Niu Introduces 100 MP/H Smart E-Moto
Among the fast-growing list of Chinese electric motorcycle brands, Niu stands out for moving beyond city scooters into genuine performance with the RQi, a smart e-moto that the company claims tops out at 100 mph (161 km/h). Niu joins names like Zero rivals and a wave of Asian manufacturers building connected, highway-capable electric bikes, positioning the RQi between affordable urban e-scooters and premium high-torque electric motorcycles. Here is what makes the Niu RQi notable and how it fits the broader Chinese EV two-wheeler scene.
Why are Chinese electric motorcycle brands rising?
For most people looking to get into the electric motorcycle scene, one thing is obvious. There is barely a middle ground between the urban mobility e-scooters and the high-end e-motos with hair raising torque delivery. Niu decided to fill this space with its new electric motorcycle called RQi. The brand is one of several Chinese and Asian makers pushing connected, software-rich machines into mainstream price points, which is exactly why "chinese electric motorcycle brands" has become a popular search for buyers comparing options.
Niu RQi specs and performance
China-based Niu focuses mostly on plug-in electric scooters which are perfect for the Asian market and especially the Chinese one. They got out of their comfort zone with the RQi, creating an electric motorcycle that is focused on urban performance. With a 30 kW belt-driven motor, Niu claims the RQi will top out at 100 mph which makes it a perfectly capable highway machine. Two Panasonic lithium batteries are the source of power at a combined 6.5 kWh energy storage. It certainly is not a lot but it can do 128 km in combined city/highway riding or 200 km at a constant speed of around 50 km/h. Full specifications are listed on the official Niu RQi product page, with launch context from New Atlas.
Smart features and the competition
Renders from the bike also show a screen for a dashboard paired with other features such as 5G connectivity, adaptive headlights, traction control as well as ABS. Hopefully, all these features don't raise the price too much as it will make it difficult for the RQi to compete with rivals such as Zero. The blend of connectivity and accessible pricing is the formula that has helped Chinese electric motorbikes gain ground globally, and the RQi is a clear statement of that ambition.
Explore electric two-wheelers at TheArsenale
If the Niu RQi has sparked your interest in electric motorcycles, TheArsenale curates a hand-picked selection of the best electric two-wheelers in the world. Browse the TheArsenale electric vehicle collection and the e-bike collection, then discover standouts such as the Cake Kalk electric motorcycle, the UBCO FRX1 electric trail bike, and the FUELL Flluid-3 e-bike.
