The Chinese electric two-wheeler manufacturer; NIU is set to launch the NIU RQi soon in Nepal. The electric bike has two options in other markets – the normal and sports, however, only the standard normal version is making its way to Nepal.
The electric bike has modern looks with advanced features and tech loaded for a comfortable and safer ride. With the electric market in the scooter segment a success for NIU in Nepal, NIU aims to compete in the electric bike market which is still flourishing in Nepal. Super Soco is currently leading with four options in the electric bike range. There are other electric bike options like the Yatri P1 which is also set to get a facelift soon, Komaki Ranger and the Pure EV Etryst 350.
Let us see what the electric bike offers in terms of specs.
Specifications of NIU RQi
| Dimensions | Length: 2080mm Width: 835mm Height: 1108mm |
| Weight | 186 Kg |
| Wheelbase | 1455mm |
| Ground Clearance | 167mm |
| Seat height | 825mm |
| Motor | 7.5 kW |
| Peak power | 11Hp |
| Peak Torque | 450Nm |
| Acceleration | 2.9s seconds (0-50km/h) |
| Battery | 2 x 18650 Lithium Ion |
| Battery tech | 4th GEN NIU ENERGY SMART POWER TECH |
| Battery weight | 23Kg x 2 |
| Battery capacity | 72V36Ah |
| Rated power | 5000W |
| Charging time | 4 Hours (Single) / 7 Hours (Dual) |
| Range | 95-105 km |
| Suspension | Front: Rear: Mono-shock |
| Brakes | Front: 300mm CBS | 300mm ABS+TCS Rear: 240mm CBS | 240mm ABS+TCS |
| Tyres | Front: 110/70-R17 Rear: 140/70-R17 |
| Colours | Green | Blue | Red | Brushed Silver |
| Price (expected) | Rs 1,150,000 |
Design
The NIU RQi features the unique NIU retro look with modern touches giving it a distinctive modern retro bike vibe. Upfront, we can see the round LED DRL with LED headlight. The indicators are situated just above the headlamp setup. With the round headlamp setup and body parts, the electric bike looks quite big.
From the side, the NIU RQi has a modern touch with the lines and finishing. The muscular tank features air vents to keep the battery and the motor cool. There is a start stop button on the start of the tank which functions with the keyless entry feature.
On the rear, the LED setup continues with the LED taillights and the LED indicators. The indicators and the mudguard are on the lower half which are not connected or attached to the taillight but connected to the frame on either side.
One unique feature of the NIU RQi is the availability of cameras on both the front and the back. There is one just above the front headlamp setup and one just above the rear taillight section. The cameras can easily capture the surroundings and also have impact detection which will record footage of the impact.
The seats on the NIU RQi is single-piece which is soft and comfortable for both the rider and the pillion. The seats can also come off to access the battery underneath. The display on the electric bike is an LCD TFT which displays all the necessary information during rides. The electric bike can also connect to the mobile using the NIU app which can check the location of the bike, customise the ride and check the bike’s information.
Performance
The NIU RQi electric bike packs a punch with its 7.5 kW motor, delivering a peak power of 11Hp. With a peak torque of 450Nm, it offers quick acceleration, reaching 0-50km/h in just 2.9 seconds. This makes it fast and responsive ideal for navigating through city traffic with ease.
It is equipped with two 18650 Lithium Ion batteries utilizing 4th GEN NIU ENERGY SMART POWER TECH. The electric bike ensures reliable and efficient power delivery with efficient cooling for longer rides. Each battery weighs 23kg, providing a combined capacity of 72V36Ah. Charging is easy, taking 4 hours for a single battery or 7 hours for both.
The NIU RQi offers a decent range of around 95-105 km on a single charge. Its suspension system features front and rear mono-shocks. When it comes to safety, the RQi is equipped with advanced braking technology (ABS). It has brembo brakes with CBS on the front 300mm disc and 240mm disc on the rear. Both the front and the rear brakes have ABS+TCS for reliable stopping power and stability. It is coupled with its 110/70-R17 front and 140/70-R17 rear tyres offering grip and presence on the road.
Features
The features of the NIU RQi are as follows:
- 7.5 kW electric motor
- Top Speed: 100 kmph
- Acceleration: 0 to 50 kmph in 2.9 seconds
- Range: Up to 105 kms per charge (with dual batteries)
- Brakes: Dual-channel ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System)
- Traction Control System
- Full LED Lighting
- Keyless Start
- TFT Dashboard
- Removable Batteries: Two 72V, 36Ah batteries
- Dual camera
- Brembo Radial Caliper (front)
- Mobile connectivity
- GPS tracking
- Modern-retro design
The NIU RQi is available in four colour options; Green, Blue, Red and Brushed Silver.
The NIU RQi is expected to launch soon in Nepal with a price tag of around Rs 1,150,000.
