The Onyx RCR 80V can hit motorcycle speeds, but after hundreds of miles in the saddle, I found there’s a lot more to this compact e-bike than going fast.

The first thing people ask about the Onyx RCR 80V is how fast it goes. After hundreds of miles around New York, I’m more interested in what this electric bike is like to live with.

The acceleration certainly gets your attention. But so do the compact proportions, CarPlay, cruise control and little design decisions that become more noticeable the longer you ride. Then there are the bigger questions: Can you repair it? Will parts still be available? What happens when the technology gets old?

My impression is that Onyx is trying to build a compact electric motorbike with BMX-inspired maneuverability and modern electronics, while leaving owners room to customize it and keep it running. Riding the RCR and talking with Onyx founder Tim Seward helped me understand that approach. Whether it holds up over years of ownership is a question a few hundred miles can’t answer.

Manufacturer figures below are advertised specifications, not independently measured performance results. Prices as of Oct. 14.

Sources: Onyx model and pricing overview⁠, RCR product page⁠, RCR feature page⁠ and Onyx’s brake and wheel description⁠.

The Street and Dual Sport share the advertised motor and battery ratings. 5-inch tires with a more aggressive tread and fenders included.

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