Are Dual Motor E Scooters Worth It? Which is better Single or Dual Motor?

Are Dual Motor E Scooters Worth It? Which is better Single or Dual Motor?

If you’ve been browsing e-scooters, you’ve probably come across models with dual motors. These are often pitched as high-performance upgrades—but are they worth the extra cost, weight, and complexity?

Let’s break down what dual motors really offer and whether they suit your riding style and use case.

What Is a Dual Motor Scooter?

A dual motor scooter has two separate motors, one in each wheel. This means:

• Power is distributed across both wheels
  
  

• Acceleration is typically quicker as there is power going to both wheels
  
  

• Climbing ability is significantly improved
  
  

• Traction is better on hills, dirt, or wet surfaces
  
  

• Each motor has its own 'controller' (an important internal component) so the 'strain' of riding is shared across 2 controllers and two motors

Pros of Dual Motor Scooters

✅ Superior Power and Performance

You’ll get more torque and faster acceleration—great for steeper hills and heavier riders.

✅ Improved Hill Climbing

This is especially valuable for NZ’s terrain. Dual motors handle inclines effortlessly where single-motor scooters struggle.

✅ All-Terrain Capability

With both wheels powered, scooters are more stable and capable on loose gravel, grass, or mud.

✅ Redundancy

If one motor fails, the scooter may still be rideable (depending on the system).

Cons to Consider

❌ Heavier

Dual motor setups add weight. Expect 25+ kg (rare exceptions)

❌ More Expensive

You’re often paying a premium of $500–$1000 over single-motor versions 

❌ Uses More Battery

More power = more drain. You’ll need a larger battery to maintain range.

❌ Overkill for Short Flat City Commutes

If you’re just riding on flat cycleways or city streets, the extra power might go unused.

Who Should Buy One?

• Riders tackling steep hills or rural terrain
  
  

• Those who want higher speed and acceleration
  
  

• Heavier riders needing extra torque
  
  

• Enthusiasts or off-road riders looking for premium performance
  
  

Who Might Not Need One?

• New riders still learning throttle control
  
  

• Urban commuters with flat, predictable routes
  
  

• Shoppers with tight budgets who don’t need the power
  
  

Best Dual Motor E Scooters for NZ

This will heavily depend on your use case but 3 of the top performers across the spectrum would be

InMotion Climber - Dual motor but quite a reasonable price, and is geared for hill climuig (hence the name) as opposed to for acceleration and top end.  So this is the perfect dual motor hill climbing e scooter for people who still want a relatively tame, controllable, and safe ride, but when you hit a hill... it goes up it.  Check it out here:  InMotion Climber

Segway GT3 - A popular offering from Segway, probably the best known name in the e scooter game.  Being better known for their entry level beginner scooter models the GT3 represents Segway's foray into the powerful dual motor e scooter market.  Check it out here: Segway GT3

Kaabo Mantis X Pro - This highly featured dual motor e scooter from Kaabo, the legends of high end scooters, is perfect for those who want all the mod cons, all the features, a modern ride that looks good and has some performance kick when you need it, not to mention great suspension for a comfortable ride.  It is the Ultimate All Rounder.  Check it out here: Kaabo Mantis X Pro  If you want to take it up another notch then the X Pro has a big brother:  Kaabo Mantis King GT

Kaabo Wolf King GTR - Ultimate power performance and speed from a global leader in scooter design and engineering.  STORM RIDES are proud to be the exclusive NZ importer of the Kaabo brand.  Absolute leaders in e scooter development this is the best dual motor e scooter for those who want the absolute best.  Check it out here: Kaabo Wolf King GTR

Final Thoughts

Dual motor scooters are powerful, fast, and great fun—but not for everyone. At Storm Rides, we’ll help you decide whether a twin-motor beast or a sleek commuter model suits your actual riding needs.