SurRon Ultra Bee Vs SurRon Light Bee X: Which Electric Dirt Bike Should You Choose?
Electric dirt bikes have become increasingly popular in the e-ride community since they were introduced several years ago. Some riders prefer e-dirt bikes since these devices offer a sustainable solution to travelling without sacrificing performance. It produces zero tailpipe emissions and noise pollution.
Among the brands that introduced dirt e-bikes to the world, SurRon became one of the most popular. Since its release in 2018, the SurRon Light Bee X took the world by storm and made a mark in the dirt e-bike segment. A few years later, SurRon released the SurRon Ultra Bee, and it’s still a hit among fans.
But which is the best electric dirt bike in Australia? This guide aims to compare the SurRon Ultra Bee and SurRon Light Bee X 2023 versions to give you an idea about their differences and similarities. Hopefully, this will help you decide which ride to buy if you’re interested in having one.
However, please note that these two electric dirt bikes can’t be ridden on public roads, as they don’t comply with Australia’s transportation requirements. You can only ride them off-road and on public property. Only the SurRon Light Bee L1E and the SurRon Storm Bee can be registered and ridden on public roads.
Quick Electric Scooter Comparison
SurRon Ultra Bee |
SurRon Light Bee X |
|
Dimensions |
2,010x880x1,178 mm |
1,860x870x1,050 mm |
Weight |
85 kg |
45 kg |
Max Load |
100 kg |
100 kg |
Motor |
12.5 kW PMSM |
3 kW |
Max Torque |
440 N.M. |
250 N.M. |
Battery |
74 V 55 Ah Lithium-ion |
60 V 40 Ah Lithium-ion |
Charging Time |
Up to 4 hours |
3 to 4 hours |
Top Speed |
90 kph |
75 kph |
Max Range |
140 km |
100 km |
Gradeability |
Up to 80% Inclines |
Up to 80% Inclines |
Brakes |
Front and Rear Hydraulic |
Front and Rear Hydraulic |
Tyres |
80/100-19 Front and |
70/100-19 CST |
Cost |
$9,999 |
$7,750 |
Design and Durability
When it comes to looks, both electric dirt bikes show off a cool, edgy, and modern style. However, regarding practicality, the Ultra Bee wins since it includes an under-seat charger storage.
For size, these two rides are slightly more compact than a regular motorcycle. The Ultra Bee has dimensions of 2,010 x 880 x 1,178 mm and a 85-kg weight. On the other hand, the Light Bee X measures 1,860 x 870 x 1,050 mm and weighs 45 kg. If you prefer a more compact and lightweight ride, consider getting the SurRon Light Bee X.
Regarding durability, both rides are built to withstand different terrains and conditions. The SurRon Ultra Bee uses forged aluminium for its frame and 6061 aluminium for its handlebars. Meanwhile, the SurRon Light Bee X uses 6061 T4 and T6 forged aluminium for the frame and 6061 aluminium for its handlebars.
Forged aluminium provides great strength and a better surface finish, making it an ideal material for these electric dirt bikes. As a result, both rides have a maximum load of 100 kg.
Also, the Ultra Bee has an IP65 rating, meaning it has a high level of protection against dust, and it can withstand low-pressure water jets from all directions. On the other hand, the Light Bee X has an IP55 rating, which means limited protection from dust and ideal protection from low-pressure water jets from any direction. In this case, the SurRon Ultra Bee offers the best electric dirt bike for adults who need a highly durable ride in various environments.
Performance
Regarding performance, these two dirt e-bikes offer vastly different outputs. Since the SurRon Light Bee X is meant to be a lightweight and compact electric dirt bike, it offers less power than the SurRon Ultra Bee, which is meant to be a mid-sized electric dirt bike.
The Ultra Bee uses a 12.5 kW Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) with a max torque of 440 N.M. This motor enables it to produce up to 90 kph and climb hills with up to 80% slope per cent or 38.66°.
Meanwhile, its 74 V 55 Ah lithium-ion battery has a charging time of up to 4 hours thanks to its fast charger. This SurRon electric bike also delivers a whopping max range of 140 km.
On the other hand, the SurRon Light Bee X uses a 3 kW BLDC mid-motor with a max torque of 250 N.M. This enables it to produce up to 75 kph and climb up to 80% slope per cent.
For the battery, it uses a 60 V 40 Ah lithium-ion battery that can charge up to 4 hours due to its fast charger. Also, it can deliver a max range of 100 km.
