Mantis V2 - $1799
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Paul Somerville
April 17, 2022

Rider Guide’s Editor-in-Chief is a seasoned expert in the electric scooter industry. With a wide-ranging background that includes managing scooter warehouses, selling thousands of motorcycles, and restoring high value (+1M) European sports cars, his expertise is unmatched. Having personally tested more than 100 electric scooters, he offers invaluable insights and recommendations to our readers. We are fortunate to have him as part of our team, as his diverse skill set and extensive experience ensure top-notch reviews.

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This Kaabo Mantis V2 set a new standard for the electric scooter industry, when, for the first time, a base model scooter beat the more expensive, pro-grade model. The Mantis is an outright steal for its long-range, fast acceleration, and smooth ride.

Since its debut, the Kaabo Mantis has been a standard-setter for e-scooters, and the Kaabo Mantis V2 stars alongside the newer Mantis King GT as our favorite iterations to date. The Mantis V2 scooter is a solid all-around rideable with a beefy dual-motor setup, generous battery capacity, and a high weight limit. But is the Kaabo Mantis V2 right for you? Find out in our comprehensive, hands-on review!

pros icon of thumbs up
PROS
Sinewave Motor Controllers
Excellent Price for Performance Ratio
Hydraulic Braking System
cons icon of thumbs down
CONS
Poor Throttle Ergonomics
Display Could Be Brighter

Technical Specifications

top speed icon of speedometer
Tested Top Speed:
37.3 mph**
water resistance icon of raining cloud
Water Resistance:
IPX5**
Tested Weight icon of a scale
Max Rider Weight:
265 lb**
weight icon of kettlebell
Weight:
66.4 lb**
tested range icon of a path between to points
Tested Range:
27.2 mi**
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Acceleration:
2.2 s**
**Based on our independent performance tests which may differ from manufacturer’s claims.
The Kaabo Mantis V2 is available in United States from Fluid Freeride.
Our content is independent, but using our links supports our hard work!

Kaabo Mantis V2 Review Summary

Hailing from Kaabo, the Mantis V2 is the second major iteration in the ultra-popular Mantis line, which had both 8-inch- and 10-inch tire versions. It features a powerful 1000-watt motor in each wheel, which definitely skews on the more powerful end for scooters. That’s paired with a whopping 1092-watt-hour battery, making for 27.2 miles of range to get you plenty far between charges.

The Kaabo Mantis V2 scooter supports a maximum 265-pound rider capacity, meaning it is a good choice of electric scooter for heavier riders. Alternatively, clocking in at 66.4 lbs., the Kaabo Mantis V2 electric scooter isn’t light per se, but it’s reasonably manageable to tote around. It barely fits in the trunk but can comfortably go in the back seat if you’re in a pinch.

The electric scooter has an impressive top speed of 37.3 mph, which is well above the curve for scooters in its class. The powerful motors also get you to speed in no time with crazy fast acceleration, not to mention the impeccable hill climbing. And thanks to the Zoom hydraulic brakes, you don’t have to worry about coming to a stop, as these brakes will stop on a dime. 

Zoom brakes aren’t the only anomaly for this scooter at its price; it also has sinewave controllers that provide smooth and precise control over its speed and performance. The electric scooter also has turn signal lights, a powerful LED headlight, and ambient deck lights as part of its comprehensive light package. You get front and rear suspension to complement the 10-inch air tires in delivering a smooth ride. And the Mantis v2 – fluid edition becomes the first Mantis scooter with an IP rating–IPX5

We feel that the front fender still needs work and that the LT01 display is completely outdated at this point. However, for the price you’ll pay for the scooter now, the value you’re getting is unmatched. Read along as we highlight the key features and benefits of the Kaabo Mantis V2 scooter. 

Our take: A Premium Dual-Motor Scooter at an Affordable Price

Kaabo Mantis V2 Alternatives & Competitors

 Let’s see how it stacks up against the competition.

kaabo Logo
Mantis Pro

The Kaabo Mantis V2 improves over its base-model predecessor, evolving into a Mantis Pro challenger. It’s faster, easier to ride, and better at braking than the Pro model, with the Pro version just barely edging out the Kaabo Mantis V2 Fluid edition on hill climb and range tests. With a host of upgrades, including hydraulic brakes, faster acceleration, and a longer range, the Kaabo Mantis V2 closes the gap between base and flagship scooters. The Kaabo Mantis Pro electric scooter still offers benefits like a somewhat better range and slightly speedier hill ascent, but the price-to-performance ratio makes the Mantis V2 scooter more appealing. 

