Unlocking the Full Potential: How to Remove Speed Limiter on AOVO PRO Electric Scooter

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. Removing or modifying your electric scooter's speed limiter may void your warranty, violate local laws and regulations, compromise safety features, and increase accident risk. Always check your local laws regarding electric scooter speed limits before making any modifications. Levy Electric and this publication do not recommend or endorse modifying manufacturer safety features. Proceed at your own risk and responsibility.

The AOVO PRO electric scooter comes with factory-set speed limitations designed to balance performance with safety and legal compliance. However, some riders seek to unlock the scooter's full potential for private property use, off-road riding, or in jurisdictions where higher speeds are permitted. This comprehensive guide explains how speed limiters work on the AOVO PRO, the methods to remove or adjust them, and the critical safety and legal considerations you must understand before making any modifications.

Understanding Speed Limiters on AOVO PRO Scooters

Before attempting any modifications, it's essential to understand why speed limiters exist and how they function.

Why Speed Limiters Exist

Legal compliance: Many countries and regions limit electric scooter speeds to 15-20 MPH (24-32 km/h) for street-legal operation. Manufacturers install limiters to ensure their scooters comply with the strictest regulations across multiple markets.

Safety protection: Speed limiters reduce accident risk, especially for inexperienced riders. Lower speeds provide more reaction time and reduce injury severity in crashes.

Battery life optimization: Limiting top speed helps maximize range per charge. Higher speeds drain batteries significantly faster.

Component longevity: Restricting speed reduces wear on motors, brakes, tires, and other mechanical components, extending their lifespan.

Liability reduction: Manufacturers limit potential liability from accidents occurring at high speeds.

How AOVO PRO Speed Limiters Work

The AOVO PRO uses a combination of methods to limit speed:

Firmware-based limiting: The controller's firmware contains programmed speed limits that cap motor power output when certain speeds are reached.

Physical speed limit wire: Some AOVO PRO models include a physical wire that signals the controller to enforce speed restrictions.

App-based speed modes: The AOVOPRO mobile app allows switching between speed modes (Eco, Standard, Sport), with each mode having different speed ceilings.

Display settings: The onboard display includes settings that can adjust speed limits within certain parameters.

Critical Legal and Safety Considerations

Before proceeding with any speed limiter modifications, thoroughly understand the legal and safety implications.

Legal Restrictions by Region

United States: Federal law allows electric scooters up to 20 MPH without requiring licenses or registration (under 750W motor). However, many cities and states impose stricter limits:

• California: 15 MPH maximum on public streets
• New York City: 15 MPH maximum, though scooter regulations vary by borough
• Many municipalities: 10-15 MPH limits in pedestrian-heavy areas

European Union: Most EU countries limit electric scooters to 25 km/h (15.5 MPH) for street-legal operation. Exceeding this limit may reclassify your scooter as a motor vehicle requiring registration, insurance, and a driver's license.

United Kingdom: As of 2025, private electric scooters remain illegal on public roads. Rental scooters in trial programs are limited to 15.5 MPH (25 km/h).

Australia: Speed limits vary by state, typically ranging from 12 to 25 km/h.

Potential consequences of exceeding legal speed limits:

• Fines ranging from $50 to $500+ depending on jurisdiction
• Scooter confiscation
• Points on your driver's license (in some regions)
• Liability if involved in an accident while exceeding legal speeds
• Difficulty claiming insurance after modifications

Warranty Implications

Modifying your AOVO PRO's speed limiter will almost certainly void your manufacturer warranty:

• Warranty will not cover damage resulting from modifications
• Manufacturers can detect firmware changes and physical modifications
• Future repairs may be denied or charged at full price
• Some retailers void return policies for modified scooters

Safety Risks of Higher Speeds

Increasing your scooter's top speed creates real safety concerns:

Braking distance increases dramatically: At 28 MPH vs. 15 MPH, your stopping distance more than doubles. The AOVO PRO's brakes are designed for factory speeds and may not provide adequate stopping power at higher speeds.

Reduced stability: Electric scooters are designed for optimal stability at their intended speed range. Higher speeds can cause wobbling, especially on uneven surfaces.

