In September 2023, THE PACK already reported about this new electric offroad motorbike from the STRiX team in Slovenia. Big THX to Dejan Nadoh, Chief Operations Officer at STRiX eMotors Ltd. to have this opportunity to test their STRiX electric Hard Enduro in The Netherlands.
Author: Andrew Thijssen | BMS E-Motorrijder | In recent years, electric motorcycles have been gaining more and more popularity, particularly in urban environments where there is a strong push for using light electric vehicles. Interestingly, there has also been a rise in the number of new motorcycle brands that are focusing on creating electric off-road motorbikes. This trend makes sense as motocross circuits are being closed and off-road areas are facing stricter regulations due to noise and environmental restrictions. Electric off-road motorcycles solve these problems while also providing immediate power and torque, making them highly valuable for navigating rough terrain. STRiX, a company from Slovenia, is one of the latest players in this market with their powerful electric hard enduro motorbike.
The primary intended use for the STRiX Hard Enduro is for military purposes. This tough electric motorcycle packs a punch with 70 kW (95 hp) of power and an impressive torque of 1,050 Nm at the rear wheel. Weighing in at only 118 kg, these numbers are quite impressive, especially when compared to a similar KTM 450 EXC which weighs 114 kg dry. This off-roader utilizes top-of-the-line components for its military purpose, with 90% of the bike being made up of locally produced parts, including the battery and motor. The detachable 6.3 kWh NMC battery can be charged at a rate of up to 18 kW DC using an external charger that features a separate connector following the CCS standard. Along with two USB ports, the connector plug sits on top of the “tank” for easy access.
According to STRiX, the motorbike has the endurance to last up to 80 minutes of intense off-road riding.
Dejan Nadoh, Chief Operations Officer at STRiX eMotors Ltd.
In practical terms, this means the battery can be recharged from 20-80% in just ten minutes. It is also possible to charge the battery through an AC outlet. According to STRiX, the bike has the endurance to last up to 80 minutes of intense off-road riding. The drivetrain is housed within a Chrome-Molybdenum tube frame and features Showa suspension at the front and an Ohlins unit at the rear, both of which can be fully customized. Braking power comes from Braktech, a sub-brand of Brembo, with disc brakes on both wheels that are operated by the handlebars. The bike offers multiple riding modes, such as ECO, Custom, and Sport, which can be quickly adjusted via an app to suit personal preferences and terrain.
With its IP68 certification, the STRiX is completely waterproof and can be submerged in water without any damage. Its wheelbase measures 1,485 mm, while its seat height stands at 960 cm and ground clearance at 355 mm. The military version weighs 130 kg and is capable of carrying an additional load of up to 150 kg. The bike boasts a rugged design with meticulous attention to detail. It has been thoroughly tested by various NATO defense forces, including recent evaluations in the Netherlands. I was fortunate enough to take a test ride on one of the only two pre-production units available in the country. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, the motorcycle couldn’t be cleaned before the photoshoot.
The STRiX falls into the “traditional” 450 cc enduro class with its dimensions and power. However, with its impressive peak power of 95 hp and available torque, it stands out from others in its class. Fortunately, there are multiple riding modes to choose from with customizable options in the app, providing a sense of security. From my own experience, I’ve found it best to start on Eco mode with powerful electric motorcycles to avoid being taken by surprise from the immediate power delivery. You can easily switch between modes using the button on the right handlebar. Even in Eco mode, the bike is highly responsive and fast without catching you off guard.
The instant torque is most noticeable in the lower and mid-range, a common characteristic of electric motors. In Eco mode, power delivery is smooth and easy to control, giving riders confidence to switch to Custom mode. In this mode, the STRiX feels significantly faster and accelerates strongly through loose terrain like sand. The throttle response is even stronger than that of a 450 cc four-stroke engine. Riding in Custom mode won’t be a shock either if you know your limits. When switched to Sport mode, where full power is unleashed with minimal regenerative braking, the STRiX behaves like a high-performance two-stroke motorcycle. In this mode, riders need to push themselves more to tap into the bike’s full potential. Adjustments can also be made to the settings for Sport mode through the app.
The suspension on both the front and rear of the motorcycle is highly customizable and provides accurate feedback. I wasn’t able to experiment with the settings during my limited time with the bike, but it still left a positive impression. The brakes are controlled from the handlebars, allowing for precise control of the rear brake while decelerating, cornering, or accelerating. Both brakes have responsive and smooth modulation.
The battery can be removed and is located where the fuel tank would usually be found. Out of the total weight of 118 kg, 40 kg is made up of the battery, which isn’t very noticeable while riding. However, it does become evident when picking up the bike after a fall in sandy terrain. Still, it’s manageable, although you will feel its weight. The STRiX handles surprisingly well on loose sand thanks to its immediate throttle response and lack of rotating mass in its drivetrain. On harder surfaces, riders will need to pay close attention due to the powerful motor, but this can be adjusted through an app according to your preferences. With a seat height of 960 cm, riders of average height should feel comfortable putting their feet on the ground.
Conclusion
The STRiX motorcycle is a powerful, durable machine made with military-grade components. Its focus on sustainability and self-sufficiency is evident in its use of domestically developed and produced parts, a nod to its military origins. The placement of controls is intuitive and user-friendly. For those new to riding electric motorcycles, adjusting to the rear brake operation may take some time. However, thanks to the various riding modes and accompanying app, the STRiX is easily accessible for riders of all skill levels.
Although the swappable battery may be useful for military purposes, it is not as necessary for civilian use due to the variety of fast charging options available. The STRiX boasts a sleek design, sturdy build, and smooth maneuverability while also offering impressive power. Unfortunately, I was unable to test the battery life during my short ride, but after thirty minutes of continuous use, only 20% of the battery’s charge had been used. The pre-production models did not showcase the CCS charging system. Currently, the street-legal version is only sold in their native country, Slovenia. Personally, I am eagerly anticipating its availability elsewhere.
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