Surron’s First Full-Size Electric Dirt Bike
First, the 2023 Sur-Ron Storm Bee F marks Surron’s entry into the full-size electric enduro market . Following the explosive popularity of the Light Bee X, Surron developed this larger platform for adult riders who want a genuine dirt bike experience without the noise, maintenance, and emissions of gas-powered machines .
Unlike the smaller Light Bee X, the Storm Bee is a “100-percent dirt bike” with full-size components, power, and proportions . It has the girth and heft of a grown-up’s motorcycle with wheels, tires, footpegs, handlebars, and performance to match .
2023 Storm Bee F: Key Specifications
104V 55Ah Panasonic Battery
The 2023 Storm Bee features a significant battery upgrade over earlier prototypes, increasing from 90V to 104V on the production model . This 32% voltage increase improves both range and top speed.
Battery specifications:
- Voltage: 104V DC
- Capacity: 55Ah
- Chemistry: Lithium-ion (Panasonic cells)
- Energy: Approximately 5.7 kWh
- Charger: 10A included (110V)
- Charge time: 4 hours from empty to full
The Panasonic battery offers a good level of reliability and confidence for riders concerned about battery longevity .
Real-World Range Performance
Manufacturer claims up to 120 km (75 miles) at a steady 50 km/h (31 mph) . However, real-world testing reveals different results:
| Riding Style | Expected Range |
|---|---|
| Casual trail riding (25-30 mph) | ~75 miles |
| Mixed off-road conditions | ~60 km (37 miles) |
| Race conditions (TKO hard enduro) | ~2 hours of competition |
Cycle News tested a pre-production Storm Bee at the Red Bull Tennessee Knockout and found the bike could compete for about two hours on a closed course .
This range works for shorter days and smaller loops from a home base, but it falls short compared to a few gallons of gas on a conventional trail bike .
22.5 kW Liquid-Cooled Motor
The Storm Bee’s powerplant is a liquid-cooled brushless motor rated at 10 kW continuous and 22.5 kW peak (approximately 30 horsepower) . This output puts it in line with enduro stalwarts like the Honda CRF250X and Yamaha WR250F .
Performance highlights:
- 0-50 km/h (31 mph): 1.8 seconds
- Peak torque: 520 Nm (383 ft-lb) at the wheel
- Top speed: 110 km/h (68 mph)
- Motor type: Liquid-cooled BLDC
The FOC sine wave controller features an intelligent thermal management system—temperature sensors automatically optimize power delivery if the motor or battery gets too hot .
Turbo Mode & Riding Modes
The Storm Bee comes equipped with four riding modes and a unique Turbo button :
The Turbo button unleashes all electronic fury for a short burst . For riders with A1 licenses, the bike’s nominal 11 kW rating keeps it legal, while the Turbo mode provides extra power when needed .
Reverse Gear
A functional reverse button sets the Storm Bee apart from most dirt bikes . This feature is a welcome addition for riders who find themselves in tricky situations on the trail, stuck in ruts, or needing to maneuver in tight spaces .
Testers found the reverse gear genuinely useful multiple times during their evaluation .
Traction Control (ASR)
The 2023 Storm Bee features ASR (Acceleration Slip Reduction), a traction control system developed specifically for this model . It activates when the rear wheel loses traction, reducing slip peaks when accelerating too hard .
Riders can turn traction control on and off on the fly using handlebar controls .
Regenerative Braking (BERS)
BERS (Brake Energy Regenerative System) captures energy during deceleration and feeds it back to the battery . This system also provides engine braking effect, helping control speed on descents.
Riders can adjust the level of regenerative braking, and it contributes modestly to extending overall range .
Suspension: 290mm Travel
The Storm Bee features full adjustable suspension with 290mm (11.4 inches) of travel front and rear :
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Front fork | 47mm inverted fork, adjustable compression & rebound |
| Rear shock | Fully adjustable monoshock |
| Supplier | Fastace |
| Travel (both ends) | 290 mm (11.4 inches) |
Cycle News found the unbranded suspension felt surprisingly good, even when racing at the TKO hard enduro event . The fork’s 47mm diameter provides excellent rigidity for aggressive off-road riding.
Brakes: Left-Hand Rear Brake
The Storm Bee follows Surron’s signature layout with the rear brake on the left handlebar where a clutch would normally sit .
