You just bought your new Gotrax electric scooter and are eager to take it for a ride, but there’s one small problem – you aren’t sure how to unfold it! Never fear, in this quick guide I will walk you through the simple process of unfolding your scooter so you can start cruising in no time.
This guide will show you how to unfold and fold your new Gotrax electric scooter. I’ll explain the basic components, then provide clear step-by-step instructions for unfolding and folding your specific model. I’ll also discuss the folding mechanism, adjusting the handlebars, and important safety tips so you can confidently operate your scooter.
Unfolding your scooter is easy – simply release any locks or latches, unfold the handlebars using the lever if needed, adjust the height, and lock the handlebars upright. Folding follows the reverse steps by unlocking the handlebars, folding them down, and using latches to secure it.
Below are detailed step-by-step instructions for unfolding and folding your specific Gotrax scooter model.
Preparations for Unfolding/Folding Gotrax Scooter
Understanding the Key Components
To get the most out of your Gotrax scooter, it’s important to understand its key components and how they work. The handlebars serve as the control interface with accelerators and brakes. The stem connects the handlebars to the frame and folds inward. Some models fold at the base via a tiller pivot, while others fold at a hinge. Both use a latch below the display screen that secures into a fender buckle for safe, compact folding. Mastering these components optimizes your riding experience.
Understanding different Types of Folding
Tiller-Based Mechanism: The first folding type uses the base of the vertical tiller as the pivot point. Models like the G3, G4, Eclipse, GMAX, and G Pro fold downwards at the bottom of the tiller. A top latch then secures the folded tiller to the fender for safe transport or storage.
Folding Hinge Mechanism: The second folding type uses a reinforced 45-degree hinge between the tiller and deck near the front wheel as the pivot point. Gotrax models like the GXL V2, Rival, Apex, XR series, and G3 Plus fold down at this hinge. It features both a safety pin to control folding motion and a latch to hold the folded position securely.
KS2’s User-Friendly Knob: The KS2 kids scooter introduces a third unique folding type – it features a convenient folding knob near the handlebars. Turning this knob manually releases the lock between the handlebar assembly and the deck. This allows the lightweight front section to fold flat over the front wheel for easy one-handed folding, making it suitable for young riders.
Safety precautions while Folding/ Unfolding the Scooter
- Begin the unfolding process on a level, stable surface clear of debris to provide a sturdy foundation.
- Find an open, obstacle-free area to unfold the scooter fully. This prevents damaging any parts of surrounding objects during the operation.
- Inspect all movable and folding joints for signs of wear before unfolding to ensure safety. Check for cracks, fractures, or loose components.
- Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper unfolding technique. Understanding their instructions prevents mishandling.
- Use both hands to smoothly extend the scooter parts in a controlled manner. This avoids sudden jerking that could stress the mechanism.
- If inexperienced, do not force any locking parts. Apply gentle, even pressure until each segment clicks securely into place. Forcing may jeopardize stability.
- Confirm all latches, pins, and clips are fully engaged before mounting. The scooter should feel rigid without looseness when preparation is complete.
How to Unfold Gotrax Scooter: Step-by-Step Guide
Preparation
Position the scooter on a level and sturdy surface for effortless unfolding. Before unfolding, ensure to detach any extra accessories from the scooter.
Tiller-Based Unfolding
To set up the Gotrax G3, G4, Eclipse, GMAX, GMAX Ultra, and G Pro, follow these instructions.
Unlock/ Unclamp the Fender Lock/ Buckle
Unlock the folding mechanism by releasing the latch connected to the tiller from the buckle located at the fender or mudguard of the rear wheel. This allows the handlebars to be pushed up and unfolded.
Gently Unfold the Handlebars
With one hand on the handlebars and the other on the deck, gently raise the handlebars upward and away from the deck. As you lift, the handlebars and their stem will ascend to their upright position.
Ensure Proper Alignment
Ensure that the handlebars are correctly aligned with the front wheel. Misalignment is unsafe and can make handling more challenging.
Identify the Folding Mechanism
Find the folding mechanism on your scooter situated at the pivotal point, which is the base of the stem or tiller. This mechanism includes a folding lock with a silver tab or switch, providing an extra layer of safety.
Engage the Folding Lock
Push the silver tab upward to release the lock, allowing free movement. Securely engage the lock onto the tiller to ensure it locks into place in an upright position.
Folding-Hinge Unfolding
To set up GXL V2, Rival, Apex, Apex LE, XR Ultra, XR Elite, XR Elite Max, and G3 Plus, follow these instructions.
Remove the Safety Pin
Detach the safety pin from the folding hinge/hinge bracket to enable the scooter to fold or unfold. The safety pin is a small fastener situated on the left side of the hinge bracket, close to the front wheel.
Unlock the Fender Lock
Start by releasing the folding feature. Loosen the latch that connects the handlebars to the buckle on the fender or mudguard of the rear wheel. This will enable you to raise the handlebars and unfold them.
Gently Raise the Handlebars
Hold one hand on the handlebars and the other on the scooter’s deck. Lift the handlebars gently upward and away from the deck. As you perform this action, both the handlebars and their stem will move to their upright position. The folding hinge and the folding lever will also return to their positions. Note that the folding lever is solely intended for folding the scooter, not for unfolding it.
