Super Soco TC Max 2023 Review

First launched in 2020, the TC Max is Super Soco’s flagship model. Other offerings in the range include the TC ($4,990) and two scooter options - the CUx (from $4,490) and the CPX (from $7,690).

The media ride for the 2023 Super Soco TC Max took place around the outskirts of Melbourne. And for an electric motorcycle with a maximum range of 110km, this ride befitted the bike’s design purpose well.

The updated model boasts 5100W peak power output (up from 5000W). Charging time has also improved, from 8-9 hours to 4-5 hours (2-3 hours will give you 80%), and it’s a simple plug in and leave. Claimed range is 92km, based on an average of 45km/h and with a 75kg rider, so you can imagine how variable range figures might potentially be.

You can choose between three modes (1, 2, and 3), where difference in throttle response is negligible, but modes 1 and 2 have lower top speeds than mode 3, allowing for longer battery range. To conserve energy on the way back I utilised mode 1, but when the road opened up, along with the speed limit, I was capped at just under 60km/h amongst faster flowing traffic.

Switching back to mode 3 was a relief, and I’d only suggest mode 1 if you’re limping the TC Max home with limited battery charge, or in a consistently 50km/h or less speed limited zone.

Narrow in stature, and weighing a mere 103kg, the TC Max feels almost toy-like, and the flick of the ignition switch generates barely more than a silent vibration through the handlebars - the only way I could be sure the engine was running was by giving the throttle a twist.

Once rolling, the TC Max is so agile and a real joy to manoeuvre. The 17-inch wheels (90 front, 120 rear) roll and change direction with the greatest of ease. The instantaneous power delivery is a lot of fun to get used to, as the peak torque figure of 180Nm is reached almost immediately. As the smallest rider in the group I noticed I could overtake a heavier rider in a straight line with both our throttles wide open, so heavier riders might not get as much of an ‘instant torque buzz’.

Overall componentry is of a decent standard, and the snazzy neo retro styling offers modern, high tech appeal with a LCD headlight, indicators and taillight. An intelligent Battery Management System (BMS) monitors parameters such as voltage, current, and temperature, ensuring safe and reliable battery operation.

The Combined Braking System (CBS) is ample for a bike this size/weight/output, and you really notice the front brake engage when you apply strong pressure to the rear brake, and vice versa.

Extra tech includes the keyless ignition, an alarm system, and the LCD display, which offers plenty of charge/range information, but surprisingly no clock. At times I found it difficult to read the display in the daylight, and I noticed a lot of riders in our group left an indicator signal flashing too long.

The $7,990 price tag might seem a tad high, especially compared to other small capacity, budget priced motorcycles on the market (Honda CB125E from $3,647 for example), but a large chunk of consideration should be given to the minimal running cost of the TC Max. Once you’re past the initial outlay, this belt driven, battery powered motorbike won’t ask much of you in the maintenance department, and it might only cost you 50 cents or so per charge.

There is something a little unsettling about zipping around town, lane filtering etc, on a silent motorbike, an extra layer of vulnerability if you will, but I won’t get into a loud pipes save lives debate here.

The TC Max ticks plenty of boxes for busy, budget conscious riders. Lightweight and incredibly nimble with a responsive engine, sleek styling, and a good serve of virtuousness, the Super Soco TC Max is a terrific option for your round-town commute.

ENGINE
Type: Electric central motor with belt
Rated power: 3900W
Peak power: 5100W
Rear wheel peak torque: 180Nm
Range: Up to 110km
Max speed: Up to 95km/h
Charge time: Approx. 4-5 hours

DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Length: 1963mm
Width: 710mm
Height: 1047mm
Seat height: 770mm
Wheelbase: 1320mm
Claimed kerb weight: 103kg (bike 81kg, battery 22kg)
Battery type: Lithium pouch cell, with high capacity 3240Wh
Battery capacity: 72V/45Ah

CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR
Frame: Steel cradle
Front suspension: Non-adjustable 35mm telescopic fork
Rear suspension: Adjustable monoshock
Front brakes: 240mm disc with three-piston caliper, CBS (combined braking system)
Rear brake: 240mm disc with single-piston caliper, CBS (combined braking system)
Tyres: 90/80-17 (front), 120/70-17 (rear)

OTHER STUFF
Price: $7,990 ride away (alloy wheel) $8,290 ride away (spoke wheel)
Colours: Cosmic grey, Phantom black, Neon orange, Electric yellow
Warranty: 2 years