Niu Technologies has unveiled its 2026 XQi series, headlined by the XQi 500 electric dirt bike with 28.8 kW (39 HP) peak power and a 110 km/h (68 mph) top speed.
This street-legal (L3e) model weighs just 92 kg (203 lbs) and targets off-road enthusiasts seeking lightweight performance without gas engine smells or noise. Riders care because it bridges e-bikes and full dirt bikes, offering instant 100 Nm torque and dual-sport capability at a time when electric off-roaders like Sur-Ron are gaining traction.
Available in Europe by H2 2026, US pricing remains unconfirmed, but the lineup signals Niu’s push beyond urban scooters into serious adventure riding.
Background: Niu’s Evolution from Scooters to Dirt Bikes
Niu Technologies, founded in 2014, built its reputation on smart electric scooters with app connectivity and NFC unlocking, dominating urban commuting in Europe and Asia. The company has shipped millions of units, emphasizing battery tech and user-friendly features like 5-inch TFT displays.
At EICMA 2025, Niu revealed its 2026 lineup, expanding into high-performance off-road with the XQi family. This follows the XQi3, a Sur-Ron Light Bee rival, now updated as the XQi 300 with onboard charging and adjustable suspension. The XQi 400 and 500 escalate power, positioning Niu against Zero FX and Sur-Ron Storm Bee in the street-legal electric enduro segment. Skeptics question if a scooter brand can master dirt, but specs suggest they’re competing seriously.
Key Specifications
| Model | Peak Power | Top Speed | Weight | Range | Battery | Seat Height | Ground Clearance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XQi 500 | 28.8 kW (39 HP) | 110-120 km/h (68-75 mph) | 92 kg (203 lbs) | 60-75 km (37-45 miles) | 96V 40Ah Li-Ion (49 lbs) | 860 mm (33.8 in) | 290 mm (11.4 in) |
| XQi 400 | Details not yet confirmed | 100 km/h (62 mph) | 78 kg (172 lbs) | 100 km (62 miles) | Details not yet confirmed | Details not yet confirmed | Details not yet confirmed |
| XQi 300 | Details not yet confirmed | 90 km/h (56 mph off-road) | Details not yet confirmed | 80 km (50 miles street) | Details not yet confirmed | Details not yet confirmed | Details not yet confirmed |
All models include 19-inch front/18-inch rear wheels, dual-channel ABS, traction control, NFC/Bluetooth/app unlocking, and 5-inch TFT display.
Performance Analysis: Power and Handling
The XQi 500’s mid-mounted motor delivers 28.8 kW peak and 100 Nm torque, enabling 0-50 km/h sprints that rival gas enduros. Its 96V system supports sustained high speeds, with some sources claiming 120 km/h (75 mph). Lightweight aluminum frame and adjustable KKE suspension handle rough terrain, while 11.4-inch clearance tackles rocks.
Charge time is 4 hours, suitable for day trips but limiting long adventures without swaps. Real-world range varies: 37 miles mixed riding per Captain Electro, up to 45 miles in tests.
Tech and Safety Features
Street-legal with mirrors and indicators, the XQi 500 fits L3e category (A1/A2/A/B licenses or off-road). Tech shines with keyless entry, navigation-ready display, and “Boost” mode. Dual-channel ABS and traction control enhance control on dirt or pavement.
Unanswered: Exact US homologation, battery swap compatibility, and durability in extreme off-road. High seat (33.8 inches) challenges shorter riders.
Daily Usability and Limitations
At 203 lbs total (battery 49 lbs), it’s maneuverable but tippy for novices. Range suits brunch runs or trails, not cross-country. No prices for US, but European siblings start €2,399, hinting at affordability.
Comparison with Competitors
| Model | Peak Power | Top Speed | Weight | Range | Price (Est.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Niu XQi 500 | 28.8 kW (39 HP) | 110 km/h | 92 kg | 60-75 km | Details not yet confirmed |
| Sur-Ron Storm Bee | ~22 kW | 113 km/h | 110 kg | 100 km | ~$5,000 |
| Zero FX | 34 kW | 137 km/h | 127 kg | 161 km | ~$12,000 |
XQi 500 undercuts Zero on weight/price potential, beats Storm Bee on street legality and voltage efficiency, but trails in range.
Verdict
The Niu XQi 500 earns a strong buy for urban adventurers wanting a lightweight, street-legal electric dirt bike under 100 kg with 39 HP—ideal for trail riders or commuters dodging gas costs. Skip if you need 100+ mile range or lower seat. Watch for US pricing and real-world tests; Niu proves scooters can go big on dirt.
