I think the idea of having a removable battery is a game changer in terms of bike theft. Who would steel a bike that won’t go. And manufacturers could ensure batteries are only sold to registered owners and mapped to their bike.
Yes but what if the thief orders a dupe battery from another country? In NYC the thieves are stealing vans first and then lifting the bikes and mopeds into the back. My friends van was stolen and he had a gps device inside. When the cops stopped the thieves there was 2 stolen bikes in the back.
My 'little' bike is a 125 Honda Innova. It weighs 99 kilos, does 60mph, has a decent front disc and reasonable rear drum, and cost me £1,500 8 years ago when it was 3 years old. It does 140mpg and a range of about 150 miles. A new Honda SH125 (today's equivalent to my Innova) is about £3,500 new. So I guess even 'little' electric bikes have a way to go before they take over from conventional 125 large-wheel step-throughs.
The little electric bike is still going to be about a third of the cost to run (even less if you get cheap overnight rates) plus next to no maintenance costs. If it does what you need, the gap isn't as big as it first seems... And for me the Maeving looks much better than most scooters.
Maeving have a new faster version, the RM1S will be released in April 2024, it has a top speed of 65mph and still has an 80 mile range with the two batteries. Maeving are currently taking orders for a deposit of £500. The RM1S will retail for £7495. Running the RM1S is £0.01p per mile, that is excellent value.
I think this appeals to us as motorcyclists more than eBikes do, and many of those ubiquitous critters cost more than this Maeving model. I think the points about commuting are well taken: keeping one battery, on charge, at work, and using the “tank” for storage, similar to underseat storage on a scooter, and perhaps adding panniers. It’s a clever design, at a really approachable price. Also, there’s always the chance that the cost of those modular battery packs will come down, and that software advances might eke out a bit more performance in speed and range.
A good sensible bike to get around town. Well done, British engineer guys! Especially the removable batteries, make it a good choice for doordash deliveries or other commercial use etc... 🤔👍
5k when new keep 2 years, warranty out, battery only charges to 68%. Resale value £1200……. Electric mountain bike conversion 2000 kilowatt, big gel saddle, luggage rack and bags, 40 mph, same range £1200 plus donor bike is the way to go. I built mine in half a day. Great review chops.
I've done similar. Built a 170mm travel full suspension enduro mountain bike and fitted a CYC Stealth Gen3. Not legal, but neither are those scooters you see everywhere, neither is breaking the speed limit, small number plates, tinted visors and a lot of the other stuff a lot of bikers do. Just don't take the piss too much and don't get caught.
I converted a mountain bike for £900. Cheap lovely condition bike from Facebook and a 1000w kit with 52v 20ah battery. Does about 30mph easily, obviously not legal but you are never actually going to get in trouble.
For a devout 'Petrol Head' 🤔 That was a truely honest review! 😳 A very fair, honest and indepth review, of a bike you'd never normally have in your garage. Top job Chop's 👍
Chopsy, you are an absolute legend! I love the fact that you will not road test electric bikes with ridiculous price tags. Someone needs to let these companies know that they're out of touch with what folks are prepared to spend on an electric bike! Honestly the thought of electric bikes makes me want to puke! However, I totally agree with you, little commuter electric bikes is where they maybe make sense. My only complaint would be the range on one battery. it should be 80 on one battery not two. However, it's a start and no doubt would get better as the tech improves but sorry to say you can't beat a combustion engine. I hope the future of motorcycles is hydrogen fuel not electric.
Said it for a while since I first have seen Maeving bikes. Was promised one to test but they forgot me I think 🤔 definitely a good electric bike and perfect for that commuter in cities.
Thank you for the test drive. I would have liked a little more depth. I've had the RM1 for 3 weeks and I was amazed that it doesn't have recuperation. Isn't that an issue on your island? As an advertised city motorcycle, it should be able to recuperate because there are traffic lights every few hundred meters. The suspension at the front is quite hard and at the rear, due to the wheel hub motor, it is quite stubborn: you can also hear it in your voice. The handles are also a bit short... I always had my palms on the wheel of the grips. The battery system is great and the look is super stylish. Greetings from Berlin
Hey Chopsy. Loveley video. Nice round that area. Not my thing ELECTRIC BIKES other than COMMUTING into cities then fantastic. Anything else, not yet ready. When I see those MAEVINGS, for some reason I allways think of the film THE ROCKETEER. The backpack that gave him the power of flight. THANKYOU. 👍👍👍
I agree, this to me seems the most viable electric bike. Reasonably priced and all the performance you need for an urban commuter. The removable battery is a great idea too. I rode a Zero recently, staggering performance but once the novelty wears off you’re left with a very limited expensive toy.
I wonder how it rides compared to the horwin cr6 or super soco tc max ? Those are slightly less in price but claim a top speed of 55mph - 60 mph. Definitely agree that the only viable market currently for electric is as urban commuting. I wouldn't pay £20k for a zero that does 100 miles then takes 30 mins to fast charge! Be great to see you review some of the other 125cc equivalent electric bikes to see what else is out there at low cost. Ride safe 👍🇬🇧
TC max is the best one. It does get to 60mph my friend has one. Range isn't the best at about 40 miles ish when riding it fast but for city use it's perfect.