Braking specifications:
- Front brake: Hydraulic disc (details unlisted)
- Rear brake: Hydraulic disc, left-hand lever
- Performance: No fade even on gnarly descents
This hand-brake setup allows riders to dab their feet anywhere and anytime without losing rear brake control .
21″ / 18″ Wheels
The Storm Bee uses full-size off-road wheel dimensions:
The 21-inch front wheel provides excellent rollover capability over rocks and roots. The 18-inch rear wheel offers a taller sidewall for better traction and impact absorption.
Wire-spoked rims provide strength and durability for off-road abuse .
Aluminum Frame and Dimensions
The Storm Bee’s high-strength aluminum frame offers both stiffness and flexibility to optimize the riding experience . The compact arrangement of the battery pack, motor control unit, and motor minimizes unsprung weight and balances the motorcycle .
The 940mm seat height is comparable to full-sized off-road motorcycles, accommodating taller riders comfortably. The 12.2-inch ground clearance rivals most enduro bikes.
Instrumentation and Display
The Storm Bee features a new LCD digital dash :
Display readouts include:
- Battery level
- Current speed
- Ride mode selected
- Traction control status
Despite its small size, the display is easy to read and provides useful information in a straightforward layout .
Additional Features
Pricing and Availability
| Market | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| USA | $8,499 MSRP | Off-road only model |
| Canada | 10,999−11,999 CAD | Freight, PDI extra |
| Europe | ~€10,750 | A1 license compliant |
| Sweden | 69,900 SEK (sale) / 129,900 SEK (regular) | Includes demo unit |
The 2023 Storm Bee F was announced in October 2022, with first deliveries expected at dealerships by February 2023 .
North American version includes a headlight and blank front number plate .
Street Legality
The 2023 Storm Bee F is an off-road-only model in North America—not 50-state street legal . A road-legal version of the Storm Bee has been delayed .
In Europe, the bike is listed with 11 kW nominal power, making it A1 license compliant, while the Turbo button provides additional power for off-road use .
2023 Storm Bee F vs. Light Bee X
| Feature | Storm Bee F | Light Bee X |
|---|---|---|
| Peak Power | 22.5 kW | 6 kW |
| Battery | 104V 55Ah | 60V 40Ah |
| Top Speed | 68 mph | 47 mph |
| Weight | 280 lbs | 123 lbs |
| Seat Height | 37 inches | 32.7 inches |
| Wheel Size | 21″/18″ | 19″/19″ |
| Best For | Full-size adults | Lightweight/agility |
The Storm Bee is designed for full-size adult riders who want a genuine dirt bike experience. The Light Bee X remains the better choice for smaller riders, urban hooliganism, and those prioritizing lightweight maneuverability .
Who Is the 2023 Storm Bee For?
The Sur-Ron Storm Bee 2023 is perfect for:
- Full-size adult riders who found the Light Bee X too small
- Off-road enthusiasts wanting a quiet, low-maintenance enduro bike
- Property owners needing noise-friendly transportation
- Off-road racers competing in electric classes
- Riders with A1 licenses seeking a compliant yet powerful e-moto (Europe)
It may NOT be ideal for:
- Long-distance adventurers needing gas-and-go range
- Budget buyers under $8,000 (consider Ultra Bee or used Light Bee X)
- Pure motocross racers (the suspension is good but not race-spec)
- Riders needing a street-legal machine (check local regulations or wait for road-legal version)
Why Choose the 2023 Sur-Ron Storm Bee?
In conclusion, the 2023 Sur-Ron Storm Bee F represents Surron’s successful entry into the full-size electric enduro market . The liquid-cooled 22.5 kW motor, 104V Panasonic battery, and 520 Nm of torque deliver performance comparable to 250cc enduro bikes .
The adjustable 47mm fork and monoshock provide 290mm of travel with full adjustability . The Turbo button, reverse gear, and traction control add unique features not found on gas-powered competitors .
While the claimed 120km range is optimistic under aggressive riding, the bike can comfortably handle a 2-hour race or a solid afternoon of trail riding .
For off-road riders seeking a full-size electric enduro bike, the 2023 Sur-Ron Storm Bee F offers a compelling blend of power, technology, and zero-emissions performance.
For more electric motorcycle options, browse our Collection of E-Motos or read our Electric Dirt Bike Guide to compare models.
