Vinci Motorbike Review | Faster Than A Speeding Bullet?
An aggressive, conceptual moto-style e-bike every bit as fast as its sporty design suggests.
It’s an off-road bazooka!
It’s… the Vinci Motorbike!
Whatever you might want to call it, this cafe-racer (or moped-style) e-bike sports a unique high-design aesthetic that’s unlike anything the team here at Electric Bike Report has seen before.
A key element of the Vinci’s artful, custom design is its offset and slanted cylindrical body. The bike’s tail end houses its 48V, 720 Wh battery and circular tail light. The projecting front “cannon” hosts a massive 2300-lumen headlight and cutouts to allow for effective steering.
As both a designer and e-bike reviewer, I can confidently say that it’s an appealing – and extremely refreshing – design.
The Vinci’s aggressive appearance isn’t just for show, though; this bike can get around! Its cast alloy wheels carry an integrated 750W rear hub motor with potential for blazing speed and confident climbing.
So does the bike’s performance match its looks? We tested the limits of this voguish speedster using our standardized tests to find out!
*NOTE: tested bike exceeds stated class ratings
- A highly conceptual moto design that’s unlike anything we’ve seen before. It’s gonna turn heads!
- Speedy and aerodynamic, with throttle and PAS reaching speeds above 30 mph out of the box.
- Excellent hill climbing power from the 750W rear-hub motor.
- Great visibility and safety thanks to the extremely bright and cool-looking integrated headlight and tail light including turn signals.
- Good overall handling thanks to a low center of gravity and single crown suspension fork.
- Can be equipped with a second 13Ah/624Wh battery to extend range.
- Plenty of customization options through the integrated color display, including speed limit, the number of assist settings, acceleration force, etc.
- The Vinci has a unique style, but it isn’t the most comfortable ride as a result (our review team members are each around 6′ tall).
- The brand has been responsive in resolving issues, but we experienced some unusual hums and vibrations when some of the screws securing the front housing fell out.
- Battery: 48V,15Ah (720 Wh), Fully Integrated
- Display: YL91F-H Color LCD
- Motor: Eiwol (Xinanda) EW-202 48v750w one-body wheel Motor, 73 Nm, 900W peak
- Headlight: Integrated, 2300 lumen
- Taillights: Integrated, 1000 lumen, with turn signals
- Pedal Assist: PAS 1-5 (adjustable between 3, 5, 7, and 9 assist levels)
- Claimed Range: 25 miles throttle, 50 miles PAS 1
- Throttle:Half-twist throttle
- UL Certification:UL2849 certified
- Tested Weight: 81.6 lbs (including battery)
- Rider height range: 5’-6’+
- Total payload capacity: 300 lbs.
- Brakes: XOD XD-E500 hydraulic disc brakes, 2-piston calipers, 160mm rotors
- Fenders: Alloy
- Fork: Adjustable MOZO Al-alloy Suspension Front Fork, 32mm stanchion, 60mm travel
- Shock: EXA Form A5-RE, 12mm, 20mm stroke
- Frame: Aluminum-alloy 6061 frame custom
- Drivetrain: 7-speed Shimano Tourney
- Grips: Ergonomic rubber
- Saddle: Custom saddle
- Handlebar: 730mm mid-rise
- Kickstand: Include
- Pedals: Flat platform
- Tires: Chaoyang 20×4”
Vinci Motorbike Review: Speed Test
The goal of our first test was simply to determine how fast the Vinci Motorbike was; to evaluate this, I tested its throttle while riding on a flat section of paved multi-use path.
With a full battery, the bike’s steadily building acceleration topped out at 31 mph, making it one of the fastest e-bikes we have tested to date! With the ground rushing by in close proximity, the bike’s low stature made it feel even faster.
As you might expect, the Motorbike’s ride was a blast. Its speed is courtesy of its 750W rear hub motor, which is integrated into the rear alloy wheel and able to produce a peak of 900W and 73 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque.
The bike’s maximum speed is customizable, allowing users to change its limit to meet the requirements of their local laws. The menu has a learning curve, as it is somewhat cryptic, but a helpful guide can be accessed quickly and easily via a QR code above the bottom bracket.
Additionally, riders can adjust the acceleration intensity; I found the default setting to be a comfortable middle ground between punchy and gradual, but there are 5 options to suit personal preferences.
Vinci Motorbike Review: Range Test
Our Range Test method for moto or moped-style e-bike differs slightly from our usual method: we rode the Vinci using only its throttle until its battery charge was depleted.
With its included 720 Wh battery, the bike has an advertised range of 25 miles with its throttle and 50 miles through pedal assist; we did not test the latter, but our test rider traveled 22 miles on throttle power only – which we consider close enough to the advertised range considering the substantial number of factors that affect this test (speed, terrain, weather, payload, etc).
The Vinci’s test results were on the lower side when compared to similar moto-style e-bikes we have tested, but there are a handful of important things to consider. First, the difference between the Vinci and the best-performing competitor is relatively small at only 7 miles. Second, we recently changed our testing method, so our pool of data is relatively small (see the graphic above).
Most importantly, where the other models shipped as Class 2 e-bikes with throttle speed limited to 20 miles per hour, the Vinci’s 31 mph maximum was significantly different. Bikes with higher speeds use battery power faster more quickly, so the Vinci’s results make sense. Ultimately, its battery capacity was on the higher end when compared to similar bikes, so we would expect better-than-average performance with its maximum speed set to 20 mph.
