Move over, electric Vespa. Get nervous, NIU. There’s a new player in town: the CSC ES5 electric scooter. With enhanced performance and a more affordable price tag, this seated electric scooter is poised to disrupt the market.
Headquartered in southern California, CSC Motorcycles has a track record of producing electric motorcycles and scooters. Having established a reputation in the gasoline-powered motorbike industry, the company expanded its lineup to include electric vehicles in 2018.
Over the past five years, CSC Motorcycles has introduced four distinct models catering to various commuting and riding needs. The CSC ES5 is the latest addition to their electric vehicle offerings (excluding electric bicycles).
Differentiating itself from CSC’s retro-styled Monterey and the high-speed CSC RX1E, the CSC ES5 strikes a balance. With a top speed of 52.8 mph (85 km/h), this electric scooter offers sufficient velocity for urban roads and city commuting. While it may not provide the same thrill as an 80 mph (130 km/h) highway bike, the CSC ES5 ensures a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
Equipped with a 5 kW belt-driving centrally mounted motor, the CSC ES5 delivers commendable acceleration. This scooter is primarily designed for daily commuting and utility riding rather than leisurely cruising. Notably, the scooter boasts a peak power rating of 8 kW, providing an extra boost when needed.
The CSC ES5 is powered by three 60V and 31Ah lithium-ion batteries, offering a combined capacity of 5.58 kWh. The modular battery design allows for convenient charging, even for apartment dwellers without dedicated garage facilities. CSC estimates a range of approximately 68 miles (110 km) at a steady speed of 31 mph (50 km/h). Their performance figures are often conservative, providing a refreshing change from the industry norm of inflated specifications that rarely translate to real-world usage.
Although cruising at the scooter’s top speed will reduce the overall range, it remains more than sufficient for urban dwellers, with enough capacity to last for several days of riding.
With a pre-order price of US $4,995 and an MSRP of US $5,295 (excluding additional $410 dealer fees), the CSC ES5 presents a compelling value proposition compared to its competitors.
One notable rival is the NIU MQi Sport Extended Range, priced at US $6,199. For a slightly higher cost, the NIU scooter offers a lower top speed of 43 mph (70 km/h), a motor power of 3.1 kW, and a battery capacity of 4.03 kWh. In essence, the NIU scooter demands 15% more money for 20% less speed, 28% less battery capacity, and 38% less power.
While NIU boasts a comprehensive app with advanced features like GPS location tracking and a wider dealer network, the CSC ES5 delivers significant value for the price, making a strong statement against established players in the market.
Furthermore, the CSC ES5 offers a range of additional features, including keyless start, a full-color TFT instrument display, Bluetooth audio player, and a built-in dash camera for recording rides, adding convenience and safety to the overall riding experience. The scooter’s two-seater capacity with pillion pegs and rear grab bars caters to riders looking for versatility and practicality.
Available in three attractive color options, the CSC ES5 is currently accepting pre-orders with a fully refundable $300 deposit. Deliveries are anticipated to commence later this year.
