G4 Ultra Bluetooth Speaker Test: Is Listening to Music While Riding Safe?
Electric scooters are getting smarter. They have displays, apps, and now, built-in audio systems. The KuKirin G4 Ultra takes this a step further with a built-in Bluetooth speaker system integrated right into the front of the scooter.
But when you combine a motorized vehicle with a sound system, an obvious question arises: Is listening to music while riding actually safe?
Unlike wearing earbuds—which physically block your ear canal—an external speaker doesn‘t isolate you from the environment. But it still adds noise. How does it affect your awareness? What are the legal rules in Europe? And does it actually sound good?
We tested the G4 Ultra’s Bluetooth audio system to find out.
The Hardware: How the G4 Ultra Audio Works
The G4 Ultra doesn‘t use standard speakers hidden in the deck. It features a set of dual "Mantis-Eye" speakers integrated into the front stem area.
The Specs:
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Connection: Bluetooth 5.0 (connects to your smartphone)
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Controls: Managed via the 294×42mm smart display
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Function: Plays audio from your phone (music, podcasts, navigation)
The design is a signature visual element of the G4 Ultra. The dual-speaker array looks aggressive and futuristic, matching the scooter’s cyber-inspired aesthetic.
Sound Quality: What to Expect
Let’s be clear: these are not high-fidelity bookshelf speakers. They are small, outdoor-rated drivers designed for a specific purpose.
Volume: Surprisingly loud. At maximum volume, the audio is easily audible over wind noise at speeds up to 30km/h. Above that, wind noise starts to overwhelm the speakers.
Clarity: Mid-range and vocals come through clearly. For listening to podcasts, navigation directions, or pop music, the clarity is sufficient.
Bass: Weak. The speakers lack the physical size to produce deep bass. Electronic music and hip-hop will sound thin. Rock and acoustic tracks fare better.
The Verdict: It sounds like a high-quality portable Bluetooth speaker. It‘s good for casual listening, but it won’t satisfy an audiophile.
Audio Safety: The 60% Rule
Here is where the safety discussion begins. The G4 Ultra‘s speakers do not block your ears. This is a massive safety advantage over earbuds.
However, loud audio can still mask important environmental sounds.
The 60% Rule: Keep the volume at or below 60% of the maximum. At this level, you should still be able to hear:
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A car horn from 10 meters away
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A bicycle bell approaching from behind
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The sound of your own tires on gravel or wet pavement
When to turn it off entirely:
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High-speed riding (>30km/h): Wind noise forces you to turn the volume up, which masks traffic sounds.
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Complex intersections: When navigating a busy crossroad, you need complete auditory awareness.
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Heavy rain or fog: Reduced visibility means you must rely more on hearing.
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Night riding: Drivers are less likely to see you, so you must be able to hear them approaching.
Bluetooth Speaker vs. Headphones
How does the external speaker compare to wearing headphones on a scooter?
| Feature | G4 Ultra Bluetooth Speaker | Bone Conduction Headphones | Standard Earbuds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ear Canal | Open | Open | Blocked |
| Environmental Awareness | High | High | Low |
| Audio Quality | Medium | Low-Medium | High |
| Privacy | Zero (Everyone hears) | High | High |
| Legality | Usually Legal | Depends on Country | Often Illegal |
The safety winner: Both the external speaker and bone conduction headphones keep your ears open. However, an external speaker forces you to share your music with everyone around you—which is a different kind of problem.
European Regulations: What’s Legal?
The rules on audio while riding vary significantly across Europe.
France and Italy
These countries strictly prohibit wearing headphones or earbuds that block both ears. External speakers are not explicitly banned by the national highway codes. However, if the music is loud enough to cause a public disturbance, local police can still issue a fine for noise pollution.
Germany
German law requires you to maintain the ability to hear traffic. External speakers don‘t block your hearing, so they are generally permitted. Again, noise disturbance rules apply in residential areas.
Spain and Netherlands
Similar to Germany, the focus is on maintaining awareness. External speakers are tolerated, but playing loud music in quiet zones can result in fines.
The Golden Rule: No matter where you ride, if your music prevents you from hearing a car horn, you are riding illegally and dangerously.
The Best Scenarios to Use the G4 Ultra Audio
The built-in speaker is a feature best used selectively.
1. Park and Leisure Riding:
Cruising through a park or a quiet coastal path at 15-20km/h is the perfect environment for music. There’s low traffic, good visibility, and no need for hyper-awareness.
2. Navigation Audio:
Instead of staring at your phone screen, connect via Bluetooth and let the speaker announce your turns. The audio is clear enough for navigation instructions.
3. Private Property:
If you are riding on a closed course or private land, blast the music as loud as you want.
Do NOT use it:
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On busy arterial roads.
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In residential areas at night (noise nuisance).
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During heavy rain (water ingress risk at the speaker grill).
Other G4 Ultra Smart Features
The Bluetooth speaker isn‘t the only tech on the G4 Ultra. The scooter is packed with smart features:
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Smart Dashboard: The 294×42mm display shows speed, battery, mileage, and gear mode.
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App Connection: Connect your phone to track rides, adjust settings, and monitor battery health.
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BMS Temperature Protection: The system monitors battery temperature and limits power if it gets too hot.
For riders who want a premium smart-scooter experience, the KuKirin G4 Ultra electric scooter combines high performance with a digital cockpit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the G4 Ultra Bluetooth speaker loud enough for riding?
Yes, it is surprisingly loud. It can be heard clearly over wind noise up to about 30km/h. At higher speeds, wind noise will drown it out.
Can I listen to music while riding an e-scooter?
It depends on your local laws. Using an external speaker is generally legal, as it doesn‘t block your ears. However, you must keep the volume low enough to hear traffic.
Does the G4 Ultra speaker sound good?
It’s good for casual listening, podcasts, and navigation. The vocals are clear, but the bass is weak due to the small speaker size.
Is using a Bluetooth speaker safer than wearing headphones?
Yes. An external speaker leaves your ear canals open, allowing you to hear approaching cars and horns. Earbuds block these critical sounds.
How do I control the speaker volume?
You control the volume directly from your connected smartphone.
Will the speaker drain the scooter‘s battery?
The speaker draws power from the scooter’s main battery. While playing music at moderate volume has a negligible impact, playing at maximum volume for hours will slightly reduce your riding range.
Listen Smart, Ride Safe
The KuKirin G4 Ultra‘s Bluetooth speaker is a fun, practical feature. It lets you enjoy music or navigation without the isolation of earbuds. But like any tool, it has a time and a place.
Keep the volume under 60%. Turn it off in heavy traffic. Share the sound responsibly.
For riders who want the ultimate tech package in an electric scooter, the KuKirin G4 Ultra electric scooter delivers dual motors, a smart display, and a built-in audio system.
Apply discount code NEW20 at checkout to save on your next KuKirin:
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KuKirin S1 Max — €219
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KuKirin G2 Pro — €419
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KuKirin G2 Max — €619
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KuKirin G3 Pro — €1,129
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KuKirin G4 — €829
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KuKirin G2 Ultra — €659
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KuKirin X1 — €1,209
Prices reflect discount code NEW20 applied.