The stakes are high enough when you drive a motorhome. And with your several-thousand-pound daily driver behind it, they’re even higher. Cruising the highway, you wouldn’t be the first person to worry: Is my car still back there? What if we hit a bump? And what happens if I have to slam the brakes? That’s where auxiliary braking systems come in.
Dinghy towing has evolved over decades to put many such worries to rest. And when it comes to that last question—stopping power—auxiliary braking systems are designed to slow your tow vehicle at the same speed as your coach, which when combined with a tow bar, prevents your car from blasting through the back of your rig in an emergency. “From a very high level, auxiliary braking is the safest thing you can do aside from the tow bar,” says Doug Northcutt, RV towing products sales manager at Demco. “It makes the coach stop much quicker, and it helps people come to a stop 35 to 45 percent faster in a panic zone.”
Auxiliary braking systems are required in most states, but the technology varies based on the manufacturer, the type of rig you drive, and whether or not you want the system permanently mounted in your tow vehicle. Here, we look at the most common systems and the brands behind them.
Photo Credit: Demco
The Air Force One and the Stay-IN-Play DUO from Demco
Demco has been a leader in towed-vehicle technology since the company was founded in 1964. And these days, coach manufacturers like Freightliner, Tiffin, and Spartan build chassis specifically to be compatible with Demco’s auxiliary braking systems.
For diesel rigs, the Air Force One uses a pilot signal connected to the coach’s air brakes that delivers a proportional response to the towed vehicle, ensuring the dinghy brakes at exactly the same speed as the motorhome. “You just have to hook up the air hose and you’re off to the races,” Northcutt says. For gas motorhomes (without air brakes), Demco’s Stay-IN-Play DUO system uses the inertia from the towed vehicle, combined with the coach’s brake light signal, to create a proportional response in the dinghy’s brakes.
Photo Credit: NSA
NSA RV Products ReadyBrake
While some systems rely on electronics and air to trigger the brakes, the Ready Brake system from NSA is fully mechanical. So, when you slow your motorhome, the weight of the dinghy vehicle pushes forward on the hitch-mounted ReadyBrake system, triggering an actuating arm that is connected to the towed-vehicles brakes.
Photo Credit: Roadmaster
Roadmaster Brakemaster System
The Brakemaster system from Roadmaster connects and disconnects from a towed vehicle in less than one minute, which means the system is not always in place. Instead, one end of the Brakemaster connects to the air or hydraulic lines of your coach, while the other is installed on the floor in front of the towed-vehicle’s driver seat. When you hit the brakes of your motorhome, a proportional response is applied to the dinghy brakes.
Photo Credit: Blue Ox
Blue Ox Patriot 3
Like the Brakemaster system, the Blue Ox Patriot series is not permanently mounted in the towed vehicle; rather, it attaches to the brake pedal and sits on the floor. What makes it different, though, is that it’s entirely electric, relying on an actuator that senses the braking force of the coach.
As a reminder, the Coachmen RVEX is the first commercial all-electric camper van to be announced by a major RV manufacturer. Sure, Winnebago has shown off prototypes of its eRV in the past and even gave us the chance to spend a week with the vehicle a few years back. But that model has yet to go on sale and may never become a real product. And yes, Detroit-based Grounded has been building electric Class B models for more than two years, but those efforts are on a much smaller scale than what Forest River has planned. In fact, Grounded also uses the BrightDrop chassis, and with its cancellation, is looking to switch to gas-powered platforms, too.
When Forest River introduced the Coachmen RVEX in September, it touted the vehicle’s 270-mile range, spacious interior, and long list of amenities. Those included dual power sofas that convert into a single king-size bed, a modern kitchen with sleek and efficient appliances, and a large rear tailgate that makes loading and unloading gear and supplies a breeze. There was even a lot of hype around the materials used in the van’s construction. The RV manufacturer partnered with Genesis Products to use lightweight—yet high-quality—woods and fabrics to deliver an upscale experience that didn’t impact the vehicle’s performance. Add in a starting price point in the $150,000 area, and it seemed like the RVEX was on the fast track for success.
Photo Credit: Coachmen RV
Fast forward just a few short weeks, and GM’s announcement of BrightDrop’s cancellation seems to have caught many industry observers off guard. But it was simple economics that killed off the promising platform, which was originally designed to compete in the electric delivery van space—a market that is currently dominated by Ford and Rivian. GM CEO Mary Barra says the company is currently assessing its facility in Ontario, Canada, where the vans were built, to find future opportunities there.
As of this writing, Forest River has yet to weigh in on the fate of the Coachmen RVEX. It is possible that the RV manufacturer has enough BrightDrop chassis to begin building its first-generation electric camper van, and could be sourcing more from GM. Reports indicate that the automaker has a lot of unsold inventory on hand, which also played a role in the decision to cancel the project. Perhaps Forest River will buy up some of that inventory, and the RVEX will forge ahead, while a suitable replacement for future iterations is found. On the other hand, it could cancel the RV altogether and send its engineers back to the drawing board to work on a new version.
Photo Credit: Coachmen
For now, the fate of the RVEX is up in the air. Hopefully, we’ll see this unique new Class B model come to market sometime in the future, as the idea of an all-electric camper van, especially at an affordable price, is still an intriguing and exciting prospect. Stay tuned for updates on this story.
Friday brings the end of another busy week, with plenty of RV news to cover. So before we all get started with our weekend, here are the biggest headlines from the past few days:
Photo Credit: Winnebago
RV Pro Reveals the Best New Models for 2026: Looking for a new RV, but not sure which models are worth checking out? Our friends at RV Pro are here to help, as the website has just revealed its top picks for the Best New Models of 2026. As usual, the line-up is diverse and interesting, with options from Forest, River, Thor, Winnebago, REV Group, and a host of independent brands. It also includes some of our favorites, too, like the Winnebago Thrive 26FKD, the Keystone Walkabout, and the Bontrager Outdoors Comfor 21PD. Check out the full list here.
Photo Credit: Ember RV
Ember Introduces Two New Models at Toronto RV Show: If you’re heading to the Toronto Fall RV Show this weekend, you’ll have a chance to scout out two new towables from Ember RV. The company is using the show to introduce the new Touring Edition 2300MLL and the compact E-Series LE 12FK. Both rigs exhibit the brand’s exceptional build quality, with the Touring Edition offering a more comfortable and luxurious experience, while the E-Series model targets first-time buyers and minimalist outdoor explorers. Visit EmberRV.com for more information.