See Full Review
Kaabo-Wolf-Warrior-X-Cover-Pic
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Wolf Warrior X
ec best Logo
The Kaabo Wolf Warrior X delivers terrific speed, range, comfort, and handling. Its rider capacity limit comes up short to the Mantis V2 (220 lbs vs. 265 lbs), but overall we liked the versatility of the Warrior X.

The Kaabo Mantis V2 improves over its base-model predecessor, evolving into a Mantis Pro challenger. It’s faster, easier to ride, and better at braking than the Pro model, with the Pro version just barely edging out the Kaabo Mantis V2 Fluid edition on hill climb and range tests. With a host of upgrades, including hydraulic brakes, faster acceleration, and a longer range, the Kaabo Mantis V2 closes the gap between base and flagship scooters. The Kaabo Mantis Pro electric scooter still offers benefits like a somewhat better range and slightly speedier hill ascent, but the price-to-performance ratio makes the Mantis V2 scooter more appealing. 

See Full Review
apollo Logo
Phantom V3

The Apollo Phantom V2 boasts similar specs to the Kaabo Mantis V2 electric scooter with a 39.7 mph top speed, 31.4-mile range, and 300 lbs rider weight limit. However, it’s 10 lbs heavier than the Mantis V2 scooter while lacking front turn signals. If you value the range and top speed gains, the Phantom V2 electric scooter is a great option. It’s more expensive too, but you’ll also gain some good ergonomics.

See Full Review
apollo Logo
Ghost 2022
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The Apollo Ghost gets you up to 38.4 mph speeds, a 22.3-mile range, and a 300 lb weight limit with an affordable price tag. We found its grip tape lacking and were underwhelmed by its underdamped dual suspension, though the value-priced Ghost is nevertheless a solid pick. The Mantis V2 electric scooter is our suggestion between the two, but it’s a close call.

See Full Review
EMOVE Logo
Cruiser (2021)
ec best Logo

The Emove Cruiser affords a whopping 47-mile range, 30.5 mph top speed, 350 lbs rider capacity limit, and IPX6 water resistance. Considering its comparatively light 59 lbs weight, comfortable ride, and exceptional range, the Emove Cruiser is arguably the best long-range commuter electric scooter on the market. Despite the Kaabo Mantis V2’s faster speed, we think the Cruiser will be a better choice for a number of folks.

See Full Review

Is it Good for Bigger, Heavier Riders?

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The Kaabo Mantis V2 is a decent electric scooter for heavier adults. Ramier rode the scooter when it first debuted, and he praised it for its super smooth handling and the fact that he could ride it one-handed (don’t try this at home). 

The electric scooter is made of strong enough material to handle the weight of heavier adults weighing within the specified max rider weight capacity of 265 lbs. The powerful dual 2000-watt motors do not slow down significantly under heavier weight, guaranteeing a thrilling ride regardless of rider weight. On the other hand, the large 1092 Wh battery has enough reserve for the higher power requirements of heavier riders.

 The ride is comfortable, thanks to the large deck that fits most adult riders’ feet. The handlebars sit 41 inches above the deck, allowing riders taller than 6 feet to ride without crouching. And thanks to the front and rear suspensions and 10-inch pneumatic tires, the electric scooter delivers a smooth and stable ride even on rough terrain, ensuring a comfortable ride experience for riders of all weights. 

See the Mantis V2

Kaabo Mantis V2 Review

Performance Summary

Top Speed

37.3 mph

Range

27.2 mi

Braking Distance (15 to 0 mph)

9.7 ft

Hill Climb

8.1s
Acceleration

0 to 15 mph

2.2 s

0 to 20 mph

3.3 s

0 to 25 mph

4.8 s

0 to 30 mph

6.9 s

0 to 35 mph

10.5 s

0 to 40 mph

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Accelaration

The Kaabo Mantis V2-Fluid Edition is an acceleration monster. To 15 mph, the electric scooter keeps up with some of the baddest performance scooters we have, like the Dualtron X and the Apollo Pro 2023, with 0 to 15 mph times of 2.2 seconds. The acceleration drops as it picks up speed, with a 0–30 mph time of 6.9 seconds. Regardless, given the cost of this electric scooter, we’d say it’s certainly a benchmark for lower-powered performance scooters

What we also loved about the Kaaabo Mantis V2 electric scooter is that it comes with Sinewave motor controllers. Sinewave motor controllers provide smoother and more efficient power delivery, resulting in a more enjoyable and responsive riding experience. Therefore, while the Mantis V2 delivers on speed, its silky ramp-up doesn’t snap your head back when you clamp down on the throttle like some electric scooters that feature squarewave controllers.

