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Niu, leader in the electric scooter segment, is strengthening its range with the RQi Sport. This roadster promises 120 km of autonomy and will arrive on our roads in July 2022.
If the supply of electric scooters is equivalent to 50 cm3 turns out to be quite substantial, the one in 125 cm3 is much rarer. Apart from Super Socco and Zero Motorcycles, few manufacturers have yet made their place in the segment. Niu, with whom we have already tested the disappointing MQi GT, returns to the charge with an electric motorcycle which, on paper, has some interesting characteristics.
The RQi Sport takes up the codes of neo-retro design in vogue for some time in the world of two-wheelers, with a round LED headlight and a more futuristic line with a Z-shaped frame and tank. The swinging arm seems faithful to that of the scooters of the range. Overall, the traits are taken from the concept presented at CES 2020.
As 125 cm equivalent3, the NIY Mid Mount Motor electric motor develops 5 kW with a peak power of 7.5 kW. The torque value is not communicated, but the maximum speed seems for the moment limited to around 100 km / h, which will limit the use. The motor, located in the lower part of the frame, is powered by a pack of two batteries of 72 V and 36 Ah each, ensuring no less than 120 km of autonomy. However, the data is not WLTP approved. Each removable battery weighs 25 kg and it will take 7 hours for a full charge.
Richly endowed
The Niu RQi Sport roadster makes up for it with equipment including a customizable TFT screen and Bluetooth connectivity with the smartphone which, we hope, will benefit from navigation. Two front and rear cameras are also on the program to facilitate maneuvering. Showing 186 kg on the scale, the machine is not a 125 cm3 lightweight.
Finally, in terms of the cycle part, Niu offers an inverted fork, a cantilever shock absorber, disc brakes, as well as 17-inch wheels shod in 110/70 at the front and 140/70 at the rear. The two-seater saddle perched at 825 mm makes it accessible to as many people as possible.
According to the manufacturer, this roadster will arrive on our roads in July 2022 at a price of € 6,999. It should cross swords with a Super Socco TC Max which is starting to find its audience, marketed from € 5,100.