Photo Credit: Coachmen RV
Coachmen is Bringing Back the Freedom Express Liberty Edition Travel Trailer: This week, Coachmen RV announced that it is reviving its Freedom Express Liberty Edition towable. Initially, the travel trailer will come with two floor plans, including the 330BHJJ bunkhouse model, along with the 330RKS couples camper. Two additional models will be announced at a later date. Features include a queen-size bed, electric stabilizing jacks, a tankless water heater, an automotive-style front cap, and washer/dryer prep. Find out more at coachmenrv.com.
Photo Credit: Suburban
Suburban Launches Innovative Water Heater/Furnace Combo: Airxcel sub-brand Suburban has launched a new product designed to keep RVers more comfortable in their rigs. The company’s new RV One device is an all-in-one solution that serves as an on-demand water heater and furnace. In addition to being highly efficient, the component is smaller and lighter than two separate heating units, making this a great option for RV manufacturers looking to save space in small travel trailers, Class B and C motorhomes, and other vehicles.
Photo Credit: Coleman-Mach
Coleman-Mach Debuts New Energy-Efficient A/C:Coleman-Mach, which is also a subsidiary of Airxcel, unveiled a new energy-efficient air conditioner this week. The rooftop-mounted IntelliCool A/C unit cranks out 18,000 BTUs of power, offers 360º multi-directional airflow, and built-in soft-start technology. The device is reportedly very quiet and offers variable speed settings. RV Business has the skinny here.
Photo Credit: Battle Born
Dragonfly Awarded Patent on Battery Communication Tech:Dragonfly Energy, which makes the popular Battle Born line of lithium batteries, was given a patent this week for its battery communication system. The InteLigence comms technology uses a mesh network to allow for various components—including batteries, controllers, and wireless devices—to more efficiently share information with each other.RV News has more details here.
That’s all of the important news from across the RV industry this week. See you next Friday for another round-up of the biggest and most interesting stories from this space.
There is no question that the e-bike market has become increasingly saturated over the past few years, to the point that there are now dozens of companies offering dozens of models to choose from. That’s made it harder and harder for brands to stand out, forcing some manufacturers to look for new ways to separate themselves from the competition. One such brand is Mokwheel, which has come up with a novel way to promote its latest models, including the Mokwheel Onyx. But as it turns out, one of the company’s selling points is a bit too gimmicky, especially because the bike is so good that it easily stands out on its own.
So, what does the Mokwheel Onyx bring to the table, and what is this gimmicky selling point? Read on to find out.
Photo Credit: Mokwheel
The Mokwheel Inverter
Obviously, I’ve teased Mokwheel’s “gimmick” in the paragraphs above, so before we dive into the e-bike review itself, let’s touch on that elephant in the room. The company is marketing the Onyx, and several of its other models, alongside a new accessory designed to help keep the bikes charged while away from home. Like, at a campsite, for instance. That new accessory is a 1000W inverter that provides power on the go and can even be recharged in the field using solar panels. Sound familiar?
The inverter includes a small LCD screen for monitoring power in and out, two USB-C ports (27W and 100W), and a single USB-A port. In other words, it is a lot like a portable power station, which many of us have been using to power our devices while camping and traveling for years. The device weighs just 3.53 lbs, which puts it on the smaller side for a power station, but in most other regards, it functions about the same.
To be clear, Mokwheel didn’t send me the Inverter or its solar panels to test as part of this review, so I haven’t personally tried the device. But I have tested and reviewed numerous power stations over the years, and would say this doesn’t bring much new to the table. It is compact, relatively lightweight, and well designed. But if you already own a portable power station and a solar panel, chances are you can already recharge an e-bike battery while traveling off-grid.
All of that said, I do applaud Mokwheel’s efforts to set themselves apart in the very crowded e-bike space. Offering this accessory to customers is a great idea, and since it’s priced at just $ 299, it’s an affordable add-on, too. As accessories go, I’ve seen worse options from other bike manufacturers, and the Inverter does help raise awareness of alternate options for keeping your bike—and other gadgets—functioning on the go.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
A Bike So Good It Doesn’t Need Gimmicks
With all of that out of the way, let’s talk about the Mokwheel Onyx itself, because there is a lot to love about this bike. It features a 1,300W mid-drive motor and a 750W battery, which working together give it a range of up to 80 miles on a single charge. Standard disclaimers apply here, of course, as real-world range will vary depending on the level of power assist used, the weight of the rider (plus any cargo), and how hilly the terrain is. That said, as a heavier rider (210 lbs), I was still able to get 65+ miles of range out of this bike on mixed terrain with some hills.
The Onyx’s mid-drive motor moves its center of gravity onto the frame, giving it a different ride profile compared to e-bikes with a rear hub-mounted drive instead. The result is a controlled, surprisingly maneuverable bike that handles well even on tight turns. Even beginner riders will quickly feel at ease in the saddle, cruising along with confidence on pavement, dirt, sand, and snow.
Speaking of cruising along, when activated, the Mokwheel Onyx offers riders five levels of power assist, allowing them to dial up as much or little effort as they’d like. That’s not uncommon for most modern e-bikes, but what was unusual was how smoothly the bike switched modes. Some models can be quite abrupt when increasing or decreasing pedaling power, but not so here. Riders get a very nice transition between pedal assist levels, with each feeling noticeably different from one another. That same level of smoothness is also felt in the bike’s thumb throttle, which allows you to move without pedaling at speeds up to 28 mph.
The bike also comes with a full-suspension, meaning in addition to the suspension in the front fork (135mm of travel for my fellow bike nerds), it has a second 50mm shock absorber mounted on the seat tube. This, combined with a plush seat and 4” fat tires, gives the Onyx one of the most comfortable rides we’ve ever had on an e-bike. All of that comfort made the bike a joy to ride, even over rougher terrain, although the additional components do add to the bike’s substantial weight. More on that below.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Other Features and Components
Normally when we review an e-bike, we tend to describe the standard bike components—shifters, derailleur, groups set, and so on—as merely “adequate.” That’s because the vast majority of manufacturers focus their attention on the motor and battery, and in an effort to keep costs down, don’t use quality parts elsewhere. So much so that a majority of of brands even use the same low-end components, which tends to make a lot of models feel somewhat the same. That isn’t the case with Mokwheel, however, as the bike actually comes with quality parts that you’ll actually want to use. The result is smoother shifting, better reliability, and an overall more premium feel.
The bike’s LCD screen is bright, clear, and easy to understand, sharing a lot of information at a glance. That includes the current pedal assist level, battery status, speed, distance, traveled, and more. The display was a little hard to read while wearing polarized sunglasses, but otherwise it works great even in bright sunlight.
