This month, we're shining the spotlight on Kenny Wheeler, our latest VMAX Rider of the Month!
Kenny's scooter journey started the way a lot of great stories do - with a neighbor. After watching his neighbor, an outdoor enthusiast and self-described gearhead, roll out a brand-new VX2 Hub, Kenny couldn't resist asking for a test ride. A few minutes cruising the neighborhood was all it took, and he was hooked.
Based in southwest Missouri, Kenny has turned his VX2 Hub into a way to explore the Ozark Greenways trails around Springfield and beyond, discovering scenic routes he says he might have otherwise just driven past. When he's not out riding, Kenny works full-time as a graphic artist, and he shares his adventures with the local scootering community through his Instagram account, @showmescooters.
We caught up with Kenny to hear more about his story, his favorite rides, and the advice he'd give to anyone thinking about getting their first scooter.
What inspired you to start riding a VMAX scooter?
Living down the street from an outdoor enthusiast and resident gearhead has its perks. My neighbor's garage is a revolving door of new toys and one day he showed me his new VMAX VX2 Hub and let me take it for a spin. Just a few minutes riding through the neighborhood was all it took to convince me that I needed a scooter of my own.
Describe your perfect VMAX ride - where do you go, what do you see, and how does it feel?
Here in southwest Missouri, we have a number of outdoor trails known as the Ozark Greenways which provide scenic routes around Springfield, MO and surrounding areas. My first ride with a group of friends led us to the local botanical gardens with the trail following alongside the bank of a creek and probably one of the most relaxing and serene rides I've ever experienced.
How has using your scooter changed your daily routine or commute?
My scooter has given me a reason to spend more time outside. While I don't rely on it for daily commuting, it's become something I look forward to on the weekends and make a point to take it out during my free time. It's become an enjoyable hobby that helps me disconnect and explore places I might otherwise drive past.
What's your favorite feature of your VMAX scooter?
The hill-climbing performance is my favorite feature. It gives me the confidence to take routes I might otherwise avoid, and it's impressive how well the VX2 Hub maintains power on steep inclines.
Any funny, unexpected, or memorable stories from your rides?
My funny story begins when I decided to carry my scooter across a shallow creek after significant rain the day before. Everything was going to plan until I stepped onto the opposite bank and immediately lost my footing. Somehow, I managed to save the scooter from taking an unexpected swim, even if my pride wasn't quite as lucky 😅
Do you personalize your scooter in any way? Stickers, accessories, lights?
I'm very particular with the look of my scooter and prefer the stock black, but as a full-time graphic artist, I have toyed with the idea of personalizing my scooter with vinyl stickers sized and cut according to the deck size and handlebars of the VX2 Hub. I plan on posting DIY reels following the process through my Instagram handle focused solely on scootering in southwest MO (@showmescooters)
What advice would you give to someone thinking about getting their first scooter?
My biggest piece of advice is research, research, research! Take some time to think about where you'll be riding and what you want your scooter to do. Buying one that's tailored to your needs will lead to a much better experience than picking one based solely on looks or hype.
What does being part of the VMAX community mean to you?
To me, being part of the VMAX community means sharing a passion for getting outside, exploring new places, and helping others discover the fun of electric scooters. It's a chance to exchange tips, discover new places to ride, and help new riders make informed decisions while promoting safe and responsible riding.
Thanks for sharing your story, Kenny! Follow along with his rides through the Ozark Greenways on Instagram at @showmescooters.
