it in a similar way. Unfortunately, the rod on the mini is a bit too short but works amazingly.

2: Portability: that's the greatest thing about it. At 25lbs, I can get it in and out of my car with ease. It's amazingly liberating to me. I can now easily drive anywhere. The biggest issue with the size is that my size 15 feet protrude about 4in in front of the device when I use it so I've got to be very careful not to hit anything with them.

3: Controls: These are some features which should have been added a decade ago. I mean, Segway has a big robotics division. Being able to lock / unlock the device, view status information, etc. via a smartphone is a no brainier. Unfortunately, you can't turn the thing on with your phone, you have to use the power button. This is a MAJOR security flaw as anyone could activate the device if it was left unlocked. The other problem is that it turns itself off after 2 or 3 hours when locked. Fortunately, it will remain in locked mode once reactivated but I'd rather the device alarm go off at any time when the device is moved while locked.

4: Remote Control Mode: One word, AWESOME. I use this feature every day when I'm using the mini. As a disabled user, the convenience of being able to sit down when getting off the device and pilot it to a safe place, then lock it remotely is invaluable. When I need it again, I can simply summon it. There are limitations to this feature as the lack of top weight means acceleration is very slow and I often have to turn it to get it to move. Especially on carpet.

5: Stability: To preface, my disability has a MAJOR impact on this part of my review. When moving around, the thing is pretty stable, but it's lack of weight and small tires substantially reduce traction. This means that you've got to be very careful with sharp adjustments like large door thresholds and damaged sidewalks. Being a disabled user, I still use my cane when crossing thresholds or needing to stand still for short periods. Hills and significant lateral inclines are MUCH more difficult on the Mini. The fact that I need my cane and it's small size means, It's also not practical in big crowds. Medium crowds like shopping malls and business networking events are fine, but busy nightclubs and music festivals are a no. Overall, I'm sure able-bodied users will fare much better.

6: Mini vs. Hoverboard: When you remove the rod, the thing is the same size as a large hoverboard. It's also priced in the same general range (~$319 in China and 1k in the US). As much as people call my Big Seg "an old style hoverboard", the Mini gets that misnomer about tenfold. My ankles don't twist voluntarily so I'm incapable of using a hoverboard to make the comparison, but severa I've allowed several of my friends who own the lesser devices use the Mini. Their first question is " where can I get this?". They tell me its far more stable and responsive and that the steering system makes for a totally different and superior experience.
7: Inconspicuous: The Mini is relatively inconspicuous next to a normal Segway. Most of the people I encounter don't even notice the device.

Overall, the Mini is AMAZING. I think the price point and size open the platform up to a much larger customer base. In a word, it's revolutionary. If the company can successfully differentiate itself by leveraging Segway's history of not exploding, this device could eat up a significant portion of hoverboard sales which would amount to millions of units being sold domestically and therefore billions in revenue. With the arrival of the Mini, Kamen's original dream may finally come to fruition.

I'm curious if it has the same behavior as a Segway on lateral slopes. Does the leansteer on the mini account for the direction of gravity like the big Segway? Or does it turn purely based off the angle of deflection?

It works just like an i2 or x2. BUT, the Mini's reduced width ansf the higher center of gravity when combined with the operator means the pull effect of the lateral slope is greater. This stronger pull is very similar to the p133 (even thought it doesn't work like 1st gen device).

Thanks for sharing your detailed review. I'm considering a MiniPro. I tried the Mini, but missed the leansteer that makes me feel more secure on the i2. Maybe it just takes some getting used to. I only tried the Mini for a few minutes.

But the advantage of the MiniPro over the i2 for me would be the ability to wheel it alongside me like luggage, its less intimidating size on sidewalks and the ability to to put it in a trunk if it conks out on the go.

My apprehension is that it may be mistaken for a now illegal (in NYC) hoverboard or categorized as such and get flagged.

Hi,

I have a question. I weigh 240lbs. The weight limit states 220lbs. Do you think it will be an issue? I know that the X2 or I2 can handle 280lbs without issues.

Thanks...

This won't be much a issue, but always drive carefully is a must. Anyway this stuff is for fun use, don't take it seriously for daily commute.

Did you pull the trigger?
 

Hello there... Did you end up pulling the trigger on a miniPro? I am 235 and this is the only thing holding me back from getting one of these.

Did you pull the trigger?
 

Hi dl1955...

I am 235 and this is the only thing holding me back from getting one. Did you end up getting a unit? If so have you had any issues being a bit over the weight limit?

Thanks for any info!

Hey all,
I am 215 and use the Mini Pro fine. I am below the limit but I use it for work on a farm. I routinely carry stuff like ladders and #50 bags of soil and seed. Also I pull carts with over #100 of stuff on them. Even up hills its fine.
As a disclaimer the following is just my opinion from observations. Ninebot/Segway I'm sure has a reason for the limits and knowingly exceeding them could cause damage or get you hurt. That said...