Other components and features of note include responsive hydraulic disc brakes, a bright headlight, and a precision torque/cadence center that modulates motor output to match the rider’s efforts. The bike even comes with a dropper post, which is somewhat rare in non-mountain bikes. That feature allows you to quickly and easily adjust the height of the seat, including doing so mid-ride to provide more control on descents. We didn’t find it especially useful here, but it is a nice addition that separates the Onyx from other models on the market.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
A Weighty Issue
All in all, the Mokwheel Onyx is one of the top e-bikes we’ve tested, offering a very smooth and comfortable ride. But as we alluded to above, there is one glaring issue—the bike’s weight. The Onyx’s official specs say it tips the scales at 89 lbs., which is heavy even by e-bike standards. Considering its dual suspension system and burly frame, it’s easy to understand why it weighs so much. Those components are crucial to giving it such a smooth and comfortable ride, but they also add a lot of bulk.
To its credit, owners won’t really notice all of that weight while actually riding the Onyx, so long as the battery is charged and the motor is engaged. Trust us, this is not an e-bike you would ever want to ride without pedal assist, unless you’re in need of a very good workout. But even with level 1 pedal assist engaged, it is easy to ride along at a brisk pace. The powerful motor easily overcomes the added weight, giving riders a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
The bike’s weight does make it challenging to load and unload from an RV or other vehicle, however, including loading it onto a bike rack. Many e-bike-specific racks do have built-in ramps that aid in that process, but you’ll want to check the rack’s maximum weight capacity to ensure the Onyx—combined with any other models—doesn’t exceed that limit. This will be less of an issue if you own a toy hauler or other RV with a sizable gear garage, but it is still something to keep in mind.
Photo Credit: Mokwheel
A Premium E-Bike Experience
Aside from the weight, there is very little else about the Onyx to complain about. As noted above, the bike’s components, motor, battery, and other parts are all top-notch, which translates into a wonderful riding experience. The bike always feels controlled and maneuverable, with plenty of power to roll along at a comfortable pace or conquer steep hills. This is definitely one of those bikes that will put a smile on your face while in the saddle.
All of this adds up to a premium experience compared to most other e-bike models on the market. With that in mind, the Onyx unsurprisingly comes with a premium price. Mokwheel sells this model with an MSRP of $4,088, although it is on sale as of publication for $3,288. Is it worth that price? As someone who has ridden and tested numerous e-bikes over the years, I can definitely say that it is, provided your budget allows. Everything about this model screams quality and performance, making it very easy to recommend to anyone looking in the market for a bike that stands out from the crowd.
To learn more about the Mokwheel Onyx, including a full set of specs, technical information, and more, visit the company’s website. There, you’ll find a full range of other e-bike models built to meet a variety of riders’ needs.
If you’ve been waiting for an all-electric motorhome from a traditional RV manufacturer, we have good news for you. At this week’s Open House even in Elkhart, IN, Forest River has announced its first e-RV. That rig comes in the form of the new Coachmen RVEX, a well-equipped Class B model with 270 miles of range. And best of all, it comes at a surprisingly affordable price point, too.
Built on Chevy’s BrightDrop electric chassis, the RVEX has been heavily modified to meet the needs of modern RVers. That includes shipping with a 1,000W roof-mounted solar panel array and a bank of lithium house batteries separate from the vehicle’s power cells. This enables off-grid camping, while still operating all of the onboard appliances and electronics.
Photo Credit: Coachmen RV
Inside, the Coachmen RVEX sports some unique and innovative features, too. Those include dual power sofas that transform into a king-size bed when needed. The galley kitchen comes equipped with a single-burner induction stove, a slide-out pantry, a mini-fridge, and a sink with a high-rise faucet. Overhead cabinets provide onboard storage, while the van’s rear doors and tailgate open surprisingly wide, making it easy to load and unload your favorite equipment and gear.
Coachmen worked closely with Genesis Products to utilize lightweight materials that give the interior an upscale feel, while keeping weight to a minimum. Those include G-Lite plywood and corrugated Lisocore panels that combine to reduce weight by 47% compared to traditional plywood. This gives the van a homey feel, while allowing it to maintain its range and battery efficiency.
Photo Credit: Coachmen RV
“The RVEX represents a bold first step in Coachmen’s journey into electric vehicle technology,” said Coachmen General Manager Zach Eppers in a press release. “We set out to create an all-electric motorhome that is not only innovative and capable, but also attainable. It delivers exceptional range and cutting-edge features all at a price point that makes EV travel accessible to more people than ever before.”
So what is that price point? The exact MSRP for the RVEX has not been released yet, but Coachmen says it will be in the $150,000 range. That’s highly competitive with many traditional Class B vans on the market, while offering a more eco-friendly approach to RV travel. This is partly made possible by the use of the BrightDrop chassis, which starts in the $45,000 range, making it an affordable option for this type of vehicle.
That’s about all we know about the Coachmen RVEX camper van at the moment, but watch the company’s website for further updates and details. Final pricing and availability have yet to be determined, but it looks like all-electric RVing will definitely become a more widely available option in 2026.
The first wristwatch was reportedly made for the Queen of Naples in 1810 by a man named Abraham-Louis Breguet. At the time, Breguet’s timepiece was an astounding feat of engineering, taking the precise mechanical movements of a pocket watch and shrinking the technology down to something small enough to circle a wrist. Impressive as that was, the Prussian-born inventor might not even recognize the watches of today, technological wonders in their own right.
This is especially true for modern watches built for outdoor exploration. These chronographs are incredibly durable and packed with high-tech features. Those include GPS navigation, built-in altimeters, weather alerts, fitness tracking, heart-rate monitoring… it goes on. Alternatively, some models eschew complicated functionality in favor of a simpler approach.
Picking the right watch for your adventures usually comes down to personal needs and preferences. Trail runners, mountain bikers and kayakers may appreciate all of the bells and whistles that come with a fitness-focused model; hikers, climbers and wildlife photographers might prefer something simple and reliable. Everyone has plenty to choose from.
Here are a few of our favorite adventure watches, across price points and complexity levels.
