There’s no denying that electric vehicles are steadily increasing in popularity as infrastructure, technology and more brands turn their focus to further develop entire EV ranges.
This, and crippling fuel prices, are factors driving change. Electrification, for now, is the direction we’re headed and with that in mind we tried out an electric utility bike relatively new to the Irish market.
Although not so common here in Ireland, in New Zealand many farms keep a petrol-powered utility bike or farm bike. These are usually in the region of 200cc to 250cc and look like a tamed-down version of what we’d call a dirt bike or scrambler.
The Kiwis like farm bikes for their manoeuvrability when herding livestock and their ability to handle the most extreme of terrain.
Meanwhile, Ireland and the UK tend to be strong markets for ATVs and UTVs, given their load-lugging abilities and versatility. With that said, there are still many farms where herding is the primary task and may suit a utility bike, especially if it offers low running and maintenance costs.
About UBCO
In 2014, two Kiwi business partners with previous experience in the electric bike industry spotted an opening in the market for a fully electric alternative to the utility bike. The concept was a two-wheel-drive, fully electric, lightweight, utility vehicle.
Although nimble and cheap to run, the 2x2 lacks the carrying capabilities offered by a farm quad.
By 2015, the Utility Bike Company (UBCO) was formed and a pre-production model of the 2x2 was launched at the Fieldays show the following year.
Today, development and manufacturing remains in New Zealand. UBCO currently offer a road legal Adventure bike (2x2ADV) recreational use and a Work (2x2WRK) bike tailored for a working environment.
North East ATVs based in Collon, Co Louth, provided the Irish Farmers Journal with the UBCO 2x2WRK model for review. North East ATVs is currently the main importer for the New Zealand brand in addition to being a well-known Honda dealer.
The bike proved comfortable regardless of the terrain.
Ian Fox of North East ATVs spotted an opening in the Irish market for the UBCO 2x2 given the absence of some of the smaller quads circa 250cc from the market, many of which were used solely for herding livestock.
First impressions
At first glance, it takes a minute to get used to the smaller size being familiar with a farm quad.
However, it is said to be roughly the same size as a standard farm bike common to the New Zealand market.
Upon having a further look, I found the simplicity of its design and build refreshing in an age where machines are becoming increasingly complicated – not simplified.
Build and components
Immediately noticeable is the exposed sturdy trellis frame which is well constructed and easily mounted given its low height and clearance above the battery.
Front and rear racks are fitted as standard with 19 attachment lugs present for mounting pannier racks or cargo decks, if required.
Each wheel is powered by a 1kW brushless DC motor.
Like most bikes, the 2x2 features a suspended rear swing arm. It is fitted with two hydraulically dampened shocks with adjustable preload and rebound, offering 120mm of rear travel.
The front fork-type suspension, as seen on most bikes, offers a total 130mm of travel with the same adjustments as on the rear. This, coupled with the padded seat, left the ride quality very comfortable even on the roughest of terrain encountered.
It is fitted with 17in stainless steel spoked wheels wrapped with 17x2.75 knobbly tyres. These tyres provide excellent grip both on and off-road.
Either side of the frame is an easily engaged kickstand.
Taking care of braking is the Quadratic2 brake system. In addition to hydraulic disc brakes is a regenerative braking system which engages once the throttle has been released (passive) and while the brake levers are applied (active). Regen effectiveness can be adjusted through the UBCO app once connected to the bike.
Although the hydraulic brakes had plenty of stopping power, even when coming to a halt from 50km/h, they appear to be adopted from a mountain bike.
If so, stopping at speeds faster than that of a mountain bike we feel will leave brake pad replacement quite frequent judging by the size and amount of “meat” on the pads. However, this is an inexpensive replacement which really depends on one’s riding style.
Putting the UBCO’s wheels in motion are two 1kW Flux2 motors, one front and one rear. These compact air-cooled brushless DC motors contain a planetary gear system and sealed bearings.
The positioning of the battery leaves the bike with a very low centre of gravity.
