Popular Post WARPed1701D Posted June 22, 2017 Popular Post Share Posted June 22, 2017 (edited) Hello EUC Forum Members, TL;DR: Help me pick between a V5F+ and V8 for a thin tall lightweght guy commuting 5 miles each way in the hellish temperatures of FL but who may move to PNW or UK and may need 10 miles each way. I posted yesterday in the General forum about deciding between the heavily discounted Segway One S1 and the V5F+. I knew I wanted the Inmotion wheel but liked the idea of learning on the cheap Segway plus finances are stretched right now. I ended up not getting the S1 leaving me thoroughly in Inmotion territory. I'm pretty fixedd on the idea of the V5F+ but the current sale price of the V8 on ewheels puts it at a comparable price range. So once again I turn to the experience of this forum for help. About Me: 39 years old. 155lb. 6ft 1in. In other words tall and skinny. I'm into tiny living and greatly appreciate portability, compact size, light weight, quality build, longevity, simplicity and repairability in a product. Getting all these in a product would be awesome but I'm happy to sacrifice slightly on some of these desired traits for big gains in others and will pay extra for something that ticks all the boxes. I enjoy cycling and this has been my main method of commuting (Brompton H6R) but current conditions make doings so the absolute puts (see environment below). No experience on unicycles, electric or otherwise. I will be learning on this device. Environment: RIght now I live in coastal Florida. It's hot. Horribly hot...and humid. Usage can be expected in temperatures ranging from low 80's in the morning to mid 90's in the afternoon. I try to avoid being out in the Florida rain storms but if caught out then it is like raining through a wall of water at times. Storms are normally short and avoidable but torrential. I avoid deep puddles but in the storm standing water draining from the road can be a 1/4 inch deep. Terrain is flat as a pancake apart form the odd canal bridge. Florida is not forever though. In the next 12 months I expect to find myself either in the Pacific North West or England. SImilar environmentally to each other. Moderate temperatures. Rarely hot or cold. Usage from mid 40's to mid 70's. Hills are a distinct possibility but I'm not going to insist my EUC drag me up the equivalent of Everest. I'd rather walk it than burn the device out. Rain is highly likely in the places. Unavoidable due to its persistence but generally lighter in nature. Usage: Mainly commuting and errand running. Commuting right now is 5 miles each way but I'd like the optio to do a little more and I'm not sure what the commute will be when I move. The odd recreational cruise would also be desirable. Not looking to do tricks, stunts etc. Maybe some trail rides/grass etc but not looking to off road the thing. What I'm Looking For: Crazy top speed is not important to me. I've no desire to loose excessive skin, any teeth, or my life. Mid to upper teens will be more than enough I think, but I'd like to be able to set my tilt back a few MPH under the EUC limit to allow a good reserve of power for safety's sake. I want the EUC to be able to deliver if I screw up and overlean or hit an unexpected pothole, bump that requires extra power for stability. I would prefer to have a larger battery/long range. I don't expect to use it all up but would like to not have to charge at work. For longevity purposes I'd also prefer to use a charge doctor to cut off the charge at 75 to 80% capacity and only run it down to around 25%. This is because I'd like to eek as much Life from the battery as I can regarding charge cycles while retaining a usable range once it starts to age and capacity drops. I also don't want to drain lower than 25% to ensure good power delivery when needed for safety, even at the end of my day when I'm wrapping up my commute. Right now my commute would just be using the EUC. In the future it could involve buss or train so portability and size is important. Headlamp is highly desirable, tail light is desirable. I like to be seen. I have a great head mounted front and rear light unit on my bike helmet (Light and Motion Vis 360) but the more the better. I'm not going to be in the financial position to have multiple wheels so this device has to last me a few years. This is why getting it right first time round, reliability, and maintainability through self repair is important. I hope this covers what I am looking for well enough to get advice. Below are the pros of both the V5F+ and V8. I'd appreciate additional input on suitability and which you would choose having had experience with EUCs. Pro's of the V5F+ over the V8: Awesome range allowing 50% charging cycles, plenty of reserve after anticipated use and margin for degradation overt time. Lightweight. Compact size, Calf and optional ankle padding Good tail light Slightly cheaper Posts suggest this is a very well built reliable EUC (I've seen some build quality issues in posts about the V8; tire rubbing, LED's quitting, water affecting the power button) Not covered in crazy lighting Pro's of the V8 over the V5F+ More powerful motor when needed (unexpected events, carrying extra load (groceries in a pack)) Good top speed allowing room for a power reserve during unexpected events? 