The Sondors Metacycle has been a hotly anticipated electric motorcycle, generating significant buzz since its announcement in late 2021. However, the production rollout was plagued with delays and unfulfilled promises, leaving some early backers disappointed.
Looking beyond the launch woes, let’s delve into the Sondors Metacycle’s features and see if it lives up to the hype.
Key Specifications
- Motor: Hub-mounted, liquid-cooled PMAC (Permanent Magnet Alternating Current) motor.
- Peak Power: 14.5 kW (approximately 20 horsepower)
- Nominal Power: 8kW (approximately 11 horsepower)
- Torque: 80ft-lb (108 Nm) instantly available, increasing to 200 ft-lb (271 Nm) at the rear wheel. This gives the Metacycle surprising ‘punch’ when accelerating.
- Top Speed: 80 mph (130 km/h). However, the rider’s weight, road conditions, and wind resistance will significantly impact the achievable top speed.
- Range: Claimed maximum of 80 miles (130 km), but real-world range is often lower, depending on riding style and speed. More aggressive riding can reduce range significantly.
- Battery: 4 kWh Lithium-ion (NMC Chemistry). Non-removable, with a built-in Level 1 charger. Level 2 charging requires an additional adapter and will allow faster charging times.
- Weight: 220 kg (485 lbs). While lighter than many gasoline-powered motorcycles, it’s still considered on the heavier side for an electric motorcycle.
- Suspension
- Front: Inverted telescopic fork
- Rear: Dual coil over shocks (adjustable preload)
- Brakes:
- Front: 2 Piston Hydraulic Disc Brake
- Rear: 2 Piston Hydraulic Disc Brake
- Tires:
- Front: 110/70-17
- Rear: 150/60-17
Additional Notes
- Price: One of the Metacycle’s key selling points, but the initial $5,000 estimate has risen. Still, it’s competitive within the electric motorcycle market.
- Minimalist Design: Lacks some ‘standard’ motorcycle features like a traditional instrument cluster. Instead, it offers a small display integrated into the headlight. This might appeal to riders looking for a clean, uncluttered experience.
Designed for Commuting
With a maximum speed of 80 mph and a claimed range of 80 miles, the Sondors Metacycle is ideally suited for urban commuting. Riders have praised its comfortable riding position and easy handling, making it perfect for navigating city streets.
Caveats for Early Adopters
It’s important to acknowledge the shortcomings that disappointed some early backers. The final version of the Metacycle is heavier and has a non-removable battery compared to initial specifications. Additionally, the price increased from the initial estimates.
Is it Worth It?
Despite the launch issues, the Sondors Metacycle offers an attractive proposition for budget-minded riders seeking a no-frills electric commuter motorcycle. Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide:
Pros:
- Affordable price point compared to other electric motorcycles
- Comfortable and easy to ride
- Perfect for urban commuting
- Relatively low maintenance costs (electric motor)
Cons:
- Heavier than initially advertised
- Non-removable battery limits charging options
- Lower range and top speed than some competitors
- Unforeseen delays and price hikes during launch
The Final Verdict
The Sondors Metacycle is a good option for riders looking for an affordable and easy-to-ride electric motorcycle for commuting short distances. However, if you’re looking for a long-range motorcycle with a powerful motor and a removable battery, you might be better off considering other options.
It’s important to manage your expectations and understand the limitations before making a purchase decision. That being said, the Sondors Metacycle offers a unique value proposition in the electric motorcycle market, making it a compelling option for many riders.