Photo Credit: Garmin
Garmin fēnix 8
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure watch that offers everything but the kitchen sink, the Garmin fēnix 8 is the one for you. This model wraps together GPS tracking, detailed multicontinent topographic maps, support for dozens of outdoor activities, weather alerts, smartphone notifications and a lot more. The rechargeable battery can run for up to 29 days between charges, and its bright, colorful screen is easy to read in any lighting conditions. You can download music, podcasts and audiobooks (i.e., ditch the phone for long hikes, runs and rides). It doesn’t come cheap, though. Pricing starts at $1,199. garmin.com
Photo Credit: Suunto
Suunto Vertical Solar
The Suunto Vertical offers many of the same features found on the Garmin fēnix, including GPS connectivity, on-device maps, activity tracking, weather updates and so on. But this model comes with a built-in solar panel under its screen that allows it to run for up to 60 days between charges. MSRP: $599. us.suunto.com
Photo Credit: Citizen
Citizen Promaster Dive
This mechanical watch features a timeless, elegant design that is equally at home at a dinner party as on a deep-sea fishing boat. Features
include a 1/5-second chronograph that measures up to 60 minutes, a unidirectional turning bezel, 12/24-hour time and date functionality. It is water resistant down to 200 meters and is charged via the sun, meaning there is never any need to replace the battery. MSRP: $575. citizenwatch.com
Photo Credit: Casio
Casio G-Shock GA2100-1A
Rugged and reliable, the Casio G-Shock line of watches has been a popular go-to for adventurers for decades. The GA2100-1A model is a digital/analog hybrid, featuring a traditional watch face and day/date indicator. Other features include world time in 31 time zones, a countdown timer, a stopwatch, five daily alarms and 200-meter water resistance. MSRP: $99. casio.com
EcoFlow has been at the forefront of portable power station and solar generator technology for some time now, continually producing charging solutions for use at home, work, and at the campsite. But its new Trail Series models are likely to strike a chord with its widest audience yet, deftly balancing size, weight, and price. The EcoFlow Trail Series 300 is especially compelling for outdoor enthusiasts, delivering everything they need and nothing they don’t.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Streamlined Charging on the Go
Designed to bridge the gap between a small power bank and a larger and heavier power station, the new EcoFlow Trail Series models are the perfect “tweener” option. These devices strip away some of the features found on larger models, most notably 110V AC outlets, in effort to get as small and light as possible, while still offering more capacity than a power bank. The result is a stripped down charging solution that puts the focus on portability.
Recently, we got our hands on the new Trail 300 DC model, which is slightly larger than its sibling, the Trail 200. The main differences between the two are that the 300 DC has slightly more storage capacity (288Wh vs 192Wh), weighs a little more (5.69 vs 4.03 lbs), and comes with a 12V DC port, which is absent on the Trail 200. Other than that, the two devices are very similar in terms of size and usability, with both offering dual 140W USB-C ports and two 12W USB-A ports.
The Trail 300 offers 300W of power output, making it a great option for keeping small mobile devices, like smartphones, tablets, and laptops, running while on the go. Essentially, anything that can be powered using USB-C works great with the device, although its 12V DC port gives it additional versatility. For reference, that’s the same port found in most vehicles and can be used for powering things like lights, portable air compressors, a portable refrigerator, and other items. But because the Trail Series lacks AC outlets, you won’t be able to operate small appliances like a coffee maker, blender, or CPAP machine.
Photo Credit: EcoFlow
Recharging and Runtimes
Unlike most portable power stations, the Trail Series models don’t come with a dedicated AC charging plug for recharging their batteries. Instead, the devices use bi-directional USB-C ports, meaning the internal battery is replenished by plugging the unit into a USB power adapter, which is not included in the box. Thankfully, most of us have several of these at our disposal these days, making it easy to top off the charge when needed. That said, using a USB adapter designed for a smartphone will work, but the charge times will be much longer. If you have a more powerful option (one with more wattage) available, you’ll want to use it, shaving hours off the recharge process. It should also be noted that EcoFlow bundles chargers with the device, often for free or at a very nominal cost.
As you might expect, the EcoFlow Trail Series also supports recharging via solar power. A dedicated solar input makes it easy to attach a solar panel with a capacity of up to 110W. This will fully recharge the power station itself in about three hours, depending on exposure to direct sunlight. And if you happen to have a 12V USB charger in your car, you can also recharge while in transit.
As noted above, the Trail Series 300 has a 288Wh battery, which allows it to recharge a smartphone up to 15 times or a laptop five times. It will also run an LED lamp for up to 70 hours or an electric cooler for 20+ hours. In other words, while the device itself may be small, it still packs plenty of power to keep you going on your outdoor adventures.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Who is the Trail Series For?
The Trail Series power stations are a bit of a departure from what EcoFlow has done in the past, which may leave some people wondering exactly who they are for. The answer to that is simple: these devices are aimed at an audience who needs portable power, but isn’t running small appliances. These lightweight units are perfect for car and tent campers, hikers, and anyone else who needs to keep their smaller devices running. That includes RVers looking for a simple addition to their rigs, as well as hunters, anglers, and even content creators.
The EcoFlow Trail Series 300 can easily keep smartphones, tablets, and laptops running, but is equally handy for other gadgets, too. Essentially, anything that can plug into a USB port for recharging can be powered up with this unit. That includes things like rechargeable headlamps, digital cameras, camp lanterns, drones, powered coolers, and more. And because it is so small and portable, it is easy to toss it in the car when going tailgating or on a road trip. The size and versatility of the power station is definitely one of its strength.
Priced at $249.99, the EcoFlow Trail Series 300 DC is an affordable option for on-the-go charging. At the time of publication, the unit is on sale for $159, with EcoFlow throwing in a 30W GaN charger for free. Put simply, that’s an incredible deal for a device of this size and capacity. Have a little more money to spend? There are several more bundles available that include solar panels, camping lights, and more. EcoFlow can’t make it any easier for us.
For more information on the Trail Series portable power stations, visit ecoflow.com.
When we reviewed the Puckipuppy Boxer ST e-bike last year, we found it offered a comfortable ride and excellent range, although we did think it was a bit on the heavy side. Fast forward a few months, and we’re back with a look at the new Puckipuppy Beagle 2 ST, which, like its predecessor, is comfortable and fun to ride. And thanks to a few design compromises, it is a bit lighter and more affordable, too, making it more accessible to a wider audience.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Assembly and Components
As with most direct-to-consumer e-bike brands, Puckipuppy ships the Beagle 2 ST to buyers in a partially assembled state. After removing the bike from its box, you’ll need to install the front tire, attach and adjust the handlebars and digital display, attach the pedals, connect the headlight, and tighten up the rear cargo tray and fender. All of that took about 40-45 minutes to complete using a set of tools (a few wrenches of the standard and Allen variety) included in the box. The owner’s manual includes instructions for putting everything together, which were very easy to follow. Essentially, you can take the bike out of the box, put it together, and be ready for your first ride in under an hour, even if you’ve never put a bike together before.
