EXPERIENCE THRILLING WATER CYCLING WITH HYDROFOILER XE-1
The Manta5 Hydrofoiler XE-1 is the world's first hydrofoil electric bike designed for open water, offering a riding experience that feels closer to flying than swimming. Powered by a 460W brushless motor drawing on a 36V, 22Ah battery pack, the XE-1 lifts its rider clear of the surface on carbon-fiber hydrofoils and delivers a top speed of 13 mph with a cruising range of more than 15 miles per charge. If you have ever wanted to cycle across a lake, an ocean, or a river, this is the machine that makes it possible.
How Does the Hydrofoiler XE-1 Work?
The XE-1 relies on a submerged carbon-fiber reinforced nylon propeller coupled to its hydrofoils to generate lift and forward thrust simultaneously. As the rider pedals and the motor assists, the hydrofoils create upward force that raises the entire frame clear of the water surface, dramatically reducing drag. The result is a smooth, stable glide through the water even in moderate chop. Seven assist modes let the rider dial in the level of motor support, from full power for beginners to zero assistance for those who want a genuine workout on the water.
Materials, Weight, and Build Quality
Manta5 built the XE-1 from a combination of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, carbon fiber, and vacuum-sealed ASA plastics, bringing the total weight to approximately 63 lbs (28.5 kg) including the battery. The hydrofoils themselves are full carbon fiber, chosen for their stiffness-to-weight ratio and their ability to generate consistent lift without flexing under load. The frame geometry is designed to feel intuitive to anyone who has ridden a bicycle, lowering the barrier to entry significantly for a vehicle that operates in a fundamentally different medium.
Range, Battery, and Ride Time
The 36V battery system provides a maximum ride time of approximately 60 minutes at moderate effort, translating to over 15 miles of water coverage in ideal conditions. A handlebar-mounted display shows pedal assist level, battery status, speed, distance, and ride mode in real time. The battery is removable for easy charging on shore. Manta5 backs the XE-1 with a two-year comprehensive warranty, reflecting their confidence in the platform's durability across salt and fresh water environments.
For a hands-on technical evaluation of the XE-1, GearJunkie's full review covers real-world performance across different water conditions. Digital Trends tested the XE-1 at CES 2020 and reported on the experience of learning to ride it from scratch.
Discover Electric Water Vehicles at TheArsenale
The Hydrofoiler XE-1 sits within a broader category of premium electric watercraft redefining how people experience lakes, rivers, and coastlines. Browse the E-Bikes collection at TheArsenale for the most innovative electric-powered personal vehicles available. For those drawn to electric performance on the water specifically, the Quadrofoil Q2S Electric Hydrofoil Boat offers a sit-down hydrofoiling experience with zero emissions. The Water collection brings together the full range of exceptional watercraft curated by TheArsenale.
Photo: MANTA5
