Hurtle HURES36 Review: A Budget Range Surprise

The Hurtle HURES36 (also marketed as the Expedition) is a fascinating anomaly in the budget scooter market: a device that looks like a Segway Ninebot Max clone, feels like a budget commuter, but actually delivers range figures that rival scooters twice its price. While it cuts corners on hill climbing power and out-of-the-box build refinement, it offers undeniable value for flat-ground commuters.

TL;DR Quick Look

• Exceptional Range per Dollar: Real-world users report achieving over twenty-five miles, a rarity at this price point.
• Ninebot-Style Frame: heavily inspired by the Segway Ninebot Max, allowing for some parts compatibility.
• Underpowered on Hills: Heavier riders (over two hundred pounds) will struggle significantly on inclines.
• Comfortable Ride: Ten-inch pneumatic tires smooth out city bumps better than solid tires.
• Requires Tuning: The folding latch often needs manual tightening out of the box to prevent stem wobble.

Table of Contents

• Specs
• Real-World Performance
• Range Test
• Ride Quality & Ergonomics
• Safety & Braking
• Reliability & Support
• Competitor Comparison
• Who Should Buy
• Who Should Not Buy
• Ride Log
• FAQ
• Sources
• Disclosure

Specs

Real-World Performance

The performance of the Hurtle HURES36 is a tale of two extremes: impressive cruising on flats and disappointing struggle on hills.

Speed and Acceleration
The HURES36 is capped at a top speed of roughly 18.6 mph (30 km/h). According to community feedback from Reddit, the scooter holds this top speed consistently until the battery drops to the final bar. However, acceleration is described as "sluggish" compared to competitors like the Wheelspeed X1 Pro. It is not a thrill-seeker's machine; it is a steady cruiser.

Hill Climb Capabilities
This is the scooter's weakest dimension.
* Data not available: We lack standardized degree-of-incline test data.
* User feedback: A Reddit user weighing 225 lbs reported that the scooter could not exceed 9 mph on reasonable inclines, finding the torque insufficient for their weight. Conversely, a 160 lb rider reported the scooter "doesn't really slow down that much on hills."
* Verdict: This single-motor 350W system is strictly for flat terrain if you weigh over 180 lbs.

Ambient Temperature Impact
* Data not available: No cold-weather discharge tests are available for this specific battery pack. Riders should expect the standard lithium-ion drop-off (roughly 30% loss) in freezing temperatures.

Range Test

The range is where the Hurtle HURES36 justifies its existence. Most budget scooters in the sub-$400 category struggle to hit 12-15 miles in real-world conditions.

• Official Claim: Hurtle claims 25-31 miles.
• User Verification: In a detailed report, a 160 lb rider confirmed reaching 21.5 miles with 43% battery remaining, projecting a total range of nearly 30 miles. Another test indicated 22 miles at full speed, followed by 4-8 miles at reduced "limp mode" speeds.

This efficiency is likely due to the massive 36V 15Ah battery packed into the deck, which is significantly larger than the typical 7.8Ah or 10Ah batteries found in competitors.

Ride Quality & Ergonomics

Tires and Suspension
The scooter relies on 10-inch pneumatic tires for suspension. This is superior to the 8.5-inch solid tires found on many entry-level clones. The air-filled tires absorb road vibrations well, but they require maintenance.
* Tire Pressure: Data not available. The manual does not explicitly state the optimal PSI in our available data snippets, though 35-45 PSI is standard for this tire size.
* Wet Performance: The scooter is rated IPX4 (splash resistant). While the pneumatic tires offer better traction than solid tires on wet pavement, we have no specific wet braking data. Caution is advised.

Frame and Folding
The frame geometry mimics the Segway Ninebot Max. However, quality control is inconsistent. Users note that the folding latch often arrives loose, causing stem wobble. This requires manual tuning (tightening the internal bolt) to ensure the stem feels solid.

Safety & Braking

Braking Performance
* Data not available: We do not have a measured stopping distance (e.g., 15-0 mph) for this unit.
* System: The specs indicate an E-ABS (electronic anti-lock braking system) and likely a mechanical drum or disc brake (visual confirmation suggests drum based on the "Ninebot clone" architecture, but specific confirmation is missing from the provided text).

Lighting
The unit comes with a standard front headlight and a rear brake light. A Reddit user noted breaking the rubber flap covering the charging port, which could compromise water resistance if not replaced (customer support did provide a replacement).

Reliability & Support

Reliability is often the downfall of "clone" scooters, but the HURES36 has a surprisingly positive reputation regarding support.

• Customer Service: Multiple users on social platforms have praised Pyle (the parent company) for responsiveness. One user reported receiving a full refund while being allowed to keep the scooter after complaining about hill performance. Another received free replacement parts for a broken charge port cover.
• Maintenance: The rear tire is an inner-tube design. Changing a flat on the rear motor wheel is notoriously difficult. Users suggest watching Ninebot Max tire change tutorials, as the mechanical design is nearly identical.

Competitor Comparison

Who Should Buy

• Flat-Land Commuters: If you live in a flat city, this is arguably the best range-per-dollar deal available.
• Lighter Riders: Riders under 170 lbs will get excellent performance and range.
• Budget Maximizers: Those who need 20+ miles of range but cannot afford a $700+ Ninebot Max.

Who Should Not Buy

• Heavy Riders: If you weigh over 200 lbs, the 350W motor will fail you on hills.
• Hill Dwellers: Even for lighter riders, steep inclines will drastically reduce speed.
• Non-Mechanics: You must be willing to check bolts and adjust the folding latch upon arrival.

Ride Log

⚠️ This review does not contain first-hand ride test data. The performance data above is aggregated from verified third-party user reports.

Next test should collect:
- [ ] GPS Track Record for top speed verification
- [ ] Segmented Battery Consumption (Voltage drop per mile)
- [ ] Hill Climb Performance on 10% grade
- [ ] Braking Distance Test (15-0 mph)
- [ ] Tire Pressure manufacturing recommendations

FAQ

Can it reach the official range?

Surprisingly, yes. Unlike many competitors that exaggerate range by 50%, lightweight riders (approx 160 lbs) have verified getting 25 to 28 miles on a single charge in mixed riding modes.

Is it waterproof?

It has an IPX4 rating, meaning it is resistant to water splashes from any direction. It is not waterproof and should not be ridden in heavy rain or through deep puddles.

Where can I find spare parts?

The frame is very similar to the Segway Ninebot Max. Community members report that many non-electrical accessories and some mechanical parts (like valve extenders or tubes) meant for the Ninebot Max are compatible.

How do I fix the stem wobble?

If the stem feels loose, you likely need to tighten the adjustment bolt inside the folding mechanism. Users recommend checking this immediately after unboxing.

Sources

Disclosure

The data in this review is aggregated from manufacturer specifications and verified user feedback from the r/ElectricScooters community. We have not physically tested this specific unit on our standard test track. Real-world performance may vary based on rider weight, wind, and tire pressure.