The Voge Bicose Real 5T is making waves as Singapore’s newest electric Class 2B scooter, promising Class 2A-level performance and a bold set of features. After four days of real-world testing, here’s a comprehensive review of the R5T, including its specs, strengths, weaknesses, and whether the SGD 14,800 price is justified.
Performance & Technical Specifications
- Motor: 13.5 kW Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM)
- Peak Torque: 50 Nm
- Acceleration: Punchy, fast off the line—comparable to much larger scooters like the Yamaha T-Max 560
- Top Speed: Manufacturer says 115 km/h; in practice, expect 100 km/h on Singapore roads
- Wheel Size: Agile 14-inch rims mean responsive handling and easy U-turns
- Weight: 150 kg (including battery)
The R5T is officially a Class 2B scooter, but with acceleration that puts some 2A bikes to shame. The instantaneous electric torque gives it an “EV grin factor,” with quick, smooth launches—though there’s a noticeable throttle jump at 50% (possibly a software quirk that could be fixed by updates).
Range, Battery, and Power Modes
- Battery: Dual 27Ah packs
- Tested Range: Around 90km real-world use, up to 100km with gentle riding, as low as 80km with hard riding
- Riding Modes:
- Economy (5kW, capped 75 km/h, max range)
- Normal (10kW)
- Sport (13.5kW, full performance, true 2A feel)
- Charging Time: Typical 5-6 hours for a full recharge
Regenerative braking settings, battery conservation tips, and aggressive riding all impact real-world range. For most Singaporean commutes, expect one charge to last 1–2 days, but serious food delivery riders may need more range and faster turnaround.
Features & User Experience
- 8-Inch Touchscreen TFT Display: Responsive in sunlight, clear, huge speed and battery numbers for easy reading, but setup for navigation and smartphone features can be convoluted.
- Keyless NFC and Bluetooth Operation: Secure and modern, but Bluetooth pairing stability depends on phone specs
- Front Dash Cam: 1080p, records riding data—a rare feature at this price, though rear cam is absent
- Ride Modes & Cruise Control: Three map settings plus reverse gear and cruise control
- ABS & TCS: Both systems work well for class, ideal for new riders and safety-conscious urbanists
- Underseat Storage: 33 litres—fits most daily carry items and some full-face helmets, though fit depends on helmet brand/size
- Ergonomics: Comfortable posture for riders around 1.77m, decent legroom, and well-sized pillion footrests
Design, Build Quality & Practical Details
The R5T combines modern sport scooter aesthetics—sharp, angular bodywork, aggressive headlights, standout mirrors, and creative touches like the spinning Voge logo rear hub. While the look is sporty and eye-catching, some panel fitments rattle or creak over bumps. Controls benefit from rubberized coverings to minimize weather damage, though some switches lack tactile feedback.
- Net Weight: 150 kg—heavier than some rivals (e.g., NMAX), but manageable for most users
- Outstanding Details: Wide mirrors, horizontal rear shock, creative plate carrier, dash cam, cruise control, big underseat storage
- Subtle Issues: Panel creaks, mediocre button feel, no rear dash cam, only one USB charging port with no phone cubby
Charging & Operating Costs
- Charging Cost: About 4 Singapore cents/km—much cheaper than petrol alternatives (NMAX/ICE rivals at ~6.7 cents/km)
- Maintenance: Minimal EV servicing—no engine oil, no fuel filter, few wear parts; a win for urban cost-conscious riders
Suitability: Who Should Buy the Voge R5T?
Finest For:
- Urban commuters seeking zippy acceleration and silent, low-cost riding
- Early adopters of EVs who want Class 2A performance with 2B licensing
- Those valuing features like ABS/TCS, digital dashboards, cruise control, NFC entry, and big storage
Less Ideal For:
- Food delivery riders needing all-day range: 90km is limiting and full charge requires hours
- Buyers needing “Japanese rival” levels of panel, switch, or software polish out of the box
Real-World Verdict & Final Thoughts
The Voge Real 5T is a genuinely fast, high-feature, good-looking electric scooter that gives Singaporean 2B riders an early taste of 2A-style performance in a future-oriented package. The real world range, while adequate for the city, won’t cover every use case, and the overall fit and finish have a few hiccups. The biggest strength? Most flaws are in software, meaning future firmware could smooth out throttle quirks and refine rider experience.
Is it worth the SGD 14,800? For tech-forward, eco-conscious urbanites or those wanting a license-friendly electric thrill, yes. For high-mileage delivery work, possibly not. For everyone else, the R5T is an exciting sign of what’s coming in practical electric mobility.