The bike itself has a step-through frame that makes getting on and off comfortable and easy. As a long-time cyclist, I had to fight years of muscle memory that wanted me to throw a leg over the bike as I mounted up. But once I reconfigured my thinking, I soon found it much easier to step through the frame and hop up on the seat. Most riders will appreciate this approach, and once again, it is a way of making the bike much more accessible.
The Puckipuppy Beagle 2 ST is equipped with a 750W (960W peak) motor and a 48V 15Ah battery that gives it a range of up to 60 miles and a top speed of 28 MPH. The system offers five levels of pedal assist, so riders can dial in exactly how much or how little they want to work. A thumb throttle removes the need to peddle altogether and is handy for making faster starts from a standstill, but is capped at a top speed of 20 MPH.
Other equipment includes hydraulic disc brakes, a seven-speed Shimano gear system, an 110mm adjustable front suspension, and a plush leather seat. Most of these components are best described as “adequate” but are par for the course for this type of e-bike and at this price point. In fact, many of the models we review use some of the same parts, even those made by different manufacturers.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Real World Performance
As noted above, Puckipuppy says the Beagle 2 ST has a range of up to 60 miles. That said, anyone who has ever ridden an e-bike will tell you that most range estimates are usually very optimistic, as a number of factors can impact real-world performance. For example, the weight of the rider, level of pedal assist used, and the type of terrain can all play a role in exactly how far you can ride on a single charge.
During our testing of the Beagle 2 ST, we were able to cover roughly 50 miles between charges using a mix of level 1 and level 2 pedal assist. Keep in mind, I’m a bigger rider (6’ 2”, 215 lbs) and the terrain included some rolling hills, but no long, sustained climbs. Liberal uses of the thumb throttle will eat into battery life, too, but we used it sparingly on our test rides.
Out on the road, the Puckipuppy Beagle 2 ST offers a smooth and comfortable ride. The front suspension and comfy seat helped in that department, but the large tires also played a significant role. Those tires allow the bike to roll over a number of obstacles and take on a variety of terrains, including sand and gravel. But they are also a little ponderous and require some extra effort to get rolling, which is where the throttle often comes in handy.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Some e-bikes are relatively easy to pedal, even without the electric motor engaged. That isn’t the case with the Beagle 2 ST, in part because of those big tires, but also because it weighs 66 lbs. That’s a pretty typical weight for this type of bike and at this price point, but it is worth noting nonetheless. Engaging level 1 pedal assist made it easy to cruise along on flat surfaces at a decent speed, but level 2 was much smoother and faster, particularly on inclines and small hills. Of course, that will burn through the battery much faster, so riders will have to find a middle ground that works for them.
Levels 3, 4, and 5 make things even easier yet, and allow riders to go at a faster pace. But battery life is used up at an increasingly quick pace, so we recommend only using those levels when you’re in a hurry and traveling a short distance or faced with a steeper, more difficult climb.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Other Features
Unlike the Boxer St we reviewed last year, the Beagle 2 ST does not have a second suspension mounted on the frame. In theory, that should give the former bike a more comfortable ride, smoothing out bumps on the road. In practice, we didn’t really miss that extra piece of hardware, which did help reduce the weight of the newer bike. It also made the step-through frame more accessible, too, allowing riders to get on and off a bit more smoothly.
Both Puckipuppy bikes share the same bright, colorful LCD digital display, which shows current speed, battery life, pedal assist level, distance ridden, and other metrics. The screen offers an easy-to-understand graphical representation of the current charge level and how riding in the different modes impacts range. The display is also easy to read in bright sunlight or while wearing sunglasses, which is not something we can say about all of the competition.
As previously noted, the bike’s more traditional components are average at best, but they more than get the job done. The hydraulic brakes are especially noteworthy, however, as they are nicely responsive, keeping the rider safe and in control at all times. The Beagle 2 ST’s front headlight is also very nice, offering excellent illumination should you find yourself riding after dark. We also appreciate the includes cargo rack, which is always handy when running errands or commuting to a destination.
Photo Credit: Puckipuppy
Excellent Value and Build Quality
All-in-all, the Puckipuppy Beagle 2 ST offers good value for its price. We’ve referenced that price point several times throughout this article, noting that the bike falls into a specific price category that often defines its feature set and components. In this case, the Beagle 2 ST sells for $1,999—although it is on sale at press time for $1,199. Its MSRP is competitive against the competition, but its sale price is an outstanding bargain.
The Beagle 2 ST comes in four different colors—white, black, blue, or pink. It is available now from the Puckipuppy website and usually ships out within a few days. For more information on this excellent value-priced e-bike, click here.
A few months back, we reviewed the Segway Xafari, an e-bike we loved for its outstanding range and amazing tech features. Despite being on the heavy side, we felt the bike offered great value, delivering a well-rounded riding experience. Now, we’re back to take a look at the new Segway GT3 Pro SuperScooter, which shares a number of features with the Xafari, but in a different form factor. One that is still incredibly fun to ride, but probably isn’t for everyone.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Impressive Range and Blazingly-Fast Speed
If you take a look at the GT3 Pro’s list of specs, there are probably two numbers that stand out. First, it has a range of up to 86 miles, which is amazing for any electric scooter. That number comes with a few caveats, of course. For instance, the weight of the rider, how hilly the terrain is, and which mode you ride in will all have an impact on range. But after extensive testing, we can safely say that you can definitely approach that 86-mile number. As a taller, larger rider, I was able to get well in excess of 65+ miles on a single charge, even riding up and down steep hills and over rough surfaces.
The other number that will quickly pop out is the GT3 Pro’s top speed. The scooter’s dual motors can propel it along at up to 50 MPH. Yep, you read that right, Segway’s latest mobility device can go fast enough to get you a speeding ticket if you’re not careful. That said, I’ll have to take their word on it, because during my test rides I never took it above 30 MPH, which was plenty fast when standing on a small platform and riding on a residential road. If you want to go any faster than that, I’d suggest doing it in a wide-open space, far from traffic or any other hazards. You’ll also want to wear a helmet at any speed.
The GT3 Pro has three ride modes, which dictate just how fast you can go. In Eco mode, you’ll top out at 16 MPH, while Sport doubles that number to 32. You’ll need to enter Race mode to access anything faster than that. As you would expect, battery life—which dictates range— decreases as speed increases, although even in Race mode you can still expect up to 34 miles of riding distance, which is impressive in and of itself.
