In a surprising turn of events to close out 2024, ONYX Motorbikes has announced its return after ceasing operations earlier this year. The brand’s revival is spearheaded by its original founder, Tim Seward, and kicks off with the release of 100 limited edition electric mopeds known as the ONYX RCR LTD.
A Comeback Rooted in Passion
ONYX Motorbikes made a name for itself in 2018 with its stylish and high-performance electric mopeds. However, financial difficulties and ownership struggles led to the company shutting down earlier in 2024. Now, Seward has reclaimed the brand and is determined to bring it back to life. The relaunch begins with the release of a limited batch of RCR LTD bikes, setting the stage for standard production models expected in Spring 2025.
The ONYX RCR LTD: A Collector’s Dream
The ONYX RCR LTD is a special edition of the brand’s iconic RCR model. Each of the 100 units will feature a uniquely numbered holographic authenticity sticker, brushed aluminum and holographic black side panels, and a host of performance upgrades.
- High-Powered Motor: The rear hub motor delivers a peak power of 15 kW and a nominal power of 7.2 kW, allowing the RCR LTD to accelerate from 0-30 mph in just four seconds and reach a top speed of 55+ mph in Sport Mode.
- Three Ride Modes: Riders can choose between Eco (20 mph limit), Normal (40 mph limit), and Sport (55+ mph limit) depending on their needs.
- Enhanced Battery: The RCR LTD comes equipped with a 3,240 Wh battery, offering a claimed range of up to 120 miles in Eco mode. The battery also features a Bluetooth-enabled Battery Management System (BMS) for remote monitoring via a smartphone.
- Regulatory Grey Area: While the bike includes pedals and an Eco mode that limits power to 750W, making it resemble a Class 2 e-bike, its high speeds and power output push it into an undefined category that may vary depending on local laws.
A Step Toward the Future
While the limited edition RCR LTD is only available in 100 units, ONYX Motorbikes plans to bring back standard production RCRs in 2025. The brand’s return signals a renewed commitment to high-performance electric mopeds, blending retro aesthetics with cutting-edge technology.
With ONYX back in the game, electric moped enthusiasts have much to look forward to. Whether the company can sustain long-term operations remains to be seen, but for now, the return of the RCR LTD is an exciting milestone for both ONYX and the growing electric motorcycle industry.
