How to fold the scooter Xiaomi 1S: instructions with photos and tips for operation

Why it is important to be able to fold the scooter correctly

The Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter 1S is one of the most popular options for urban travel, but its compactness depends largely on the ability to fold properly. Incorrect folding can lead to failure of the locking mechanism, damage to the wires or even unexpected opening during carrying. For example, if you do not lock the steering wheel in the folded position, it can open sharply when tilted, which can lead to a fall of the scooter and damage to the body.

In this article, we will examine not only the basic instructions, but also hidden nuances that the manufacturer does not specify in the official manual – for example, how to avoid backlash of the steering column after repeated folding or why the mechanism sometimes “snags” at low temperatures, and you will learn what errors lead to 80% of the breakage of the locking hook (according to statistics from Xiaomi service centers).

If you frequently transport a scooter in a subway, car or store it in a confined space, the ability to fold it quickly and safely will save you time and nerves. And for those who have just started mastering the Mi Electric Scooter 1S, we have prepared a section with answers to frequent questions - for example, can you fold the scooter "on hot" immediately after the trip.

Preparation of the scooter for folding: 5 mandatory steps

Before you start folding, make sure that the scooter is ready for this procedure. Neglect of preparation is the main reason for jamming the mechanism or damage to the cables.

• 🔋 Turn off the power. Press and hold the Power button for 3 seconds until the light goes out. This will prevent the motor from accidentally operating when manipulating the frame.
• 🧹 Clean the folding mechanism. Dust, sand or moisture in the hinges can cause corrosion or make it difficult to move. Use a dry cloth or compressed air.
• 🔍 Check the hook. It should move freely without jamming. If there are traces of rust, treat it with silicone lubricant (do not use it). WD-40 — It attracts dust!).
• 🚫 Make sure the scooter is on a level surface. folding on an inclined plane can deform the frame.
• 🔗 If you have gadgets on the steering wheel (such as a phone holder or headlight), remove them so as not to damage when folding.

Pay special attention to the condition of the shock gums at the bend of the frame. If they are worn or torn, replace them before folding, this will save the cables from rubbing. In Xiaomi service centers, there are often cases where users ignored this point, and as a result, you had to change all the wiring.

Next articleHow to fold Xiaomi 1S in 30 seconds

Now, to the process itself, follow the instructions carefully -- order is important -- if you break the sequence, you can jam the steering column.

1. Step 1. Unlock the steering wheel Press the red lock button (under the steering wheel, on the right side) and simultaneously pull the steering wheel up. The effort should be moderate - if the steering wheel fails, do not apply force! This is a sign that the mechanism is blocked due to improper position of the scooter or contamination.
2. Step 2. Fold the steering wheel after unlocking, gently lower the steering wheel down until it rests on the base of the platform. Make sure it's up straight -- skewing can damage the cables inside the column. You should hear a slight click, which means that the locking hook has fallen into place.
3. Step 3. Hold the steering wheel in the folded position On the left side of the steering wheel there is a black plastic clamp (sometimes confused with the power button!) Pull it on yourself and fix it on the frame hook. This step is critical - without fixing the steering wheel can spontaneously open.
4. Step 4: Fold the platform (optional) If you want to minimize the dimensions (for example, to accommodate in the trunk), press the gray button on the rear wing and fold the platform in half. Be careful - in this position the scooter is less stable!

Here’s what a properly folded scooter should look like:

If you notice that the steering wheel or scooter has become less stable after folding, the steering column mount is probably weakened, in which case you will need to tighten the bolts (instructions in the section "What to do if the mechanism catches").

💡

If the scooter is difficult to fold in winter, apply a special frost-resistant lubricant to the hinges (for example, Liqui Moly Silicone-Spray). Under no circumstances do not use oil-based oils - they thicken in the cold!