16" wheel (I ride a Brompton folding bicycle with 16" wheels and already feel every bump. Going smaller raises concern for stability in the face of potholes, bad sidewalks etc) I would purchase form ewheels. The V5F+ is $895 right now. I would add the $100 bundle as I want the trolley handle and cover (for protection while learning). The fast charger would be a bonus but I'd probably not use it so may sell it to recoup costs. This brings the V5F+ cost to $995 without any claw back form the sale of the fast charger! Ouch. The V8 is $999. Trolley handle is built in so no extra cost there but I would buy a cover at $49. No fast charger with the V8 so couldn't recoup anything. Total for the V8 would be $1048. Difference between the two is just $53. So. What do you think. Are my pro's valid? Any I didn't think of? Any of them invalid or just not worth being a pro? Input and opinions after you put yourself in my shoes. Edited June 22, 2017 by WARPed1701D 1 5 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WARPed1701D Posted June 22, 2017 Author Share Posted June 22, 2017 (edited) I don't seem to be able to edit the post more than once. Sorry for the typos. Also I forgot to add one thing. Thanks for sticking with me on such a long post and thanks in advance for any help you can provide. Edited June 22, 2017 by WARPed1701D 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post meepmeepmayer Posted June 22, 2017 Popular Post Share Posted June 22, 2017 (edited) Well researched! But: Yesterday: Ninebot One S2 or Inmotion V5F+? Today: V5F+ or V8? Tomorrow: V8 or KS14D/S or KS16B/S? Next: KS16S or KS18S or ACM84V or msuper V3 84V? You're on the right track -- General theme of this forum seems to be, in doubt go for bigger wheel diameter (riding comfort) and bigger battery (range) [if you can, of course - $$$$$]. You might end up really liking EUCing, not only using it for commute and planned errands, and the added possibilities and no-second-thoughts spontaneity that big batteries give you bring you so much joy. "One more extra detour" happens quite quickly Especially if you see this as a long term wheel, big batteries are worth it. Honestly, both V5F and V8 are great wheels and you'll be happy with both of them. If it was between the two, I'd take the V8 simply because of the better (built-in) trolley handle (and take the added comfort from 16 inches as an extra). But I have to upsell you (and suspect I won't be the only one). Just like some people here bought Ninebots as beginner wheels and surprisingly quickly (1 week) wanted faster wheels, people are starting to see the V5F and V8 as at the lower end of what they can live with (range, speed). Imho, the KS14S or KS16B/S with 840Wh seem the perfect wheel for you. Faster (and despite what you think, you'll be surprised how soon you are happy about the possibility of going faster; also see the higher speed as safety buffer even if you don't use it), great build quality and safety, compact design with trolley handle and front and back lights, and enough battery to be future-proof. 14S if you value compactness strongly and for the lower price, 16 for a bigger wheel (in case of 16 personally I'd go for the 16S because they overhauled the electronics and it's a little faster). I'd take both wheels over the Inmotions due to battery. Of course this is a money question, but if you can... In my experience, worth it. Edited June 22, 2017 by meepmeepmayer 1 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WARPed1701D Posted June 22, 2017 Author Share Posted June 22, 2017 Ha! Thanks for the reply @meepmeepmayer. The S1 was only in consideration as it didn't stretch my overburdened finances and I wouldn't have minded banging it up a bit as I learnt. At $486 delivered I still think it was a really good deal. I'll look into the KS14 and 16 though just to round out my research. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
meepmeepmayer Posted June 22, 2017 Share Posted June 22, 2017 Maybe also ask staff to move this thread to General. You'll get more answers. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WARPed1701D Posted June 22, 2017 Author Share Posted June 22, 2017 (edited) Well I was really focused on the two models listed so this seemed the best place. The KS16S is way too expensive and heavy. $1000 is the absolute limit considering I need to buy pads and a charge doctor too. I'd also rather not exceed 30lb device weight. I can't see pricing for the KS14S but weight also appears quite high. Still liking the Inmotion options. Edited June 22, 2017 by WARPed1701D 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post houseofjob Posted June 22, 2017 Popular Post Share Posted June 22, 2017 (edited) 1 hour ago, WARPed1701D said: About Me: 39 years old. 155lb. 6ft 1in. In other words tall and skinny. I'm into tiny living and greatly appreciate portability, compact size, light weight, quality build, longevity, simplicity and repairability in a product. Your post talks alot about range. Both InMotions have basically the same battery, so about the same range traveling at equal speeds. At your weight, you'll probably be able to get close to 20 miles range (we have a similar weight V8 rider here in NYC who achieves this). The caveat to that is that the V8 has more nominal power (800W) and more top speed (~19mph) so traveling faster, or faster uphill, will burn the V8 battery faster, decreasing range. 