Electric mobility company SONDORS has announced the release of two new electric motorbikes – the SONDORS MetaBeast and MetaBeast X. These bikes are the latest additions to SONDORS’ electric motorcycle line following the unveiling of the SONDORS MetaCycle two years ago.
The MetaBeast and MetaBeast X are dual sport bikes, optimized for off-road trail riding and street legal for road use. The one-piece cast aluminum frames of the bikes are similar to the MetaCycle.
The MetaBeast X is a larger, heavier ride at 200 lbs (91 kg) with an 18 kW motor, 60 Nm of torque, and a top speed of 75 mph (120 km/h). Its larger 96V 55Ah and 5.28 kWh battery offers a range of 78 miles (125 km) at a speed of 31 mph (50 km/h).
On the other hand, the lighter MetaBeast, weighing 123 lbs (56 kg), features a 6 kW motor with 40 Nm of torque and a top speed of 50 mph (80 km/h). It has a smaller 52V 30Ah and 2.16 kWh battery, with a range of 44 miles (70 km) at a constant speed of 25 mph (40 km/h). Its specifications put it in direct competition with light electric trail bikes such as the Sur Ron X.
However, SONDORS has included a disclaimer on the quoted figures, indicating that the final production version’s performance could differ from the original figures, as was the case with the MetaCycle.
What is surprising, though, is the way the company appears to be marketing the two models. While the MetaBeast X is marketed as a fully-homologated, street-legal motorcycle, the company refers to the MetaBeast as an “e-bike.” This is problematic as the MetaBeast is not classified as an electric bicycle by US regulations since it is much too powerful and lacks pedals.
The MetaBeast is described on the website as “lightweight, shift-free, and clutch-free” and is marketed as an electric bike for off-road or areas where e-bikes are permitted. But SONDORS’ marketing statement ignores the fact that electric bicycles must adhere to specific regulations in most states in the country.
SONDORS has not yet commented on the MetaBeast’s legal classification, and it remains unclear how it will be classified for use in the US. For now, both models are available for pre-order with estimated shipping dates in October 2023.
The MetaBeast and MetaBeast X are currently on sale until April 11 for $3,000 and $6,500, respectively, without additional charges for shipping/delivery. They are available in silver, gold, and black.