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced Xiaomi 1S owners sometimes make mistakes that lead to breakdowns over time, and here are the most common ones – and how to prevent them:

• 🔧 Folding on the go. Some people try to fold the scooter without stopping completely. It's not only dangerous for you (risk of falling), but also for the mechanism: the impact load can bend the fixing hook.
• 💦 Wet storage. If the scooter is wet after rain, dry it first, especially the hinge area. 2-3 The machine will start to bite in the month.
• 🔌 Ignoring the steering wheel, if the steering wheel wobbles after folding, it's a sign of bearing wear or loosening of the bolts, and without repair, it'll cause uneven wear and vibrations at high speed.
• 🔥 Folding immediately after heavy driving. If the motor or battery is hot, let it cool down. 5-10 Overheating can deform the plastic elements of the retainer.

One of the most insidious mistakes is to store it in folded condition under weight, for example, if you put a bag on a scooter or sit on it (yes, there are cases!), it deforms the frame at the bend. In Xiaomi services, these scooters are repaired only to replace the frame, which costs up to 60% of the price of a new device.

⚠️ Attention! Never fold a scooter if it's on the platform or it's on the steering wheel. This puts an uneven load on the hinge and can break the locking mechanism. Always place the scooter on both legs before folding.

Another caveat: if you use an extra lock (like a cable), remove it before folding, and a strained cable can skew the steering wheel and damage the cables inside the column.

What to do if the mechanism is stuck or not fixed

If the scooter doesn't fold smoothly or the hook doesn't click, don't panic. In 90% of cases, you can solve the problem yourself.

1. Clean and lubricate Take a dry toothbrush and clean the hinges of dirt. Then apply silicone grease (not oil!) to moving parts, for example, CRC 2-26 or Würth HHS-K.
2. If the steering wheel is a luft, you will need a hexagon of 5 mm. Pull up the two bolts on the steering column (they are hidden under rubber plugs).
3. If the hook doesn't click, check it for deformation. Sometimes it's enough to bend it with pliers. If the hook is broken, replace it (article for Xiaomi 1S - MD-JD001).
4. Check cables Make sure that the wires are not clamped between the parts of the frame. If damage to the insulation is noticeable, seal them with tape or thermal shrinkage.

If after all the manipulations, the problem remains, perhaps, the bearings of the steering column are worn out, their replacement requires disassembling the scooter - it is better to contact the service. The average cost of repairs in Moscow is 1,500-2,500 rubles (excluding spare parts).

⚠️ Attention! If you hear a creak or a crunch when folding, stop the procedure immediately, it's a sign that sand or metal shavings have hit the hinges, and further attempts to fold the scooter can lead to jamming of the mechanism and expensive repairs.

How to transport a folded scooter: tips and accessories

Folded Xiaomi 1S near-weight 12,5 kg, and its dimensions (108 × 43 × 49 They can take it by subway, by car, or even to the office, but there are a few rules that will make transportation safer:

• 🚇 Metro/public transport:
• 🚗 In the car:
• ✈️ On the plane:

For ease of transportation, you can buy accessories:

If you often travel with a scooter, pay attention to foldable models with a fast mechanism (for example, Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter 4 Pro). They fold up 2 times faster and have a more reliable lock.

💡

Never carry a scooter in folded condition on public transport without a cover - this is not only ethical, but also protects the mechanism from dust and moisture.

How to unload the scooter back: the reverse procedure

It's easier to fold the Xiaomi 1S than to fold it, but there's a nuance here.

1. If the platform has been folded, unlock it first by pressing the gray button on the rear wing and straightening it to a click.
2. Unlock the black clamp on the steering wheel (pull it on yourself).
3. Pull the steering wheel up until it's upright. You should hear the snap of the lock.
4. Check that the steering wheel is not sluggish. If there is a game, tighten the bolts (instructions in the section "What to do if the mechanism catches").
5. Turn on the scooter and check the brakes and the motor. If the scooter behaves strangely after folding (for example, twitches at the start), you may have damaged the cables - contact the service.

After decomposition, always check:

• 🔄 Smoothness of the steering wheel - it should rotate without jamming.
• 🔋 Battery Indication – If the scooter is not turned on, check the cable connection.
• 🚲 Brake operation – press the brake lever to make sure the pads are triggered.

If the scooter makes unusual sounds (squeaking, knocking) after unfolding, it is likely that the bearings or frame were damaged when folded. Don't ignore these signals - timely repairs will cost less than replacing the entire steering column.

Frequent questions about folding Xiaomi 1S