Segway is giving its compact MUXI utility e-bike a fairly significant upgrade, adding everything from automatic electronic shifting to front suspension and a higher Class 3 top speed.

The new Segway MUXI Pro builds on the company’s existing short-tail cargo e-bike platform, launched earlier this year as part of Segway’s continued expansion into the electric bike industry.

The design retains the distinctive swooping step-through frame while packing in a number of features that should make it more capable as an everyday car-replacement-style e-bike. 

Perhaps the most interesting upgrade is the new 9-speed electronic drivetrain with automatic shifting.

Besides saving riders from having to think about shifting, the wider drivetrain also helps the MUXI Pro reach a pedal-assisted top speed of 28 mph (45 km/h). Riders can select between Class 1, 2, and 3 operation through the Segway app, subject of course to local regulations.

As such regulations continue to shift and fragment in cities and states around the US in absence of a single federal standard, riders are reminded to check their local laws.

Power comes from a 750W direct-drive rear motor producing 80 Nm of torque, paired with a 716Wh battery. Segway claims up to 73 miles (117 km) of range, though as usual, expect real-world range to vary considerably based on assist level, terrain, rider weight, and riding conditions.

That direct-drive motor also enables regenerative braking and Hill Descent Control (basically like engine braking on an ICE vehicle, where the bike won’t simply continue accelerating due to gravity), while Hill-Start Assist helps prevent the bike from rolling backward on inclines. There’s even traction control designed to detect rear wheelspin.

Another major improvement is the addition of a 70mm front suspension fork, addressing one of the limitations of many rigid utility bikes. Hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors handle stopping duties, while the bike rolls on chunky 20×3-inch tires. Front and rear fenders are now standard equipment, as are turn signals integrated into the lighting system.

Don’t forget thought that this is still very much a utility bike. The MUXI Pro is rated for a hefty 418 lb (190 kg) total payload, and Segway offers an optional passenger kit rated for passengers up to 120 lb (54 kg). Front and center baskets are also available.

Segway has loaded the bike with its increasingly expansive suite of smart features, too, including Apple Find My, GPS tracking, proximity-based AirLock, Lost Mode, OTA updates, and a color TFT display with navigation. Some connected features require a subscription after the first year, as is common for GPS and data-connected services.

At 82.2 lb (37.3 kg), the MUXI Pro certainly isn’t a lightweight e-bike, but that’s not really the point here. It’s a compact cargo bike designed to carry people and stuff without growing into the footprint of a full-size long-tail.

The Segway MUXI Pro will be available in Anthracite and Reef Blue, priced at $1,999.99. US sales are scheduled to begin September 22 through Segway dealers and the company’s online store.