Orxa Mantis Electric Bike: Check Out The Top 10 Key Aspects

The Mantis has a segment-first all-aluminium subframe

• With 221km of range, the Orxa Mantis has the second-highest range among electric two-wheelers in India
• In fact, its 135kmph top speed is on par with bikes like the KTM 200 Duke
• Charging the 8.9kWh battery pack up to 80 percent will take you five hours

The Orxa Mantis, India's latest electric bike, demands attention with its aggressive and sporty aesthetics. Uncover the essential details about this intriguing ride that perfectly matches its bold appearance.

1) Design

The Mantis boasts a distinctive design featuring an aluminum rear subframe and a unique storage space atop the fuel tank. While the overall build quality is commendable, some rough surface finishes and coarseness in certain areas leave room for improvement.

2) Features

Equipped with a 5-inch TFT instrument console, Bluetooth connectivity, and app-based navigation, the Orxa Mantis offers a tech-savvy experience. Additional features include phone notifications, ride analytics, all-LED lighting, regenerative braking, side stand sensor, and ride-by-wire technology. Choose from striking color options like Urban Black and Jungle Grey.

3) Battery Pack

The 8.9kWh capacity battery provides a claimed range of 221km, with charging times of 5 hours (0-80%) using the standard 1.3kW charger and 2 hours and 30 minutes using the faster 'Blitz' 3.3kW charger.

4) Motor 

The Mantis houses a liquid-cooled motor with a peak power output of 20.5kW and 93Nm of torque. It claims a top speed of 135kmph and accelerates from 0-100kmph in 8.9 seconds.

5) Performance

Sporting a compact and lightweight liquid-cooled motor, the Mantis delivers 28hp and 93Nm. However, concerns arise from high-temperature warnings and motor de-rating after just two laps during track testing. Orxa must address these issues before the scheduled April 2024 deliveries.

6) Handling

The Mantis’ handling was what really stood out in its overall package. The all-aluminum subframe is truly very responsive and you know exactly what’s going on. It tips in without a lot of effort and holds its line decently well. In our short ride, we never felt that the bike misbehaved even once. So yeah, it’ll definitely inspire a lot of confidence, especially among newer riders who will need that extra bit of validation. 

7) Suspension 

Built on an all-aluminum aerospace-grade alloy frame and subframe, the Mantis features a 41mm telescopic fork and a mono-shock with preload adjustability. Braking is handled by a 320mm front disc and a 230mm rear disc with a single-channel ABS. Ceat Zoom radial tires ensure stability.

8) Dimensions

With a wheelbase of 1,450mm, a seat height of 815mm, a kerb weight of 182kg, and a ground clearance of 180mm, the Mantis strikes a balanced stance. 

Delving into the ergonomics of this electric bike, a notable revelation surfaces. The seemingly unassuming white panel in the middle, where the rider typically rests their thighs, is surprisingly wider than one might anticipate. During initial rides, even taller riders encountered a challenge in firmly placing both feet on the ground. The legs had a more pronounced flare than expected solely from observing the bike and relying on seat height judgments. It's a reminder that one should never solely rely on a spec sheet.

While not overly disconcerting, shorter riders should be able to navigate it without significant issues. However, it's a factor to keep in mind, particularly during test rides. This underscores the crucial importance of test rides in the decision-making process. Consider this aspect carefully, especially in evaluating whether you can comfortably flat-foot the bike.

9) Price

Priced at Rs 3,60,000 (ex-showroom Bengaluru), the Mantis includes the 1.3kW standard charger and is not eligible for FAME 2 subsidy. The booking amount is Rs 10,000 for the first 1,000 customers and Rs 25,000 thereafter. Deliveries start in April 2024, with a 3-year or 30,000km warranty for the vehicle, battery, and motor.

10) Verdict

Orxa enters the premium electric motorcycle space with the Mantis, offering promising specifications. However, real-world performance falls short, challenging its appeal at the Rs 3.6 lakh price point. While potential competition exists, improvements are needed before enthusiasts consider this bike. Our major issue with the bike is just how unfinished it feels. 

The performance was unexciting, the bike didn’t feel reliable and had some major build quality issues. And if all of this was found on a cheap bike, we could’ve overlooked it. But seeing all this on a Rs 3.60 lakh bike really hurts, something you definitely do not expect. In fact, at that price, you can get the much much better looking KTM 390 Duke which has much better fit and finish levels and feels a WHOLE lot more exciting than the Orxa Mantis, all of it while saving Rs 50,000 over the Mantis. 

A comprehensive, long-term road test review is imminent, offering a deeper insight into this new electric bike.