Matter Aera 5000+ Review: The Future of Electric Motorcycles?

Welcome to our comprehensive review of the Matter Aera 5000+, an electric motorcycle that’s creating waves in the industry. As an innovative product of Gujarat-based startup Matter, the Aera 5000+ promises to blend the best of both traditional and electric bike technologies. This detailed review will explore every aspect of the bike, from its groundbreaking features to its riding experience, build quality, and overall value. If you’re considering an electric motorcycle or just curious about the latest in EV technology, read on to discover whether the Matter Aera 5000+ is the right bike for you.

Key Features of the Matter Aera 5000+

1. Liquid Cooling System

• First in India: The Matter Aera 5000+ is India’s first liquid-cooled electric motorcycle, both for the motor and the battery pack. This is designed to ensure optimal performance even in the country’s hot climate.
• Enhanced Durability: Liquid cooling helps maintain stable temperatures, potentially extending the lifespan of the motor and battery.

2. Four-Speed Gearbox

• Traditional Feel: This bike includes a four-speed gearbox, complete with a clutch. This feature is designed to appeal to riders who prefer the familiar feel of gear shifting found in traditional motorcycles.
• Versatile Performance: The gearbox allows for better control over the bike’s performance, providing a unique riding experience compared to other electric bikes.

3. Design and Aesthetics

• Conventional Look: The Aera 5000+ is styled to resemble a typical 150cc street bike, making it look familiar and less intimidating to new riders.
• Functional Ergonomics: The bike features a wide fuel tank, a 790 mm seat height, and a comfortable riding position similar to popular models like the Apache or Yamaha FZ.

4. Advanced Display and Connectivity

• TFT Display: The 7-inch TFT display is larger than most on the market, offering clear and comprehensive information.
• User-Friendly Interface: The display is intelligently designed, providing easy access to important data and enhancing the overall user experience.
• Connectivity Features: The Aera 5000+ may offer connectivity features such as Bluetooth integration, allowing riders to access smartphone apps and navigation directly from the bike’s display.

Riding Experience

1. Starting and Operation

• Wireless Key Fob: The bike starts with a wireless key fob and a button, mimicking the start-up process of traditional bikes.
• Clutch Operation: Riders need to engage the clutch and shift gears, but unlike petrol bikes, you don’t need to slip the clutch.

2. Acceleration and Performance

• Instant Torque: The Aera 5000+ offers instant torque, but only when in the correct gear. This differs from most electric vehicles which provide instant acceleration without the need to shift gears.
• Speed and Modes: The bike has a top speed of 105 km/h and offers three riding modes—Sport, City, and Eco. City mode balances performance and efficiency, while Eco mode is designed for maximum range.

3. Noise and Vibration

• Noticeable Noise: The Aera 5000+ is louder than many other electric bikes due to its motor, gearbox, and chain drive. This could be a pro or con depending on your preference.
• Vibration Levels: The bike’s unique combination of liquid cooling and gearbox may result in different vibration patterns compared to traditional electric motorcycles. Riders should consider this aspect during their test rides.

Build Quality and Comfort

1. Chassis and Suspension

• Trellis Frame: The front trellis frame provides structural integrity and protects the battery pack in case of accidents.
• Dual Shock Absorbers: The rear dual shock absorbers offer comfort over small to medium bumps but can feel underdamped over larger obstacles.

2. Braking System

• Disc Brakes: The bike features disc brakes at both ends with single-channel ABS, though it requires significant effort to achieve effective braking due to the bike’s weight.
• Braking Performance: Riders may notice a difference in braking responsiveness due to the bike’s weight distribution and braking system design. It’s advisable to test the braking performance under various conditions before regular use.

3. Weight and Handling

• Heavy Build: At approximately 170 kg, the Aera 5000+ is heavier than its competitors, which affects its performance and range.
• Handling Dynamics: Despite its weight, the bike offers manageable handling characteristics, especially at lower speeds and during city riding. Riders should adapt their riding style to accommodate the bike’s weight during cornering and maneuvering.

Advanced Display and Connectivity

1. TFT Display

• Large Screen: The 7-inch TFT display is larger than most on the market, offering clear and comprehensive information.
• User-Friendly Interface: The display is intelligently designed, providing easy access to important data and enhancing the overall user experience.
• Connectivity Features: The Aera 5000+ may offer connectivity features such as Bluetooth integration, allowing riders to access smartphone apps and navigation directly from the bike’s display.

2. Charging and Storage

• Integrated Charging Cable: The bike includes a compartment for the charging cable, which can also store small items like a phone. The cable is approximately 1.5 meters long, making it easy to connect to a power supply.
• Additional Features: There’s also a USB port and a small light in the storage compartment for added convenience.

Quality and Maintenance

1. Build Quality

• Panel Gaps and Finishes: Some issues with panel gaps and the quality of plastic components were noted. The pre-production prototype had rough castings and a few quality control issues that need addressing before the final product launch.
• Material Durability: Riders may want to inspect the bike’s components for signs of wear and tear, especially considering the bike’s unique combination of liquid cooling and gearbox technology.

2. Reliability

• Technical Glitches: During the test ride, the bike shut down unexpectedly and required technical support to restart. Such issues need resolution to ensure reliability.
• Maintenance Requirements: The inclusion of a gearbox means the bike requires regular maintenance, such as changing gear oil, which is not common for electric vehicles.

Price and Value for Money

1. Pricing

• Competitive Pricing: The Matter Aera 5000+ is priced between ₹1.74 lakh and ₹1.84 lakh, positioning it among premium motorcycles like the Yamaha R15 and Honda CB300F.
• Features vs. Cost: While it is more expensive than many electric scooters, the advanced features and traditional motorcycle feel may justify the price for some buyers.

2. Comparison with Rivals

• Performance and Range: Despite its innovative features, the Aera 5000+ offers performance and range on par with its rivals. The additional weight impacts both aspects.
• Long-Term Value: Riders should consider the long-term value proposition of the Aera 5000+, factoring in potential maintenance costs and resale value compared to other electric motorcycles and traditional petrol bikes in the same price range.