As electric dirt bikes gain in popularity, riders are going to demand more of what they've come to expect in the gas-powered versions – durability and power. The new Kuberg Freerider begins to solve both of those issues in a 79-lb (36-kg) package with a double cradle, powder-coated steel tube frame and a 48 V motor generating 8 kW (11 hp) that can propel the bike to 34 mph (55 km/h).
While these performance numbers don't come close to what the base Zero S delivers (54 hp/40 kW), they're particularly respectable if you're a newbie or an expert looking for a less expensive alternative. Keep in mind that the Zero S also weighs 376 lb (171 kg).
The Freerider is powered by a 22 Ah lithium polymer battery pack that the company claims can last for one hour while riding full speed with a 165 lb (75 kg) rider on board. Regular recharge time is listed at two and a half hours from a 110 V or 220 V outlet or generator. A quick charger is available as an optional accessory.
Suspension comes in the form of a Manitou Dorado Expert front fork with 7 in (180 mm) of travel and a DNM Burner RB-RCP shock in the rear to provide plenty of support through varied terrain and jumps.
Kuberg put hardened 203 mm brake disks with sintered brake pads on both front and rear to reduce the heat that regular discs can generate and to ensure longer disc life overall, then kitted both wire spoke wheels out in 20 x 2.5 Maxxis Creepy Crawler tires.
Seat height is listed at 34.5 in (86 cm) and the overall wheelbase is 48.5 in (123 cm), which means a pretty decent center of gravity, but the height alone will put this bike out of the reach for the really young and the height challenged.
Kuberg has also designed a special dongle for the bike that can be bought separately. It connects to the bike's sensors and communicates wirelessly to an app available for both iOS and Android. The dongle and app combo let you monitor the battery level, track average speed and torque, share your rides, and set the max torque and speed if you're a parent concerned about your young rider's safety.
Kuberg has only a handful of dealers around the globe, so getting a Freerider may not be easy. List price is US$3,999, excluding any taxes and shipping charges.
Check out the video to see this lightweight bike in action.
Source: Kuberg