Power to each of the motors is routed through the bike’s frame.
These torquey motors quickly accelerate the bike to a top speed of 50km/h (30mph). Initially, it took some time to perfect balance, especially on rough terrain.
Given that the bike is 2wd, each wheel is independently driven, meaning that if the rider’s weight isn’t balanced then the wheel with least weight applied can easily spin out.
Under the seat is the modular battery. Two power options are available, 2.1kWh (13kg) or 3.1kWh (18kg). Our test model was fitted with the larger option which brought the total weight of the bike including the battery up to 68.7kg (excluding rider).
The positioning of the battery leaves the bike’s centre of gravity low. The battery is also easily removable for transport or replacement purposes.
UBCO quotes a lifespan in the region of 500 charge cycles.
Using the 10amp fast charger we charged the battery from 3% to 90% in three hours and 20 minutes which wasn’t too shabby. This provided us with roughly 80km of range, which was predominantly off-road with a mix of hills and descents.
UBCO claims a range of up to 120km with the right driving technique and on suitable terrain. For general herding duties, 120km of range will easily see out a full week’s work on one charge.
The rear swingarm sees two adjustable shocks which provide 120mm of travel.
Being the work model, our test machine is not offered as a road-legal version, which would have been a nice addition, considering the switchgear was present.
However, the Adventure model does come road legal, and therefore is equipped with indicators, brake light and dipping headlight beam.
Instead, our unit had one large handlebar-mounted LED light which provided a good degree of light at night.
The 2x2 is fitted with 203mm hydraulic disc brakes front and rear.
Aside from a horn, switchgear is kept to a minimum with just one other kill switch on the righthand side of the handlebars.
The brake levers are protected with aluminium guards.
Since there is no dash display, all bike information is displayed on the UBCO app which connects via Bluetooth to the rider’s smartphone. It could be mounted on the handlebars and act as a dash to display speed, battery level, etc.
Although a good idea, we felt that realistically in a farm scenario this won’t be done for short trips to and from paddocks.
A small dash display showing speed, battery level, kilometres, etc, similar to that seen on the Adventure model would have been a better solution.
The front forks offer 130mm of suspension travel.
The only way to turn off the headlight is to engage Hunter mode via the UBCO app.
Similarly, the app is the only way to check battery level.
At the same time, the light being constantly on leaves the bike visible and from our experience is the best way of telling if the bike has been left switched on or not – another reason for having a dash display. A keyless fob is used to lock/unlock each bike.
Cost
We estimate that it costs in the region of €1.20 to charge the larger 3.1kW battery from 0% to 100%.
This compares to a cost of roughly €30 to fill a typical farm quad with petrol at current fuel prices.
Having spent more and more time with the 2x2, our fondness (and the cows) for it certainly grew. Being used to the noise of a petrol engine, it took a few days for the cows to get used to the silent movements of the UBCO too.
The 2x2 is fitted with large front and rear cargo racks.
The ability to simply jump on and go pretty much anywhere at reasonable speed was a major attraction.
Being used to the storage and carrying capabilities of a quad, whether it be a fencing box, sprayer or pulling a trailer, it’s hard to do without. That said, UBCO does offer dedicated racks for fencing equipment, making this less of an issue.
Both range and power is plenty for any farming situation given that long distances generally won’t be covered on each journey. Finally, its simplicity and low running cost are major attractions, especially at current fuel prices.
The handlebar LED lamp can only be switched off via the UBCO app.
For those not relying on a quad for its load-carrying abilities but to check stock and get about from A to B, the UBCO 2x2 is a unique option worth considering.
Model: 2x2WRK.Battery: 3,400mAh 2.1kWh (3.1kWh optional). Wheel motors: 1kW brushless DC air cooled x2.Max speed: 50km/h. Unladen weight: 63.7kg (standard battery).Wheelbase: 1,215mm.Suspension: 130mm front and 120mm rear adjustable.Starting price: €6,000 plus VAT.
The UBCO app connects via Bluetooth to the rider's smartphone.