Top Speed

Mantis V2-Fast-Action-Blowby

Mantis scooters tend to be reliable when it comes to performance, and the Mantis V2 certainly maintains that reputation. The Kaabo Mantis V2 set a speed record for its class with a 37.3 mph top speed, even beating the Mantis Pro, which earlier recorded a max speed of 37 mph. Till the release of the Mantis King GT, the V2 was the fastest Mantis we’d tested, but the King GT broke that record to reach 45.1 mph. However, the Mantis V2’s significantly lower price tag makes this quite the steal when it comes to performance per dollar, especially for anyone on a budget.

Hill Climb

Accelerating on flat ground isn’t terribly taxing, but riders in hilly areas will love the Kaabo Mantis V2’s excellent hill climb. The dual 2000-watt motors with efficient sinewave controllers provide the necessary power and torque to easily climb hills. On our 10% grade of 200 ft, the Kaabo Mantis clocked a record time of 8.1 seconds, accelerating all the way to the top. This was a significant improvement over the Mantis Pro’s 10.2-second climb. Also, much to our surprise, the more powerful Mantis King GT scooter only beat the V2 Mantis by 0.1 seconds.

Range

The Kaabo Mantis V2-Fluid Edition has an advertised range of 33 miles in ideal conditions. However, our standard range tests require that we ride the electric scooter in its highest performance mode, over challenging terrain, and as aggressively as possible. The 1092-watt battery on the Kaabo Mantis V2 powered the scooter for 27.2 miles.  

Compared to the Mantis Pro (33.7 miles) and the Mantis King GT (36.6 miles), this was a bit lower—although we acknowledge that the two scooters have significantly larger batteries. Nonetheless, the V2 Mantis remains a class champ, and its ultra-quiet motors and smooth-shifting throttle more than compensate for an ever-so-slight range reduction.

Braking

While going fast is fun, slowing down is vital for safety. Thankfully, the Mantis V2 scooter sports spectacular stopping power with best-in-class braking. In our hands-on assessment, stopping from 15 mph took just 9.7 feet. Its improved braking is due to Zoom hydraulic brakes, a feature previously absent on most base scooter models. The kaabo Mantis V2 brakes better than the 2020 Mantis Pro despite both utilizing the same Zoom hydraulic braking system, thanks to its improved suspension that keeps it from diving forward.

Ride Quality

The Kaabo Mantis V2-Fluid Edition is not just a fast scooter to ride; it is also quite comfortable, thanks to its well-thought-out design. Like the other Mantis scooters, it has a relatively small frame and a solid stem, allowing nimble handling. This sturdy and compact design makes it easy to maneuver through crowded streets or tight spaces, sort of reminiscent of a praying mantis. For sporty riders, this should be high on your checklist.

The dual-motor electric scooter also has twin sinewave controllers that are game-changing when it comes to throttle control. They virtually eliminate wheel spin, allowing for a faster, more controlled launch. You also experienced improved cornering thanks to the more responsive throttling, making this an electric scooter that never has to slow down for anything. However, keep an eye on your speedo, as this elevated control can fool you into riding exceptionally fast.

The Mantis 8 scooters had tubeless air tires, but all other Mantis scooters come equipped with pneumatic inner tube tires. They are great as they provide a smooth ride and better shock absorption, especially when riding over uneven surfaces or bumps in the road. Air tires also offer improved traction, making navigating slippery or wet conditions easier. That said, inner tubes are impervious to pinch flats, which cause the majority of punctures. The split rims make for easy tire changes, but tubeless tires would have been so much more ideal.

The front and rear spring suspensions work in tandem with the air tires to reduce vibrations on the track. The electric scooter is not exactly all-terrain since it comes equipped with road tires. However, consider switching to knobby tires if you want to ride off-road. It may not be one of our best off-road scooters, but for light, adventurous trails, the power, maneuverability, and firm suspension of this scooter make it a decent option.  