Langston, Havant and the island looking resplendent, Chops. Lived on the island for 21 years. Great little ‘bike for college/uni kids, for example up to south downs college, or Pompey Uni sort of ride from the island. Traffic is shocking these days whenever I go back. Great review, thanks. 👍👍
An interesting review, I discovered I'm definitely not the target buyer. I can't see why I'd buy this instead of a 125 if I was a CBT license holder, 125 benefits include cost, ease of refuelling, range, and performance. If I had a full licence, I could buy a Royal Enfield Classic 350 with under 500 miles, still under warranty for ~£3k and all of the 125 benefits remain. 🤷♂️ I also know my employer wouldn't allow a battery to be on charge unsupervised that wasn't business related due to being a fre risk.
My ideal utility vehicle is an electric MG4, perfect for commuting, hauling groceries and taking a cabana to the beach. But for two wheels, I can’t go past the throbbing engine of my beautiful Speed Twin 😋
That would make more sense, the 45mph top speed of the RM1 is too close to an e-bike in capability but unable to use bike paths. Currently, the RM1 is a fashion accessory.
We test road this at wheels loved it. No frills great fun. Took a while to get used to the linked brakes though. Talking to the guys at maeving they were so passionate about it. I was the same about the initial power pulling off it just needed that little bit more of a kick.
Thanks Chopsy, and I love what these guys are doing. This feels like exactly the right implementation for an electric motorcycle, as opposed to what Zero and Livewire are doing. Perfect little commuter for city streets at the right price point. I'm sure its performance would improve significantly, if you were to lessen the rider's weight by 4 or 5 stone, LoL.😂 Here's to hoping this little bike makes its way to the States.
Does it have the same warranty conditions as so many other electric vehicles whereby you mustn’t let the battery go lower than 20% charge before you recharge it and you mustn’t charge it more than 80%? In other words is the range actually only 60% of that quoted?
Despite my love for that quote and The Matrix as a whole, that quote was to display that Neo is capable of stopping the "inevitable" unless you take Matrix 4 as canon which it kinda is kinda isn't.
Cracking review and ride out to the cerne abbas giant John, lovely bike, but can't see the vid on your channel anymore,wonder why 😂so left a comment here instead.keep up the great reviews cheers Ian
You can get 50cc bikes for around £1500 and 125's for under £2k. Even a CB125 can be had for £3k. I'm really struggling to see where this comes into that because an extra £3k (presuming you can make the range work for you) is a lot of petrol even at current prices. Infact its enough to take the 125 around 40k miles. Remember you also have to pay to charge the electric. Then when the battery inevitably drops on its ar5e its "only" £1k to replace it - or around 13k miles worth of fuel in the 125 again. Also remember the rest of the bike will have similar wear and tear to any other bike. Suspension, steering, brakes, tyres and all the rest are still wear items just as they would be on anything else. All you're really saving on that front is chain and sprockets and service oil/filters - again on a 125 not exactly bank breaking stuff. Thats before we get into how they saved weight on this - no rear seat or pegs, small seat, cycle parts that would look more at home on a pushbike and so on. If this is equivalent to a 50cc then you would be far better off buying a 50cc, running it until it stops and buying another. As far as ev's go it makes about as much sense as they can but its still a very expensive and wasteful way to make no difference to the planet.
@@LambChopRides Fair point but they can also use cycle lanes, don't need license/insurance/etc and don't need anywhere to store them so long as you have a hallway. I have no idea why people would pay £10k for a pushbike either. To me that would be an old superdukeR and £3k worth of fun juice.
Stay critical on this Chops. It's their job to impress us with these products.. Initial thoughts and notes: This is a cool thing. They should embrace the moped market, it's huge (outside the u.s) Is it mod-able? Doesn't get more British than tinkering, another huge market I'd fancy mine with a twin front disc conversion, a bit more poke, panniers to carry 2x batteries, and a pair of SV650 rear shocks or something 😁😂😂 Could even add some custom fairing on there for max aero efficiency lol
Can't believe you said it was equivalent to a 50cc for new riders 🙄 But glad you tried this out and liked it. The new 7Kw version out next year looks better. Electrics need to advance a bit more, never replace a big bike, but they can do better than the 50mph+ models that are mostly about for the last 3-4 years
Agree with others that a Honda PCX or maybe a CB125f and 150mpg for half the price is a clear winner. No range anxiety and a higher top speed by 20mph too. In fairness, the Mavis (yes I remember her) is good looking and is has the innovation the market for these city scooters needs. It the tech just isn't there yet. From a buyers perspective this thing should be faster, have longer range and be a 3rd of the price before the massess begin to take it more seriously. Good effort from them though. In the meantime where's my back 2 the future hover board....!
These really make sense if you live in a city. Living in London I do a lot of short trips and one of these would really make sense. But if I was going to drop the money would I opt for one these of a 125cc like you suggest. As much as I like these electric bikes I think I'd still probably get a Mutt or a CB125 for about £2500.
Freddie Dobbs reviewed this, I seem to remember. I agree with you about big electric bikes, LCR. Usually, I refuse to watch videos featuring electric bikes. As a matter of principle. I rather like this Maeving, though. Nick J
Not that I’m considering buying one ev, but one thing I hope they do is to standardize the battery size and connection moving forward. That way when the new battery tech comes out, you can buy the new one with bigger capacity without having to buy a whole new bike, that would make a much greater longevity and make more sense out of the 5k you’re paying.
