Sol Motors' Pocket Rocket: The Lightweight E-Moto That’s Hard to Ignore
- Paul Roberts
- Jul 31
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 4
Sol Motors, the German firm known for its minimalist design ethos and urban mobility focus, is back on the radar with the global pre-order launch of its ultra-compact electric motorcycle: the Pocket Rocket. Lightweight, visually distinctive, and surprisingly capable, this little two-wheeler is designed for riders who want something electric, fun, and functional — without the bulk or the bloat.
Two Flavours, Same DNA
The Pocket Rocket is available in two configurations:
Standard Model
Rated Power: 4.0 kW - 6.5 kW (peak)
Top speed of 45 km/h (28 mph), intended for city riding and classified as a moped in many markets.
Torque: 120 Nm
Motor Type: Rear hub motor
Top Speed: 45 km/h (28 mph)
Battery: 2.5 kWh lithium-ion
Range: 68–108 km (42–67 miles)
Weight: 87 kg (192 lbs)
Charging Time: ~4 hours (standard), ~2 hours (fast charger)
Classification: Moped (L1e-B in EU)
Licence Requirement: CBT (UK), varies by country
"S" Model
Rated Power: 6.0 kW - 8.5 kW (peak), top speed of 85 km/h (53 mph), aimed at more adventurous commuters or light urban touring.
Torque: 160 Nm
Motor Type: Rear hub motor
Peak Power: 8.5 kW
Top Speed: 85 km/h (53 mph)
Battery: 2.5 kWh lithium-ion (second battery optional)
Range: 68–108 km (42–67 miles)
Weight: 87 kg (192 lbs)
Charging Time: ~4 hours (standard), ~2 hours (fast charger)
Classification: Motorcycle (L3e-A1 in EU)
Licence Requirement: A1 (UK), motorcycle licence in most regions
Both versions use a rear hub motor and come equipped with a 2.5 kWh lithium-ion battery tucked into the horizontal main tube of the frame. A second battery is available as an optional extra for around €1,695, effectively doubling your range if swapped mid-day. Depending on your riding style, expect a range of 68–108 km (42–67 miles) on a full charge.
Charging is handled via a standard wall socket using the included charger, with a full recharge taking about 4 hours — or around 2 hours with an optional fast charger.
Minimalist, But Not Underbuilt
What sets the Pocket Rocket apart — visually and mechanically — is its tubular frame, which doubles as both an aesthetic statement and a structural core. There's no bodywork in the traditional sense. Instead, the frame, wheels, and LED lighting do all the visual talking.
It’s light, too — just 87 kg (192 lbs). That’s nearly half the weight of a typical commuter electric motorcycle, making it nimble for city riding and easy to park, lift, or move around tight spaces. It comes with front and rear disc brakes, regenerative braking, a digital display, and LED lighting all around.
The bike rides on 16-inch alloy wheels, and while the suspension is modest — telescopic fork up front, mono-shock at the rear — it's tuned for urban surfaces. Sol’s design choices clearly favor efficient, short-range trips over long-haul comfort.
Who Is Sol Motors?
Founded in Stuttgart, Sol Motors isn’t a household name, but the company has steadily carved out a niche for itself among fans of stripped-down, design-first e-mobility. The original Pocket Rocket prototype gained interest back in 2018, and after several iterations and development delays, it’s finally hitting production in 2025.
Availability and Pricing
Global pre-orders opened in July 2023 via Sol’s official website. Deliveries are estimated at 6–8 weeks for early customers, with a flat international shipping fee of around €250, subject to additional local taxes and import duties.
Pricing is as follows:
Standard Model: starting at €4,980 (~£4,250 / $5,400 USD / ₹450,000 INR / A$8,100 AUD)
S Model: starting at €6,500 (~£5,550 / $7,000 USD / ₹585,000 INR / A$10,600 AUD)
Prices may vary slightly by region due to shipping and local taxes. Homologation status also varies. Here's how it breaks down by region:
UK: Both models can be pre-ordered. The Standard model is classified as a moped and is road-legal with a CBT and insurance. The "S" model requires a full A1 motorcycle licence.
USA: Available for pre-order. Road legality varies by state. The Standard model typically falls under moped/e-bike laws, while the "S" model is treated as a motorcycle and may require registration, insurance, and a motorcycle licence.
Europe (EU): Fully road legal across the EU. The Standard model fits the L1e-B category (mopeds), while the "S" qualifies under L3e-A1 (motorcycles). Helmets, insurance, and registration are required.
India: Available via international order, but road legality is limited. Import registration is possible, but neither model is currently homologated for street use without additional certification. India does accept EU type approval, so it looks good.
Australia: Available to order. The Standard model is road-legal in most states with a car licence; the "S" model requires a motorcycle licence and registration.
The Bottom Line
The Pocket Rocket won’t replace your touring rig, but it’s not trying to. It’s for people who live in or near cities, want a sustainable ride, and appreciate a machine that’s both clever and efficient. For those already deep into the electric motorcycle world, it’s a refreshing, no-fuss addition to the garage — and for some, maybe the only bike they’ll need for the daily grind.
Ride safe, folks.
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