MB-80 inner workings

My road experience with the Oxygen MB-80 was less than with the MB-50 and substantially less than with the E-MAX. In addition to my riding experience with the MB-80, however, I did get to see it being ridden for considerable miles by other members of the testing group.

The most interesting thing about the MB-80, besides its abovious ability to carry a delivery cargo box, is the large Evercel NI-ZN batteries. The batteries offer 48v at over 64ah. This is more than an 50% increase over the MB-50 model. Oxygen claims a range of 60 miles or more, but like the MB-50 we didn't get to test the range.

The MB-80 uses the same motor and belt drive train as the MB-50. They have shaved a few pounds off of the MB-80 design compared to the MB-50. The MB-80 has a heavier battery pack than the MB-50, but only weighs 5 lbs more at 240 lbs compared to the MB-50 which ways 235 lbs.

The speed of the MB-80 is about the same as the MB-50, or about 28-29 mph. It accelerates well and also climb hills very well. It is well to note than the $8000 Vectrix electric scooter scheduled to be release in the Summer of 2006 claims 68 miles range at 25 mph speeds. I think it would be interesting to see what range the MB-80 would achieve at a constant 25 mph speed on the flat. For those requiring maximum range and are not concern about speed, the MB-80 provides a possible alternative.

The MB-80 is not aimed at the general consumer market and its price tag of ~ $5100 reflects that. It is aimed at 'fleet sales' to institutions like: security/law enforcement, delivery services, grounds maintenance crews, golf cart alternative, etc.

For those thinking the cargo box makes the MB-80 look kind of 'dorky' for non delivery applications, please note that the cargo box comes off and one is left with a very stylish long range electric vehicle.

I personally think the MB-80 will do well here, because it provides the range that many potential buyers need. It will, in most cases, be able to provide a full work shift of service without recharging. It can climb even most San Francisco hills, and it is peppy even though the top end speed is limited. It has that Italian style and scooter look that most people like and is built very well.

The biggest asset the MB-80 has, however, is it is backed by Larry Maltz of TexaseRider.com. You won't get better treatment from Honda, Yamaha, or Vespa.

J.B.