That's actually not a very good idea, electric vehicles have different batteries for a reason. To put it in gas vehicle terms it would be like wanting all bikes to use the same fuel tank, pump, and injectors. You're not going to get very far (figuratively and literally) using those parts from a Grom on an R1. For example if you wanted to run a base model Zero off these batteries even two of them in series wouldn't be enough voltage for full power (and they probably won't have the current output either) and those wouldn't even get you a third of the range as the Zero's battery. Also the Zero's built in charger won't work with them so now you're going to be requiring every bike to use an external charger. So in practice you'd want at least 6 of these, preferably 9, at £6-9k (not including the price for 6-9 chargers) to power a base model Zero (and good luck actually fitting them in the space available) versus like £5k for one designed specifically for the bike.
@@HomoKieran I didn’t make it clear but what I meant is to have a standard with in the similar sort of segment, where for example in this case a small commuter which has a low power motor. And the connector would be able to handle the power output requirements, it just new battery fit in there with higher capacity in the same size. Of course it is not possible to standardize everything, you will need like 6-10 of the batteries this size to get enough juice for those big motors and that not even considering if theses have high enough output, just pull them all out and charge them would be a very bad idea. What my idea suggests is more like you have AAA batteries in your tv remote, and they get better over the years you can also have more chargers with rechargeable lithium ion batteries but the size stays the same you just buy them and put it in without charging a new remote type of deal.
@@changliu7346 Even among these lower power shorter range bikes you've got voltages ranging from like 36V to 72V. It all depends on what the motors and controllers require, take away all those choices and limit manufacturers to one setup and you'll essentially have a bunch of the same bikes in slightly different shapes and different bodywork. It will basically be the same as the current state of 125 scooters. They wouldn't be bad bikes and they'd do the job for a lot of people, like those scooters, but just like them they're not going to be what everyone wants.
@@HomoKieran that’s the idea, not everyone needs something shiny and powerful, for practical daily use, cost is the most important. look at what the manufacturers does now, one engine tuned differently in multiple styles of bikes, it saves costs and let them put on bikes with competitive prices. Most selling Honda is the cub, not everyone has something to do with the fireblade. For me low cost with usable performance and bunch of different styles to choose from is a big w. Of course you could be getting some thing special and tailor made, and I think everyone wants good things, but in reality they can’t put that much money into these things.
I hope they do well as a new UK manufacturer but I do worry if Maeving will still be around in a few years time when the owners need to replace the batteries.
I would still say 5k is too expensive for what it is I understand it’s a commuter and not made for speed but you can buy a brand new Yamaha or any other new 125 for that and get a lot more for the money other than you will be saving money on fuel and I reckon insurence would be less
Put a rack on it and make it massively more practical, Maeving are aware of this suggestion! I’d o think it looks very cool and is obviously much more sensible than an Electric, 2.8+ ton SUV with 700 hp.
Do you remember when $6300 would buy you a decent new motorcycle.... Buy a used bike learn to wrench on it yourself. Not only will you gain a skill and the knowledge to keep it out of the shop but also something that can actually get you places that that little thing never will.
Chopsy, did you see the latest video from BikeMatters on UA-cam on the 7 best Cafe Racers? Most of them are pretty much half the price of the RM1 or there abouts. It raises the same question, is this electric bike still not competitively priced against it's combustion counterparts?
Great review. I still think that £5k is too much for a commute only bike when you can get a 100/125cc bike for a lot less? But, I do like the looks and would consider one for local trips but not at the price (£5k could get me a very nice 2nd hand bike 🙃)
Interesting vid. Charming is indeed the word. Although I guess it stops like a bicycle as it appears to have the brakes of one. Nonetheless I can very much see the appeal of it & completely agree with your philosophy of boycotting larger electric bikes. They just aren't viable in terms of cost, range & through no fault of their own, insufficient infrastructure.
Interesting bike. Think you got the prices wrong, though. You're quoting £1000 cheaper than their website (Unless this includes a Chopsy discount when mentioning your name!). 😊
price has now been dropped back to 5k for single battery... the 's' model coming out appears to have the better performance and the dummy tank stays as storage but a whopping 7.5k!! would suit all my needs but I can't stretch to that price
Unfortunately this doesn’t really make any more sense than just buying a conventional 125cc bike since most 125s are just better at every thing compared to this. They’re cheaper, faster and will give more range so why get one of these, unless ya like the looks 🤔
I think in your review you summed the bikes uses up perfectly, the only trick I think Maeving have missed was to have the ability to charge without having to dismount the batteries every time, for the people who will garage the bike it will for some be a bit of a nuisance dis-mounting and mounting, it would only have been a relatively simple wiring job. Thank you.
It's got made in Britain appeal too. However for me it's not there yet.. I'm still loving the ktm 690 which you forced me to buy at gunpoint . Gotta thank you for that.
This is only really suited to urban environments. Hopefully they will come out with one that will top at 70+mph, that way it will cope with country lanes, A and B roads keeping with traffic and not become a massive overtake risk.
Low and behold the new model RM1S has been revealed and preorders are open. Top speed was quoted at 65mph, but this has now changed to 70mph on the website. My order for the new model is in.
Realistically, if you want a genuine commuter, something with storage and weather protection be-it ICE or Electric, makes more sense. i.e a scooter. Unless of course being fashionable/trendy matters to you. Great product though from a British company, albeit for a niche market.
