ONYX RCR 80V: A Strong Step Forward for the Cult‑Favourite E‑Moto Brand

ONYX Motors has never tried to cater to the mainstream—and that’s part of its charm. Their retro-futurist styling, minimalist build, moped pride, and street-legal electric punch appeal to a distinct following. The new RCR 80V takes that formula and tunes it up: more speed, more range, and a more refined build. It’s not a revolution—but it’s the best ONYX yet.

Refined Power, Familiar Soul

Onyx RCR80v in Lunar Silver

Looking like a classic RCR, the 80V version brings enough performance gains to feel like a worthwhile evolution. The voltage bump (from 72V to 80V nominal, with max voltages around ~92V) brings higher torque and smoother acceleration. ONYX claims a top speed of 65 mph, up from 60 mph.

The 5000W motor, peaking near 8000W, delivers a sharper launch without compromising the ride that fans love. Other familiar ONYX traits—such as the signature pedals—remain, a nod to its moped-like heritage.

The RCR80v now comes with standard add-ons including mirrors and the Space Black bolt-on kit, lending polish to an already distinctive ride.

RCR 80V – Key Specs

Onyx RCR80V

• Motor: 5000W nominal (peak ~8000W), rear hub motor

• Top Speed: ~65 mph

• Battery: 80V 45Ah lithium‑ion (3.6 kWh)

• Range: ~55 miles in Sport mode, up to ~130 miles in Eco mode

• Charging: 6–8 hours via standard charger, optional faster charger available

• Brakes: Front & rear hydraulic disc (rear assisted by regen)

• Suspension: Adjustable front fork + dual rear shocks

• Weight: ~145 lbs

• Frame: Chromoly steel

• Wheels/Tires: 17″ rims with 2.5″ street tires

• Lighting: Full LED system

• Extras: Mirrors included, bolt‑on kit optional

Availability & Pricing

Onyx RCR 2021

• USA: Ships from ONYX’s Los Angeles HQ.

• Price (USA): ~$4,699–$5,925 USD depending on configuration and media promotion.

• Accessory Kit: $100 Bolt-on panel finish upgrade (Space Black or Cosmic Gold). - Space Black comes free with the bike currently.

• Shipping tied to batch-based pre-orders. Batch 1 (mid‑2025) is nearly sold out; Batch 2 timing hasn’t been confirmed.

Where ONYX Stands in the E‑Moto Scene

Onyx RCR

While brands like Sur‑Ron, Rawrr, and Talaria race toward raw performance and off‑road dominance, ONYX stays focused on context: urban, stylish, electric fun.

ONYX isn’t chasing wattage wars or suspension volume. It’s delivering personality, simplicity, and torque-packed street rides. In other words: the appeal is emotional, not technical—though the 80V adds a solid layer of substance, and riders report good performance across terrains from all the Onyx models.

“On hard‑packed dirt trails and rock, the RCR was an absolute joy to ride. It feels light and manoeuvrable, easily crossing rough terrain… It’s fast. It pulls off the line and keeps pulling all the way to the 35 mph limit. The tires grip rocks and dirt well. Honestly… I was ripping around, smiling unabashedly in my helmet and enjoying every minute…”

This Reddit user captures the core of the ONYX experience: a smaller-scale bike that still manages to surprise on both pavement and trail.

Final Thoughts: A Positive Upgrade with Character

Onyx RCR

The RCR 80V delivers meaningful improvements—speed, range, build quality—without sacrificing the core identity that made ONYX popular. It isn’t rewriting what e‑motorbikes can do, but it raises the ceiling of what ONYX riders can expect.

For brand advocates, it’s a welcome enhancement. For newcomers seeking urban thrills with style, it’s a route less travelled—offering a distinct alternative to the usual choices. It won’t outrun a Sur‑Ron off-road, but it doesn’t have to. It only needs to beat traffic, look good, and put a grin on your face.

Ride safe, folks.