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We got the chance to test ride a street-legal plus off-road electric motorcycle that comes at a reasonable price point, something of an albatross since the Sondors Metacycle went under.

For a while now, we’ve been seeing quite a few off-road e-bikes/motorcycles with similar specs, price, and design language as the Sur Ron Light Bee. Unfortunately, most of these aren’t street-legal like the more expensive and kitted out Zero FX/E. While that’s likely not a concern for those riding on private property, having more street-legal options in this segment of the market is something I’m excited to see more of. Thankfully, manufacturers are slowly starting to fill that gap.

$4,500 Dual Sport

The Caofen F-80 off-road version is an electric dual-sport motorcycle that’s fully street-legal in 50 states and has some decent specs that make for a fun day. For this test ride, I visited an off-road vehicle park in the northeast, put on my gear, and tried to see just how well this bike would perform on trails.

Now, while Caofen does have a few other models, such as the FX full-sized off-road motorcycle as well as a more street-oriented version of the F-80, for this review, we’ll be focusing mostly on the F-80 off-road version. Thankfully, we got the opportunity to test this out on an off-road course with tight turns and jumps. For the sake of the review, I made sure to try my hardest to test its limits, but full disclosure: I am a beginner at motocross and off-road riding. 

Post ride photos

Compliance parts:

The F-80 is capable of obtaining insurance, plates, and registration, but this bike was built primarily as an off-road motorcycle geared more for trails and motor tracks. So many of the parts that make the bike street-legal, such as the license plate holder, felt more like an afterthought with lower-quality parts than what is on the rest of the bike. 

Before we get into the weeds, let’s get a few specs out of the way. 

Specs:

  • Motor: 8kw
  • Top speed: 62mph
  • Battery: Liquid-cooled 2.2kWh 72v 30 ah and 2.2kWh and 3.9kWh 48 ah 
  • Weight: 165lb
  • Frame: Single-piece aluminum frame
  • Brakes: 230mm disc brakes on the front and 203mm at the rear
  • Size: 77×31×42 
  • Clearance: 14 inches

Initial thoughts:

The F80 looks and feels different from your typical Sur Ron Light bee in the sense that it has a bit more power and feels more like a full-sized motocross bike. It’s also not in that upper-echelon class of electric dirt bikes. I’d say if the classic Sur Ron was at one side of the spectrum and the higher-end dirt bikes such as Surron’s Storm Bee, Stark Varg, or KTM free ride e-xc was at the other end then this would be somewhere in between depending on how you look at it.

In terms of pricing, the street-legal off-road version of the F-80 with the 30-ah battery configuration comes in at $4,500 on the www.caofen.us website. The bigger battery 48-ah version is available for an extra $500.

Legality

At that price point, it’s close to that of most other 45-60 mph electric bikes. One big difference here for the F-80 is that Caofen is claiming that it can be registered in 50 states. When I test rode it on the east coast, I was shown registration for the vehicle as well as a license plate. Now this may not be a huge factor for those who are looking to ride primarily on trails, but for those who enjoy off-road capable bikes even on city streets and don’t necessarily want to go for the 10+k price range of a highway-suitable dual sport like a Zero FX, it’s a great thing that companies like Caofen are starting to fill that gap in the market. 

Power

In terms of power, the motor is rated for a max peak output of 8kw and claims to have 310 nm of torque. To be truthful, even though I always want as much power and torque as possible in an electric bike, with this being my first time in an offroad dedicated park with a mini motocross track, I found this to be more than enough power. 

For trail riding and beginner motocross riding I think this bike handles well and is nicely balanced. The one downside aside from the lower quality compliance parts like the plate holder that broke off was the rather small footpegs. I believe the suspension is adequate but not to the level of some of the higher-end dual sport bikes. But then again this is still a 72v off-road bike with 8kw of peak power and DOT approved. 

Getting into some of the pros here the frame is a zero-weld one-piece unit that adds strength and lowers the weight. In total, the bike weighs 165 lbs with a 30-ah battery. This, combined with the 8kw of power, made it relatively easy to skid the rear wheel on loose dirt, and I’d imagine for those who wheelie that this would be plenty of fun. 

Battery:

As for charging, the batteries can be charged from fully empty to full in three hours for the street-legal off-road bike. When it comes to the battery Caofen uses a patented immersion cooling battery system that claims to achieve 8 times the thermal balance and only 50% of normal temperature rise. The temperature control system allows you to ride freely in any case, even in a minus 40-degree environment.

When it comes to brakes, the F-80 is stopped with 230mm disc brakes on the front and 203mm at the rear. It’s an adequate feeling brake but leaves you wanting just a bit more heavy-duty braking power. In terms of size, the bike comes in at a size of 77×31×42 and gives you about 14 inches of clearance. 

For those wanting a bigger size, with better suspension and upgraded brakes, you may want to check out their full-sized version, the FX, which costs $5800 and features a 12kw motor. 

