The GOTRAX APEX Electric Scooter is a personal mobility device designed for urban commuting and recreational use. This user manual provides comprehensive instructions for assembling, operating, and maintaining the scooter, ensuring a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
Function Description
The GOTRAX APEX Electric Scooter is an electrically powered two-wheeled vehicle that allows riders to travel efficiently and conveniently. It features a handlebar-mounted console that displays essential information such as speed (in MPH), battery life, and headlight/taillight status. The scooter is propelled by an electric motor, activated by a throttle, and controlled by a handbrake for slowing down or stopping. It is designed for single-rider use and is suitable for smooth surfaces like carparks, roads, footpaths, and bike lanes.
Usage Features
- Assembly: The scooter comes partially assembled and requires some final setup before use. This involves attaching the console and handlebars to the tiller, connecting the brake cord, and securing the hook to the tiller. A 4mm Allen wrench is provided for this purpose. The manual details a step-by-step process for assembly, including how to properly secure the tiller in the upright position and connect the handbrake mechanism.
- Charging: Before the first ride, the scooter's battery must be fully charged. The charging process involves opening a rubber charging port cover, inserting the charging plug, and waiting for the charger box light to turn green, indicating a full charge. The charging port should be covered after charging to protect it from dust and debris. The manual emphasizes charging within specific temperature ranges (32-104 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Powering On/Off: To power the scooter on, the rider presses and holds the red button on the console for 1 second. To power it off, the red button is pressed and held for 5 seconds.
- Headlight Operation: The headlight can be turned on or off by pressing the red button for 1 second while the scooter is powered on.
- Riding Initiation: To start riding, the user places one foot on the platform and uses the other foot to push off the ground while simultaneously pressing the throttle button to initiate movement.
- Braking: The scooter is equipped with a handbrake to control speed and stop.
- Cruise Control: For extended rides, the scooter offers a cruise control feature. It is activated by pressing the right-hand throttle down for 10 seconds. To deactivate cruise control, either the right-hand throttle or the brake button can be pressed.
- Brake Light Status: The taillight also functions as a brake light. When the headlight is on, the brake light remains steady. When the handbrake is applied, the taillight flashes quickly to alert vehicles and pedestrians behind the rider.
- Folding Mechanism: The scooter is designed for portability and storage with a folding mechanism. To fold, the rider ensures the scooter is powered off, holds the tiller, pulls out a spring pin on the right folding panel, and rotates it clockwise. The hook on the tiller is then inserted into the loop on the rear fender buckle, with a click indicating successful locking. Unfolding involves pressing the rear fender and pulling the tiller up until the spring pin locks into place.
- Safety Precautions: The manual stresses several safety guidelines, including always wearing a helmet, ensuring a full battery before riding, adhering to local road laws, avoiding riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol, respecting pedestrians, and refraining from riding in wet conditions to prevent injury and damage to electronics. It also warns against modifying the product, keeping body parts away from moving parts, and performing pre-ride checks of the scooter's operation, braking system, and safety labels. Parental permission is required for riders under 18.
Maintenance Features
- Cleaning and Storage: Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for extending the scooter's lifespan. The manual recommends wiping the scooter clean with a soft damp cloth when dirty. For storage, the scooter should be kept in a dry and cool location, away from direct sunlight, which can damage its appearance and affect battery and tire life. The manual explicitly warns against using alcohol, gasoline, kerosene, or other corrosive chemical solvents for cleaning, as these can damage the scooter's appearance and structure. Pressure washers are also discouraged due to potential damage to electronics.
- Brake Adjustments & Service: If brake adjustments or other service are needed, riders are advised to contact the customer service team. Attempting to repair the scooter independently can void the warranty and risk further damage.
- Tire Pressure: The manual instructs riders to check tire pressure regularly and fill to the recommended PSI of 50 if it is low.
- Tiller Tightening: If the tiller feels loose or wobbly during a ride, the screws can be tightened using the provided Allen wrench after opening the plastic cover.
- Disc Brake Adjustment: For disc brake adjustments, a 4MM Allen wrench is used. If the brake is too tight, screws are loosened counterclockwise, the brake wire is pulled to extend it, and then the screws are retightened. If the brake is too loose, the process is similar: loosen screws, pull the brake wire further, and retighten.
- Battery Care: Only the approved GOTRAX power adapter should be used for charging to prevent fire risks and equipment damage. Improper disposal of used batteries is discouraged due to environmental pollution, and local disposal regulations should be followed. The scooter and power adapter should be stored within a temperature range of -4 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit. The manual also includes a warning about the risk of fire and states that there are no user-serviceable parts, advising against prolonged exposure to UV rays, rain, and elements, and recommending indoor storage when not in use.
- Troubleshooting and Warranty: The manual directs users to GOTRAX.com for updated user manuals, troubleshooting assistance, and warranty information. It encourages contacting customer service for problems or detailed information.