Introducing the #world’s most powerful electric bike: CAB Recon
This is a bicycle. barely.
CAB Motorworks claims this is the most powerful electric bike on the planet. This sounds like marketing hyperbole until you see the numbers. We are talking about a 20 kW electric motor. Its torque is 433 Nm. Acceleration from zero to 80 km/h takes less than 5 seconds. Top speed is 100 km/h.
This is not a commuter. Not suitable for going to the supermarket.
CAB Recon is an electric mountain bike designed for enduro and downhill riding. The only difference to a heavy duty motocross bike is the pedals. To be honest, you probably won’t use them much.
Made for the mountains
Founded in California in 2013, CAB Motorworks has been making electric bikes and conversion kits for years. The Recon is their latest obsession. Designed to destroy gravity.
The suspension settings are genuine. The front has a twin-tower fork with 200 mm of travel. Enough to eat big hits. The rear coil spring shock absorber provides 250 mm of additional travel. The geometry and travel numbers scream “Go downhill fast!”
The configuration of the bike is hybrid. 19 inch front wheel. Eighteen-inch in the back. This combination offers a good balance between comfort and sharp handling. It gives you a sense of agility when steering the bike quickly in corners.
Regenerative braking technology
One feature that really makes sense here is the regenerative braking system. When you press the brake, the motor rotates backwards. Produces 4 kW of power. This energy is returned to the battery.
CAB Motorworks claims this can restore up to 10% of battery range. It’s not a magic bullet, but it can help. The engine’s braking effect is so strong that experienced riders don’t even need to touch the physical brakes. Just lift off the throttle and let the motor slow the bike down. This is a smart way to manage energy on long runs.
The Price of Power
You can’t buy this bike everywhere. Currently only available to people living in the US, Canada or Norway. Delivery costs are charged separately. The base price is $10,500.
Buying two wheels and a motor costs a lot. But it is much less than a high-end enduro motorcycle. Basically, you can get motorcycle performance with a bicycle frame.
Practical? No.
Is it fun? Absolutely.
The Recon is a machine for those who want to mock gas-powered dirt bikes on the trail. It’s loud, fast and expensive. It is also a glimpse into the future, where electricity will changes how we ride.
What happens when the batteries get better? What happens when the weight drops? The Recon is just the beginning.