Another highlight is the Zoom hydraulic disc brakes on the Fluid Mantis V2 electric scooter. They deliver world-class stopping power. Despite this being the same brand as the ones on the Mantis Pro, the improved suspension accounts for a shorter stopping distance as it keeps the electric scooter from diving forward. You can also go from full throttle to full brakes and remain in full control of your ride, firmly planted on the deck, and without feeling like you’re riding an electric scooter for kids.

See the Mantis V2

Kaabo Mantis V2 Features

Portability

Kaabo Mantis v2 deck

At around 66 lbs, the Kaabo Mantis V2 isn’t feather-light, but considering its big battery and beefy motor, that’s a manageable weight. We’d suggest taking the elevator with your Mantis V2 scooter if you’ve got to traverse more than one flight of stairs, although if you hit the weights more (or less) than us, your experience may vary. Its compact, folding form factor passes the trunk test—though just barely. Folded, the Mantis V2 Fluid Edition measures 50.5 inches by 24 inches by 19 inches.

Cockpit

Kaabo Mantis v2 deck

The display on the Kaabo Mantis V2 electric scooter is not the one we’ve loved seeing on newer Kaabo scooters. It has the old-fashioned LT01 display on throttle design. The tiny round display is not visible in direct sunlight and has less information at a glance compared to the larger TFT screens on the Wolf King scooters. However, it gets the job done if you’re not picky about these things. The throttle is a trigger style paired with Zoom hydraulic brake levers. 

You also spot ECO/Turbo and Single/Dual buttons on the cockpit, each with an indicator light. These buttons allow riders to switch between different riding modes, whether they prefer a more eco-friendly or powerful ride. The indicator lights ensure that riders are always aware of the mode they are currently in. On the left side, you also get a control switch for the turn signals, the headlight, and a horn. The turn signals also have indicator lights to remind you to turn them off when not in need.

Lights

The display on the Kaabo Mantis V2 electric scooter is not the one we’ve loved seeing on newer Kaabo scooters. It has the old-fashioned LT01 display on throttle design. The tiny round display is not visible in direct sunlight and has less information at a glance compared to the larger TFT screens on the Wolf King scooters. However, it gets the job done if you’re not picky about these things. The throttle is a trigger style paired with Zoom hydraulic brake levers.

You also spot ECO/Turbo and Single/Dual buttons on the cockpit, each with an indicator light. These buttons allow riders to switch between different riding modes, whether they prefer a more eco-friendly or powerful ride. The indicator lights ensure that riders are always aware of the mode they are currently in. On the left side, you also get a control switch for the turn signals, the headlight, and a horn. The turn signals also have indicator lights to remind you to turn them off when not in need.

Tires

Kaabo Mantis v2 deck

The Kaabo Mantis V2 electric scooter has a pair of 10-inch by 2.5-inch air tires. The tires have innertubes and are mounted on split rims for easy change. Pinch flats occur when the tire is compressed between an obstacle and the rim, causing the inner tube to be pinched and punctured. For this reason, we are not big fans of this type of tires. That said, in order to minimize the risk of pinch flats, it is recommended to maintain proper tire pressure and avoid riding over sharp objects or rough terrain

Deck

Kaabo Mantis v2 deck

The Kaabo Mantis V2 has an adequate deck that measures 20 inches by 8.3 inches. This is plenty of space for riders to comfortably place their feet and maintain stability while riding. It is covered in rubber, which has some form of traction. However, rubber decks are mostly beneficial for their ease of cleaning. The deck also has a decent ground clearance of 5.5 inches–though nothing comes close to the deck clearance on the new Kaabo Wolf King GTR at 9.3 inches. 

Design and Build Quality

Kaabo Mantis v2 deck

It’s not as aggressive-looking as some of the other Kaabos, like the Wolf Warriors or the world’s fastest electric scooter, but don’t let its timid looks fool you. The Mantis V2 electric scooter is a powerhouse on wheels. Its small frame is steadily built and will withstand the rigors of everyday riding. Additionally, the parts are of high quality and readily available for repair or replacement should the need arise.