Electrek’s take:

I think it’s great that Caofen is bringing this to the market at a low price point. Being able to ride without worrying about breaking the law just to have fun on your electric motorcycle is a feature that not enough manufacturers are including. Let’s face it: A lot of people who ride high-speed e-bikes/motorcycles like Sur Rons or Talarias ride on public roads despite manufacturers saying that it’s not street legal. I think if there were more options like this on the market at lower prices, we’d be seeing a lot of young people opting to register their bikes and ride a bit safer, especially if it meant they needed a motorcycle license and the required skills to operate these types of bikes on the street. 

For more info on their bikes, you can check out www.caofen.us or www.caofenusa.com

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Industry first: Komatsu reveals power agnostic 320 ton haul truck

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Industry first: Komatsu reveals power agnostic 320 ton haul truck

Japanese equipment giant Komatsu dropped its new, 320-ton Power Agnostic 930E mining truck at MinsExpo trade show in Las Vegas, calling it a future-ready solution that can run on diesel, hydrogen, or pure electric power.

Komatsu continues to develop alternative engine technology with the release of its first commercial rigid-frame dump truck with a “power agnostic” platform for running on diesel, hydrogen, or even battery electric power.

That’s because the platform is designed around the concept of a modular powertrain. The design not only gives the Komatsu assembly line an easy way to build diesel, BEV, and hydrogen fuel cell rigid haulers on the same line, but also enables customers to upgrade from diesel to battery electric or hydrogen down the road, if and when whatever logistical obstacles that are preventing them from running an electric or hydrogen solution today are overcome.

“This platform enables mining companies to start with conventional diesel engines and gradually transition to cleaner energy sources as needed, including utilization of trolley assist for diesel or as one of the future dynamic charging solutions for battery trucks to reduce fuel consumption and emissions,” reads Komatsu’s press material. “Whether adopting battery technology, hydrogen fuel cell technology or a combination of energy systems, the Power Agnostic 930E provides the infrastructure and adaptability necessary to meet evolving sustainability goals.”

Potential customers got a sneak peek at the concept truck, which they were apparently allowed to test at Komatsu’s Arizona proving grounds ahead of MineExpo (I wasn’t invited). The first pre-production Power Agnostic 930E prototype will make its way to Sweden in the coming months, where it will be put to work alongside other electric Komatsu machines in Boliden’s Aitik copper mine, one of the largest such operations on the European continent.

Electrek’s Take

Komatsu Power Agnostic 930E; via Komatsu.

Converting gas and diesel-fueled cars to electric at scale is a concept that’s fraught with problems. Far too many to list here, in fact. But heavy equipment?

Everything from excavators to loaders to heavy trucks are already built to be powertrain agnostic, and manufacturers will often offer the same basic vehicle with Cummins, Detroit Diesel, or Volvo Pentapower, so there’s a degree of openness baked into those systems already. Komatsu is just taking that to the next level by adding a modularity of energy storage (fuel tanks, hydrogen cells, or battery packs) to the mix. And, if the project is successful, it could be the first of many.

SOURCE | IMAGES: Komatsu; Equipment World.

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isinwheel has an electric ride for everyone – check out these 6 standouts

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isinwheel has an electric ride for everyone – check out these 6 standouts

isinwheel’s terrific personal EVs “bring all the things you want closer to you.” Whether it’s an electric scooter, an e-bike, or an e-skateboard, the three things you’re guaranteed to get no matter which you choose are fun, safety, and affordability.

We’re taking a closer look below at six of isinwheel’s personal EVs – could one of these be your next electric ride?

Table of contents

isinwheel S9Pro commuting electric scooter

Meet the isinwheel S9Pro, the best value-for-money electric scooter that zips you through your day at speeds up to 19 mph with a range of 19 miles – perfect for your daily commute.

The S9Pro‘s powerful 350W motor delivers a smooth, efficient ride without breaking the bank. With a lightweight, foldable aluminum frame, it’s easy to carry, store, and even pop into your car trunk or onto public transport. Plus, the quick one-step folding mechanism makes it the ultimate on-the-go companion.

You can find the S9Pro on Amazon here.

isinwheel S10Max long-range electric scooter

The isinwheel S10Max is your ultimate high-performance ride, powered by a beastly 1000W motor that conquers any terrain with ease. With an impressive range of up to 37 miles, you can enjoy long-distance adventures without worrying about recharging.

The S10Max‘s all-terrain 10-inch off-road tires, paired with dual shock absorption, provide unbeatable grip and stability whether you’re cruising through city streets, on country paths, or on muddy trails.

You can find the S10Max on Amazon here.

isinwheel GT2 off-road electric scooter

isinwheel

Unleash your adventurous side with the isinwheel GT2. With a powerful 1000W motor, it rockets up to 28 mph, effortlessly conquering steep hills and challenging landscapes for a thrilling ride every time.

