It's Electric...

Maeving RM1S – First Ride Impressions

I’m not here to convince you to ditch petrol and jump on the electric bandwagon. This is just my honest take after a short but insightful ride on the Maeving RM1S. 

If you're interested in owning one, remember, like everything else, they're not all equal so choose wisely. If you're not interested in riding or owning one, don't be a dick, let people get on with their lives and you do you.

Who are Maeving?

Maeving is a British company producing electric motorcycles with an emphasis on style, simplicity, and sustainability. Based in Coventry, they’ve drawn from the city’s deep motorcycle heritage, with a team including ex-Triumph engineers. The RM1 and RM1S mix vintage styling with modern electric tech, aiming to create something that feels familiar.

First Impressions?

Visually, it’s a pretty good-looking bike, but I get that it’s subjective. The build quality is great, with a premium finish without being overdesigned. The styling is bang on, clean, retro, and if you’re into retro-style bikes, it ticks the cool box. There’s also a surprising bit of practicality built in: the tank acts as a 10-litre storage unit, and there’s an optional pannier bag for a bit more carry space. There are two options available. What’s it missing? A surf pack, a wet bag (for the existing pannier system), and a board rack

Is it any good?

In short, yeah, within reason.

This isn’t a bike I’d compare to anything in my current garage; that would be like comparing a Sunday roast to a veggie wrap. It’s completely different. But up against something like a 125cc scooter or a basic 125cc commuter bike? It’s head and shoulders above.

The handling was confident and nimble, and the riding position felt comfortable straight away. The power delivery was smooth and way more responsive than your average 125cc petrol engine, and actual engine braking. That really surprised me. It’s perfect for around-town or short coastal rides, with a surf pack option.

Did it turn heads?

Absolutely. A few people asked what it was, and were surprised to hear it was electric, which tells you something about how well it blends classic looks with modern design. You’re not going to get that kind of reaction riding a generic scooter.

Where did I take it?

I didn’t have hours to kill, but I gave it the best outing I could. My first route was over to Perranporth from The Roasting Room roastery at Lanteague via Goonhavern and back. I then snuck in a quick ride over to Project 83 in Newquay and back. It handled well and didn’t have any issues with our “lovely” Cornish roads. It did highlight one thing though, hills, it managed them better than most petrol-powered 125cc bikes, but I did notice the battery power take a hit up hills. That brings me to my one real reservation: range. Like any electric vehicle, it’s fine for local use, but range anxiety is still a thing, especially if you live in or near hilly terrain like Cornwall.

Would I own one?

Yeah, it wouldn’t replace anything in my current stable, but that’s not really the point. If there was surf pack available and better battery life/range, then absolutely. It’s a statement, a tool, and a bit of fun all rolled into one.