The Vector Vortex stands in a unique class: a high-power electric motocrosser designed for riders who demand extreme range and customizable performance without the bulk of a full-size motorcycle. Positioned against competitors like the Stealth H-52 and high-end Sur Ron models, the Vortex distinguishes itself with a robust 72V architecture and one of the largest stock battery capacities available.
In this review, we analyze the core components that allow the Vector Vortex to deliver over 10,000 Watts of peak power and an industry-leading range of 200 km+.
Extreme Performance and Optimized Drivetrain
The heart of the Vector Vortex is its custom mid-drive motor system, which provides superior weight distribution compared to traditional hub motors, improving handling and balance for off-road use.
- Peak Power: The system is tuned for a maximum power output exceeding 10.000 Watt, translating to a top speed potential of over 80 km/h (50 mph).
- Controller: Power management is handled by a custom Kelly 7230s controller, capable of pushing 300 Amps. This high amperage allows the motor (Custom 16-pole, 850 rpm) to deliver immediate, intense torque for rapid acceleration and climbing steep terrain.
Range and Battery Architecture
The Vortex’s defining feature is its capacity to deliver long-distance travel, making range anxiety a non-issue for most riders.
- Battery Capacity: The optional high-capacity battery boasts 3.8 kWh of energy, built from high-quality Panasonic cells, making it the largest configuration in the Vector lineup.
- Range: Vector claims a remarkable range of 200 km+ (120 mi+), calculated at an average speed of 35 km/h without pedaling assistance, placing the Vortex far ahead of many direct competitors.
- Charging: The high-efficiency charging system allows the large battery to be replenished in just 120 minutes (2 hours).
Chassis, Suspension, and Braking
Weighing in at 69 kg, the Vortex requires high-spec components to manage its speed and weight effectively off-road.
- Suspension: The bike features a robust front end with a custom DNM USD8SA air fork providing 200 mm of travel. The rear uses a DNM Burner 2S shock with a substantial 220 mm of travel, ensuring durability and compliance over rough terrain.
- Braking: Stopping power is provided by custom hydraulic Tektro Auriga brakes, featuring dual 4-piston calipers on 203 mm rotors, both front and rear. This motorcycle-grade setup is essential for safely managing the 80 km/h top speed.
Versatility and Power Modes
The Vortex’s programmability adds versatility for both aggressive trail riding and legal urban use:
- Power Modes: Riders can switch between three distinct modes: Rewerce (Reverse), Eco, and Boost, which are fully programmable.
- EU Legality: The inclusion of an Eco-mode top speed limited to 25 km/h allows the Vortex to potentially meet local EU regulations for slower electric bikes when operating in that specific mode.
The Vector Vortex is a purpose-built machine for the enthusiast who demands maximum power output paired with marathon range.
Author’s Take: Why the Vector Vortex Is One of the Most Reliable Mid-Drive Machines Ever Built
The Vector Vortex is a unique machine. You will struggle to find a mid-drive electric bike anywhere in the world that requires less maintenance than this one. The motor is mounted directly on the swingarm, which means the chain tension between the rear wheel and the motor is always constant — no matter how deep the suspension compresses. This design makes the Vortex so unbelievably quiet that many riders can’t believe it isn’t a hub-drive. No belts, no gearboxes, no reduction systems — just pure, mechanical reliability.
The frame itself is on another level. It’s massive, intentionally oversized, and designed to hold not just the stock 3.8 kWh battery, but even larger packs. We’ve personally built 5.5 kWh custom batteries for clients, and even then there was plenty of room left for electronics. The controller can be mounted perfectly on the underside of the frame, fully protected.
And about frame strength — we tested it with three riders on the bike with the suspension fully compressed. During our torture tests the rims bent, the fork bottoms hit obstacles, footpegs scraped, steps and curbs destroyed wheels… but the frame never showed a single crack, not even a minor deformation. We’ve had customer crashes where the wheel exploded, the fork bent, even the head tube shifted slightly — but after realignment, the frame was still perfectly usable with zero structural damage. Show me another mid-drive frame that can survive that. It’s almost impossible.
Of course, the Vortex has weaknesses: it’s heavier than some alternatives, and it does not have a linkage-based rear suspension. But its reliability more than compensates for that. If you ask our long-term customers — some of whom have been riding their Vortex for seven years and counting — they’ll tell you the same thing. Show me a mid-drive from any mass-market Chinese manufacturer that can survive seven years without belt issues, gearbox failures, motor problems, or constant drivetrain adjustments. The Vortex behaves almost like a direct-drive system, except with chain-driven sprockets — meaning you can change gearing freely to increase top speed or maximize torque.
The frame is big, stable, and nearly indestructible. Acceleration can be absolutely insane if you want it. We’ve seen customers install aftermarket controllers and push 30 kW peak through the stock motor, and it handled it without drama — something almost no other mid-drive can claim at this level of reliability.
The wheel setup is flexible: for taller riders, a 21–18 setup works beautifully. The rear swingarm can take extremely wide, aggressive off-road tires. Snow, mud, sand — it moves like a tank. We’ve received countless thank-you messages from customers who bought the Vortex specifically for off-road fun and still consider it one of the best purchases they’ve ever made.
Yes, the Vortex is not homologated for road use — but if street legality isn’t your priority, that doesn’t matter at all. What you get instead is an ultra-durable, massively torquey, customizable mid-drive with huge battery capacity and the ability to carry two people with ease.
If what you’re looking for is a near-indestructible electric mid-drive for off-road adventures, with enormous range, massive torque, and a frame that refuses to die — the Vector Vortex is the machine for you.
Explore the full technical breakdown and customizable options for the Vector Vortex here.