As much as I don't 100% agree with this bike, a lot of the 'premium' 125's are 5k nowadays so it's correctly priced...but they will do 70mph and 150+mpg and they'll out accellerate this bike too. I don't see where this bike beats the likes of a CB125R or the like
The big point about removable batteries on a commuter is that any one can charge them. Many people don't have the ability to charge EVs on the street. This will be a bigger and bigger issue. Removable means you can .... but its a lot of lugging everyday.
@@LambChopRides ah no worries! I was halfway through! I've a 18 speed triple rs, used for fun and commuting from country lanes to city. Would you go for a new smt or 2 year old super adventure s? Cheers and love the content!
I have a 2019 Zero Sr that will do over 90. It's very fast, but it's expensive. This bike in this video is a great idea for anyone living in the city, but I think I would much rather ride electric scooters like Lime scooters.
On a more serious note, the other model ie the RM1S, which gives you 65mph but the price being £7,500, would you say that's not something you'd consider due to the price? £5k isn't that bad, but £2.5k more for 15mph extra? Nope!
@@GingerPiston but it's not electric. That's the point Chopsy is making. Inner city commuting up to 80 miles ie 40 ish miles each way is acceptable. However, long distances where regenerative braking isn't possible to add recharge back into the battery, an electric bike just doesn't make any sense whatsoever. There are so many good 125cc bikes on the market for £5k that you'd have to be pretty dedicated to want a electric bike only.
@@GingerPiston totally agree with you. To me, electric cars/bikes make no sense to me with the current state of battery technology and the charging infrastructure or lack thereof
Erm 6 grand ..an electric push bike will do better and hell of a lot cheaper.. it is what it is but imo it aint the way forward.. whens the next bus due 👍
I think the idea of having a removable battery is a game changer in terms of bike theft. Who would steel a bike that won’t go. And manufacturers could ensure batteries are only sold to registered owners and mapped to their bike.
Yes but what if the thief orders a dupe battery from another country? In NYC the thieves are stealing vans first and then lifting the bikes and mopeds into the back. My friends van was stolen and he had a gps device inside. When the cops stopped the thieves there was 2 stolen bikes in the back.
@@romyr3687 like I suggested, manufacturers could ……
@@romyr3687 the type of person who buys stolen bikes from thieves wouldn't pay any more for the bike than a replacement battery would cost.
My 'little' bike is a 125 Honda Innova. It weighs 99 kilos, does 60mph, has a decent front disc and reasonable rear drum, and cost me £1,500 8 years ago when it was 3 years old. It does 140mpg and a range of about 150 miles. A new Honda SH125 (today's equivalent to my Innova) is about £3,500 new. So I guess even 'little' electric bikes have a way to go before they take over from conventional 125 large-wheel step-throughs.
The little electric bike is still going to be about a third of the cost to run (even less if you get cheap overnight rates) plus next to no maintenance costs. If it does what you need, the gap isn't as big as it first seems...
And for me the Maeving looks much better than most scooters.
Exactly. I own a lovely little 2021 model sym 125cc bike. Does 70mph and cost me 2 grand after the previous owner used it very little.
I agree it's lovely to look at, I don't know what the life of the battery is but don't forget to factor in that cost
Nice one Chopsy, and Maeving announcing tomorrow a 65mph top speed, they were listening 😎
Maeving have a new faster version, the RM1S will be released in April 2024, it has a top speed of 65mph and still has an 80 mile range with the two batteries. Maeving are currently taking orders for a deposit of £500. The RM1S will retail for £7495. Running the RM1S is £0.01p per mile, that is excellent value.
I think this appeals to us as motorcyclists more than eBikes do, and many of those ubiquitous critters cost more than this Maeving model. I think the points about commuting are well taken: keeping one battery, on charge, at work, and using the “tank” for storage, similar to underseat storage on a scooter, and perhaps adding panniers. It’s a clever design, at a really approachable price. Also, there’s always the chance that the cost of those modular battery packs will come down, and that software advances might eke out a bit more performance in speed and range.
I'm absolutely amazed by this video...... you managed to film on a sunny day😂
It's 29 degrees today🤣
Buy a Honda 125 PCX for £3700 for commuting, now that makes sense. This will just become a collectors item.
Which the PCX won't I guess. There's def a market for this type of bike imho.
It's still an appliance, but it has character.
but its electric no engine problems or maintenance
Yeah, or a supercub. 180 mpg instead of 30-40 mile range
Have you seen how reliable electric cars are? @@yenkodavi3573
A good sensible bike to get around town.
Well done, British engineer guys!
Especially the removable batteries, make it a good choice for doordash deliveries or other commercial use etc... 🤔👍
5k when new keep 2 years, warranty out, battery only charges to 68%. Resale value £1200……. Electric mountain bike conversion 2000 kilowatt, big gel saddle, luggage rack and bags, 40 mph, same range £1200 plus donor bike is the way to go. I built mine in half a day. Great review chops.
Yes but thats not legal in the UK, also an electric mountain bikes cost 3-4k!
I've done similar. Built a 170mm travel full suspension enduro mountain bike and fitted a CYC Stealth Gen3. Not legal, but neither are those scooters you see everywhere, neither is breaking the speed limit, small number plates, tinted visors and a lot of the other stuff a lot of bikers do. Just don't take the piss too much and don't get caught.
I converted a mountain bike for £900. Cheap lovely condition bike from Facebook and a 1000w kit with 52v 20ah battery. Does about 30mph easily, obviously not legal but you are never actually going to get in trouble.
