Electric two-wheelers are taking all sorts of interesting shapes and sizes. On one side of the spectrum, you have your Energicas and Zeros, high-power machines meant to prove that performance motorcycling needs not die with the internal combustion engine. On the other side of the equation, you have funky, compact urban runabouts like the Brekr Model B and the new E-Pop electric scooter from Belgian brand Neco.
Neco is a brand we’ve talked about in the past, and is one that specializes in small-displacement gasoline-powered scooters and commuter motorcycles. The brand has its sights set on the future with the E-Pop, a compact, quirky little two-wheeler that has similar performance to e-bikes and mopeds we find in the US. It also features moto-inspired styling inspirations, particularly thanks to its exposed frame that makes it sort of resemble a Honda Ruckus. In a sense, it has the same stripped-down charm as the Ruckus, but is smaller and more compact.
When it comes to performance, the Neco E-Pop is powered by a rear hub electric motor with a power output of 1,200 watts, or about 1.6 horsepower. This puts it in the same ballpark as a 50cc moped. It’s capable of hitting a modest top speed of 45 kilometers per hour, or 28 miles per hour. As for the battery, the motor sips juice from a compact 48-volt, 28 ampere-hour unit that claims a single-charge range of up to 60 kilometers, or about 37 miles. Oh, it’s also removable for convenient charging on or off the bike.
Performance aside, the E-Pop makes no pretense when it comes to its underpinnings (you can literally see everything). It gets a double rear shock setup and a standard telescopic fork up front – no adjustability to be found here. It rolls on tiny 10-inch wheels, and comes to a stop with front and rear disc brakes. Furthermore, the E-Pop features a built-in luggage rack, full-LED lights, and even a keyless start system and USB charging port. Interestingly, it gets a two-seater saddle. So good luck hitting its top speed of 28 miles per hour with a passenger in tow.
In Europe, Neco sells the E-Pop in four colors consisting of black, orange, yellow, and green. It carries a very attractive price tag of just 1,999 Euros, or approximately $2,120 USD.
