Kollter ES1: The Budget Electric Supermoto You Should Know About

The world of electric motorcycles is expanding at a breakneck pace, with new models and manufacturers emerging to challenge the status quo. While high-performance, high-priced bikes from brands like Zero and LiveWire often grab the headlines, a growing segment of affordable, accessible electric two-wheelers is quietly gaining traction. One of the most intriguing new entrants in this space is the Kollter ES1, a versatile and budget-friendly electric supermoto that offers a compelling blend of on-road agility and off-road potential.

What is the Kollter ES1?

The Kollter ES1 is a lightweight electric motorcycle that blurs the lines between a commuter bike and a weekend fun machine. Manufactured in China and sold under various brand names depending on the market (including Artisan in the UK and Tinbot in Germany), the ES1 is designed to be an approachable and affordable entry into the world of electric motorcycling. It’s a 125cc-equivalent machine, meaning in many regions, it can be ridden with just a basic motorcycle license or even on a car license with some additional training. This accessibility, combined with its dual-sport capabilities, makes it a unique proposition in the current electric vehicle landscape.

Full Specifications

While the Kollter ES1 is positioned as a budget-friendly option, its spec sheet reveals a surprisingly capable machine. The bike is available in two main configurations: a supermoto-style street version (ES1-S Pro) and a more off-road-focused dual-sport version (ES1-X Pro), which primarily differ in their wheel and tire setups.

Motor and Performance

The ES1 is powered by a mid-drive electric motor that delivers a continuous power output of 5kW and a peak output of 11kW. This translates to a top speed of around 60 mph (96 km/h), making it capable of keeping up with city traffic and even venturing onto slower highways. The motor produces a claimed 220 Nm of torque at the rear wheel, providing brisk acceleration from a standstill. The bike features three riding modes (Eco, Drive, and Sport) to tailor the power delivery to your preference and riding conditions.

Battery and Charging

One of the standout features of the Kollter ES1 is its dual-battery system. The bike comes with two removable 72V, 31.5Ah Samsung lithium-ion batteries, for a total capacity of 4.5 kWh. These batteries can be charged either on or off the bike, offering excellent flexibility for riders who may not have access to charging at their parking spot. A full charge for both batteries takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours using a standard household outlet. The range is estimated to be between 45 to 80 miles (72-128 km), depending on factors like speed, terrain, and rider weight.

Chassis, Suspension, and Brakes

The ES1 is built around a steel twin-spar frame, with a seat height of 32.3 inches (820mm) and a curb weight of around 276 lbs (125 kg) with both batteries installed. The suspension consists of an inverted front fork with adjustable rebound and a rear monoshock with adjustable preload. Braking is handled by a linked system, with a 300mm disc and a three-piston caliper at the front, and a 220mm disc with a single-piston caliper at the rear. It's important to note that the ES1 does not come with ABS.

Riding Experience

The Kollter ES1 delivers a riding experience that is both fun and accessible, making it an excellent choice for new riders and experienced motorcyclists alike.

On-Road Performance

In its supermoto guise, the ES1 is a nimble and agile city machine. The instant torque from the electric motor makes for quick getaways from traffic lights, and the lightweight chassis and quick steering allow you to carve through urban traffic with ease. The ride quality is generally good, though the suspension can feel a bit basic on rougher pavement. The silent operation of the electric motor is a unique experience, allowing you to glide through the city with minimal noise.

Off-Road Capability

With the optional off-road kit, which includes 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoked wheels with knobby tires, the Kollter ES1 transforms into a surprisingly capable trail machine. The bike's light weight and manageable power make it easy to handle on dirt, and the electric motor's linear power delivery provides excellent traction in slippery conditions. While it's not a competition-level enduro bike, the ES1 is more than capable of tackling green lanes, fire roads, and light single-track, making it a true dual-sport machine.