Component stress: Motors, bearings, and structural components experience significantly more stress at higher speeds, potentially leading to premature failure or catastrophic breakage.

Increased injury severity: Accident injuries at 28 MPH are substantially more severe than at 15 MPH. Protective gear becomes even more critical.

Decreased reaction time: At higher speeds, you have less time to react to obstacles, pedestrians, or road hazards.

Methods to Remove AOVO PRO Speed Limiter: Overview

There are three primary methods to remove or adjust the speed limiter on AOVO PRO scooters. Each has different complexity levels, risks, and degrees of speed increase:

1. Display Settings Method - Easiest, least invasive, moderate speed increase
2. Speed Limiter Wire Removal - Moderate difficulty, requires opening scooter deck, significant speed increase
3. Firmware Modification - Most complex, greatest speed increase, highest risk if done incorrectly

We'll cover each method in detail below.

Method 1: Display Settings Adjustment (Easiest)

This method uses the scooter's built-in settings to increase speed limits without opening the scooter or modifying firmware.

Difficulty Level: Easy

Tools required: None

Time required: 5-10 minutes

Potential speed increase: Up to 31 km/h (19 MPH) depending on your model's current limit

Step-by-Step Instructions

Option A: Power + Mode Button Method

1. Ensure your scooter is powered on and in its highest speed mode (usually "Sport" or "P3")
2. Press and hold both the power button and mode button simultaneously
3. Continue holding for approximately 5-10 seconds until the display screen flashes
4. The display should now show "limit" or "L" followed by a number indicating current speed limit
5. Use the mode button to increase the speed limit value (typically can increase to 31 km/h maximum)
6. Once you've set your desired limit, press the power button to save the changes
7. The scooter will restart with the new speed limit applied

Option B: Brake + Power + Light Button Method

1. Turn off the scooter completely
2. Press and hold the brake lever
3. While holding the brake, press the power button to turn on the scooter
4. Continue holding the brake as the scooter powers on
5. The display should show "P1" (indicating you're in settings mode)
6. Press the light button repeatedly to cycle through settings: P1 → P2 → P3
7. When you reach P3, release the brake
8. Press the "S" or mode button to access configuration settings
9. Use the mode button to navigate to the speed limiter setting
10. Adjust the speed limit to your desired value using the throttle or mode button
11. Press power to save and exit

Troubleshooting Display Method

• If buttons don't respond, ensure battery is charged above 50%
• Some firmware versions disable display settings modification—try firmware method instead
• Not all AOVO PRO variants support this method—consult your manual
• If changes don't save, you may need to repeat the process

Method 2: Physical Speed Limiter Wire Removal (Moderate)

This method involves opening the scooter's deck and disconnecting or cutting the speed limiter wire.

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Tools required:

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Allen key set (hex keys)
• Wire cutters (if cutting wire)
• Electrical tape (if cutting wire)
• Optional: Multimeter for wire identification

Time required: 30-45 minutes

Potential speed increase: Significant, often reaching 28-30 MPH (45-48 km/h) depending on model

Step-by-Step Instructions

WARNING: This method requires opening your scooter, which voids warranty. Proceed only if you accept this consequence.

1. Safety first: Turn off the scooter completely and disconnect the battery if possible
2. Remove deck cover: Locate the screws on the bottom of the deck (typically 8-12 screws). Use appropriate screwdriver to remove all screws. Keep screws organized for reassembly.
3. Access the controller: Carefully lift the deck cover to expose the internal wiring and controller unit
4. Locate the speed limiter wire: Look for a RED wire that connects to the controller. This wire acts as the speed sensor/limiter. On some AOVO PRO models, it may be labeled or bundled with other wires.
5. Disconnect or cut the wire:
   • Preferred method: If the wire has a connector, simply disconnect it
   • Alternative method: Cut the red speed limiter wire, then insulate both ends with electrical tape to prevent shorts
6. Secure loose wires: Use zip ties or electrical tape to secure any loose wires and prevent them from interfering with moving parts
7. Reassemble the deck: Carefully replace the deck cover and reinstall all screws in their original positions
8. Test the scooter: Power on the scooter and test in a safe, private area to verify the modification worked

Important Warnings for Wire Method

• Verify correct wire: Cutting the wrong wire can disable your scooter entirely or damage the controller
• Insulate cut wires properly: Exposed wire ends can short circuit and damage electrical components
• Don't overtighten screws: Can crack plastic housing
• Test in safe area first: The scooter may accelerate faster than you expect after modification

Method 3: Firmware Modification (Advanced)

This method involves using the AOVOPRO mobile app or third-party tools to install custom firmware that removes speed restrictions.

