Sondors Metacycle

Sondors Metacycle: An Electric Ride for Everyone (But Not Everyone Who Pre-Ordered It)

April 17, 2024

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.

Suhas is the founder and chief editor of vecharged.com, a leading US-based publication focused on the future of energy and mobility. With a deep passion for the technology that is shaping our world, his work focuses on providing clear-eyed analysis and rigorous, hands-on reviews of the latest electric vehicles, home solar systems, and portable power solutions. He founded vecharged to cut through the industry jargon and provide consumers with the data-driven, unbiased information necessary to navigate the clean energy transition with confidence. His insights have helped thousands of readers make smarter, more informed decisions about their energy use.

My Solar Powered Adventure in the Woods with a Portable 25W Solar Panel Kit

My Solar Powered Adventure in the Woods with a Portable 25W Solar Panel Kit

March 25, 2024

Let me tell you, folks, I’m an outdoors guy through and through. But there’s one thing that always bugged me on multi-day hikes – dead batteries. Headlamp goes kaput? No more reading by the campfire. Camera runs out of juice? Say goodbye to capturing those epic mountain vistas. That’s why, on my recent backpacking trip

Should You Get a Ring Solar Panel? Let’s Break it Down!

Should You Get a Ring Solar Panel? Let’s Break it Down!

March 25, 2024

Alright, folks, so you love your Ring camera. It keeps your eye on things, lets you know when the pizza guy arrives, and maybe even deters a package thief or two. But there’s one thing we can all agree on – changing those batteries is a pain! That’s where the Ring Solar Panel comes in. But

Indian Commuter’s Dream: Harley LiveWire S2 Del Mar Review

Indian Commuter’s Dream: Harley LiveWire S2 Del Mar Review

March 22, 2024

Having always admired Harleys from afar, the news of the LiveWire S2 Del Mar got my heart racing. While zipping down long highways is a dream, my daily commute through bustling Delhi traffic screams for a manageable electric motorcycle. Then came the news of the LiveWire S2 Del Mar. Now, this electric Harley got my

The Cost of Owning an Electric Vehicle (EV): Understanding the Expenses and Hidden Costs

The Cost of Owning an Electric Vehicle (EV): Understanding the Expenses and Hidden Costs

March 20, 2024

The Cost of Owning an Electric Vehicle (EV) Electric vehicles (EVs) have gained significant popularity in recent years due to their environmental benefits and potential cost savings. While it’s true that EVs can be more cost-effective in the long run compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, it’s important to consider the full picture when it comes

Share to...