For a devout 'Petrol Head' 🤔
That was a truely honest review! 😳
A very fair, honest and indepth review, of a bike you'd never normally have in your garage.
Top job Chop's 👍
Chopsy, you are an absolute legend! I love the fact that you will not road test electric bikes with ridiculous price tags. Someone needs to let these companies know that they're out of touch with what folks are prepared to spend on an electric bike! Honestly the thought of electric bikes makes me want to puke! However, I totally agree with you, little commuter electric bikes is where they maybe make sense. My only complaint would be the range on one battery. it should be 80 on one battery not two. However, it's a start and no doubt would get better as the tech improves but sorry to say you can't beat a combustion engine. I hope the future of motorcycles is hydrogen fuel not electric.
I’m all-in electric. Love the innovation. Cool British retro look. Well done.
Said it for a while since I first have seen Maeving bikes. Was promised one to test but they forgot me I think 🤔 definitely a good electric bike and perfect for that commuter in cities.
Thank you for the test drive. I would have liked a little more depth. I've had the RM1 for 3 weeks and I was amazed that it doesn't have recuperation. Isn't that an issue on your island? As an advertised city motorcycle, it should be able to recuperate because there are traffic lights every few hundred meters. The suspension at the front is quite hard and at the rear, due to the wheel hub motor, it is quite stubborn: you can also hear it in your voice. The handles are also a bit short... I always had my palms on the wheel of the grips. The battery system is great and the look is super stylish. Greetings from Berlin
Hey Chopsy. Loveley video. Nice round that area. Not my thing ELECTRIC BIKES other than COMMUTING into cities then fantastic. Anything else, not yet ready. When I see those MAEVINGS, for some reason I allways think of the film THE ROCKETEER. The backpack that gave him the power of flight. THANKYOU. 👍👍👍
I agree, this to me seems the most viable electric bike.
Reasonably priced and all the performance you need for an urban commuter. The removable battery is a great idea too.
I rode a Zero recently, staggering performance but once the novelty wears off you’re left with a very limited expensive toy.
I wonder how it rides compared to the horwin cr6 or super soco tc max ? Those are slightly less in price but claim a top speed of 55mph - 60 mph. Definitely agree that the only viable market currently for electric is as urban commuting. I wouldn't pay £20k for a zero that does 100 miles then takes 30 mins to fast charge!
Be great to see you review some of the other 125cc equivalent electric bikes to see what else is out there at low cost.
Ride safe 👍🇬🇧
TC max is the best one. It does get to 60mph my friend has one. Range isn't the best at about 40 miles ish when riding it fast but for city use it's perfect.
Been interested in these for a while now. Great review there pal.
Langston, Havant and the island looking resplendent, Chops. Lived on the island for 21 years. Great little ‘bike for college/uni kids, for example up to south downs college, or Pompey Uni sort of ride from the island. Traffic is shocking these days whenever I go back. Great review, thanks. 👍👍
Ah yes you've got it 😁👍
An interesting review, I discovered I'm definitely not the target buyer. I can't see why I'd buy this instead of a 125 if I was a CBT license holder, 125 benefits include cost, ease of refuelling, range, and performance. If I had a full licence, I could buy a Royal Enfield Classic 350 with under 500 miles, still under warranty for ~£3k and all of the 125 benefits remain. 🤷♂️ I also know my employer wouldn't allow a battery to be on charge unsupervised that wasn't business related due to being a fre risk.
Maeving R1M? That the new electric crossplane battery? haha Great vid Chopster!
Haha 😄 thanks Kate 😁👍
Chops you need to try the RM1S 65mph MCN are reporting
My ideal utility vehicle is an electric MG4, perfect for commuting, hauling groceries and taking a cabana to the beach. But for two wheels, I can’t go past the throbbing engine of my beautiful Speed Twin 😋
Hot news Meaving have released the RM1S ! 65MPH , 7kW motor dual battery as standard, preorder only delivery 2024
That would make more sense, the 45mph top speed of the RM1 is too close to an e-bike in capability but unable to use bike paths. Currently, the RM1 is a fashion accessory.
We test road this at wheels loved it. No frills great fun. Took a while to get used to the linked brakes though. Talking to the guys at maeving they were so passionate about it. I was the same about the initial power pulling off it just needed that little bit more of a kick.
Does it come with a peg n playing card for that genuine feeling .😢😢
Thanks Chopsy, and I love what these guys are doing. This feels like exactly the right implementation for an electric motorcycle, as opposed to what Zero and Livewire are doing. Perfect little commuter for city streets at the right price point. I'm sure its performance would improve significantly, if you were to lessen the rider's weight by 4 or 5 stone, LoL.😂
Here's to hoping this little bike makes its way to the States.
Maeving now have a US website and orders are open with first deliveries in August next year if I remember correctly.
Does it have the same warranty conditions as so many other electric vehicles whereby you mustn’t let the battery go lower than 20% charge before you recharge it and you mustn’t charge it more than 80%? In other words is the range actually only 60% of that quoted?
"You hear that Mr. Anderson? That is the sound of inevitability." Good to see reviews like this, despite being more than happy with my litre bike!
Haha love it 😁👍
Despite my love for that quote and The Matrix as a whole, that quote was to display that Neo is capable of stopping the "inevitable" unless you take Matrix 4 as canon which it kinda is kinda isn't.