Its 11-inch off-road tires are built for all terrains, whether you’re cruising through the city or tackling rugged countryside paths. Plus, with four advanced shock absorbers, every ride is smooth and stable, no matter where your journey takes you. Get ready to ride the GT2 and experience performance like never before!

You can find the GT2 on Amazon here.

isinwheel M10 electric commuter bike

isinwheel

The isinwheel M10 electric commuter bike blends style with power. Crafted from lightweight, rust-resistant aluminum alloy, this sleek ride weighs just 47 pounds, making it easy to carry and tough enough to last.

With a professional 35-speed transmission, the M10 adapts to your every need, whether you’re accelerating, cruising downhill, or conquering steep inclines. With a 500W motor capacity, a top speed of 20 mph, 374 Wh battery capacity, and four hours of charging time, it’s the perfect blend of performance and convenience for your daily commute!

You can find the M10 on Amazon here.

isinwheel U1 folding electric bike

isinwheel

Say hello to the versatile isinwheel U1! With folding handlebars, pedals, and a height-adjustable seat, it’s perfect for easy storage and transport. The U1’s 500W motor comes with a smart chip that instantly adapts to give you that extra boost when you hit an incline, face a headwind, or carry more weight.

The U1 has a top speed of 18 mph, 280 Wh of battery capacity, and three hours of charging time. Whether you’re zipping through city streets or tackling hills, the U1 has you covered with power and portability.

You can find the U1 on Amazon here.

Check out isinwheel’s V8, V6 and V10 electric skateboards

The isinwheel V8 electric skateboard is your ticket to thrilling rides, featuring a top speed of 28 mph and a range of up to 12 miles. Its removable, detachable batteries allow for quick swaps, so you can extend your adventure with ease. Choose from four riding modes and let the gorgeous ambient lights make you stand out, whether you’re cruising in daylight or lighting up the night. With its powerful dual 540W motors and regenerative braking system, the V8 delivers a ride that’s as exhilarating as it is stylish.

The V8 is isinwheel’s first-gen electric skateboard, and we’ve also taken it to the next level. The V6 is perfect for teens and beginners, and the high-performance V10 is for those who crave more power. But we’re not stopping there – this September, we’re launching the V6 PRO, the ultimate cool ride for young skaters and newbies. Stay tuned; it’s going to be epic!

You can find the V8/V6/V10 on Amazon here.

Follow isinwheel on Instagram here, on X here, on YouTube here, and on Facebook here.

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Score a sporty new Fiat 500e at more than 30% off MSRP

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Score a sporty new Fiat 500e at more than 30% off MSRP

It’s no Ferrari, but owning a sporty little Fiat 500e is about as close to putting a cavallino rampante in the garage as most of us will ever get. And if we act soon, we could do just that for 30% less money than before.

Fiat parent company Stellantis is giving dealers the ability to offer buyers up to $3,000 in coupons and incentives to help move its slow-selling 2024 FIAT 500e coupes. When paired with a $7,500 factory lease credit through Stellantis Financial, those coupons lead CarsDirect analysts to call the 500e one of the most affordable new EVs on the market.

The math maths

2024 FIAT (500e) RED in Miami; via Stellantis.

Between coupons and Stellantis Financial cash, that’s $10,500 in potential discounts before negotiations even begin. With a base MSRP of $34,095 with destination for a 2024 500e, that’s a JC Penney-style 31% off, with an additional 2% (presumably) within easy reach.

According to CarsDirect, the biggest downside of the coupon program is that it’s still unadvertised, which means there’s no way of telling how much of the allowable discount dealers are actually including in prices. But (as GI Joe taught us) knowing is half the battle, so click here to find deals on a new Fiat 500e near you, and make “are you applying those $3,000 in Stellantis coupons” one of your first questions.

Electrek’s Take

2024 FIAT (500e) RED interior; via Stellantis.

Small cars have never sold well in America. Not even great ones like the OG Honda CRX or Suzuki Swift GTi. Americans tend to buy for low use case scenarios, which is a fancy way of saying that, if an American thinks they’ll need a pickup 2-3 days/year, they’ll convince themselves to drive a pickup for the other 362 days. The British want more taxes than Americans wanted to pay in 1775, and today we have more gun shops than McDonald’s … just in case.

The little Fiat, in other words, was never going to be a volume player in the US. And that’s too bad, because the little 117 hp microcar is, by all accounts, fun to drive, zippy, and unquestionably cool. The media at large, though, has complained about the 37 kWh battery and 149 miles of EPA range – calling both “inadequate,” despite the fact that the first-generation Nissan LEAF had objectively inferior specs and sold 200,000 examples before getting its first significant upgrade in 2016. And, frankly, that Nissan had about as much style as a hospital gown.

So, while it may not offer what most car buyers think they need – as a second car, or a fun, urban runabout for lighthearted singles, the little Fiat is tough to beat (especially in red).

Click here to see what it will cost to put one in your garage.

SOURCE | IMAGES: Stellantis, via CarsDirect.

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