It should be noted that the GT3 Pro also includes a Walk mode, which makes it much easier to move around while on foot. As with e-bikes and other scooters that include this feature, owners can use the throttle to provide a little extra assist when moving the unit without riding. It is a much appreciated addition considering this model’s hefty weight.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Smooth Acceleration, Control, and Ride
Acceleration is quick and smooth across all modes, which comes in handy when setting off from a standstill. A special Boost mode allows the scooter to go from 0-30 MPH in just 3.9 seconds, although the standard settings were fast enough that we rarely needed to use that option. A twist throttle mounted on the handlebars provided complete control, making it easy to select the speed you want to cruise along at. Dialing in the exact number takes a little practice, but it became second nature after just one ride.
Controlling the Segway GT3 Pro is surprisingly easy, as the scooter is maneuverable and easy to handle, despite its weight (more on that later). We had no problems taking it in and out of tight turns, flowing through pedestrian traffic, or along neighborhood streets. Its quick acceleration and rapid speeds help in this area, too, allowing riders to easily move around obstacles with confidence and poise. Front and rear hydraulic disc brakes play a role in maintaining control as well, smoothly bringing the scooter to a stop , without ever feeling overly aggressive or harsh. As with many things on the GT3 Pro, the braking system can be adjust to allow for more or less coasting time.
One of the many ways in which the GT3 Pro stands out from the competition is its ability to climb hills. While most electric scooters can handle an incline, they tend to quickly run out of momentum when faced with a longer and steeper climb. Segway says their scooter can tackle grades of up to 38%, which is incredibly steep. All I know is that during our testing, it scampered up a number of hills, barely losing speed in the process. That bodes well for owners, who won’t have to push the heavy GT3 Pro to the top of a slope, provided they still have some charge left in the battery.
The scooter’s suspension system is another standout feature, not only providing riders with a smooth ride across a variety of terrains, but also offering a measure of customizability. The firmness can be adjusted across 15 levels of stiffness, allowing you to dial in the exact settings you want or need. And since the GT3 Pro comes with rugged 11” self-sealing tires, you can take this e-scooter places you wouldn’t go with others. During our testing, we rode on city streets, greenways, gravel roads, and dirt trails, all without missing a beat. That alone puts this model in a class pretty much by itself, as we haven’t seen a scooter that can match its versatility, durability, and features.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Tech Features Galore
If an off-road capable suspension, precision steering, a frighteningly fast top speed, and the ability to climb hills aren’t enough to sell you on the Segway GT3 Pro, perhaps its long list of other features will do the trick. For instance, the scooter comes with a lighting system that includes turn signals, a rear brake light, and a headlight with adjustable brightness settings. Its electronic horn is also loud and attention-grabbing, which is handy when encountering traffic. A clear, bright, and easy-to-read 2.4” TFT color screen displays ride metrics, like speed, distance ridden, current battery level, and more. It can also show real-time navigation prompts for turn-by-turn directions to a destination, and will even show alerts of incoming phone calls.
Pairing the GT3 Pro with the Segway Mobility app puts even more features and controls at an owner’s fingertips. For instance, users can adjust the top speed settings for Eco, Sport, and Race modes, lowering the standard 16 MPH, 32 MPH, and 50 MPH defaults for safety purposes. The app also allows owners to schedule charging times, lock the scooter to prevent theft, and upgrade the current firmware. You can also access the navigation features for turn-by-turn directions, but as with the Xafari e-bike, this feature still feels like it needs a bit of fine-tuning.
Other nice touches include the ability to add the GT3 Pro to the Apple Find My network for tracking the device’s location and using the Segway Airlock system to automatically unlock the unit as you approach. The scooter can send alerts if anyone tries to move it without your permission, and includes other quality-of-life features like cruise control and a headlight that turns itself on or off based on current lighting conditions. It even has fast-charging capabilities that fully recharge the battery in about eight hours, which is fairly quick considering the size of the power cells.
Photo Credit: Segway
So, What’s the Catch?
If you’ve made it this far into the review, you’re probably thinking that the Segway GT3 Pro sounds pretty great, and you would be right. This is an amazing electric scooter that took an impressive amount of engineering to get everything to come together so well. But, as with most things in life, there are a few caveats to be aware of, most notably the scooter’s weight and price.
Like the Segway Xafari e-bike, we love everything the GT3 Pro brings to the table, except for its weight. The scooter tips the scales at an eye-watering 117 lbs, which takes away much of its utility in the RV space. Seriously, this thing is heavy and very ponderous to move around. Walk mode does help mitigate those challenges to a degree, but you’ll certainly need a helping hand loading and unloading the scooter from your rig’s cargo area.
The other issue with the GT3 Pro is its $2699 price tag. That puts it out of reach for most of us, moving it squarely into the “scooter enthusiast” category. Most buyers are looking to spend a fraction of that price on a scooter they just want to use for zipping around the campground. That said, this model can do so much more than that; it is almost overkill for just basic riding.
To be fair, Segway is well aware of this, which is why the GT3 Pro has the term “pro” right in its name. It truly is unlike any other scooter on the market, combining agility, speed, tech features, and rugged build quality in a way that it almost seems wrong to call it a scooter. Still, at its heart, that’s exactly what it is, and the target audience is going to absolutely love it. Is $2700 too much for a personal mobility device like this one? For many, the answer will almost certainly be yes. But those who can take advantage of the performance that the GT3 Pro offers are definitely in for one hell of a fun ride.
Photo Credit: Segway
A New Standard for E-Scooter Excellence
Having tested the GT3 Pro extensively, I can honestly say that it is one impressive piece of engineering. Having put it through its paces and witnessed the performance it offers, I can understand why its weight and price are what they are. Segway has delivered a new high-water mark in personal mobility and set impossibly high standards for any other electric scooter to shoot for.
Is this model for everyone? Certainly not. But, as already noted, those who are in the market for a scooter of this kind will not be disappointed. In fact, I’ll venture to guess they’ll be delighted with everything the GT3 Pro brings to the table, including its ability to go further and faster than anything else out there.
Our RV expert shares his insights and advice on a variety of topics. Got a question of your own? Send them to us at knowhow@wildsam.com.
Photo Credit: THOR
Hot Hot Highway Heat
Q: We have a 2023 Thor ACE 32B on a Ford F-53 chassis. The dash air conditioner blows warmer air when we’re on the highway. At idle, 40-degree air comes out of the dash vents. At highway speeds, the air hits 60 degrees—no difference when the A/C is switched to recirculate. Neither RV dealer nor Ford dealer can solve the issue so far. Any insight?
