Unfortunately hub motors = cheaper, but more unsprung weight = more inertia and therefore slower up and downstroke on the suspension = less time in contact with the road. There seems a huge price jump once moving away from hub motors
The real issues of the cheaper offerings are that they would not be able to get to 100 kph, let alone be able to sit there comfortably.
The 2 kiwi made options I am aware of like you mentioned (FTN motion looks heaps better, but can't get above 50 kph):
Ubco (you mentioned)
FTN Motion
The imported hub motor bikes which are getting close:
Super soco
Evoke
Please let me know of others being imported to NZ
And for those who like to burn money, either the Livewire as mentioned or importing a Zero or Energica. Zero did import to Australia but got out of that market 5 years ago or so. People do import them, and so effectively pay full retail but with no dealer support.
Have a look at newzeroland on youtube https://www.facebook.com/groups/490290081150877/ (he now rides an Energica, having sold the Zero). There is a facebook group for kiwi & Oz electric motorbikes https://www.facebook.com/groups/490290081150877/
Personally, I'll be interested when:
- Priced 50% of the Harley/Livewire One or less
- Able to sit at 100 and accelerate from here for overtaking
- Faired for a bit of rain and wind protection + increased range/wind resistance
- Local dealer support
- Electronic traction control - given the incredible torque of these motors at all revs
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