Who is it Best For?
Will the AnyHill UM-2 Be a Good Fit For You?
The UM-2 is suited to urban environment explorers that are mostly riding on smooth surfaces such as roads and sidewalks. The pneumatic 10-inch tires do a good job of soaking up the cracks and bumps that you find in city centers.
As a first-time rider or commuter, this scooter would be a smart purchase as its nippy acceleration, astounding braking performance, and host of user-friendly features make it a safe ride. Its flawed folding system may prove frustrating to those that need to pack the scooter away multiple times in a trip, though.
If you are wanting to invest in a scooter for long-term use, then the UM-2 delivers. Its durable LG battery sports impressive 21700 cells and is also detachable, which means better quality charge cycles, long-lasting usage, and the option to extend the maximum mileage indefinitely.
Pros and Cons
PROS:
- Detachable battery
- High-quality LG battery
- Extremely powerful brakes
- Responsive acceleration
- Effective lights
CONS:
- One-click fold mechanism doesn’t always work
- No suspension system
Value for Money
Is the Price Tag Worth it?
The UM-2 continues AnyHill’s notorious dedication to durability and quality. Featuring an aviation-grade aluminum alloy frame, this scooter is sturdy enough to survive bumps and scratches that are beyond general wear and tear. This model also has a range of extras such as a metal reinforced rear fender and triple brake system to protect it against accidental damage. Whilst it’s higher pricing at $899 may initially seem steep, it’s worth noting that you won’t have to purchase a replacement model any time soon.
But the most significant money saver that this scooter boasts is its detachable LG battery. When the battery eventually deteriorates （which is inevitable for all batteries）, you can simply replace the power unit without taking it apart or, worse, purchasing a new scooter altogether. This saves you staggering amounts of money in the long run, making the UM-2 a worthwhile investment.
Design
Handlebars
The UM-2 offers a comfortable set of handlebars that are coated in grippy and rubberized handgrips. Like its predecessor (the AnyHill UM-1) these grips sport a circular pattern that allows optimal grasp on the most jittery of journeys.
The handlebars also feature a neat set of thumb-activated controls, with the scooter’s electronic brake on the left and the throttle on the right. They are glossed in an attractive red and blue colorway with a rough texture that offers control. The drum brake lever also stems from the handlebars at a distance that’s practical for halting with comfort.
Adding to the comfort level is the handlebar’s set degree of rotation. During my test rides, I could roam safely in the knowledge that I was not at risk of turning them too far.
Finally, the handlebars accumulate in the center with a vibrant display. The screen illustrates your speed, riding mode, battery level, and status of the lights (on/off).
Compared to similarly-priced scooters, the almost bubble-like design of the display felt dated and, because of its oval shape, attracted glare making it hard to view.
At the bottom of the display, there is a control button that is used to turn the lights on/off, and switch between the riding modes. The simplicity of the button comes with a small disadvantage, though – having to remember a series of 1-3 click combinations to use its different functions. Once they were practiced, I had no difficulties, but that can be easier said than done when you’re moving on a 2-wheel vehicle.
Frame
The UM-2 keeps simplicity a priority with a basic-looking design.
With a thicker stem and deck than the UM-1, the UM-2 has a larger, more bulky profile, but nothing out of the ordinary for its power and battery capacity.
I was impressed with the colorway of the frame which features a jet black paint job with branding across its stem and deck. My initial fears of it looking like a moving advert were quickly snuffed after seeing the scooter in person, with the AnyHill branding giving it a stylish edge akin to race car stickers. The scooter is also available in crystal white.
Improving on the AnyHill UM-1, the UM-2 successfully takes care of its cables. In my review of the UM-1, I criticized the scooter’s wires which glaringly sprouted out from its stem. It seems like the powers at AnyHill heard my cries and the UM-2 features cables that neatly slot into the stem, later to protrude out minimally. It’s a pleasingly neat touch that fulfills the scooter’s minimalistic look.
Deck
The rubber-coated deck was grippy enough to lock my stance without any slips or movement. That being said, it could do with better quality control – it’s a bit rough around the edges （especially where the removable battery is stored).
Similarly, the mechanism that locks the detachable battery in place tends to rattle when placing weight on and off it. For example, if you tap your feet on the deck, you will hear a clanking sound. However, the good news is that when you are standing on the deck and riding the scooter, the mechanism doesn’t rattle since the downward force of your weight prevents the mechanism from moving.
Adding to the deck’s set of unconventional features is its unique kickstand. Located beneath the front of the deck, it offers a design that takes inspiration from shared-rental scooters (eg. Lime), yet it does an excellent job of keeping the scooter upright and firmly stable.
Wheels
The UM-2 sports a set of 10-inch pneumatic tires.
Their plush design and wide surface area soak up most of the vibrations, while the crisscross tread delivers excellent traction while cornering and braking.
Build Quality & Durability
The UM-2 continues the minimal design of its earlier model yet bulks up its chassis considerably.
Sporting an aviation aluminum alloy frame, this scooter offers a build that is of low density and high structural strength. It’s perfectly capable of withstanding the inevitable bumps and scuffs that come with regular usage and, thanks to its high-quality battery and intelligent battery management system, the UM-2’s build is reliable in and out.