—William Taylor, Findlay, Ohio
A: This is a fairly common problem. The heater and A/C controls in the dash are operated by vacuum servos, which rely on engine intake manifold vacuum. When the engine is idling, it produces peak vacuum, and therefore the system works fine. Then, as the engine’s load increases, vacuum drops off. If there is any leakage in the hoses or other components in the HVAC system, there won’t be enough vacuum. The system will then default to Defrost mode and divert airflow causing symptoms like you describe.
The system needs to be diagnosed for vacuum leaks. It could be something as simple as a cracked or loose hose. Many well-equipped shops have smoke injection machines, designed to push smoke into the vacuum hoses and system. Smoke comes out, revealing the leaks. To ensure better operation, add a vacuum storage tank: Crown Automotive produces one. Also add a one-way check valve that when the engine is under heavy load it, doesn’t reduce the vacuum in the tank.
Photo Credit: Eco-dynamic
Towable Twofer
Q: I’m a longtime camper and never missed an issue of Trailer Life with your articles and columns back in the day. I am looking at adding to my solar array and changing to AGM batteries because of conventional battery maintenance issues. My favorite supplier has closed. Can you recommend another source?
—Ralph Spear
A: Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries don’t require refilling and do generally last somewhat longer than conventional lead-acid batteries. However, if you are a heavy user of solar power, you might want to consider switching to lithium. They last much longer, are much lighter and maintenance free and have more usable capacity for a given size. You can discharge them more deeply without damaging them. Prices have been coming down, and there are good used ones available at a substantial savings. Suppliers include RV Solar Concepts and Precision RV Service, We’d love to hear from readers about their favorite solar supplier.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Airbag Advice
Q: Is there a consensus on the use of air bags for trailer towing?
—Kathy and Cliff Andrews, Keizer, OR
A: I doubt there is any consensus—folks argue about everything. But air bags are a great addition to many tow vehicles. Without knowing the specific year, make and model and the make and model of trailer, or its approximate tongue weight, I can only provide generalities. It’s important for the tow vehicle to be fairly level when hitched up and towing. Stiffer rear springs could keep the rig level, but when you are not towing the vehicle might ride very stiffly. Air bags allow you to add pressure when the trailer is attached and reduce pressure when not towing. Some kits even have onboard compressors with remote filling capabilities, so you can adjust pressure from the cab.
One important thing to remember: air bags should not be used to enable a vehicle to be overloaded. Never exceed the maximum gross rear axle weight rating or the tire ratings. Several companies manufacture air bags for pickup trucks. Kelderman Manufacturing, Firestone Airide and Air Lift are all well-known producers of air suspension systems, including those for light trucks. AccurAir Suspension also offers air suspension kits for various vehicles, including pickups.
Despite it being a shortened week due to the July 4th holiday, there is plenty of RV news to share from the past seven days and beyond. So as we head off for a long weekend, here are a few things to have on your radar.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Airstream Announces 2026 Motorhome Upgrades:Airstream has announced a slew of new updates coming to its 2026 Atlas and Interstate motorhomes. Those upgrades include the inclusion of the company’s Advanced Power System—which comes with 10,300Wh self-heating lithium batteries—as standard equipment. The new models will come with a 1,000W single-burner induction cooktop, a 3,000W inverter, a 40-amp in-vehicle battery charger, a Victron SmartShunt for solar monitoring, a Victron BlueSolar charge controller, and a marine-grade alternator and regulator. All in all, some substantial improvements over previous models, making the Atlas and Interstate more off-grid ready.
Photo Credit: Ember RV
Ember RV Shares 2026 Updates, Too: Airstream isn’t the only RV brand sharing updates for its 2026 models. Ember RV has also announced new features for its excellent Overland Series models, with highlights including 1,200W of solar standard, a 3,000W Victron inverter and Cerbo GX communication center, 270Ah deep-cycle Battle Born batteries, and no less than three Victron Bluetooth MPPT controllers. The new rigs will also offer side and rooftop solar ports for easy upgrades, and include a REDARC DC-to-DC trailer battery charger. The inside gets some nice bumps, too, including solid surface countertops in the kitchen and bathroom, a square stainless steel kitchen sink with a cutting board, a new shower with built-in shelf, and an upgraded 10.6-cubic-foot 12v refrigerator. This is just the tip of the iceberg, however, so visit the Ember website to find out more.
Photo Credit: Pebble
Pebble Ships First Flow Electric Travel Trailers: RV start-up Pebble reached a major milestone this week by shipping the first full-production models of its all-electric travel trailer to buyers. The company announced that it had delivered several Pebble Flow Founder Edition towables to early backers, with a promise to ramp up production throughout the rest of the year. And as a bonus, a new feature called “Auto Dump” that takes the drudgery out of emptying your black tank. Read more here.
Photo Credit: Grounded
Grounded Launches G3 Electric Camper Van: It was a big week for electric RVs, as Detroit-based Grounded revealed its G3 e-camper van. The company has been manufacturing e-RVs for a couple of years now, with its G1 and G2 models debuting in 2023. Its latest vehicle is built on the Chevy BrightDrop platform and has a range of 286 miles. It also comes with all-wheel drive, fast-charging capabilities, and a modular interior that can be configured to suit your needs. GearJunkie has the skinny on this promising new EV here.
Photo Credit: Rossmönster
Rossmönster Reveals Havn Off-Road Camper Model:Rossmönster is a specialty RV manufacturer with a focus on off-road, off-grid adventures. That’s why it is so appropriate that the brand announced a new model at last week’s Overland Expo PNW. The new Havn rig rides on a 24-foot Mercedes 3500 chassis with all-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, and other rugged features. It also sports a queen-size bed, hydronic heated flooring, 800W solar panels, and a 1,000Ah lithium battery. Check it out here.
Image Courtesy of Chase and Lindsay Garrett
Hughes Autoformers Changes Name to Power Watchdog: Big news from the RV accessories space this week, as Hughes Autoformers announced a name change to match its signature product. Moving forward, the company will be known as Power Watchdog, a nod to its line of outstanding surge protectors and voltage boosters for use at RV campsites. The identity change comes with the introduction of the new Watchdog Power Center, a device that promises to be the “end-all-be-all of RV power protection.”
Photo Credit: Lance Camper
REV Group Sells Lance Camper: Late last week, REV Group—the manufacturer behind such brands as Renegade, Fleetwood, and Holiday Rambler—announced the sale of Lance Camper to Vision Kore, Inc. The move signals REV’s exit from the non-motorized RV space, allowing it to focus more tightly on Class A, B, and C models. Lance will also continue producing towables and truck campers, now under the management of Vision Kore.
