XE4 by Xtreme Electric MX: Electrify Your Yamaha YZ

Electric conversion kit for Yamaha

There's a new kind of thunder on the motocross track, and it's not coming from the roar of a combustion engine. The XE4 by Xtreme Electric MX is shaking up the scene, offering a bolt-on kit that transforms Yamaha's YZ250F and YZ450F dirt bikes into high-powered electric beasts. This isn't just a nod to the future—it's a full-on embrace of what's next in off-road riding.

Designed specifically for 2014–2019 YZ250F and 2014–2018 YZ450F models, the XE4 kit replaces the internal combustion engine with a liquid-cooled axial flux electric motor. This isn't some flimsy retrofit; the motor cranks out an impressive 58 horsepower, nearly matching the 59 hp of the 2023 Yamaha YZ450F. But numbers only tell part of the story. The instant torque from the electric motor delivers a riding experience that's both thrilling and undeniably different from anything gas-powered.

One of the standout features is the fast-change battery swap system. In just seconds, you can slide in a fresh 72-volt battery pack capable of delivering up to 600 amps and 4.3 kWh. While XEMX hasn't specified the range, comparing it to the Stark Varg—which gets up to six hours from a 6.5 kWh pack—it's reasonable to expect over four hours of moderate riding. And let's be honest, with this kind of power, “moderate” might be the last thing on your mind.

The installation is surprisingly straightforward, reportedly a one-day job. The kit includes a 12-volt pump that circulates coolant through the stock YZF radiator, keeping the new heart of your bike running cool even under demanding conditions. The attention to detail here is impressive, from the carbon fiber sleeved rotor to the ceramic bearings, everything is engineered for performance.

Riding the XE4 offers more than raw power. With three fully customizable ride modes, you can tailor the bike's behavior to your liking. Features like lever regen braking and auto regen braking add layers of control and efficiency to the ride. There's even a reverse gear—a small but handy addition that speaks to the thoughtfulness of the design. For those who miss the auditory feedback of a traditional engine, an optional speaker can pipe in synthetic engine sounds, bridging the gap between old and new.

The XE4 isn't just a concept or a prototype; it's already proving itself on the track. In April, Shawn Clark clinched first place in the 30+ category and seventh overall at the Daytona Dirt Riders Alligator Hare Scramble riding the XE4. The following month, the bike took first place at the GNCC Wild Boar 2024 E-Open Class. These victories aren't just wins for the riders but a statement about the capabilities of electric motocross bikes.

Now, let's talk numbers. The Complete Motor A Kit is priced at $6,995, with quick-swap batteries available at $3,295 each. If wrenching in the garage isn't your style, XEMX offers complete custom bikes starting at $12,950, available in blue and gray. It's an investment, sure, but one that positions you at the forefront of a revolution that's not just inevitable but already underway.

The big question is whether the motocross community is ready to embrace electric machines like the XE4. Traditionalists might scoff, clinging to the familiar rumble and exhaust fumes of internal combustion engines. But change is rarely comfortable, and progress doesn't wait for unanimous approval. Just as four-strokes once edged out two-strokes, electric bikes are poised to redefine the sport.

Beyond performance, electric bikes offer solutions to some long-standing issues in motocross. Noise complaints have led to the closure of countless local tracks. Quieter electric bikes could ease community tensions, keeping tracks open and accessible. They also lower barriers for newcomers who might be intimidated by the complexity and maintenance of gas-powered bikes.

The XE4 by Xtreme Electric MX isn't just another option on the market; it's a bold step into the future of motocross. It respects the heritage of the sport while challenging its conventions. For riders willing to take that leap, the XE4 offers an experience that's as exhilarating as it is groundbreaking. The trails are the same, but the journey is something entirely new.

Pros:

  1. High Performance: The XE4 electric motor delivers 58 horsepower, nearly matching the 59 hp of traditional gas-powered bikes like the 2023 Yamaha YZ450F. The instant torque provides a thrilling and responsive riding experience.
  2. Fast Battery Swap System: Features a quick-change battery system that allows riders to swap out the 72-volt battery packs in seconds, maximizing riding time without long charging delays.
  3. Customizable Ride Modes: Offers three fully customizable ride modes, enabling riders to tailor the bike's performance to their preferences and riding conditions.
  4. Advanced Features: Includes lever regenerative braking, auto regenerative braking, and a reverse gear for enhanced control and versatility on the track or trails.
  5. Ease of Installation: The bolt-on kit can be installed in about one day, making the conversion process straightforward for those with mechanical know-how.
  6. Proven Race Performance: Demonstrated competitive success with first-place finishes in events like the Daytona Dirt Riders Alligator Hare Scramble and the GNCC Wild Boar 2024 E-Open Class.
  7. Noise Reduction: Quieter operation can help reduce noise complaints from surrounding communities, potentially keeping local motocross tracks open and fostering better relationships with neighbors.
  8. Environmental Benefits: Produces zero emissions during operation, contributing to a reduced environmental footprint compared to gas-powered bikes.
  9. Lower Maintenance: Electric motors generally require less maintenance than internal combustion engines, potentially reducing long-term upkeep costs.
  10. Pioneering Technology: Allows riders to be at the forefront of the electric motocross movement, embracing the future of the sport.

Cons:

  1. High Cost: The Complete Motor A Kit is priced at $6,995, and each quick-swap battery costs $3,295. A complete custom bike starts around $12,950, representing a significant investment.
  2. Limited Compatibility: Currently compatible only with specific Yamaha models from certain years (2014–2019 YZ250F and 2014–2018 YZ450F), limiting options for riders with other bikes.
  3. Unspecified Range: XEMX has not provided official range or endurance estimates, making it difficult to predict how long the bike will run under various riding conditions.
  4. Charging Infrastructure: Access to charging facilities may be limited in remote areas, and charging times could interrupt riding sessions without additional batteries.
  5. Potential Weight Increase: The addition of battery packs may increase the bike's weight, potentially affecting handling and maneuverability.
  6. Lack of Traditional Engine Sound: Some riders may miss the audible feedback of a combustion engine, although an optional speaker for synthetic engine sounds is available.
  7. Market Resistance: Traditional motocross enthusiasts might be hesitant to adopt electric technology, preferring the familiarity of gas-powered engines.
  8. Unknown Resale Value: As a newer technology, long-term reliability and resale value are uncertain, which could affect future upgrades or sales.
  9. Battery Degradation Over Time: Batteries may lose capacity with repeated use and age, leading to decreased performance and the need for costly replacements.
  10. Limited Support Network: Being a niche product, there may be fewer service centers and less widespread technical support compared to traditional motocross bikes.

From $6,995

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