Yamaha has reduced the price of its dual battery NEO’S by £500 down to £2,950 making it a highly competitive buy in the AM (moped) class.
The dual battery gives an extended range up to 68km (42 miles) though that does depend on riding style and road conditions.
The batteries are located beneath the flip-up seat and can be removed easily for recharging from a mains supply. The removeable batteries weigh 8kg each so not too hard to lug into your office or home.
It takes eight hours for a full recharge from home mains when the battery is fully exhausted. Charging will be quicker if there’s already some charge onboard.
The NEO’S (yes, that’s the correct way the name is spelled) is the first of Yamaha’s ‘Switch On’ wave of electric motorcycles, and has proved popular in the UK, topping the sales charts.
It’s very much in the style of many previous step-thru small city motorcycles. It’s almost scooter-like with leg protection, an easy sitting up riding position, and 13 inch wheels.
Top speed is 27mph (44km/h) to fit in with AM class regs. The drive is through an electric motor mounted within the rear hub, eliminating the need for gears or drive belts, and gives smooth running. An ECO mode is available for less overall performance but more range.
Of course it talks to the Yamaha MyRide app, has under-seat storage for a crash helmet, LCD instruments, keyless lock and LED lighting.
The NEO’S is available in three colour schemes: Milky White, Midnight Black and Aqua (a sort of greeny-blue).