Difficulty Level: Advanced

Tools required:

• Smartphone (Android or iOS)
• AOVOPRO mobile app (365GO version with blue icon, NOT the black icon version)
• Custom firmware file compatible with your exact AOVO PRO model
• Bluetooth connection to scooter

Time required: 1-2 hours including research and testing

Potential speed increase: Maximum achievable, up to 28-30 MPH (45-48 km/h)

App-Based Firmware Modification

CRITICAL WARNING: Installing incompatible firmware can "brick" your scooter, rendering it completely unusable. Only use firmware specifically designed for your exact AOVO PRO model and current firmware version.

Step-by-step process:

1. Download the correct app: Install "365GO" app (blue icon) from your app store. The "AOVOPro" app (black icon) cannot upgrade firmware.
2. Connect via Bluetooth: Open the 365GO app and connect your scooter via Bluetooth (follow standard pairing procedure)
3. Check current firmware version: In the app, navigate to settings/about to see your current firmware version. Write this down.
4. Research compatible custom firmware: Search for "AOVO PRO custom firmware" specific to your model. Common firmware versions include "11k firmware" which unlocks higher speeds.
5. Obtain the firmware password: For many custom firmwares, you'll need a password. Common password for 11k firmware: 888888 (verify for your specific firmware)
6. Backup current settings: Some apps allow exporting current settings—do this before proceeding
7. Upload custom firmware:
   • In the 365GO app, navigate to firmware update section
   • Select "Custom Firmware" or "Manual Update"
   • Browse to the firmware file you downloaded
   • Enter the firmware password when prompted
   • Confirm you want to proceed (you may see a warning)
8. Monitor the update process: Do NOT turn off the scooter or close the app during the update. This typically takes 5-15 minutes. Keep the scooter charged above 50%.
9. Scooter will restart: After the update completes, the scooter will automatically restart
10. Access advanced settings: With custom firmware installed, you can now access previously locked settings in the app:
    • Navigate to advanced or hidden settings menu
    • Adjust maximum speed (can often set up to 28 MPH / 45 km/h)
    • Modify acceleration curves
    • Change power output limits
11. Test carefully: Test the modified scooter in a safe, controlled environment before regular use

Alternative: Scooter Hacking Utility (For Advanced Users)

Some riders use the Scooter Hacking Utility (SHU) software designed for Xiaomi and Ninebot scooters. While primarily designed for those brands, it may have limited compatibility with some AOVO PRO models:

• Research whether your specific AOVO PRO variant is compatible with SHU
• Follow SHU's detailed documentation for custom firmware installation
• Join scooter hacking communities for model-specific guidance
• Understand this method carries the highest risk of bricking your scooter

Firmware Modification Risks

• Bricking: Incompatible firmware can make your scooter completely non-functional
• No warranty: Firmware modifications are easily detected and immediately void warranty
• Security risks: Third-party firmware may contain malware or security vulnerabilities
• Irreversibility: Some firmware changes cannot be undone; you may not be able to restore factory firmware
• Update complications: Official updates from AOVO may fail or cause issues with custom firmware

After Modification: Safety and Maintenance

If you've removed your speed limiter, follow these essential safety and maintenance practices:

Essential Safety Equipment

Higher speeds demand better protective gear:

• Full-face helmet: NOT just a bicycle helmet—use a certified motorcycle or downhill skateboarding helmet rated for speeds above 20 MPH
• Gloves: Protect hands in falls (wrist guards also recommended)
• Knee and elbow pads: Significantly reduce injury in crashes
• Armored jacket: For speeds approaching 30 MPH
• Eye protection: Goggles or full-face helmet visor to protect from debris
• Bright/reflective clothing: Essential for visibility at higher speeds