Build Quality and Design

Given its budget-friendly price point, the Kollter ES1 offers a respectable level of build quality. The overall fit and finish are good, though some reviewers have noted that the welds on the frame can be a bit rough in places. The design is modern and aggressive, with a clear supermoto influence. The LCD dashboard is easy to read and provides all the essential information, including speed, battery level, and riding mode. The keyless start is a nice touch, adding a modern convenience to this affordable package.

Kollter ES1 vs. The Competition: Sur-Ron and Talaria

The Kollter ES1 is often compared to other popular lightweight electric off-road bikes like the Sur-Ron Light Bee X and the Talaria Sting. While all three bikes cater to a similar market, there are some key differences to consider.

Feature	Kollter ES1-X Pro	Sur-Ron Light Bee X	Talaria Sting R MX4
Street Legal	Yes (from factory)	No (requires conversion)	No (requires conversion)
Peak Power	11 kW	6 kW	8 kW
Top Speed	~60 mph	~47 mph	~53 mph
Battery Capacity	4.5 kWh (2 x 2.25)	2.4 kWh	2.7 kWh
Weight	~276 lbs	~121 lbs	~145 lbs
Price (USD)	~$5,000 - $6,000	~$4,500	~$4,500

As the table shows, the Kollter ES1 stands out as a more substantial, street-legal motorcycle right out of the box. It offers a higher top speed and a larger battery capacity, making it better suited for dual-sport riding that includes significant on-road sections. The Sur-Ron and Talaria, on the other hand, are lighter, more nimble, and more focused on off-road performance. They are more like electric mountain bikes on steroids, whereas the Kollter is a true lightweight electric motorcycle.

Is the Kollter ES1 Street Legal?

Yes, the Kollter ES1 is sold as a street-legal motorcycle in most markets where it is available, including North America and Europe. It comes equipped with all the necessary lighting, mirrors, and indicators to be ridden on public roads. As a 125cc-equivalent motorcycle, it typically falls under the L3e license category in Europe, and similar classifications in other regions.

Pricing and Availability

The Kollter ES1 is one of the most affordable street-legal electric motorcycles on the market. In the United States, the ES1-S Pro and ES1-X Pro models are typically priced between $5,000 and $6,000, depending on the dealer and any ongoing promotions. In the UK, the Artisan-branded version is priced at around £4,500 after government incentives. The bike is available through a growing network of dealers in North America and Europe.

Who is the Kollter ES1 Best Suited For?

The Kollter ES1 is an excellent choice for a wide range of riders:

New Riders: Its light weight, manageable power, and automatic transmission make it an unintimidating and easy-to-ride first motorcycle.
Commuters: The removable batteries, low running costs, and nimble handling make it an ideal urban commuter.
Dual-Sport Enthusiasts: With the optional off-road kit, the ES1 is a capable and affordable way to explore local trails and fire roads.
Budget-Conscious Riders: The ES1 offers a tremendous amount of value for the money, providing a true electric motorcycle experience at a fraction of the cost of premium models.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I ride the Kollter ES1 on a regular car driver's license?

In many regions, you will need a motorcycle license or permit to ride the Kollter ES1. However, because it is a 125cc-equivalent, the licensing requirements are often less stringent than for more powerful motorcycles. In some areas, you may be able to ride it with a car license after completing a basic motorcycle training course. Be sure to check your local regulations.

How does the off-road kit affect the bike's performance?

The off-road kit, with its larger wheels and knobby tires, significantly enhances the ES1's off-road capability. The larger front wheel helps to roll over obstacles more easily, and the knobby tires provide much better grip on loose surfaces. However, the off-road tires will be noisier and offer less grip on pavement compared to the standard street tires.

What are the main differences between the Kollter ES1 and more expensive electric supermotos?

The main differences between the Kollter ES1 and more expensive electric supermotos like the Zero FXS lie in performance, battery technology, and component quality. Premium models will offer higher top speeds, faster acceleration, longer range, and more advanced features like ABS and traction control. They will also feature higher-quality suspension, brakes, and other components. The Kollter ES1 provides a more basic, but still highly enjoyable, electric supermoto experience at a much more accessible price point.