At EICMA 2023, several manufacturers presented their electric two-wheelers, hoping to get more riders to make the switch. While electric scooters and daily commuter vehicles are plentiful, we’re seeing more and more enthusiast-focused machines hit the market. Niu, for example, has unveiled its first electric dual-sport, the XQi3, which will be available in Europe from spring 2024.
Niu will offer the XQi3 in two variants – an off-road-only model called Wild and a version for use on public roads called Street. The latter will be classified as a moped, so depending on where in Europe you’re from, you’ll need at least a car license or an A1 license to drive it.
In terms of performance, the XQi3 has a mid-drive motor, like all electric off-road bikes. A chain final drive sends the power to the rear wheel, with Niu claiming that it has eight kilowatts, or around 10.7 hp of power. The Street model is limited to a top speed of 45 km/h, while the Wild version has an Ultra-Boost function that allows it to reach a top speed of 75 km/h.
The engine is installed in the lower part of the aluminum frame, promising a low center of gravity to facilitate maneuverability. As for the battery, the bike has a 72-volt, 32 amp-hour LG removable unit with around 80 to 90 kilometers of autonomy on a single charge.
In addition to performance, the Niu XQi3 is underpinned by lightweight components that eliminate the boundary between e-moto and e-MTB. To begin with, the bike has a long-travel suspension with preload and extension adjustment. It has 19-inch spoked wheels with front and rear disc brakes measuring 220 mm and 203 mm, respectively, at the front and rear.
As is the case with most of Niu’s offerings, the XQi3 includes plenty of useful technology. It comes as standard with full LED lighting, a TFT screen with smartphone connectivity and NFC unlocking and even a handy USB-C charger. It even has GPS navigation so you can easily find your way around town or get to the nearest exit when you’re exploring trails. What’s more, the Street version includes turn signals, rear-view mirrors and a license plate holder.
As previously mentioned, the Niu XQi3 will arrive in Europe in spring 2024. Its retail price, as announced during its launch at EICMA 2023, is set at €5,999. It will be sold in a variety of colors and graphics, allowing riders to find a design that suits their style.