It seems the weight limit is more a power limit. If you are heavy and ask for full acceleration from a stop you will get a warning. You just have to accelerate slowly and when pulling a hill don't ask for full speed. I can pull a heavy cart up a gravel hill at a bit faster than a walking speed. That is fine for me.
If you are concerned about weight limits I would get one and you will know real quick if it won't work for you. I think Amazon has a return policy if the unit isn't damaged.
I do think as you go above the weight limit the fun factor will be reduced and you will get speed/power warnings more often. Also the battery life will be shorter. I notice this when I am running it through the field paths that are grass and kind of rough. I think running it on pavement and understanding the limits should be fine for any if the weights mentioned here. Structurally it doesn't seem to notice my weight or the addition of anything I have carried.

Thank you very much GregN! I'll be ordering mine today! I am less concerned about top speed and acceleration and was more concerned that going over the weight limit at all would affect the units ability to self balance.

I am 250lbs 6'1" and have been riding the Mini-Pro for over a month now.

I have 80 miles on it. It appears to be holding up just fine.

I do have some additional noise/vibration at low speeds on smooth floors but do not notice it on any other surface.(those may have been caused by jumping small curbs)

I can hit 10.9mph regularly before lean back even at my weight.

LOVE IT!! Last week I bought the Elite + but don't like it as much due to the gear drive.

Thank you very much for the feedback! I'm not even more excited for the arrival of my miniPro. That said Amazon seems to be having issues getting them out the door. I'm on the verge of the ship date being pushed back for a second one since ordering. I'm hoping it doesn't happen and I will indeed get a chance to ride it this weekend.

@Jnoel; thanks! Enjoy it! Take it slow at first. It takes some different body language. I found being close to its limit my inertia is strong and it takes a bit of practice to feel the road under you. Turns at speed require a good lean into the turn and weight on the outside foot. I also noticed the tire pressures are important. The tire says max 30psi. Others have said use 45psi. I find 30 fine but if you let it get low the handling gets squirrley. I think some of my too sharp turns may have burped some air out of the tubeless tires. I am being a bit mellower now. Must be one of the reasons for the weight limit.
Also the steering bar is sensitive and will throw you off balance sideways if you put to much force on it accidentally

...
The vibration is the slow rotation of the motors. The polarity switching causes this. Heavier load equals more work for the motor at low rpm. I try to keep them spinning as much as possible and not ask for too much power at first. I will guide it by hand to a more level surface before stepping on for example. This is for off road conditions by the way. On flat pavement or floors it shouldn't be an issue I would think.

I'm curious, why did you pick up the Elite +when you already have the miniPro? Just for fun? Or was there a practical application?

@gregn. Thanks for the suggestions! Looks like it may be a while before my unit arrives as amazon is having issues getting these out the door, still looking fe to it though. My riding will be almost exclusively on pavement so your feedback is encouraging.

Mini Pro's In Stock & Ready to Sell
 

I have several brand new Segway/Ninebot Mini Pro's in stock & ready to ship.
$755 + $25 Freight cont. USA. I have been a Segway Dealer for 13 years and think the Mini Pro is fantastic!
Rick Bennett
Segway Of Corvallis
202 NW 3rd St
Corvallis OR 97330
[email protected]
541-740-3021
If you are interested in purchase contact me by email or phone
Thanks!
P.S. I'm 6'5" 255 lbs. - Easy to ride!

Response to Jnoel
 

I purchased the Elite + because the sidewalks around me are really horrible and I wanted larger tires for the bumps and pavement transitions.

I still prefer the Mini Pro on areas that I am comfortable/ familiar with.

I ride the Mini Pro 100% of the time at the office and while in stores.

The Elite allows me to explore new areas while paying a bit less attention to the pavement.

That said, you will absolutely love the Mini Pro!

Enjoy!

Jnoel,

Did you get your mini-pro yet?

I am still using mine daily! Have over 100 miles on it with no ill effects.

Hi P99Guy!

Sorry for the delayed reply! Yes I have bought one! I actually cancelled my Amazon order and purchased from Rick over at Segway of Corvallis, he was awesome to work with and the unit shipped same day.

So far I am having no issues other than getting less miles per charge than advertised. Also - hitting hills seems to really suck the juice.

Other than that I love it and am very happy. I even bought another one for my father. I do get a bit frustrated by the speed limit on flat land, it seems pretty silly to me as you can tell the unit has more juice in it.

Glad to know it is working out for you.

Yes the limit sucks. It seems like mine is always beeping at me.

I am not hitting many hills so I may not have noticed but it always shows me 14 miles after a full charge. I have gone as far as 9 miles and still had almost half a battery left so the mileage shown may not be that accurate.

It is pretty sturdy, I weighed myself with backpack the other day at 282 and it sees that weight everyday.