It also features an IP54 waterproof rating which is the expected standard of most electric scooters. As a result, it is partially protected against dust and fully protected from water spray from all directions making it a versatile all-weather choice.
Weight & Load
The UM-2 weighs 44 lbs which is on the heavier side of budget electric scooters. But, with a larger motor and more premium feature set than budget models, its increased weight is to be expected.
It’s also worth noting that the UM-2’s removable battery pack weighs a mere 5 lbs, so carrying an extra one in your backpack proves light work.
Among its closest rivals, the UM-2’s weight is lighter than the SPLACH Twin (53 lbs), aligns closely with the GoTrax GMAX Ultra (46.3 lbs), and is heavier than the Turboant X7 Pro (33 lbs).
Able to carry a load of up to 300 lbs, it trumps its competitors mentioned above.
It’s also worth noting that the UM-2’s removable battery pack weighs a mere 5 lbs, so carrying an extra one in your backpack proves light work.
Among its closest rivals, the UM-2’s weight is lighter than the SPLACH Twin (53 lbs), aligns closely with the GoTrax GMAX Ultra (46.3 lbs), and is heavier than the Turboant X7 Pro (33 lbs).
Able to carry a load of up to 300 lbs, it trumps its competitors mentioned above.
Secondly, the folding process is promised to be fast, and instead becomes a laborious process of trying to get the stem to lock to the hook on the rear fender. I often found myself lifting the stem, thinking it was secured, and then jolting backward when it came to meet me at eye level. However, when the stem and fender are finally hooked together, they stay that way.
As expected, the UM-2 can be carried with a single hand.
Assembly
As with most electric scooters, the UM-2 arrives almost ready to ride.
All that is left is to attach the handlebars via 4 small screws.
Ride Quality
Is the AnyHill UM-2 Comfortable to Ride?
The UM-2 offers a smooth ride considering it’s reliant on 10-inch pneumatic tires alone.
Performance & Safety
Top Speed
The AnyHill UM-2 has a top speed of 19 mph, but how does that compare against other scooters in its price and weight classes? Let’s find out.
Speed vs Price Comparison
I compared 18 models that fell within a $500 price range of the UM-2’s $899 price tag. In my findings, the UM-2 drags in the lower ranks when it comes to speed, matching that of the Hiboy S2 Max.
Nonetheless, it must be noted that the UM-2 offers far more than its position on this chart suggests. Firstly, its top speed is very close to that of the 8 models above it (from the Unagi to the SPLACH Ranger).
Secondly, the UM-2 boasts a 36V 450W motor which is larger than 44% of other models on this list. So, while the top speed might not appear to be fast, the UM-2’s more powerful motor results in an acceleration rate that beats many of its competitors.
If your need for speed outweighs this perk, I recommend the SPLACH Twin which features a superior set of 48V 600W motors that deliver a significantly faster top speed and rate of acceleration.
Speed vs Weight Comparison
The chart below lists 20 models that sit within 5 lbs on either side of the UM-2’s 44 lbs.
Here, the UM-2 can be found in the lower entries. Its 36V 450W motor is dwarfed by the competition.
With this in mind, if your budget can’t stretch as far as what the Dualtron Mini requires, I recommend the SPLACH Turbo Plus with its 48V 600W motor and 26 mph top speed.
Acceleration
The AnyHill UM-2 holds up very well against its closest rivals when it comes to acceleration.
| Scooter | 0-15 MPH (Seconds) |
|---|---|
| SPLACH Twin ($999) | 2.5 |
| AnyHill UM-2 ($899) | 4.5 |
| Turboant X7 Pro ($550) | 7.3 |
| GoTrax GMAX Ultra ($800) | 8.0 |
Reaching 15 mph takes a mere 4.5 seconds which significantly outpaces the two other single motor machines on this list (the Turboant X7 Pro and GoTrax GMAX Ultra).
The Turboant X7 Pro has an acceleration rate that is 38% slower than that of the UM-2, followed closely by the GoTrax GMAX Ultra which reaches 15 mph 44% slower.
Whilst it’s surprising to see the X7 Pro and GMAX Ultra in such close competition given their contrasting price tags, the main takeaway from the chart is that the UM-2 offers the best value for your buck.
However, for speed demons that want to up the ante and experience thrilling rides, the 44% faster acceleration of the SPLACH Twin can’t be matched by the UM-2.
Maximum Mileage
The AnyHill UM-2 has a maximum range of 28 miles. However, as with all electric scooters, if you put the pedal to the metal and rip the throttle, you can expect a realistic mileage of 18-20 miles.
Mileage vs Price Comparison
Below you’ll find 18 comparable models that are within a $500 price range of the UM-2.
The scooter falls short of its competitors, but this is only off a single charge. Unlike many of its rivals, the UM-2 sports a long-lasting LG battery that prolongs the life of the scooter.