@@Ramonatho now we're really nerding out! 😁 Is LCR in fact Neo?!
Cracking review and ride out to the cerne abbas giant John, lovely bike, but can't see the vid on your channel anymore,wonder why 😂so left a comment here instead.keep up the great reviews cheers Ian
Yes pulled the vid Ian, dam YT flaged it as unsuitable so need to re-edit 😫
That is a winner for 44 Teeth’s “show us your rat”
I used to commute on a piaggio 300cc. Good fun, good for 90 mph and only £4k brand new.
It must've gone up by a grand since you made this video! :D
Yes think it has.. 😫
I have nothing against electric vehicles. But i will never buy a electric motorcycle.
I just love the engine sound.
I like this. An electric Fizzy 😅 Same speed, very thin. Looks good fun. It you were commuting in London it would be just the job.
You can get 50cc bikes for around £1500 and 125's for under £2k. Even a CB125 can be had for £3k.
I'm really struggling to see where this comes into that because an extra £3k (presuming you can make the range work for you) is a lot of petrol even at current prices.
Infact its enough to take the 125 around 40k miles.
Remember you also have to pay to charge the electric.
Then when the battery inevitably drops on its ar5e its "only" £1k to replace it - or around 13k miles worth of fuel in the 125 again.
Also remember the rest of the bike will have similar wear and tear to any other bike. Suspension, steering, brakes, tyres and all the rest are still wear items just as they would be on anything else. All you're really saving on that front is chain and sprockets and service oil/filters - again on a 125 not exactly bank breaking stuff.
Thats before we get into how they saved weight on this - no rear seat or pegs, small seat, cycle parts that would look more at home on a pushbike and so on.
If this is equivalent to a 50cc then you would be far better off buying a 50cc, running it until it stops and buying another.
As far as ev's go it makes about as much sense as they can but its still a very expensive and wasteful way to make no difference to the planet.
Just think, the average electric mountain bike costs 2-3k! 10k plus for a top of the range one. Makes this look like incredible value
@@LambChopRides Fair point but they can also use cycle lanes, don't need license/insurance/etc and don't need anywhere to store them so long as you have a hallway.
I have no idea why people would pay £10k for a pushbike either. To me that would be an old superdukeR and £3k worth of fun juice.
Another great video Chopsie! Btw where did the name 'Lamb Chop' come from? 😂
They have just announced a 65mph version 😊
Nice one chopsy 😀😀😁 David Attenborough will need to look out .👍😁
Stay critical on this Chops. It's their job to impress us with these products..
Initial thoughts and notes:
This is a cool thing.
They should embrace the moped market, it's huge (outside the u.s)
Is it mod-able? Doesn't get more British than tinkering, another huge market
I'd fancy mine with a twin front disc conversion, a bit more poke, panniers to carry 2x batteries, and a pair of SV650 rear shocks or something 😁😂😂 Could even add some custom fairing on there for max aero efficiency lol
Can't believe you said it was equivalent to a 50cc for new riders 🙄 But glad you tried this out and liked it. The new 7Kw version out next year looks better. Electrics need to advance a bit more, never replace a big bike, but they can do better than the 50mph+ models that are mostly about for the last 3-4 years
Mr chops, a bit off topic but what would you choose between the rs660 and zx636 ?
For the same money you can get a 125cc that will do 60mph. The R1MS looks like a good bike, but then it's the same price as an MT07 🤷♂️
Agree with others that a Honda PCX or maybe a CB125f and 150mpg for half the price is a clear winner. No range anxiety and a higher top speed by 20mph too.
In fairness, the Mavis (yes I remember her) is good looking and is has the innovation the market for these city scooters needs. It the tech just isn't there yet. From a buyers perspective this thing should be faster, have longer range and be a 3rd of the price before the massess begin to take it more seriously. Good effort from them though. In the meantime where's my back 2 the future hover board....!
These really make sense if you live in a city. Living in London I do a lot of short trips and one of these would really make sense. But if I was going to drop the money would I opt for one these of a 125cc like you suggest. As much as I like these electric bikes I think I'd still probably get a Mutt or a CB125 for about £2500.
Freddie Dobbs reviewed this, I seem to remember. I agree with you about big electric bikes, LCR. Usually, I refuse to watch videos featuring electric bikes. As a matter of principle. I rather like this Maeving, though. Nick J
Not that I’m considering buying one ev, but one thing I hope they do is to standardize the battery size and connection moving forward. That way when the new battery tech comes out, you can buy the new one with bigger capacity without having to buy a whole new bike, that would make a much greater longevity and make more sense out of the 5k you’re paying.
That's actually not a very good idea, electric vehicles have different batteries for a reason. To put it in gas vehicle terms it would be like wanting all bikes to use the same fuel tank, pump, and injectors. You're not going to get very far (figuratively and literally) using those parts from a Grom on an R1. For example if you wanted to run a base model Zero off these batteries even two of them in series wouldn't be enough voltage for full power (and they probably won't have the current output either) and those wouldn't even get you a third of the range as the Zero's battery. Also the Zero's built in charger won't work with them so now you're going to be requiring every bike to use an external charger. So in practice you'd want at least 6 of these, preferably 9, at £6-9k (not including the price for 6-9 chargers) to power a base model Zero (and good luck actually fitting them in the space available) versus like £5k for one designed specifically for the bike.
