Aera 5000+ Review : India’s First Geared Electric Bike

Aera 5000 plus Review: India’s First Geared Electric Motorcycle Sets a Bold Benchmark

India’s electric vehicle revolution has so far been dominated by scooters, but with the release of the Aera 5000+, the landscape is poised for a thrilling shake-up. This in-depth Aera 5000 plus Review explores what makes this electric motorcycle, developed by Ahmedabad-based startup Matter, truly stand out in a market saturated with low-powered EVs.

A New Chapter in Indian EV Innovation

When you think of Indian electric mobility innovation, Ahmedabad might not be the first city that springs to mind. But since 2019, a small group of innovators in this Gujarat city has been silently building an electric revolution from the ground up. Matter, the startup behind the Aera 5000 plus , isn’t interested in repackaging foreign parts or relying on white-label products. Instead, it has developed its own battery packs, motors, software systems, and vehicle platforms, all under one roof.

This homegrown philosophy has culminated in the Aera 5000 plus , which earns its place in history as India’s first geared electric motorcycle. And this isn’t a marketing gimmick. Every aspect of the bike has been engineered to provide a traditional riding experience, with a modern electric twist. In this Aera 5000 plus Review, we aim to evaluate whether the bike delivers on its ambitious promise.

First Impressions and Design

The Aera 5000+ doesn’t look like a stereotypical EV. It doesn’t shy away from its bold identity either. At first glance, it closely resembles a muscular 200cc street-naked motorcycle. With sharp design elements, LED lighting, a muscular fuel tank replica (to hold the electronics), and a distinctive DRL signature, the bike stands tall among its competitors. It offers none of the apologetic design language you might expect from a commuter EV.

What truly enhances its appeal, however, is the overall stance and visual balance. In our Aera 5000 plus Review, we found that the bike demands attention without screaming for it. It fits right into the premium street-naked category and will appeal to enthusiasts looking for performance with eco-consciousness.

Behind the Scenes: Matter’s Facility Tour

Before taking the bike for a spin, we toured Matter’s production facility located just outside Ahmedabad. While it may not rival the scale of global manufacturing giants, the facility is well organized, focused, and growing rapidly. The emphasis here is on quality control and in-house engineering.

The startup’s vertical integration strategy means they’re not just assembling bikes, they’re controlling each component. This is crucial for electric vehicles, especially those aiming for performance. Every decision made during manufacturing ties back to rider experience, as this Aera 5000+ Review reveals.

Performance Specs That Impress

When it comes to numbers, the Aera 5000 plus is not playing it safe. The bike is powered by a 5kWh battery pack that supports a peak power output of 15.6bhp. It boasts a top speed of 105kmph and promises a range of 172km per IDC cycle.

But what truly sets it apart, and something we stress in this Aera 5000 plus Review, is its manual gearbox. Yes, this electric motorcycle comes with a 4-speed manual transmission. That might sound counterintuitive for an EV, but Matter has made it work surprisingly well. It adds a layer of engagement and familiarity for riders used to traditional motorcycles.

Riding modes are another big feature. The Aera 5000 plus offers three: Eco, City, and Sport. Each mode tweaks power delivery and throttle response, offering a range of experiences from relaxed commuting to spirited weekend riding.

On the Road: Ride Experience

Leaving the factory for our first ride, we hit the bustling roads near the industrial area and later transitioned to a nearby go-kart track. Despite the traffic, the Aera 5000 plus managed to hold its own. The manual gearbox adds excitement, especially when downshifting and revving through city streets. For an electric bike, this is a rare and appreciated feature.

In this hands-on Aera 5000 plus Review, we noticed the throttle response was smooth, and gear changes, though initially unfamiliar for an EV, quickly became second nature. It actually made the ride more enjoyable.

The riding position is upright and comfortable, with just the right amount of aggression. Suspension setup is slightly on the firmer side but well-suited for spirited riding. At higher speeds, the bike remains planted and composed, adding to the overall confidence it instills in the rider.

Software and Features

Matter has not skimped on tech features. The Aera 5000+ comes equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen display that offers connected tech, including navigation, battery status, ride analytics, and even over-the-air updates. All of this is part of the company’s drive to merge performance with smart mobility.

Another key feature worth highlighting in our Aera 5000+ Review is the liquid-cooled battery system. This is a first in the segment and greatly improves thermal management, a critical aspect often overlooked in budget electric bikes.

Charging and Efficiency

The Aera 5000+ can be charged using a standard 5A socket, and full charge takes about 5 hours. Fast charging support is reportedly in development. Real-world range varies depending on riding style, but even with mixed use, the 130-150km mark seems achievable.

Importantly, regenerative braking adds a bit of charge back to the battery, improving efficiency during stop-and-go traffic, which we found particularly useful in urban test conditions during our Aera 5000+ Review.

Value for Money and Market Position

The Aera 5000+ is priced around INR 1.75 lakh (ex-showroom), making it one of the more premium electric motorcycles in India. However, considering the build quality, performance, and technology on offer, it makes a strong case for itself.

Compared to electric scooters and entry-level petrol bikes, the Aera 5000+ delivers more in terms of innovation and rider engagement. This Aera 5000+ Review concludes that if you’re looking for a high-quality electric motorcycle that doesn’t compromise on the riding experience, this is a game-changer.

Final Verdict

Matter has managed to redefine what an Indian electric motorcycle can be. The Aera 5000+ is not just a product; it is a bold statement about what local innovation can achieve. From its in-house production approach to its rider-centric features, this bike challenges the notion that EVs must sacrifice thrill for sustainability.

In this Aera 5000+ Review, we find that the bike is more than just India’s first geared electric motorcycle. It’s a symbol of the new wave of electric mobility that values performance, style, and independence. For Indian motorcyclists who want to go electric without giving up the soul of riding, the Aera 5000+ may just be the perfect machine.