Whilst many companies opt for Chinese equivalents to keep initial costs down, the cells of these batteries deteriorate faster than LG ones. Plus, the LG battery uses 21700 cells, which have a higher energy density than the 18650 cells found in other scooters. This means that it delivers more efficient energy use per ride. The only other scooters on this list to don an LG battery are the GoTrax GMAX Ultra, EVOLV City, EVOLV City Plus, EVOLV Sprint, and EMOVE Touring.
Mileage vs Weight Comparison
As you can see below, the UM-2 doesn’t top the charts when it’s compared to 20 models that sit within 10 lbs of its 44 lbs.
But the scooter’s longevity (along with 8 other models that boast superior LG and Samsung batteries) remains impressive. This means you’ll get far more miles out of the UM-2 in the long run.
Despite being runner up, the INOKIM’s spring and rubber suspension system champions it as a better-quality ride over the GMAX Ultra and the UM-2. The INOKIM also dons a more portable design than these models thanks to its telescopic stem and foldable handlebars. But as always, these alluring advantages come at a greater cost as the scooter is priced at $1,499.
Hill Climbing
AnyHill state that the UM-2 can venture up inclines of up to 20 degrees.
I found that it felt sluggish going up gradients of 10 degrees. With a 36V 450W motor, this premium entry-level scooter delivers the torque and hill climb rate I’d expect.
Shock Absorption / Suspension
The UM-2’s 10-inch pneumatic tires offer a generous surface area to engulf bumps across most urban terrain.
Braking
One of the UM-2’s key features is its triple brake system and, as promised, it delivers astounding results.
From 15 mph the scooter’s stopping distance was 2.1 meters which is staggeringly impressive. This hails the crown as the shortest stopping distance in Electric Scooter Insider’s database of over 140 models. This outperforms other scooters that are five times its price.
The placement of the drum brake on the front wheel combined with the electronic brake routed to the rear offers full security. Whether you’re hitting the UM-2’s top speed or crawling at a slower pace, you can rest easy knowing that you can comfortably stop at any point without setbacks.
Additionally, when the brakes are applied, the power of the 450W motor is cut to preserve energy.
Charge Time
The 36V 10Ah battery takes approximately 5 hours to charge.
Adding to the UM-2’s dependable design, the charging port is encased by a plastic cover that keeps dust and water away from the port.
Extra Features
Mobile App
A companion app is available for the UM-2 and can be downloaded from the App Store and the Google Play Store.
The app gives you a host of real-time data on your scooter including battery status, speed, voltage, current, input power, controller temperature, journey distance, and total mileage. I found these stats useful to not only plan my rides more efficiently but get more insight into the ones I’ve already been on.
The app is also useful for toggling the lights on and off, as well as locking the scooter remotely from your phone.
Detachable Battery
Stored in the center of the deck, the battery can be accessed by pulling on the lever located on the rear fender.
Next, the battery will spring up from the deck and you simply unlock the container with the turn of a key.
After that, you can remove the battery, charge it, and lock it back in place.
Headlight and Taillight
The UM-2’s headlight and taillight are bright enough to illuminate the road ahead to a visible standard.
What’s more, these lights are specially optimized to meet the StVZO regulation that prevents bright lights from causing glare to road users, including oncoming bicyclists, drivers, and pedestrians.
Ability to Add a Number Plate
The UM-2 comes with the option to add a number plate. In the box, you’ll find a rectangular piece of plastic that you can screw into the bottom of the rear fender.
The process is simple and adds a customization option that is a legal compliance in some areas.
Intelligent Battery Management System (BMS)
The 36V 10Ah LG battery features an advanced system that ensures it operates safely.
This technology protects the scooter against unusual temperatures, short-circuiting, under-voltage, and over-current.
The BMS also has dual overcharge and over-discharge protection, which means that it makes sure that each battery cell is not exceeding nor falling below its optimal current. The result is not only a battery that is safe for daily use but also one that will last longer.
Specification: AnyHill UM-2 Review
| Brand |
|---|
| BrandAnyHill |
| Type |
| Suitable ForAdultsTerrainUrban |
| Design |
| PortabilityFolding FrameWeight (lbs)44Rider Weight (lbs)300Tire Size (inches)10Tire TypePneumatic (Air-Filled) |
| Performance |
| Speed (mph)19Range (miles)28Max Incline (%)20Charge Time (hours)5SuspensionNoneBrakesDrum, Electronic Regenerative |
| Extra Features |
| Extra FeaturesBattery Management System, Cruise Control, LED Display, LED Lights, Mobile App, Waterproof Rating |
Warranty & Post-Purchase Support
Warranty
By purchasing through AnyHill’s official website, you receive a 1-year warranty.
You’ll receive free replacement parts, or a new product altogether if faults arise in the scooter within the first 12 months. This warranty covers repairs as well.
But be sure to keep the UM-2’s packaging and receipt as AnyHill will not accept repair/replacement orders without them.
It’s important to note that it is only vehicle body parts that are covered for a year, with other diminishable items (i.e. handlebar grips, fenders, rubber deck, etc) under warranty for up to 30 days.
Post-Purchase Support
Alongside a Help Center that features information ranging from shipping and refunds to how to ride safely and FAQs, AnyHill has a technical support team ready and waiting for your queries.