1 hour ago, WARPed1701D said: Environment: RIght now I live in coastal Florida. It's hot. Horribly hot...and humid. Usage can be expected in temperatures ranging from low 80's in the morning to mid 90's in the afternoon. I try to avoid being out in the Florida rain storms but if caught out then it is like raining through a wall of water at times. Storms are normally short and avoidable but torrential. I avoid deep puddles but in the storm standing water draining from the road can be a 1/4 inch deep. Terrain is flat as a pancake apart form the odd canal bridge. It's advisable to avoid rain/puddles in general on an EUC (rust, etc.), but both InMotions will handle them fine (V5F+ power button is touch, V8 power button is rubber coated; batteries on both reside at the top near the handles, control boards reside around ankle height above the pedals, are water-resistant coated, and are housed in a shell within the main shell). 1 hour ago, WARPed1701D said: but I'd like to be able to set my tilt back a few MPH under the EUC limit to allow a good reserve of power for safety's sake. This is settable via app on both EUCs, but unless you want to conserve battery for better range, IMHO it's unnecessary. InMotion set max speed on both wheels extremely conservative, they actually cutout much higher than their max speeds. Plus both have adequate crippled / lowered speed modes when going into the battery red zone. 1 hour ago, WARPed1701D said: I want the EUC to be able to deliver if I screw up and overlean or hit an unexpected pothole, bump that requires extra power for stability. So, at your lower rider weight, overlean is less likely, but for any EUC that is not above 800W nominal, overlean cutout is a possibility (both wheels apply). 1 hour ago, WARPed1701D said: I would prefer to have a larger battery/long range. I don't expect to use it all up but would like to not have to charge at work. Well, not caring about the max of max speeds and preferring range screams the lower 550W nominal V5F+. 1 hour ago, WARPed1701D said: Right now my commute would just be using the EUC. In the future it could involve buss or train so portability and size is important. I've had both, and I'd say size difference in such situations is negligible. It's more, the lesser weight of the V5 is more convenient in such situations, as is the better handling curved trolley handle, as well as having the ability to rest the V5 upright on it's fixtures (V8 has the same, but the weight distribution of the V8 does not lend itself to rest as easily as the V5 upright). 1 hour ago, WARPed1701D said: Headlamp is highly desirable, tail light is desirable. I like to be seen. I have a great head mounted front and rear light unit on my bike helmet (Light and Motion Vis 360) but the more the better. Both InMotion wheels have the best built-in headlights in the EUC market, hands down (same light on both). The V8 has no real tail light (only the InMotion logo lit up in red LED) but compensates with the main body LED light display; whereas the V5F+ has dual visibility LED strips in blue on the front, and red in the back. 1 hour ago, WARPed1701D said: I'm not going to be in the financial position to have multiple wheels so this device has to last me a few years. This is why getting it right first time round, reliability, and maintainability through self repair is important. The V8 is slightly easier to disassemble, as the main shells are twist-to-open, as opposed to the V5F+, which have six(?) plastic fasteners to unlatch, after unscrewing the several leg pad-hidden screws. But IMHO, the InMotion designs are one of the best for maintenance. 1 hour ago, WARPed1701D said: Posts suggest this is a very well built reliable EUC (I've seen some build quality issues in posts about the V8; tire rubbing, LED's quitting, water affecting the power button) This is an understatement. Way more time (over a year I believe) was put into getting the V5 right (which has gone through several model variations in the V5, V5D, V5+, V5F, etc), as opposed to the V8, which launched pretty quickly (months) it seems. 