There’s no denying that electric vehicles are steadily increasing in popularity as infrastructure, technology and more brands turn their focus to further develop entire EV ranges.
This, and crippling fuel prices, are factors driving change. Electrification, for now, is the direction we’re headed and with that in mind we tried out an electric utility bike relatively new to the Irish market.
Although not so common here in Ireland, in New Zealand many farms keep a petrol-powered utility bike or farm bike. These are usually in the region of 200cc to 250cc and look like a tamed-down version of what we’d call a dirt bike or scrambler.
The Kiwis like farm bikes for their manoeuvrability when herding livestock and their ability to handle the most extreme of terrain.
Meanwhile, Ireland and the UK tend to be strong markets for ATVs and UTVs, given their load-lugging abilities and versatility. With that said, there are still many farms where herding is the primary task and may suit a utility bike, especially if it offers low running and maintenance costs.
About UBCO
In 2014, two Kiwi business partners with previous experience in the electric bike industry spotted an opening in the market for a fully electric alternative to the utility bike. The concept was a two-wheel-drive, fully electric, lightweight, utility vehicle.
Although nimble and cheap to run, the 2x2 lacks the carrying capabilities offered by a farm quad.
By 2015, the Utility Bike Company (UBCO) was formed and a pre-production model of the 2x2 was launched at the Fieldays show the following year.
Today, development and manufacturing remains in New Zealand. UBCO currently offer a road legal Adventure bike (2x2ADV) recreational use and a Work (2x2WRK) bike tailored for a working environment.
North East ATVs based in Collon, Co Louth, provided the Irish Farmers Journal with the UBCO 2x2WRK model for review. North East ATVs is currently the main importer for the New Zealand brand in addition to being a well-known Honda dealer.
The bike proved comfortable regardless of the terrain.
Ian Fox of North East ATVs spotted an opening in the Irish market for the UBCO 2x2 given the absence of some of the smaller quads circa 250cc from the market, many of which were used solely for herding livestock.
First impressions
At first glance, it takes a minute to get used to the smaller size being familiar with a farm quad.
However, it is said to be roughly the same size as a standard farm bike common to the New Zealand market.
Upon having a further look, I found the simplicity of its design and build refreshing in an age where machines are becoming increasingly complicated – not simplified.
Build and components
Immediately noticeable is the exposed sturdy trellis frame which is well constructed and easily mounted given its low height and clearance above the battery.
Front and rear racks are fitted as standard with 19 attachment lugs present for mounting pannier racks or cargo decks, if required.
Each wheel is powered by a 1kW brushless DC motor.
Like most bikes, the 2x2 features a suspended rear swing arm. It is fitted with two hydraulically dampened shocks with adjustable preload and rebound, offering 120mm of rear travel.
The front fork-type suspension, as seen on most bikes, offers a total 130mm of travel with the same adjustments as on the rear. This, coupled with the padded seat, left the ride quality very comfortable even on the roughest of terrain encountered.
It is fitted with 17in stainless steel spoked wheels wrapped with 17x2.75 knobbly tyres. These tyres provide excellent grip both on and off-road.
Either side of the frame is an easily engaged kickstand.
Taking care of braking is the Quadratic2 brake system. In addition to hydraulic disc brakes is a regenerative braking system which engages once the throttle has been released (passive) and while the brake levers are applied (active). Regen effectiveness can be adjusted through the UBCO app once connected to the bike.
Although the hydraulic brakes had plenty of stopping power, even when coming to a halt from 50km/h, they appear to be adopted from a mountain bike.
If so, stopping at speeds faster than that of a mountain bike we feel will leave brake pad replacement quite frequent judging by the size and amount of “meat” on the pads. However, this is an inexpensive replacement which really depends on one’s riding style.
Putting the UBCO’s wheels in motion are two 1kW Flux2 motors, one front and one rear. These compact air-cooled brushless DC motors contain a planetary gear system and sealed bearings.
The positioning of the battery leaves the bike with a very low centre of gravity.
Power to each of the motors is routed through the bike’s frame.