@@HomoKieran I didn’t make it clear but what I meant is to have a standard with in the similar sort of segment, where for example in this case a small commuter which has a low power motor. And the connector would be able to handle the power output requirements, it just new battery fit in there with higher capacity in the same size. Of course it is not possible to standardize everything, you will need like 6-10 of the batteries this size to get enough juice for those big motors and that not even considering if theses have high enough output, just pull them all out and charge them would be a very bad idea. What my idea suggests is more like you have AAA batteries in your tv remote, and they get better over the years you can also have more chargers with rechargeable lithium ion batteries but the size stays the same you just buy them and put it in without charging a new remote type of deal.
@@changliu7346 Even among these lower power shorter range bikes you've got voltages ranging from like 36V to 72V. It all depends on what the motors and controllers require, take away all those choices and limit manufacturers to one setup and you'll essentially have a bunch of the same bikes in slightly different shapes and different bodywork. It will basically be the same as the current state of 125 scooters. They wouldn't be bad bikes and they'd do the job for a lot of people, like those scooters, but just like them they're not going to be what everyone wants.
@@HomoKieran that’s the idea, not everyone needs something shiny and powerful, for practical daily use, cost is the most important. look at what the manufacturers does now, one engine tuned differently in multiple styles of bikes, it saves costs and let them put on bikes with competitive prices. Most selling Honda is the cub, not everyone has something to do with the fireblade. For me low cost with usable performance and bunch of different styles to choose from is a big w. Of course you could be getting some thing special and tailor made, and I think everyone wants good things, but in reality they can’t put that much money into these things.
I hope they do well as a new UK manufacturer but I do worry if Maeving will still be around in a few years time when the owners need to replace the batteries.
I would still say 5k is too expensive for what it is I understand it’s a commuter and not made for speed but you can buy a brand new Yamaha or any other new 125 for that and get a lot more for the money other than you will be saving money on fuel and I reckon insurence would be less
Looks like a scrapyard challenge 🤪🤪 think I’ll
Stick to my m1000r chopsy
Put a rack on it and make it massively more practical, Maeving are aware of this suggestion! I’d o think it looks very cool and is obviously much more sensible than an Electric, 2.8+ ton SUV with 700 hp.
Do you remember when $6300 would buy you a decent new motorcycle.... Buy a used bike learn to wrench on it yourself. Not only will you gain a skill and the knowledge to keep it out of the shop but also something that can actually get you places that that little thing never will.
Chopsy, did you see the latest video from BikeMatters on UA-cam on the 7 best Cafe Racers? Most of them are pretty much half the price of the RM1 or there abouts. It raises the same question, is this electric bike still not competitively priced against it's combustion counterparts?
Does the company sell a similarly designed toaster and kettle to go with it?
Haha 😄 👍
I wonder how long they will be in business for?
Not a long enough bargepole.
Great review.
I still think that £5k is too much for a commute only bike when you can get a 100/125cc bike for a lot less?
But, I do like the looks and would consider one for local trips but not at the price (£5k could get me a very nice 2nd hand bike 🙃)
Just bought a 2008 Fireblade for 4995...are you dicks mad???
Brand new nice 125cc scooter you can get for under 2.5K.
Batteries are really expensive atm
I know they are subjective, but I just think it looks like a hipsters wet dream. Which is to say, it's not my cup of tea! Great vid mate.
Oh dear Oh Dear Chops you need to see someone your not feeling yourself today 🤣😄😄
Chopsy - am I going mad or has your Cerne Abbas road trip disappeared?? I was half way through on the bog this morning and can’t see it anywhere??
Yes sorry I pulled it as had a 18+ strike on it and some couldn't watch it. So I'm editing it and will reupload later this week. Sorry 👍
Ahhh…. Yes Mr Abbas !!! That’ll do it for sure. Thanks for the heads up.
If they can get the range up to even 100 miles per charge in the next 5 years I'm gonna be Quite tempted
Interesting vid. Charming is indeed the word. Although I guess it stops like a bicycle as it appears to have the brakes of one. Nonetheless I can very much see the appeal of it & completely agree with your philosophy of boycotting larger electric bikes. They just aren't viable in terms of cost, range & through no fault of their own, insufficient infrastructure.
We need to get you another camera..
Arse Cam! LOL
Interesting bike. Think you got the prices wrong, though. You're quoting £1000 cheaper than their website (Unless this includes a Chopsy discount when mentioning your name!). 😊
Unfortunately it's gone up since I recorded this 😫
@@LambChopRides Ok. At £6K for 1 battery or £7K for 2 batteries, they're asking too much imo.
Well according to their web site it's £5995 for a single and £6990 for a double, but yeah for inner city transport it would be great.
Yes unfortunately seems its gone up since I recorded this 😫
price has now been dropped back to 5k for single battery... the 's' model coming out appears to have the better performance and the dummy tank stays as storage but a whopping 7.5k!! would suit all my needs but I can't stretch to that price
Unfortunately this doesn’t really make any more sense than just buying a conventional 125cc bike since most 125s are just better at every thing compared to this.
They’re cheaper, faster and will give more range so why get one of these, unless ya like the looks 🤔
I think in your review you summed the bikes uses up perfectly, the only trick I think Maeving have missed was to have the ability to charge without having to dismount the batteries every time, for the people who will garage the bike it will for some be a bit of a nuisance dis-mounting and mounting, it would only have been a relatively simple wiring job. Thank you.
