The Thin Line Between a Motorcycle and an Electric Bicycle
An electric bicycle is defined as a bicycle with an integrated electric motor which can be used for propulsion. The more powerful e-bikes also tend to be closer to a moped-style functionality, and one such example would be the machines created by San Francisco based Onyx.
The company aims to “reintroduce tough, fun to ride, nostalgic motorbikes with an updated affordable electric drive-train” with their new line of electric bikes that take inspiration from popular mopeds in the 70s and 80s.
(All images taken from Onyx)
According to Onyx, both bikes they offer will have the highest torque direct drive motors in their class while delivering a 2-stroke like power-band feeling throughout the entire throttle range.
Let’s take a closer look at these bikes.
The RCR is described to be a cafe blaster, where “pure adrenaline meets style.”
In full power mode, it boasts a top speed of 96.5 km/h. It may not sound like much, but for a mish-mash e-bike motorbike style contraption is pretty impressive. With the touch of a button, the rider can also change the vehicle down to a low-power e-bike mode where its speed will be limited to 32 km/h.
Apparently, the figures can be adjusted as well, so you can set the power and speed limits to whatever suits your local e-bike regulations. In Singapore’s case, the maximum speed is 23 km/h.
Check out the RCR teaser video below!
On the other hand, if you are opting for a smaller and cheaper version, there is the CTY bike.
The CTY version has less power, a 16-Ah battery and boasts a top speed of about 48 km.h in full power mode.
Here’s a teaser video of the CTY if you are interested:
The designs of the RCR and CTY are definitely really unique as well, so if you are looking to stand out in a crowd of mostly mundane machines, these bikes would be a good choice to keep in mind.
Onyx has also teamed up with Treatland, the premier moped parts and accessories shop to offer customization options for either of the electric bikes.
The company will also be selling a kit with all the requisite mirrors, indicators and license plate hangers to turn the RCR into an electric motorcycle that can be registered for road use.
Deliveries for these electric bicycles slash motorcycle vehicles are slated for December 2018 and January 2019.
Check out their Indiegogo page for more information.