Dr. Marcus Webb
The Caofen F-80 offers off-road enthusiasts a street-legal electric motorcycle at an affordable price point. While many off-road e-bikes and motorcycles are not street-legal, the F-80 breaks the mold by providing riders with a fun and capable option that can be used on public roads.
During a recent test ride at an off-road vehicle park, we had the opportunity to put the F-80 through its paces on various terrains. Although Caofen offers other models, our focus was on the F-80 off-road version. As a beginner in motocross and off-road riding, I pushed the bike to its limits to see how well it performed.
The F-80 is equipped with compliance parts that make it eligible for insurance, plates, and registration. However, it is primarily designed for off-road use, and some of the street-legal components, such as the license plate holder, felt a bit lower in quality compared to the rest of the bike.
Now let’s dive into the specifications. The F-80 is powered by an 8kw motor, providing a top speed of 62mph. It features a liquid-cooled 2.2kWh 72v 30 ah battery, weighing in at 165lb. The frame is made of a single-piece aluminum frame, and the bike is equipped with 230mm disc brakes on the front and 203mm on the rear. With dimensions of 77×31×42 and a ground clearance of 14 inches, the F-80 offers a compact and agile ride.
The F-80 stands out from other off-road electric bikes with its power and size. It strikes a balance between the classic Sur Ron Light bee and higher-end dirt bikes like the Storm Bee and KTM Free Ride e-xc. Priced at $4,500 for the street-legal off-road version with a 30-ah battery, the F-80 is an attractive option for riders who want an off-road capable bike without breaking the bank.
One of the F-80’s key selling points is its street-legality in all 50 states. While this may not be crucial for trail riders, it opens up new possibilities for off-road enthusiasts who want to ride on city streets without investing in a more expensive dual sport motorcycle.
The F-80’s 8kw motor provides ample power and torque for trail riding and beginner motocross. The one drawback we noticed was the comparatively small footpegs and suspension, which may not meet the standards of higher-end dual sport bikes. However, considering its peak power and DOT approval, the F-80 still delivers an enjoyable off-road experience.
The bike’s battery can be fully charged in three hours, thanks to Caofen’s patented immersion cooling battery system. This innovative technology achieves eight times the thermal balance and only 50% of the normal temperature rise, enabling riders to use the bike in extreme conditions.
While the F-80 offers adequate braking power with its 230mm front and 203mm rear disc brakes, some riders may desire a more heavy-duty braking system. For those seeking a larger size, upgraded suspension, and improved brakes, Caofen also offers the FX model, priced at $5,800, featuring a 12kw motor.
In conclusion, the Caofen F-80 provides off-road enthusiasts with an affordable, street-legal electric motorcycle option. With its impressive specs, compliance with regulations, and accessible price point, the F-80 bridges the gap between off-road capability and street-legal riding. It’s exciting to see manufacturers like Caofen introducing more options in this growing market segment.
The off-road electric motorcycle industry is experiencing rapid growth as more riders are looking for environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional gasoline-powered bikes. The Caofen F-80 is a notable product in this market, offering off-road enthusiasts a street-legal option at an affordable price point.
Market forecasts suggest that the demand for off-road electric motorcycles will continue to increase in the coming years. With the growth of eco-conscious consumers and advancements in electric vehicle technology, the market is expected to expand significantly. The F-80 addresses the needs of this expanding market by providing a capable off-road vehicle that can be used on public roads.
One of the key issues in the industry is the lack of street-legal options for off-road enthusiasts. Many electric bikes and motorcycles are designed solely for off-road use and are not eligible for insurance, plates, and registration. The F-80 breaks this trend by offering compliance parts that make it eligible for street use, opening up new possibilities for off-road riders.
In terms of specifications, the F-80 is equipped with a powerful 8kw motor, delivering a top speed of 62mph. Its liquid-cooled 2.2kWh 72v 30 ah battery provides ample power, allowing riders to tackle challenging terrains. The bike’s single-piece aluminum frame ensures durability and stability, while the 230mm front and 203mm rear disc brakes provide adequate stopping power.
While the F-80 is designed primarily for off-road use, it still offers a compact and agile ride, with dimensions of 77×31×42 and a ground clearance of 14 inches. This makes it suitable for navigating tight trails and obstacles with ease.
The F-80 stands out in the market due to its power and size. It strikes a balance between entry-level off-road electric bikes and higher-end dirt bikes, making it an attractive option for riders who want a capable off-road bike without the high price tag.
Another appealing aspect of the F-80 is its street-legality in all 50 states. This opens up new possibilities for riders who want to explore both off-road trails and city streets without having to invest in a more expensive dual sport motorcycle.
The bike’s battery charging time is also worth noting. With Caofen’s patented immersion cooling battery system, the F-80 can be fully charged in just three hours. This allows riders to quickly get back on the trail or road without long wait times.
While the F-80 offers adequate braking power with its disc brakes, some riders may desire a more heavy-duty braking system. Caofen caters to these needs by offering the FX model, which features a larger size, upgraded suspension, and improved brakes. Priced at $5,800, the FX model provides a higher-end option for those seeking enhanced performance.
Overall, the Caofen F-80 addresses the needs of off-road enthusiasts who want a street-legal electric motorcycle at an affordable price. With its impressive specifications, compliance with regulations, and accessible price point, the F-80 bridges the gap between off-road capability and street-legal riding. As the industry continues to grow, it is exciting to see manufacturers like Caofen introducing more options in this market segment.
Suggested related link: Caofen Official Website