From a cursory glance, the Mantis V2 seems virtually unchanged from the earlier Mantis Pro. However, looking closer reveals a slew of improvements. There’s a new high-mounted headlight alongside front and rear turn signals. Indicators let you know which lights are active and the current riding mode. The scooter also features some of the most comfortable grips we’ve tested, and they lock in place so they’re not moving around as you ride.

The Mantis V2 has the upgraded 2021 stem that feels super solid with no wobble. And Kaabo also upgraded the rear fender, so you get less road spray when riding through puddles. Oh, and you can now do that with this Mantis scooter, as it becomes the first official Mantis with an IP rating. It is IPX5 rated, meaning that it is protected against water jets from any direction, allowing you to get caught in a little rain.

Safety

kaabo mantis v2 Backwheel

The Kaabo Mantis V2 electric scooter is a safe vehicle to ride. It covers all its security bases with a set of powerful Zoom hydraulic brakes with an ultra-short stopping distance. The scooter is visible to other road users, night or day, thanks to the well-integrated lighting system consisting of a bright, high-mounted headlight, front and rear deck lights that double as turn signals, and the lateral ambient deck lights. 

 You get a horn to nudge unwary road users aside since the scooter’s sinewave controllers deliver a smooth, quiet ride. Finally, the electric scooter’s nimble handling and lightweight design allow for world-class maneuvering and enhanced agility, so you can easily navigate through traffic, tight spaces, or sudden danger.

Warranty

Warranty is important, especially when purchasing electric-powered products, and scooters are no different. The Kaabo Mantis V2 has a standard one-year warranty covering any manufacturing defects or malfunctions. This warranty ensures that customers can have peace of mind knowing that they are protected against any unforeseen issues that may arise with their electric scooter within the first year of purchase. Additionally, when purchased from FluidFreeRide, the Fluid Mantis V2 also includes a Lifetime Service Commitment, which offers 50% off parts and service after your warranty expires.

Kaabo Mantis V2 Review: Final Thoughts

Overall, the Kaabo Mantis V2 electric scooter provides a variety of upgrades, transforming the base-model Mantis into a flagship contender. It’s an incredible value, with amenities such as hydraulic brakes typically found only on higher-priced scooters. Its smooth throttle, long-range, fast top speeds, and agile handling make it a fun ride. And we can conclusively call this the perfect blend between a commuter and a speed demon. 

In 2023, with the Mantis King GT on the market, you could go for higher performance with the 45-mile-per-hour scooter with 36 miles of range. However, this scooter will set you back a pretty penny compared to the Mantis V2’s base model price of $1599. So, like the Kaabo Wolf King GT Pro (compared to the King GTR), we believe that despite there being a more powerful and feature-rich alternative, you’re getting the best performance per dollar without sacrificing too much power and utility.

The Kaabo Mantis V2 is available in United States from Fluid Freeride.
Our content is independent, but using our links supports our hard work!

FAQs

Who makes Kaabo scooters?

Kaabo Scooters debuted in 2013, and its scooters are made in China. 

What is the fastest electric scooter?

The fastest electric scooter we have officially tested is the Wolf King GTR, with a top speed of 65.8 mph. While the Rion RE90 technically has a higher claimed top speed at 75 mph, it is not widely considered to be “in production”. We regularly update our list of the fastest electric scooters every year to provide the most accurate information. Be sure to check our website for the latest updates.

How much is the Mantis V2?

The Mantis V2 retails for a reasonable $1,699 USD. 

How much is the Mantis Pro?

The Mantis Pro costs around $2,299 USD.

How much is a Mantis electric scooter?

Mantis scooters range in price from $1,299 for the Mantis 8 to $2,299 for the high-end Mantis Pro.
Mantis V2 Competitor Specs Comparison
model icon of electric scooter
Model
Kaabo Mantis V2
Kaabo Wolf Warrior X
Apollo Phantom (52V)
Apollo Ghost
EMOVE Cruiser (2021)
Top Speed**
37.3 mph
44.1 mph
39.7 mph
38.4 mph
30.5 mph
tested range icon of a path between to points
Range**
27.2 mi
32 mi
31.4 mi
22.3 mi
47.0 mi
weight icon of kettlebell
Weight**
66.4 lb
79.8 lb
76.4 lb
65.4 lb
59.4 lb
price icon of cash
Price
$1799
$1899
$2099
$1499
$1499
**Based on our independent performance tests which may differ from manufacturer’s claims.

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