1 hour ago, WARPed1701D said: More powerful motor when needed (unexpected events, carrying extra load (groceries in a pack)) Honestly, even though the V8 nominal 800W power is more than the V5F+ 550W nominal, I never noticed such a huge deficiency in the V5F+ vs the V8 in power demanding situations. The real difference is just the max speeds IMO. 1 hour ago, WARPed1701D said: Good top speed allowing room for a power reserve during unexpected events? FWIW, keep in mind, tiltback for both start a couple MPH before max, and come in a stepped pattern within that 3MPH progress range towards max. And again, both InMotions are being extremely conservative with their max speed settings; both could easily go much faster, as evidenced by their lift test cutout speeds. 1 hour ago, WARPed1701D said: 16" wheel (I ride a Brompton folding bicycle with 16" wheels and already feel every bump. Going smaller raises concern for stability in the face of potholes, bad sidewalks etc) The 14" vs 16" debate is waayyyy overrated IMHO (I've been well documented here on the forums regarding this); both are still 2.125" wide, which is more important in this comparison IMHO. Honestly, if the V5F+ still comes with a ChaoYang stock tire (heaviest of all EUC tires), it felt way more stable to me than the V8 and its super light stock Kenda tire (and due to the minimal tire clearance of the shell, you cannot replace the stock Kenda 16" tire with a ChaoYang one, which was one of my main reasons for selling my previous V8). 1 hour ago, WARPed1701D said: I would purchase form ewheels. I would add the $100 bundle as I want the trolley handle and cover (for protection while learning). Both would be great decisions. I've bought from most all the EUC avenues available to a North American EUC buyer, and IMO @Jason McNeil / eWheels.com is simply the best, service is unparalleled, which is key, as issues will inevitably arise. Also, if you do go the V5 route, why not get the matching, best trolley handle solution available of any EUC on today's market? 1 hour ago, WARPed1701D said: The fast charger would be a bonus but I'd probably not use it so may sell it to recoup costs. Yes, the fast chargers are great and cut charging time down significantly, but the stock charging on both wheels don't take that long to begin with (a hair under 2 hours I believe going from ~30% to sub 100% if I'm remembering correctly.) FYI: I'm a bit biased toward the V5F+ because it had the best handling (read: slaloming) on an EUC that I've ever experienced, but know that this does not apply to most EUC folk, as many do not employ ski techniques in their riding. I ultimately sold the V5F+ because, in my case, ~15mph was not enough top speed. (I'm holding out hope that this 2-headed SoloWheel/InMotion venture might yield a next gen V5 that will be exactly the same, but go at least ~19mph or faster *fingers crossed*) From your main points of wanting more range, reliability, and not having a top priority of the fastest speed, I would say the V5F+ seems the better fit. Edited June 22, 2017 by houseofjob 1 6 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WARPed1701D Posted June 22, 2017 Author Share Posted June 22, 2017 @houseofjob Absolutely awesome reply. Thank you so much. I will re-read it on my break later but on a quick scan I can see this kind of depth is from someone who has owned both wheels is invaluable and much appreciated. I wasn't aware that the speed limits were already conservative and that the wheels can provide some extra speed/power when needed above the rated specs. Also knowing the point at which tilt back starts is helpful. I'll likely not need to mess with that then. The last few days I've cycled at EUC speeds. 12mph, 15mph and (when my legs and poor little Brompton wheels could handle it) 18MPH averages. I really don't think I'll have any desire to go faster on one wheel. As an ex-motorcycle rider in London anything over high teens would make we want to garb up in full protective motorcycle gear including back protector, hip plates, full face helmet and cordura trousers and jacket. This level of protection would strip away too much of the simplicity I desire from this device. Helmet and pads are acceptable (mandatory) at any speed of course. I also appreciate the wheel diameter insight and would appreciate the opinion of others on this too. It is really one of the biggest reasons for liking the V8. A big plus for the V8 would be side lighting for vehicles at junctions but I'd really like a good tail light. Can the blue lights on the V5 be turned off. If I move back to the UK the legality of these devices in general is in question but showing any blue light is bound to get me pulled. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