Riding Practices for Modified Scooters

• Never ride above legal speed limits on public streets
• Use modified scooter only on private property with permission
• Avoid pedestrian areas entirely—higher speeds make collision avoidance nearly impossible
• Increase following distance: Allow much more space between you and vehicles/obstacles
• Brake earlier and more gradually: Your stopping distance has increased significantly
• Avoid wet or slippery surfaces: Traction is critical at higher speeds
• No passengers: Scooter is designed for one rider only; extra weight at high speeds is extremely dangerous

Increased Maintenance Requirements

Higher speeds accelerate wear on components:

Brake inspection: Check brake pads weekly. Expect to replace them 2-3x more frequently than stock speeds.

Tire pressure and wear: Check tire pressure before every ride. Inspect for wear weekly. Underinflated tires at high speeds can cause blowouts.

Bolt tightness: Vibration at higher speeds loosens bolts faster. Check and tighten all bolts monthly.

Steering column: Inspect for any play or wobble weekly. Even slight looseness becomes dangerous at 25+ MPH.

Battery health: Monitor battery performance closely. Higher speeds drain batteries faster and can reduce their overall lifespan.

Motor temperature: After rides, check if the motor is excessively hot. Overheating can damage the motor permanently.

Reversing Speed Limiter Removal

If you want to restore factory speed limits:

Reversing Display Settings Method

• Follow the same button combination procedure
• Reduce the speed limit back to factory setting (typically 20-25 km/h)
• Save the changes

Reversing Wire Cutting Method

• Reconnect the speed limiter wire if you disconnected it
• If you cut the wire, you'll need to splice it back together or purchase a replacement speed limiter wire from AOVO customer service or third-party sellers
• Proper soldering and heat-shrink tubing provide the most reliable reconnection

Reversing Firmware Modification

• Reinstall factory firmware through the 365GO app if available
• Contact AOVO customer service—they may be able to restore factory firmware (though this may come with a fee and admitting to modification)
• Some custom firmware modifications cannot be reversed

Alternatives to Speed Limiter Removal

If you desire more speed but are concerned about legality, safety, or warranty issues, consider these alternatives:

Purchase a Faster Scooter Legally

• Many high-performance scooters legally reach 28-35 MPH out of the box
• Models like the Apollo Pro, Kaabo Mantis, or NAMI Burn-E offer speeds of 30-40+ MPH
• These scooters are engineered for high speeds with appropriate brakes, suspension, and build quality
• Full warranty and manufacturer support
• Note: You'll still need to comply with local speed laws on public streets

Upgrade Components Instead

• Install a higher capacity battery for more sustained power and longer range at existing speeds
• Upgrade tires to performance models for better handling
• Improve brakes for better stopping power
• Add suspension for smoother rides

Use Your AOVO PRO's Existing Speed Modes

• Ensure you're using the highest factory speed mode (Sport/P3)
• Maintain optimal tire pressure for best performance
• Keep your scooter lightweight by removing unnecessary accessories
• Ensure battery is fully charged—speed decreases as battery depletes

Conclusion: Make an Informed Decision

Removing the speed limiter on your AOVO PRO electric scooter is technically possible through display settings adjustment, speed limiter wire removal, or firmware modification. Each method carries different levels of complexity, risk, and potential speed increases.

However, before proceeding with any modification, carefully weigh these critical factors:

Legal consequences: Exceeding legal speed limits can result in fines, confiscation, and liability issues. Always verify your local electric scooter regulations.

Safety risks: The AOVO PRO is engineered for specific speeds. Exceeding design limits compromises stability, braking performance, and component integrity, significantly increasing accident risk and injury severity.

Warranty voiding: Any modification will void your manufacturer warranty, leaving you responsible for all future repairs and replacements.

Responsibility: If you choose to modify your scooter, you accept full responsibility for any consequences, including personal injury, property damage, and legal penalties.

For most riders, the safest and most responsible approach is to enjoy your AOVO PRO within its factory specifications or upgrade to a scooter designed for the higher speeds you desire. If you do proceed with modifications, confine your riding to private property, always wear appropriate safety gear, and maintain your scooter meticulously.

Ride safely and responsibly.