Photo Credit: Winnebago
Winnebago Says More Women are Participating in Outdoor Activities: A new survey conducted by Winnebago Industries reveals that 52% of women plan to increase their outdoor activity levels in 2025. That’s up 6% compared to last year, with 55% of respondents saying they spent more than six hours a week outside. Spending time in nature is both physically and mentally good for us, and it seems more women are embracing those positive benefits. To read more about this survey, and the other things it revealed, click here.
Photo Credit: Blaupunkt
General RV Now Sells E-Bikes: In yet another sign that e-bikes have become incredibly popular with RVers, General RV announced this week that it will begin selling Blaupunkt models in its 23 stores. The bikes feature a folding frame for easy storage and weigh just 47 pounds, which is fairly svelte for an e-bike. Check them out here.
Overland Expo PNW Welcomes 16,000 Attendees: 2025 continues to be a good year for the Overland Expo events. Last week, the Pacific Northwest Edition (PNW) took place in Redmond, OR, where more than 16,000 people were in attendance. And in a further nod to how popular overlanding has become, those attendees hailed from 48 states and nine countries. Those are pretty impressive numbers for one of the regional Overland Expo shows.
That’s a wrap for this week. See you next Friday for another rundown of the top stories from the RV and camping industries.
A little over a year ago, we reviewed the DJI Power 1000 portable power station, calling it an excellent first entry into this very competitive market space from a company best known for making camera drones. Now, the brand is back with a larger model that delivers more storage capacity and an impressive array of ports. In fact, in terms of number and type, the new DJI Power 2000 may have the best line-up of ports of any power station on the market today, making it easy to recommend for anyone who needs a reliable charging solution on the go.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Battery and Charging Specs
As you would expect, the larger Power 2000 device comes with a bigger battery compared to its predecessor. This unit features a 2,048Wh power cell, which is double the size of last year’s model. It can also output up to 3,000W, allowing it to power more devices, including some that require a higher capacity, like a microwave, air conditioner, or a hair dryer.
One of the few drawbacks of having a larger battery is that it usually takes longer to recharge. But thanks to some impressive technical wizardry, DJI managed to include truly impressive fast-charging capabilities in the power station. According to the company, the device can fully recharge from an AC wall outlet in under 90 minutes, which proved true in our testing. The Power 2000 shipped to us with a 20% charge, but when plugged in for initial charging, it was fully topped off in less than an hour.
Those same fast-charging capabilities apply to other methods of recharging the Power 2000’s battery, too. For instance, DJI sells a 1kW fast-charger for use in a vehicle that can replenish the battery in 145 minutes. That’s perfect for when you’re driving from one campsite to the next or en route to a worksite. Additionally, owners can connect two solar panels for recharging in the field. The new power station even sees a boost in that department, with a 12% faster charge time compared to the Power 1000.
To add some context to all of these specs, the 2,048Wh battery is enough to recharge most smartphones more than 100 times or a laptop as many as 18 times. It’ll run a mini-fridge for up to 38 hours or a coffee machine for nearly two hours. In other words, depending on your usage, it is enough capacity for use at the campsite for several days without recharging the power station itself. It also works well for content creators working in the field and can serve as a home back-up solution. DJI is even prepping expansion batteries for the Power 2000 that can expand the capacity by a factor of ten. While that won’t be practical for portable use, it does provide interesting possibilities for use at home or potentially even an RV.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
All the Ports You Need
If you’ve ever read any of our other power station reviews, you’ve probably seen us lament the fact that most units are almost always missing a port or two. In recent years, that’s usually because a device is lacking in USB-C ports, which have quickly become the industry standard for charging just about everything. That isn’t the case with the DJI Power 2000, which offers the best selection of charging ports we’ve seen in a device of this size.
The Power 2000 includes four 120V AC outlets, including one high-capacity 30A port for demanding appliances like a portable air conditioner. It also comes with four standard USB-A ports and four additional USB-C ports—two that offer 160W output and two rated for 65W. This being DJI, the power station also has two dedicated SDC ports for charging drones, something that definitely appeals to the company’s core audience.
All of these ports add versatility to the device, making it easy to keep a wide variety of gadgets and appliances running wherever you need them. So much so, that for once we’re not asking for additional ports of any kind. Sure, this model lacks the 12V “vehicle” port that many other models offer, but for us, that has always been the least useful charging option anyway. During our testing, it wasn’t missed at all.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Other Stand Out Features
In addition to adding ports, battery capacity, and increased power output, the DJI Power 2000 includes several other noteworthy features. For instance, the unit can be used as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to keep important devices and appliances running in the event of an unexpected electrical outage. Should such an outage occur, the power station can automatically start providing electricity in as little as .01 seconds, ensuring mission-critical items—like computers or internet networking equipment—continue operating without missing a beat.
DJI also went to great lengths to ensure the Power 2000 is durable and safe. In addition to its rugged outer shell, which provides plenty of protection while outdoors, the unit has a battery management system circuit board built to resist environmental elements like dust and moisture. The power station is also made from flame-retardant materials to prevent fires and has 21 fuses to detect and protect against other anomalies.
Additionally, the power station is one of the quietest we’ve ever tested, even when recharging multiple devices. It comes with a bright, easy-to-understand LCD screen for monitoring power in and out and current battery levels, something that can also be done remotely using the DJI app. Furthermore, the device’s lithium batteries are good for approximately 4,000 charge cycles, giving the Power 2000 a lifespan of ten years with daily use.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
A Serious Contender
With everything that DJI has brought to the table, the Power 2000 is the complete package when it comes to portable power stations. The combination of capacity, power output, and charging ports makes it easy to recommend to anyone currently in the market for this kind of device. Add in impressive fast-charging capabilities, remote monitoring and control via smartphone, the ability to use it as a UPS, and the option to dramatically expand storage with add-on batteries, and you get a complete power solution for any need.
If we had to dock this power station any points, it might be due to its weight and a lack of charging cables. The unit weighs in at a shade over 48 pounds, which isn’t particularly heavy for this category, but is worth noting. We also would have liked to have seen a 12V vehicle charging cable included in the box to go along with the 120V AC cable that is included. We understand that DJI wants to upsell us on its high-capacity vehicle charging solution, but most competitors do include the 12V cable in the box. But other than those very minor nitpicks, there isn’t much to complain about here.
As already noted, if you’re in the market for a portable power station at the moment, this model should be at the top of your shopping list. You’ll be hard-pressed to find anything else that offers similar specs along with so many truly useful charging ports. And priced at $1,299, it is safe to say the DJI Power 2000 delivers a lot of bang for the buck for outdoor enthusiasts, content creators, and use around the home. We’re excited to see where the DJI ecosystem goes next.