houseofjob Posted June 22, 2017 Share Posted June 22, 2017 2 minutes ago, WARPed1701D said: The last few days I've cycled at EUC speeds. 12mph, 15mph and (when my legs and poor little Brompton wheels could handle it) 18MPH averages. I really don't think I'll have any desire to go faster on one wheel. No sweat. I would say that desired max speed is in relation to the relative traffic your are EUC-ing through. One of the main reasons I desire higher max speeds is not to sustain the max; it's more for momentary burst speeds where I need to get out of the way of bikes or cars; but that's more unique to my ride here on the streets of NYC. 4 minutes ago, WARPed1701D said: This level of protection would strip away too much of the simplicity I desire from this device. Helmet and pads are acceptable (mandatory) at any speed of course. On an EUC, most advocate helmets, but I personally think wrist guards and an elbow and knee pad on your dominant side are more important (in that order). I've based this on all my EUC fall patterns (falling on wrists first for me), which have all happened due to overconfidence or not paying proper attention in new, unknown route situations. 4 minutes ago, WARPed1701D said: I also appreciate the wheel diameter insight and would appreciate the opinion of others on this too. It is really one of the biggest reasons for liking the V8. Again, IMHO the 2" increase in diameter is not proportional to the over-importance people place on it. I'd say the increase in width you get going from 16" x 2.125" to 18" x 2.5" is more significant. The V5 with stock CYT tire really rides like a 16" wheel IMHO (you'll find other V5 owners on the forum saying the same). 10 minutes ago, WARPed1701D said: Can the blue lights on the V5 be turned off. If I move back to the UK the legality of these devices in general is in question but showing any blue light is bound to get me pulled. No, but you can easily open the V5 up and disconnect them. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Juick Posted June 22, 2017 Popular Post Share Posted June 22, 2017 I have experience with both. V5F i have 2200 Km with. V8 I bought recently as replacement. Out of these two, V8 is better choice. Simply because you don't hit the speed limit as often so you don't feel as restricted. Also V8 stronger motor is really noticeable, especially going up hill. You will be happy with either as both are well built, great wheels. 4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WARPed1701D Posted June 22, 2017 Author Share Posted June 22, 2017 (edited) @Juick Thanks for replying. No build problems with your V8? Any other reasons for your preference of V8 over the V5F+? Anything the V5F+ does better? Edited June 22, 2017 by WARPed1701D 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Juick Posted June 22, 2017 Share Posted June 22, 2017 To be honest, I have V5F non plus version so I can't really compare milage. Everything else should be same. Some people report trouble with V8 tire scraping the case. I don't have those problems. V8 is only slightly bigger and heavier, my family didn't even notice I have new wheel :-) (I turned off the LEDs) V5F pros are better, more solid handle (external) and soft padding for legs (my calfs hurt a little from V8 hard plastic at the top). V8 pros are better speed, noticeably stronger motor and maybe those LEDs can be fun when you want to show off. I can't think of any other major differences. 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CaptainKBLS Posted June 23, 2017 Share Posted June 23, 2017 (edited) I don't have experience with the v5f+ but based on the spec and price I would go for the V8. However, know that people are having the tire scraping problems. I am one of them but seems to scrape a lot less. Edited June 23, 2017 by CaptainKBLS 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WARPed1701D Posted June 23, 2017 Author Share Posted June 23, 2017 Thanks for the input Captain! The scraping issue of the V8 does bother me a little. A rushed design maybe? Does that mean problems elsewhere as It isn't the only issue reported with that model recently. I'm sure the V5 range had teething issues too but I understand that being older it has seen several revisions that I guess has ironed out some of the bugs. I read a post from Jason showing the tires he tried in the V8 to stop any rubbing and in that he showed a close up of the offending fairing against the tire. I don't know the build of that fairing but could it not be filed back a little to increase the clearance? Not the point I know. It should be right when it leaves the factory but no one seems to have mentioned doing it so I'm guessing it isn't an option? It annoys me when things aren't built right. Maybe that is why I have an issue ordering the V8 with these reports going about. I agree that based on price and spec the V8 would appear to be a no-brainer, but something has me holding back. Not sure if it is the reports of these issues or just the increased size and weight which @Juick reports is barely noticeable. I must admit that my Brompton weighs about the same as the V5F+ and after climbing the stairs at work and my apartments with it I do feel every pound it weighs. It's why I paid $800 extra to shave 2lb off with titanium forks and rear triangle! Maybe that has something to do with it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Popular Post Paddylaz Posted June 23, 2017 Popular Post Share Posted June 23, 2017 (edited) 9 hours ago, WARPed1701D said: Thanks for the input Captain! The scraping issue of the V8 does bother