Ensure Proper Alignment
With these scooters, you won’t have to be overly concerned about alignment, as the tiller tilts to maintain the same alignment.
Lock using a Safety Pin
Once unfolded correctly, secure the tiller in position by reinserting the safety pin into its original location near the front wheel.
Knob-Based Unfolding
To unfold the KS2 scooter, follow these steps
Unlock/ Unclamp the Fender Lock/ Buckle
Unlock the folding mechanism by releasing the folding latch connected to the tiller from the buckle located at the fender or mudguard of the rear wheel. This will allow you to push up the handlebars and unfold them.
Gently Raise the Handlebars
Hold one hand on the handlebars and the other on the deck, gently elevate the handlebars upwards and away from the deck. As you perform this action, the handlebars and stem will ascend to their upright position.
Check Handlebar Alignment
Make sure the handlebars are properly aligned with the front wheel, as misalignment can impact stability and control.
Engage the Folding Lock
Find the folding knob situated close to the bottom of the tiller. Push the folding knob towards the handlebar to engage and secure the folding mechanism.
Adjusting the handlebar’s Height
After unfolding the scooter, it’s important to note that you have the option to customize the handlebars’ height for your comfort. This can be easily done using clamps or levers. This feature allows you to enhance your comfort during your ride. To make adjustments, locate the locking mechanism on the handlebar stem. You’ll find a clamp or lever that securely holds the stem in place.
Check for Stability
Before you begin riding your scooter, ensure its stability by gently shaking it and manually moving it to confirm that the scooter is unfolded properly and securely.
Ready to Ride
After unfolding the scooter, ensuring proper adjustments, and performing a safety check, it is now ready for use. Please enjoy your ride safely, and be sure to fold the scooter correctly in the future.
How to Fold Gotrax Scooter: Step-by-Step Guide
Tiller-Based Folding
To collapse the Gotrax G3, G4, Eclipse, GMAX, GMAX Ultra, and G Pro scooters, adhere to the following instructions.
Identify the Folding Mechanism
Find the folding mechanism on your scooter situated at the pivotal point, which is the base of the stem or tiller. This mechanism includes a folding lock with a silver tab or switch, providing an extra layer of safety.
Release the Folding Lock
Pushing the silver tab upward will release the lock, allowing it to move freely. To unlock, push the tab away from the tiller.
Gently Fold the Handlebars
Hold one hand on the handlebars and the other on the deck. Carefully fold the handlebars downward and towards the deck until they reach the fender.
Clamp the Fender Lock/ Buckle
Secure the folding lock onto the fender by fastening the folding latch connected to the tiller into the buckle located at the rear wheel’s fender or mudguard. This process involves opening the latch, inserting it into the buckle, and subsequently closing the latch.
Folding-Hinge Unfolding
To deploy GXL V2, Rival, Apex, Apex LE, XR Ultra, XR Elite, XR Elite Max, G3 Plus, proceed with the following instructions.
Remove the Safety Pin
Detach the safety pin from the folding hinge or hinge bracket to enable the scooter to fold or unfold. The safety pin is a small pin situated on the left side of the hinge bracket, close to the front.
Pull the Folding Lever & Fold the Handlebars
Hold the handlebars with one hand and the folding lever with the other, then pull them downward toward the deck. As you do so, both the handlebars and their stem will smoothly fold into their correct position.
Lock at the Fender
Secure the folded position by fastening it at the fender buckle. You might notice a clicking sound.
Lock using a Safety Pin
Once folded correctly, secure the tiller in position by reinserting the safety pin into its folded placement near the front wheel.
Knob-Based Folding
To unfold the KS2 scooter, follow these steps.
Release the Folding Lock
Find the folding knob situated near the bottom of the tiller. Move the folding knob in the direction away from the handlebar to engage and secure the folding mechanism.
Gently Fold the Handlebars
Hold one hand on the handlebars and the other on the deck, then smoothly raise the handlebars towards the deck. As you perform this action, the handlebars and stem will fold into their correct position on the right.
Lock at the Fender
Activate the folding lock located at the fender to secure the folded position.
Benefits of the Gotrax Scooter’s Folding Feature
Portability
Folding the scooter makes it portable. Since many e-scooters are lightweight, you can easily carry them using the folding feature and transport them in a car, train, or bus.
Easy Storage
The Gotrax scooter’s ability to fold and unfold makes storage convenient and compact. It occupies minimal space and can be neatly stored in a closet, under a table, or in a corner.
Conclusion
Learn to fold and unfold your Gotrax scooter like a pro with our easy-to-follow guide. It doesn’t matter if you have a GXL V2, KS2, G3, G4, G3 Plus, Apex, Rival, Ultra, Eclipse, G Pro, or GMAX – we’ve got you covered. Our clear instructions, safety tips, and explanations of various folding methods guarantee a hassle-free experience. Just follow this guide, and you’ll make the most out of your scooter’s portability and storage convenience.
I’m passionate electric scooter enthusiast and the voice behind this blog. I’m here to share my expertise and insights with you. From in-depth reviews to problem-solving guides, my goal is to help you make the most of your electric scooter experience.