Regarding the limit. It's a safety thing obviously. I think if they let us go faster and there was a failure or we over powered it the recovery might not be as easy and the chance for injury would rise.
It seems they made a compromise between using max power and safety. I've had a mishap at speed and was able to just hop off and run down to a stop without falling. I would prefer that to a face plant. I know the feeling of wishing for a bit more speed especially on a flat smooth surface. But Ill trade that for the absolute amazing performance overall this unit has. May be they will release a more powerful one at some point that can move along a bit better.

That's awesome. I weigh in at 230lb. I only have about 20 miles on mine.

How many miles do you have now? Any abnormal sounds developed yet?

I am up to 127 miles on the miniPro.
I have 3 units now so I am trying to keep them from getting jealous...

I have not experienced any new sounds. I still have the grinding noise at low speed but don't notice it so much outside so maybe it the inside walls making it louder.

I went by my local Segway dealer, he didn't seem to think anything was unusual.

I don't have anyone around to compare with so all the noises may be normal.

My weight does not seem to be affecting the unit or my mileage too badly.:eek:

I have not yet ridden a minipro, but I'm having difficulty understanding how the knee-steer can have more control than the i2 lean-steer handlebar. It looks much more precarious. I have done extensive video searches, and can find nothing that demonstrates evasive maneuvers, especially emergency stops. With the i2, it's simply a matter of shoving the lean-steer away from you / leaning back / crouching, and it stops very quickly and controllably. I cannot see how this action can be attained with the knee-steer on the minipro. Can anyone demonstrate this or point me to a video showing such maneuvers?

At 10 mph in pedestrian traffic, quick stops and other evasive actions can be very important...

It works exactly the same way.
Your body is the lean steer. I have no problem with emergency stops.

I do find I don't have as many emergency stops though because the top speed is lower and it weighs much less.

I have more fun on the mini-pro than my i2SE, at least on smoother surfaces because I have my hands free to open doors at speed and carry objects with both hands.

I really hope you get a chance to try one. It is really an awesome little device.

I am looking forward to trying one, as I still cannot imagine how certain maneuvers can be done with the knee-steer. I also have seen no evidence of system redundancy as the classic Segways have.

Well.....It has 2 wheels.......thats almost redundant.:D

There is no system redundancy that I am aware of.

I have fallen a few times, not due to the Mini-pro, but my biggest injuries have been on my Elite + and i2SE. (Higher speed and harder to escape due to the lean-steer being in the way)

I built a knee steer for my i2. It worked fine, but I did not care for it as much as the handlebar...

I have the knee steer bar for my Elite +.

I agree, the larger base makes it much harder to use than on the miniPro.

It requires much more lean to get the base to respond and feels like you are going to fall farther due to the larger wheels and base height.

I can see it being useful for a camera guy moving slowly on fairly level surfaces
but not at speed on uneven sidewalks.

I have physical limitations that do not allow me to use the MiniPro with the knee-steer system. So, for me, a handlebar is essential. I made one that is fully adjustable so I could get it in just the right position. I can't compare knee-steer to handlebar, but the length of the handlebar has more leverage on the steering input (because of its length) than what a knee-steer would. So, even a very light input on my MP will move the handlebars.

The steering ratios for the MP don't feel nearly as "dialed in" as they are on my i2. The MP doesn't feel nearly as stable. However, I think that is largely due to the weight and the fact that the platform is above the axles. For someone who has full use of his/her legs, it's probably perfectly fine. But, for me, I feel as though I need to be a little extra cautious while on the MP.

Still, I love the MP. I can't wait to get the seating system finished for it so I can use it like I do my i2 (with SegSaddle.) I love that it's so small, light, and quiet. If anyone is on the fence, I'd say go for it while they're still on sale. They're a bargain.

I agree, the minipro is certainly a bargain currently. However, after some near-misses and a few safety-shutdowns (none of which resulted in an accident or fall), I remain very concerned about evasive handling/stopping and systems redundancy.

Agreed. I can't understand how people want their MPs to go FASTER. So far, I've only used my Mini in places that I know have forgiving terrain. I've started exploring a little bit with it. It's done a great job thus far. For some reason, I get more fatigued while riding it than I do with my i2. I think it's because it's not quite as stable, so I am always a bit tense in an effort to control it. If I simply relax, it will probably be more comfortable for me.

As mentioned, it's a good bargain. It's no replacement for my i2, but it's a great accessory for my newly-realized Segway lifestyle!

following fellow pedestrians
 

It must be difficult to resist the urge to dart around pedestrians. The mini pro looks fast on Chicago's sidewalks. Then it looks like it is standing still when following a crowd of people walking. I kept looking for openings the rider could dart through. Same tension you get when riding a sport bike in slow traffic. The rider having to resist openings that are easy to make but would be rude.

It seems to handle bumps well:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dzw6BbKhbGg

215
 

I weigh 215, 6'4" and 68 y.o. No operation problems, but have had 3 falls and glad I had on a helmet. Two falls because of slowly going over a speed bump and a driveway curb and yesterday pushed the unit while getting repeated warning beeps till it abruptly shut off and I fell forward to my knees.