Electric bikes are no longer a futuristic fantasy; they’re a present reality. We’ve had the pleasure of testing them thoroughly and are no longer making apologies to naysayers. It’s time to embrace them because, believe it or not, they can bring a lot of enjoyment. KC Powersports in San Juan Capistrano graciously loaned us a Surron Ultra Bee, and our initial impressions are overwhelmingly positive.
The Surron Ultra Bee closely resembles a dirt bike in many aspects, despite not being one.
Having previously tested the Surron Light Bee, the Ultra Bee represents a significant step closer to a full-scale dirt bike in terms of power and size. Sporting 19-inch wheels and equipped with a 12,500-watt AC motor, it weighs approximately 190 pounds.
This translates to a top speed ranging from 55 to 58 mph, but during our testing under optimal conditions, we managed to hit speeds of 60 to 62 mph on multiple occasions. To put this in perspective, it’s akin to riding an 85cc or supermini dirt bike. However, the Ultra Bee stands taller than a mini, offering a comfortable fit for full-size adults.
Priced at $6,500, the Surron Ultra Bee offers substantial design upgrades compared to its Light Bee counterpart.
Our test rider, Jacob Tilley, quickly developed a fondness for the Ultra Bee, despite encountering some spoke issues during big jumps on the first day. We attribute this more to Jacob’s riding style than any inherent flaw in the bike.
In comparison to electric bike models such as Surron’s Light Bee, Talaria’s Sting, and Rawrr’s Mantis, which typically boast half the power in watts and are about 50 pounds lighter, the Ultra Bee stands out. It incorporates full-size motorcycle components in critical areas, such as the fork and shock manufactured by KKE, offering nearly 10 inches of travel.
The brakes closely resemble Nissin models found on current dirt bikes, with axles and brake rotors matching those used on a Honda CR125. While the narrow rims, both measuring 19 inches, give the Ultra Bee a bicycle-like stance, it may require some adjustment time for die-hard dirt bike enthusiasts.
The Ultra Bee’s stock CST tires and narrow rims with small knobs can pose traction challenges in certain off-road conditions, particularly under full power. However, the bike’s adjustable traction control settings mitigate this issue over time with patience and fine-tuning.
Featuring a primary reduction case with an internal belt connecting to a final drive chain, the motor operates without a clutch, shifter, or foot brake, relying solely on hand brakes. This setup may require some adaptation for traditional dirt bike riders.
A handlebar switch allows riders to choose between three power levels—Eco, Daily, and Sport—while a multi-tiered traction control system enhances control, especially in Sport mode off-road. The motor’s cooling fins prevent overheating, ensuring consistent power delivery suitable for trail riding.
While the battery can be replaced in minutes, the cost of a spare battery is nearly half the price of the motorcycle itself.
Environment plays a crucial role in determining the Ultra Bee’s performance. On tight trails, it outperforms modern dual-sport bikes, but in open spaces, hills, and sand, the dual-sport bike excels, making the electric bike feel more toy-like.
Range varies, with rides typically limited to around 30 miles under full throttle. However, the quick battery replacement feature and four-hour full charge time from a 110-volt outlet offer some convenience.
In our opinion, the Surron Ultra Bee tops the list of favorite electric bikes currently available. However, it’s essential to consider where you’ll be riding it. While not suited for motocross tracks like Glen Helen, it shines on tight trails.
Admittedly, we’ve enjoyed riding it on local trails in semi-urban areas, exercising caution to ensure compliance with local regulations. Stay tuned for our upcoming project build featuring the Surron Ultra Bee.