These torquey motors quickly accelerate the bike to a top speed of 50km/h (30mph). Initially, it took some time to perfect balance, especially on rough terrain.
Given that the bike is 2wd, each wheel is independently driven, meaning that if the rider’s weight isn’t balanced then the wheel with least weight applied can easily spin out.
Under the seat is the modular battery. Two power options are available, 2.1kWh (13kg) or 3.1kWh (18kg). Our test model was fitted with the larger option which brought the total weight of the bike including the battery up to 68.7kg (excluding rider).
The positioning of the battery leaves the bike’s centre of gravity low. The battery is also easily removable for transport or replacement purposes.
UBCO quotes a lifespan in the region of 500 charge cycles.
Using the 10amp fast charger we charged the battery from 3% to 90% in three hours and 20 minutes which wasn’t too shabby. This provided us with roughly 80km of range, which was predominantly off-road with a mix of hills and descents.
UBCO claims a range of up to 120km with the right driving technique and on suitable terrain. For general herding duties, 120km of range will easily see out a full week’s work on one charge.
The rear swingarm sees two adjustable shocks which provide 120mm of travel.
Being the work model, our test machine is not offered as a road-legal version, which would have been a nice addition, considering the switchgear was present.
However, the Adventure model does come road legal, and therefore is equipped with indicators, brake light and dipping headlight beam.
Instead, our unit had one large handlebar-mounted LED light which provided a good degree of light at night.
The 2x2 is fitted with 203mm hydraulic disc brakes front and rear.
Aside from a horn, switchgear is kept to a minimum with just one other kill switch on the righthand side of the handlebars.
The brake levers are protected with aluminium guards.
Since there is no dash display, all bike information is displayed on the UBCO app which connects via Bluetooth to the rider’s smartphone. It could be mounted on the handlebars and act as a dash to display speed, battery level, etc.
Although a good idea, we felt that realistically in a farm scenario this won’t be done for short trips to and from paddocks.
A small dash display showing speed, battery level, kilometres, etc, similar to that seen on the Adventure model would have been a better solution.
The front forks offer 130mm of suspension travel.
The only way to turn off the headlight is to engage Hunter mode via the UBCO app.
Similarly, the app is the only way to check battery level.
At the same time, the light being constantly on leaves the bike visible and from our experience is the best way of telling if the bike has been left switched on or not – another reason for having a dash display. A keyless fob is used to lock/unlock each bike.
Cost
We estimate that it costs in the region of €1.20 to charge the larger 3.1kW battery from 0% to 100%.
This compares to a cost of roughly €30 to fill a typical farm quad with petrol at current fuel prices.
Having spent more and more time with the 2x2, our fondness (and the cows) for it certainly grew. Being used to the noise of a petrol engine, it took a few days for the cows to get used to the silent movements of the UBCO too.
The 2x2 is fitted with large front and rear cargo racks.
The ability to simply jump on and go pretty much anywhere at reasonable speed was a major attraction.
Being used to the storage and carrying capabilities of a quad, whether it be a fencing box, sprayer or pulling a trailer, it’s hard to do without. That said, UBCO does offer dedicated racks for fencing equipment, making this less of an issue.
Both range and power is plenty for any farming situation given that long distances generally won’t be covered on each journey. Finally, its simplicity and low running cost are major attractions, especially at current fuel prices.
The handlebar LED lamp can only be switched off via the UBCO app.
For those not relying on a quad for its load-carrying abilities but to check stock and get about from A to B, the UBCO 2x2 is a unique option worth considering.
Model: 2x2WRK.Battery: 3,400mAh 2.1kWh (3.1kWh optional). Wheel motors: 1kW brushless DC air cooled x2.Max speed: 50km/h. Unladen weight: 63.7kg (standard battery).Wheelbase: 1,215mm.Suspension: 130mm front and 120mm rear adjustable.Starting price: €6,000 plus VAT.
The UBCO app connects via Bluetooth to the rider's smartphone.
This is a subscriber-only article
SHARING OPTIONS: