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POWER PICK
Arkveld Apex1 Electric Dirt Bike — 3,000W Peak • 1,536Wh Battery
Our verdict: huge battery, punchy acceleration and hydraulic stopping power make the Apex1 a value e-moto for rough roads, sand and hills.
- 3,000W peak motor (2,000W rated) — up to 40 mph & strong hill climbs
- 48V 32Ah (1,536Wh) battery — 45–90 mi claimed range, fast 6–7 hr charge
- Hydraulic discs + front fork & rear shock — confident control on rough terrain
- 25×4″ fat tires, 330 lb max load, color LCD & Shimano 7-speed
- Motor
- 2,000W hub (3,000W peak)
- Battery
- 48V 32Ah • 1,536Wh
- Top Speed
- Up to 40 mph
- Range
- 45–90 miles
- Tires
- 25×4″ fat
- Brakes
- Hydraulic discs
- Suspension
- Front fork + rear shock
- Weight
- ≈120 lb
The Arkveld Apex1 lands squarely in the fast-growing “e-moto” segment—electric dirt-bike-styled bicycles built for adults who want throttle punch, fat-tire stability, and motorcycle vibes without the upkeep of a gas engine. It’s a big machine: a high-carbon-steel frame, 25×4-inch all-terrain rubber, dual suspension (hydraulic fork up front with a rear shock), hydraulic disc brakes, and a color LCD that lets you dial in how you want the bike to behave.
At the heart of the Apex1 is a 48V system paired with a massive 32Ah (≈1,536Wh) removable battery and a 2,000W rated hub motor that can peak around 3,000W. On paper, Arkveld claims up to 40 mph on throttle and 45–90 miles of range depending on how much you help. In practice, those numbers depend heavily on rider weight, terrain, wind, and how you configure pedal assist—more on that below.
Fit is broad: Arkveld lists an applicable rider height of 5’4″–6’6″, a max load of 330 lb, and a net weight around 120 lb. Geometry skews more motorcycle than bicycle, with a long 73.8-inch wheelbase and a fixed saddle height around 33 inches. It feels substantial, planted, and purpose-built for rougher surfaces like gravel roads, forest two-tracks, beach sand, and snowy paths.
Is the Arkveld Apex1 for you?
What problem it solves.
The Apex1 addresses a very specific need: a powerful, long-range, low-maintenance electric bike that behaves like a light electric motorcycle. If you want to rip down fire roads, commute across town without babying potholes, or cruise a campground with authority, this format makes sense. You’re getting a massive battery, serious torque, and tires that laugh at bad surfaces.
Who it’s for.
It’s ideal for riders who value stability and straight-line speed more than nimble trail handling. Bigger riders, off-road explorers, beach campers, rural commuters, and anyone with hilly terrain to conquer will appreciate the torque-rich hub motor and the comfort of wide rubber and suspension at both ends.
Who it’s not for.
If you live in a walk-up apartment or need to carry your bike often, the Apex1’s ~120-lb mass is a deal-breaker. Riders seeking a traditional, lightweight mountain bike feel won’t love the motorcycle ergonomics. Urban riders bound by strict Class 2/3 rules or e-bike path limits may also find a 40-mph-capable machine impractical or restricted. And if you want a step-through for easy mounting, this isn’t it.
Budget positioning.
The Apex1 sits in the value/mid tier for full-power e-moto-style bikes given its battery size, hydraulic brakes, and dual suspension. The component list and capacity are aggressive for the segment.
Beginner-friendliness.
Mechanically, yes: throttle is intuitive, the LCD is clear, and the gearing is a familiar 7-speed Shimano setup. But the speed potential, mass, and stopping forces demand respect. Beginners should start on lower PAS levels, practice braking, and treat it like a light motorcycle rather than a bicycle.
What We Like About the Arkveld Apex1
The battery-to-price ratio is outstanding. A 48V 32Ah pack (≈1.5kWh) is road-trip-big for an e-bike, and it’s detachable for charging off the frame. Paired with a 4.5A fast charger, top-ups are efficient for such capacity. Range anxiety fades fast when your dashboard shows plenty of watt-hours in reserve.
Power delivery is decisive. The 2,000W rated/3,000W peak motor pushes hard at low speeds and keeps pulling on gradual grades. It’s grin-inducing on fire roads and flat beach sections, and the bike doesn’t feel winded when loaded with a backpack and accessories. Hill starts that stall lesser e-bikes are simply not a drama here.
Ride comfort is strong for the category. The hydraulic front fork has the travel and stiffness to tame ruts and potholes, while the rear shock soaks up chatter that would otherwise fatigue you over a long ride. Combine that with 25×4-inch fat tires and you get the “hovercraft” ride signature people buy these bikes for.
Braking performance is equally confident. Hydraulic discs with large rotors shed speed quickly and remain predictable on steep gravel descents and in the wet. Modulation is good, and lever feel is consistent.
The cockpit is practical. The color LCD is easy to read in daylight, with speed, battery, PAS level, and trip metrics all where you expect them. Controls are simple, and the throttle integrates neatly for thumb-or-twist-friendly riding depending on how you like to grip.
Assembly is painless. The bike arrives largely prebuilt with clear video instructions and a good tool kit, so getting to your first ride is a one-evening job.
What We Don’t Like About the Arkveld Apex1
It’s heavy. The upside is stability; the downside is portability. Stairs, racks, and tight storage spaces become chores. Plan your logistics before buying—especially if you’ll need to transport the bike regularly.
Legal classification can be tricky. A machine capable of 40 mph will exceed Class 3 limits in many jurisdictions. Depending on where you live, you might need to limit speed, stick to private property, or treat it like a moped/motorcycle. Always verify your local regulations and wear appropriate protective gear.
Range claims require context. The 45–90-mile claim is realistic only at modest speeds with light riders on lower PAS levels. Ride fast on throttle, attack hills, or carry heavy loads and you should expect far less. That’s physics—1.5kWh is large, but high speed drains any battery quickly.
The seat is fixed-height and motorcycle-style. It’s comfortable, but short riders may find the 33-inch height tall at stops, and the lack of a quick-adjust post means you can’t fine-tune pedal ergonomics the way you can on a traditional MTB.
Handling on technical singletrack is not its forte. The wheelbase and mass that make the Apex1 stable at speed also make it slower to flick through tight switchbacks or hop over obstacles. It’s happiest on open terrain.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Huge 48V 32Ah (≈1,536Wh) removable battery | Heavy (~120 lb) and bulky to store or carry |
| 2,000W rated / 3,000W peak hub motor pulls hard uphill | 40-mph potential complicates legal use in many areas |
| Hydraulic disc brakes with strong, predictable stopping | Range claims assume conservative riding |
| Dual suspension + 25×4 fat tires = very comfortable ride | Fixed saddle height; not great for shorter riders |
| Color LCD with intuitive PAS control and metrics | Not nimble on tight, technical trails |
| Arrives ~90% assembled with video instructions |
What’s Included?
- Arkveld Apex1 e-moto-style electric bike (assembled ≈90%)
- 48V 32Ah removable battery (UL 2849 certified)
- 48V fast charger (≈4.5A)
- Platform pedals
- Tool kit and hardware
- Printed manual and safety/warranty info
- Front/rear reflectors and basic lighting (varies by batch)
Package impressions.
The out-of-box setup is straightforward. Battery and charger quality feel robust, and tools are good enough for assembly and basic maintenance. I’d still like to see a few convenience extras—a rear rack option, fenders that fully hug the tires, and mirrors for road use. None are deal-breakers, but many buyers will add them immediately.
Technical Specifications
| Spec | Arkveld Apex1 |
|---|---|
| Motor | 2,000W brushless rear hub (peak ≈3,000W) |
| Battery | 48V 32Ah (≈1,536Wh), removable |
| Charger | ≈4.5A fast charger |
| Claimed Top Speed | Up to 40 mph (throttle) |
| Claimed Range | 45–90 miles (mode and rider dependent) |
| Assist Modes | Bike (no assist), PAS, full-electric throttle |
| Gearing | Shimano 7-speed |
| Brakes | Hydraulic disc, front and rear |
| Suspension | Hydraulic front fork + rear shock |
| Tires | 25×4 in all-terrain fat tires (listing may show 24–25 in class) |
| Frame | High-carbon steel |
| Rider Fit | 5’4″–6’6″ |
| Max Load | 330 lb |
| Net Weight | ≈120 lb |
| Dimensions | Length 73.8 in; handlebar height 38.25 in; saddle height ≈33 in |
| Display | Color LCD with ride metrics and settings |
Features
- Massive 1.5kWh Battery for long rides and fewer charge cycles.
- High-Torque Hub Motor that climbs and accelerates with authority.
- Hydraulic Dual Disc Brakes for reliable, low-effort stopping.
- Front & Rear Suspension that smooths out washboard and potholes.
- 25×4-inch Fat Tires with strong grip on sand, snow, and gravel.
- Color LCD showing speed, battery, PAS level, and trip data.
- Removable Battery for convenient off-bike charging and security.
- 7-Speed Drivetrain to fine-tune cadence under pedal assist.
- Stout Steel Frame designed to handle real-world impacts.
- Broad Rider Fit Window with high max load for bigger riders.
Feature verdict.
The Apex1 prioritizes the three pillars that matter most in this category: battery, motor, and brakes. Comfort hardware supports those fundamentals, and the LCD and controls make the power accessible. The package lacks lifestyle extras, but the performance parts—the ones that drive your experience—are where Arkveld spent the budget.
Real-World Performance Deep Dive
Motor & Climbing
Torque is the star. From a standstill, the hub engages smoothly and then hits a muscular mid-range. On gravel hills where mid-power commuter e-bikes bog down, the Apex1 simply keeps accelerating. It will crest long climbs if you moderate speed to manage heat and consumption. For technical climbing on loose surfaces, I recommend PAS rather than full throttle; it makes traction easier to modulate.
On flats, the bike is happiest cruising in the low-to-mid 30s mph on throttle, faster with a little pedal input. Do you need that speed? Not often—but headroom matters. Strong headwinds, soft sand, and steep ranch roads are where surplus wattage keeps you in control.
Battery & Range
Expectations matter. If you ride at 15–20 mph on PAS 1–2 and pedal, the 1.5kWh pack can go very far. Add a couple of long climbs, keep speeds reasonable, and 40–60 miles is realistic for many riders. If you lean on throttle at high speed, the watt-hour burn rate spikes—think 25–35 miles for a heavier rider on mixed terrain. The good news: capacity is so generous that even “half a tank” is a big day’s ride for most people.
Charging from low to full in roughly 6–7 hours is a strong result for this capacity. Top off opportunistically: that fast charger makes lunch-break boosts worthwhile.
Braking & Safety
The hydraulic setup is a must on a 40-mph-capable e-moto. Lever pull is light, and modulation lets you trail-brake into loose turns without drama. Plan on a bedding-in period for fresh pads and rotors: several hard stops from speed to build transfer film. After that, braking performance becomes very consistent.
Fit a quality headlight and mirrors if you’ll spend time around cars. A helmet designed for e-moto speeds is strongly recommended.
Ride Quality & Handling
Comfort is a highlight. Washboard, potholes, and cobbles are muted to a background hum. The flip side is handling agility: the long wheelbase and weight keep the bike arrow-straight at speed, but tight switchbacks or slow-speed trials riding will reveal the limits of the format. If your riding is 70% open terrain and 30% tight woods, the Apex1 fits. If the ratio flips, consider a lighter trail e-MTB.
Drivetrain & Controls
The 7-speed system isn’t fancy, but it doesn’t need to be—your right hand does the heavy lifting. Gearing is tall enough to add helpful pedaling at speed and low enough to spin up to throttle take-over on climbs. The LCD is bright and legible in sun, and the button cluster becomes second nature by the second ride.