Yes good point 👍
If it performs and costs as much as a Honda crf250 I’d buy electric. Not buying if it doesn’t match that benchmark. That’s fair enough I should think.
You need to be rocking some skinny leather trousers to really experience this bike at it's best.......
Yes and a rather bushy beard! 😁👍
I don’t think it’s £5000 according to the Maeving website it’s £5995 that’s with the single battery the dual battery model you have here is £7000.
Yes seems its gone up since I recorded the vid, sorry 😫
And from october to march...25 miles range. Maybe 38miles in summer..? At least its close to a sensible price.
No it's much better than that
Get it back for a winter jolly out
It's got made in Britain appeal too.
However for me it's not there yet.. I'm still loving the ktm 690 which you forced me to buy at gunpoint . Gotta thank you for that.
This is only really suited to urban environments. Hopefully they will come out with one that will top at 70+mph, that way it will cope with country lanes, A and B roads keeping with traffic and not become a massive overtake risk.
Low and behold the new model RM1S has been revealed and preorders are open. Top speed was quoted at 65mph, but this has now changed to 70mph on the website. My order for the new model is in.
Why can't they make it charge the other battery when it's not in use infinite range ?
Realistically, if you want a genuine commuter, something with storage and weather protection be-it ICE or Electric, makes more sense. i.e a scooter. Unless of course being fashionable/trendy matters to you. Great product though from a British company, albeit for a niche market.
It does look nice and so will probably sell thousands in shoreditch and be sat outside barbers shops. a virtue signallars perfect bike.
What!? You didn’t do the whole Maeving/Mavis thing.
Buy a 125 scooter, weather protection, storage, no range worries, brakes that work, and a resale valve.
As a commuter its great, but as a working man i haven't got £5000 to spend just to get to work on
As much as I don't 100% agree with this bike, a lot of the 'premium' 125's are 5k nowadays so it's correctly priced...but they will do 70mph and 150+mpg and they'll out accellerate this bike too. I don't see where this bike beats the likes of a CB125R or the like
What!? You didn’t do the whole Maeving Mavis thing.
The big point about removable batteries on a commuter is that any one can charge them. Many people don't have the ability to charge EVs on the street. This will be a bigger and bigger issue. Removable means you can .... but its a lot of lugging everyday.
Yes very good point 👍
I think removable batteries is the way to go.
No wonder Toprak has signed for BMW, he has no chance of winning on the new R1 M 😅
Haha 😄👍
You should have shown what you looked like riding it
I can see a place for these bikes, but 3k for a brand new cb125f says it all for me for commuting
Was a smt video taken down?
Yes it had an age restriction strike as I said cock and bollox. I'm re-editting it for publishing later next week 👍
@@LambChopRides ah no worries! I was halfway through! I've a 18 speed triple rs, used for fun and commuting from country lanes to city. Would you go for a new smt or 2 year old super adventure s? Cheers and love the content!
@@LambChopRidesOh, ffs …😂
Personally I would go SMT Andrew if it were my money 👍
Yup! Got to say, I'd rather have one of those, than any bloody scooter. This from a man that hates EV's
That has to be the ugliest bike I've ever seen! can you imagine looking back at it after a ride and admiring it? 🤣
In India, we have electric scooters, that are 1/3rd the price of that, with similar range. But it does not look nearly as good as the Maeving
Wouldn’t a 125 scooter make more sense.
If it could do 80 - 90 mph it would be way better .
45mph no chance
I have a 2019 Zero Sr that will do over 90. It's very fast, but it's expensive. This bike in this video is a great idea for anyone living in the city, but I think I would much rather ride electric scooters like Lime scooters.
A bit innacurrate chops. 6k and 7k for us plebs. not 5k.. thats a big discrepency
Yeah unfortunately seems its increased in price since I recorded this 😫
Extra comment. The prices have gone up. 1K more for each option. Not such a deal, after all. Nick J
Ev’s have their place just not in my household
So what makes this an electric motorbike compared to electric bicycle. Seems a bicycle does the same with no rego required
That thing looks like someone took a 50s Vacuum Cleaner and put on a old bike???
The poor brakes were the deal breaker for me.
Sounded a bit ‘jiggly’ on the suspension, going by your voice..
On a more serious note, the other model ie the RM1S, which gives you 65mph but the price being £7,500, would you say that's not something you'd consider due to the price? £5k isn't that bad, but £2.5k more for 15mph extra? Nope!
Yamaha MT07 for the same price.
@@GingerPiston but it's not electric. That's the point Chopsy is making. Inner city commuting up to 80 miles ie 40 ish miles each way is acceptable. However, long distances where regenerative braking isn't possible to add recharge back into the battery, an electric bike just doesn't make any sense whatsoever. There are so many good 125cc bikes on the market for £5k that you'd have to be pretty dedicated to want a electric bike only.
@@AdamForeman High price to pay for an incredibly flawed vehicle with nominal environment credentials.
@@GingerPiston totally agree with you. To me, electric cars/bikes make no sense to me with the current state of battery technology and the charging infrastructure or lack thereof
Brakes and acceleration will be markedly better if you are 5 to 10 stone lighter 😅
Yes agreed! 😁👍
Erm 6 grand ..an electric push bike will do better and hell of a lot cheaper.. it is what it is but imo it aint the way forward.. whens the next bus due 👍
I've given it a thumbs up because its you, I'll give you a pass just this once,