me a little. A rushed design maybe? Does that mean problems elsewhere as It isn't the only issue reported with that model recently. I'm sure the V5 range had teething issues too but I understand that being older it has seen several revisions that I guess has ironed out some of the bugs. I read a post from Jason showing the tires he tried in the V8 to stop any rubbing and in that he showed a close up of the offending fairing against the tire. I don't know the build of that fairing but could it not be filed back a little to increase the clearance? Not the point I know. It should be right when it leaves the factory but no one seems to have mentioned doing it so I'm guessing it isn't an option? It annoys me when things aren't built right. Maybe that is why I have an issue ordering the V8 with these reports going about. I agree that based on price and spec the V8 would appear to be a no-brainer, but something has me holding back. Not sure if it is the reports of these issues or just the increased size and weight which @Juick reports is barely noticeable. I must admit that my Brompton weighs about the same as the V5F+ and after climbing the stairs at work and my apartments with it I do feel every pound it weighs. It's why I paid $800 extra to shave 2lb off with titanium forks and rear triangle! Maybe that has something to do with it. If speed isn't an issue, just go for the v5f+. It's my current wheel, and it's the best wheel I've ever used. The only reason I'm considering the upgrade to the V8 was for the extra kph, as speed is very important to me, but I don't want to leave Inmotion. Having said that the scraping is a deal breaker for me. Last thing I want is design issues. So I might stay put for now. It's a wonderful wheel, you'll love it. Edited June 23, 2017 by Paddylaz 5 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WARPed1701D Posted June 23, 2017 Author Share Posted June 23, 2017 2 hours ago, Paddylaz said: If speed isn't an issue, just go for the v5f+. It's my current wheel, and it's the best wheel I've ever used. The only reason I'm considering the upgrade to the V8 was for the extra kph, as speed is very important to me, but I don't want to leave Inmotion. Having said that the scraping is a deal breaker for me. Last thing I want is design issues. So I might stay put for now. It's a wonderful wheel, you'll love it. Thanks for your input @Paddylaz. I see you are in London. Is that London UK or one of the US cities with the name? As I may end up returning back to England in the next 12 months so can you tell me the feasibility of usage of a wheel in the UK with the current restrictive laws. Do you get much grief form the old bill? When, where and how are you using it? Have you heard anything from other UK users about their experience using wheels and the law? What did you do about the blue light on the front of the V5? I imagine that draws the attention of the Police looking for an extra reason to give you a tug. I was going to start a new topic on the law and usage in the UK but I already started two topics in two days. As a new user I don't want to be seen as bombing the forum even though it is fair to have lots of questions about these devices. The scraping really is bothering me. I wonder if it is/was a batch issue with the wheel itself or even a bad run of tires that are outside of spec 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Demargon Posted June 23, 2017 Share Posted June 23, 2017 (edited) I chose v5f because the 700€ fit perfect for a impasse euc. The numbers I reach with my 60kg are 30km and +-15% remaining charge with soft riding. Maybe you decision is easier if you can save a significant amount of money choosing a vf5 instead the plus version. Battery comes degraded in less time but in advantage you can choose then to expend the saved money in a new tech battery replacement or put that money in a whole new euc and resell your old v5f Edited June 23, 2017 by Demargon 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LanghamP Posted June 23, 2017 Share Posted June 23, 2017 I can't balance on the knife-edge tire of the V5F+ which I understand can be mitigated by using a different tire. This is very noticeable when I ride the V5 after getting off my other wheels. Both these wheels are so similar to each other, and probably cost very nearly the same. One isn't "better" than the other. I look at them as being the same wheel, but do you want a 14 incher or a 16 incher? 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CaptainKBLS Posted June 23, 2017 Share Posted June 23, 2017 I think the higher motor power + higher speed of 19mph + 16 wheel + luggage like handle makes the V8 the winner. I think the V5F+ handle looks really "nerdy" and handle is extremely important. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WARPed1701D Posted June 23, 2017 Author Share Posted June 23, 2017 I've only read good things about the VF5+ handle with the feeling that the V8 luggage style is inferior. Hearing this viewpoint is interesting as I think a good trolley handle is likely to be important to me. How much of that extra motor power is lost through simply having to drive all the power through the 16" wheel vs a 14" one. I'm wondering how much extra gain you actually get from the V8 motor over the V5F in light of this. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Paddylaz Posted June 23, 2017 Share Posted June 23, 2017 (edited) 7 minutes ago, WARPed1701D said: I've only read good things about the VF5+ handle with the feeling that the V8 luggage style is inferior. Hearing this viewpoint is interesting as I think a good trolley handle is likely to be important to me. How much of that extra motor power is lost through simply having to drive all the power through the 16" wheel vs a 14" one. I'm wondering how much extra gain you actually get from the V8 motor over the V5F in light of this. Yes, correct. The v5f handle is one of the best parts of the wheel. It actually makes it look considerably better and sportier. In reply to your questions about the police/law....generally they don't care. I've had ONE cop stop me before, but according to the skaters that were around me at the time, he was a known dick and so it wasn't usual policy. He was just looking to exert power. Legally it's a grey area.......leaning more towards illegality than being legal.....but most don't care. The blue light of the v5 has never been an issue. Edited June 23, 2017 by Paddylaz 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WARPed1701D Posted June 23, 2017 Author Share Posted June 23, 2017 5 minutes ago, Paddylaz said: Yes, correct. The v5f handle is one of the best parts of the wheel. It actually makes it look considerably better and sportier. In reply to your questions about the police/law....generally they don't care. I've had ONE cop stop me before, but according to the skaters that were around me at the time, he was a known dick and so it wasn't usual policy. He was just looking to exert power. Legally it's a grey area.......leaning more towards illegality than being legal.....but most don't care. The blue light of the v5 has never been an issue. That's good to know. Thanks for the update. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Paddylaz Posted June 23, 2017 Share Posted June 23, 2017 2 minutes ago, WARPed1701D said: That's good to know. Thanks for the update. No worries! If/when you're back in the UK, give me a buzz and we should organise something ? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WARPed1701D Posted June 23, 2017 Author Share Posted June 23, 2017 8 minutes ago, Paddylaz said: Yes, correct. The v5f handle is one of the best parts of the wheel. It actually makes it look considerably better and sportier. In reply to your questions about the police/law....generally they don't care. I've had ONE cop stop me before, but according to the skaters that were around me at the time, he was a known dick and so it wasn't usual policy. He was just looking to exert power. Legally it's a grey area.......leaning more towards illegality than being legal.....but most don't care. The blue light of the v5 has never been an issue. One more thing. Do you take it on The Tube? What is it like lugging that weight up and down the steps at stations? The extra 4lb of the V8 could be noticeable in such situations. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
houseofjob Posted June 23, 2017 Share Posted June 23, 2017 (edited) Sorry, I've had both as regular drivers and don't couldn't disagree more. The V5F+ handle, regardless of how it looks, was the best handle implementation I've ever used, and I've used them all. (wish I could mount it on ALL my EUCs) The curved design lets you easily manipulate the trolleyed wheel from every angle with one hand, which is much harder with the traditional 2-pole trolley (the powered-on EUC will run away from you if angled wrong in your hand). The V8 trolley is good (would be better in the more stable, diagonal implementation of the KS16 & KS14D/S), but the V5F+ trolley is simply the best IMHO; don't believe me, just try them out yourself. And power-wise, from the spec sheet, you would expect the V8 to be that much more powerful (as did I before owning). While more power is there, it's not the night-and-day difference you would expect. The V5F+ & V8, while manufactured by the same company, do not drive at all the same IMHO. The V8 has a rubbery resistance to it that I found puzzling while owning (this resistance for me made me work a bit to accelerate, which resulted in me going slower on the V8), because the V5F+ drives hard, responsive and free, like a sports car setup. Max speed aside, the only place you will notice lesser power on the V5F+ is acceleration uphill. Actually, from 0-10mph on flats, I would say the V5F+ has faster acceleration than the V8, which has been explained by those more knowledgeable than I as being partly due to the physics of a smaller diameter 14" wheel. Edited June 23, 2017 by houseofjob 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.