Assembly, Maintenance & Support
Out of the box, you’re tightening hardware, mounting the front wheel and bars, adjusting brakes, and checking cable routing. The included video and tools cover the basics. As with any high-power e-bike, plan a regular bolt and spoke check, keep brakes bled and pads fresh, and clean/lube the chain after wet rides.
Arkveld lists a 12-month after-sales support window. Keep your serial, proof of purchase, and photos handy if you ever need parts—clear documentation speeds up resolutions.
Everyday Use Cases
Rural Commuting.
Ranch roads full of washboard? The Apex1 smooths them out and keeps you on schedule. Charge at work once or twice a week and you’re set.
Beach & Campground Life.
Fat tires float over sand, the frame handles cooler-and-gear duty, and the massive battery lets you roam without obsessing over charge state.
Property & Patrol Work.
If you maintain acreage or security rounds, the Apex1’s torque and stability make it a practical tool—quiet, low-cost per mile, and easy to hop on at a moment’s notice.
Winter Play.
On packed snow with studded rubber, fat-tire e-motos are a blast. The power helps stabilize in soft patches—just respect braking distances.
Tuning Tips & Best Practices
- Start on PAS 1–2. Learn the bike’s throttle and brakes before exploring the upper modes.
- Set a speed limiter in the LCD if your area enforces Class 2/3 limits. You’ll still have huge torque off the line.
- Use tire pressures wisely. 12–15 psi for soft sand/snow; 18–25 psi for mixed gravel/road; higher for heavy loads.
- Bed brakes early. Ten strong stops from ~20 mph to walking pace, cool between sets.
- Mind the battery. Store between 30–80% when idle for weeks. Avoid leaving it at 100% in heat.
- Carry a 4/5/6mm hex, T25, and a mini pump on longer rides; the big chassis can loosen hardware on rough ground.
- Upgrade lighting and add mirrors for mixed-traffic riding.
- Consider a motorcycle-rated helmet and gloves. Your potential energy is closer to an e-moto than a city e-bike.
How It Compares
Within the e-moto-style segment, the Apex1’s value proposition is simple: more battery for the money, paired with real hydraulic brakes and dual suspension. Some rivals are lighter and feel nimbler; others add premium drivetrains or brand-name suspension. If your priorities are range, punch, and comfort on rough surfaces, the Arkveld hangs with bikes well above its price class.
The Fine Print: Regulations & Responsibility
Before you buy, check your local rules. A 40-mph-capable e-bike may be restricted to private property or require licensing/insurance as a moped in some areas. Many public multi-use trails cap assist at 20–28 mph. The Apex1’s display typically allows speed limiting—use it if you’ll be riding public paths.
Ride predictably, signal early, and remember that your stopping distances at 30+ mph are longer than they feel. The brakes are strong, but physics still wins.
Final Breakdown
| Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Arkveld Electric-Dirt-Bike for Adults-Mountain-Motorcycle with 1536Wh Battery 32AH, Max 40 MPH and… | $1,199.99 | View on Amazon |
9.0 / 10
Arkveld aimed directly at the heart of the e-moto value market and hit the mark. The Apex1’s formula—giant battery, stout motor, real hydraulic brakes, and dual suspension—delivers the kind of confidence that turns sketchy roads into playgrounds. It’s not a ballerina on tight singletrack and it’s not a featherweight commuter, but that’s not the brief. This bike is about covering rough ground quickly, comfortably, and with a smile.
The compromises are the ones you’d expect: weight, storage logistics, and the need to manage speed legally and responsibly. Accept those, and you’re rewarded with a machine that feels overbuilt in the best way—one that shrugs off bad surfaces, laughs at hills, and turns long distances into easy afternoons.
Recommendation: If you want a powerful, long-range, go-anywhere e-moto that prioritizes stability and comfort, the Arkveld Apex1 belongs at the top of your shortlist. Add a few practical accessories, set your PAS with care, and enjoy the kind of electric ride that makes detours irresistible.
