Xiaomi M365 Pro vs Fluid FreeRide Horizon
We compare a very interesting match-up of electric scooters — the Xiaomi M365 Pro versus the Fluid FreeRide Horizon electric scooter. Both are excellent scooters that we have given glowing reviews to in the past.
On paper, both scooters stack up against each other quite well. They have a seemingly similar range (with one catch which we describe below), acceleration to 15 mph, and similar hill climbing times. However, for many comparisons, the Horizon tends to just edge out the Xiaomi.
Read on to find out how they compare.
Xiaomi Mi M365 Pro Advantages
The Xiaomi Mi M365 Pro is competitive with the Horizon, but tends to get edged out in the performance categories. It does have a handful of distinct advantages compared to the Fluid FreeRide Horizon, however:
- Lower cost. Though the price of the M365 Pro tends to fluctuate well above its sweet spot, the Horizon is nearly always the higher priced scooter.
- Two wheel braking. Both of the M365’s wheels have a braking mechanism. The front has a regenerative brake and rear has the mechanical disc brake.
- Lighter 33 lb (15 kg) weight. The Horizon is heavier at 40 lbs (18 kg) which makes a difference if you carry it for any length of time.
- 8.5-inch pneumatic innertube tires. The Xiaomi M365 Pro has front and rear 8.5-inch pneumatic (air-filled) tires. The Horizon is equipped with a front pneumatic tire and a rear solid tire. Pneumatic tires have better performance in wet conditions.
- IP54 water resistance rating. The M365 Pro has an official water resistance rating of IP54 meaning that it is rated for splashing water. If you end up in a light rain with this scooter you should be able to make it home. The Horizon has no official water resistance rating.
Fluid FreeRide Horizon Advantages
- Significantly higher 24 mph (39 mph) top speed. The M365 Pro is limited to 16 mph (26 kmh).
- Slightly longer 26 mile (42 km) tested range but at a much higher average speed. This is due to its larger battery, which is 624 Wh on the 13 Ah version. The M365 has a smaller 474 Wh lithium ion battery and a tested range of 25.1 miles.
- Faster 0-15 mph (24 kmh) acceleration of 4.7 seconds, based on our tests. The Xiaomi Pro takes 5.3 seconds to go 0 to 15 mph.
- Slightly faster 15.1 s hill climb time (200 ft hill, 10% grade, 165 lb rider) compared to the Xiaomi which took 15.3 seconds.
- Front and rear suspension. The Horizon has a suspension whereas the M365 Pro does not. However, due to the Pro’s fully pneumatic tires they end up having very similar ride quality.
Verdict: Pro for weight and Horizon for speed
This is a very competitive matchup because both scooters offer distinct advantages.
The Xiaomi Pro is significantly lighter and if you are willing to accept a lower top speed, it has nearly as much range. The Pro will be a little easier to carry when needed and we prefer the design — especially the thumb throttle — over that of the Horizon. Additionally, the Pro has an official IP54 water resistance rating that can save you if you get caught in the rain. If you can get the M365 Pro around $600 its a steal and significantly less than the Horizon.
On the other hand, the Horizon has higher top speed and better all-around performance. It also folds into a more compact 38.6 x 7.1 x 14.6-inch package due to its folding handlebars. Though it is heavier, it will be more suitable for bringing onto public transportation, due to this.