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The Begode Hero, a new electric unicycle (EUC) from the company previously known as Gotway, created a stir with its promise of high-performance suspension. However, the initial excitement has waned, and the Hero appears to have faded into the background. This EUC was intended to follow up on the EX, Begode’s earlier but underwhelming attempt at a suspension EUC.
The Begode Hero offers a visually pleasing design, equipped with a quality display and a well-constructed frame. It has a center-positioned trolley handle, which also functions as a kill switch when partially extended. A big, clear screen displays essential information such as speed, battery status, and temperature. The Hero also features a solid kickstand with metal brackets and pegs for stability. The Begode Hex spiked pedals are a standout feature, offering an aggressive hex pattern with adjustable angles, though some reports suggest issues with pedal stability.
Despite these positive attributes, the Begode Hero has several downsides. The power pads, while functional, lack versatility in placement, which can be frustrating for riders with different preferences. The suspension design, while reminiscent of the King Song S18 and S20, appears to fall short in both appearance and performance. It lacks instructions, and riders are left to figure out how to optimize its performance through trial and error. The suspension is air-based but lacks dampening and rebound adjustment. Tire changes are reported to be challenging, and there’s a need for an air pump and gauge to adjust the suspension’s PSI.
Battery capacity, at 1800 watt-hours, is considered relatively small compared to other EUCs in the market. The motor, rated at 2800 watts on average, offers good torque, and the Hero boasts a substantial real-world range of approximately 30 miles. The 20-inch knobby tire provides excellent off-road capability but might not be as agile for street riding. The Hero’s pricing has been a major point of contention. Initially offered at a staggering $4,000 for a relatively small battery, Begode has since adjusted the pricing to around $3,250.
The Begode Hero faced challenges in gaining attention and popularity due to several factors. Its initially high price discouraged potential buyers, with the EUC community questioning the value proposition, especially given Begode’s history of quality issues. Additionally, the focus on promoting the forthcoming Begode Master, a third suspension EUC, has overshadowed the Hero’s presence. The Master, with its higher expectations, could significantly impact Hero sales. Lastly, King Song did a commendable job generating interest and enthusiasm for the King Song S20, diverting attention from the Hero.
In conclusion, the Begode Hero, while offering several commendable features, struggles to stand out in a competitive EUC market due to factors like price, battery size, and suspension performance. Begode has yet to establish itself as a premium EUC brand, necessitating consistent quality, safety, and reliability to justify its premium pricing. While the Hero has its merits, its drawbacks and high cost make it a challenging proposition for all but the most devoted Begode enthusiasts.
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Ecodrift is selling the Begode Hero for 220,000 Rubels or US$2850. Which makes you wonder where the $4200 price came from. I wonder if the competition put it out there knowing Begode were ahead with a new wheel and they wanted to throw a curve ball and introduce some hesitancy in the market whist they developed their own competitors.