Note that the maximum ranges for these electric dirt bikes vary depending on your speed, terrain, and riding style. For example, you can only reach a max range of 75 km if you travel at a speed of 40 kph.
Either e-scooter offers exceptional performance for an electric dirt bike. It depends on your riding needs whether you want more power or not. Consider this before buying either one.
Safety
Since both dirt e-bikes are made for off-roading, the SurRon Ultra Bee and Light Bee X are equipped with reliable safety features to prevent accidents on the road.
The SurRon Ultra Bee uses front and rear hydraulic disc brakes, an EABS, and a regenerative braking system. It also includes the SurRon traction control system for better stability in different terrains, a front LED light, and a horn.
Meanwhile, the SurRon Light Bee X features front and rear hydraulic disc brakes and a regenerative braking system. It also includes a front LED, a rear tail light that’s always switched on, and a horn.
All of these features make the SurRon Ultra Bee and Light Bee X safe when riding. However, these are not enough to make them street-legal.
Also, Scooteroo reminds all riders to ride responsibly and wear a proper, fitted helmet and other safety gear to protect themselves in case of an accident. Unless you’re a professional, don’t attempt stunts that could endanger you.
Ride Quality
Both rides generally offer excellent riding experience. However, if you prefer a more spacious ride, consider getting the Ultra Bee.
This SurRon electric bike provides a large seat, ideal for larger riders. For the suspension, it uses a front KKE 37 mm inverted fork with 240 mm travel and a rear KKE with 240 mm wheel travel.
Combining the suspension with its 80/100-19 front mud tyre and 90/90-19 rear mud tyre results in a riding experience that’s smoother and easier to control.
Meanwhile, the Light Bee X features a front KKE or fastace upside-down fork hydraulic absorber with 200 mm travel and a rear KKE or fastace adjustable with intersect TR and 87 mm travel.
Note that this ride’s suspension system is adjustable, allowing you to change your riding comfort according to the terrain or your preference. Meanwhile, it uses 70/100-19 CST mud tyres.
Price
The two rides have a drastic cost difference since one is more powerful than the other. The SurRon Ultra Bee costs $9,999, while the SurRon Light Bee X costs $7,750 on Scooteroo.
Compared to some fuel-based motorcycles, these SurRon electric dirt bikes are slightly more expensive. However, these dirt e-bikes are a more cost-effective option when it comes to maintenance and fuel costs.
Regarding warranty, these models generally offer a one-year warranty.
Electric Dirt Bike vs. Motorcycle: Which Is Better?
Many riders switch to electric dirt bikes due to their unique riding experience, emission-free trips, and cost-effectiveness in the long run. They’re also slightly more compact than a regular motorcycle, making it a great space-saving ride.
However, sometimes, it can’t perform as well as most motorcycles. Also, many electric dirt bikes are not street-legal, meaning you can’t use them for commutes to work, school, or errands since they can't be ridden on public roads.
There’s also the concern of losing battery power during your trip. With a regular motorcycle, you can just go to the nearest gas station to fill up the tank. However, not all gas stations offer charging stations for e-rides, making it inconvenient to travel in case you run out of power.
Overall, it depends on your needs as a rider. If you only want a ride that you can use for off-roading, consider getting an electric dirt bike. Meanwhile, if you need a daily commuter and long-distance ride, it’s better to get a motorcycle.
However, you also have the option to get an electric dirt bike as a daily commuter if you get a street-legal or road-ready model, like the SurRon Light Bee L1E and the SurRon Storm Bee. Note that road-legal dirt e-bikes tend to be slightly expensive.
Which Electric Dirt Bike Should You Choose?
If you prefer electric bikes over motorcycles, feel free to choose your preferred SurRon ride. Before getting one, consider your needs carefully to see which electric dirt bike suits your lifestyle.
If you want a slightly larger ride with comfy seats, more power, and longer distance, choose the SurRon Ultra Bee. Meanwhile, if you want a lighter ride that’s easier to navigate and can still thrill you on every trip, check out the SurRon Light Bee X.
If you’re having trouble deciding, feel free to contact our team and ask for recommendations. For more electric dirt bikes in Australia, browse the Scooteroo online shop or visit our showrooms at Victoria Park, Osborne Park, and Midland. Please note that our Midland branch is open regular hours from Monday to Wednesday but is only available by appointment from Thursdays to Sundays, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.