With these factors taken into account, we are completely satisfied with the Vinci’s performance; a range of 22 miles should allow riders to travel a lengthy commute or enjoy several shorter leisure rides.
Potential owners seeking more range should take note of the bike’s ability to carry a second, 624 Wh battery. While we did not have the opportunity to evaluate this setup, our ratio of watt-hours to miles suggests that an additional 19 miles of range should be achievable.
Vinci Motorbike Review: Hill Test
These results were far better than we expected based on the bike’s specs, as it seemed to have a few things working against it. First, at 82 lbs, its weight is slightly on the heavier side, making it more difficult to move. Second, with knobby off-road tires, we expected less grip on paved surfaces. Third, its motor’s peak of 73 Nm of torque is a little below average, so it has less rotational force for powering up an incline.
The Vinci’s faster-than-average speed (as shown in our Speed Test section above) likely gave it a head start, and its aerodynamic shape and riding position also seemed to give it an edge. Wind resistance has made a significant difference in this test, as seen in our reviews for the Yamaha Wabash RT and Yamaha CrossCore RC.
We were impressed with the bike’s climbing ability, as it was able to keep pace with some of the best-performing moped-style e-bikes we have tested – even those with higher-voltage electrical systems. The Vinci’s results prove that it can carry riders uphill effectively without the need to pedal. Those who choose to spin the pedals might increase their speed to a small degree while keeping their level of effort extremely low.
Vinci Motorbike Review: Brake Test
Using the process described above, we determined the Vinci Motorbike’s average stopping distance to be 19 ‘0 ” – another above-average result when compared to the current moped category average of 19’ 9”.
This was another instance where the bike outperformed our expectations. Once again, its weight was a factor, as increased weight results in greater momentum.
More importantly, we were unfamiliar with the Vinci’s XOD XD-E500 hydraulic disc brake system, and its 160 mm rotors were smaller than the 180 mm rotors we have commonly seen paired with moped-style e-bikes. Smaller rotors are less able to disperse heat effectively, which typically leads to increased stopping distance.
We attribute Vinci’s success to its low center of gravity; this reduces the amount of weight shifting to the front wheel when braking, thereby keeping the bike’s momentum under control.
In my testing of the bike, I found the brakes to be quite effective. The bike could skid for what felt like a significant distance when braking hard, but this seemed to be more a function of the tires than the brakes themselves. Overall, the XOD brake system seemed to be a good fit for the bike’s size and weight; we consider the Vinci Motorbike to be specced appropriately.
Vinci Motorbike Review: Ride Quality
The bike is advertised to fit riders from 5’ 0” to 6’ 0” and beyond, but as I mentioned in the introduction to this Vinci Motorbike review, the bike seemed best suited for short-to-average riders. I liked the bike’s overall feel, but at 5’ 11”, my lower body felt somewhat cramped when leaning low into the bike’s aerodynamic front end; I found my torso resting on my thighs.
It is not uncommon for bikes of this category to be difficult and/or uncomfortable to pedal, and as we expected, the Vinci’s riding position made pedaling a struggle. We appreciate the intention of the bike’s 7-speed drivetrain, but ultimately, a single-speed setup would help to reduce the bike’s overall cost.
The cutouts in the protruding front of the bike made for an interesting visual element, but also served a practical function; without them, the bike would be unable to steer. This design still had its limitations (both in steering and the exposed lengths of cables), but the Motorbike’s overall handling was better than average when compared to similar e-bikes with dual-crown suspension forks. As such, the Vinci had sharper cornering and a smaller-than-average turning radius.
The bike’s saddle undoubtedly adds to its visual appeal, though the rear of the saddle – where its cushioning is the thinnest – is where most riders will be seated. Some of our testers were not bothered by this, though I found it less than ideal; I encourage the brand to consider a thicker saddle in the future.
We also encountered some unusual rattles and vibrations in our testing caused by the front-end housing after the screws holding the aluminum tube in place came free. The brand’s owner responded quickly and attentively to our needs and expressed confidence that this was a one-off fluke, even offering to send a replacement bike. We encourage higher attentiveness to their assembly process, but our experience shows that customer service is a primary focus for the brand. In the unlikely event of similar problems, we expect consumers to have quick resolution.
We were extremely satisfied with the Motorbike’s safety features – primarily its large and highly visible lights. The honeycomb-like headlight is one of the brightest we’ve seen on an e-bike (most are between 300 and 500), ensuring excellent low-light illumination. The large tail light flashes when the brakes are applied, and its turn signals appear as half-rings around the light’s circumference.
We also liked the bike’s top-tube-mounted color display. Its placement and visual layout were unique and highly appreciated.
Vinci Motorbike Review: Summary / Where to Buy
We found the bike to be refreshing in both its design and performance. Visually, it is unlike anything we have seen or tested. In terms of test results, it performed remarkably well – often in defiance of our expectations. The bike proved to be highly capable of riding fast, stopping quickly, and climbing hills effectively. It also offers a practical level of range with higher than average speed to reduce commuting time.
Prospective buyers – especially those of greater height – should be aware of the Vinci’s relatively small size. Additionally, we encourage the brand to further refine the bike’s aesthetic, comfort, and assembly process to build upon its respectable foundation.
Whether serving as a working commuter or an off-time cruiser, the Vinci Motorbike earned our nod of approval. It’s not perfect, but we think its unique design has enough character that most riders will overlook its few potential – and in most cases, subjective – flaws.
Happy Riding! Make sure to let us know if you have any questions or if you think we left anything out in this review of the Vinci Motorbike down in our comments section.