Handling and Performance

The Matter Aera offers impressive handling and performance on the road. It features a suspension setup with 33 mm telescopic front forks, twin shocks at the rear, and a 5-step preload adjustment. The suspension provides a pliant ride, gliding over various surfaces and easily tackling bad roads. The bike feels confident around corners, thanks to its well-balanced handling characteristics.

Under the hood, the Aera packs a 10 kW (13.4 bhp) electric motor with active liquid cooling for the engine and battery. It offers three riding modes: Eco, City, and Sport. In Sport mode, the Aera delivers smooth and fuss-free performance, with a strong surge in torque at all times. The bike quickly reaches up to 80 mph and has a top speed of 105 mph. The throttle response is well-calibrated, providing a satisfying power delivery. The braking performance is good, although some riders may prefer more progressive feedback from the front brake lever. The single-channel ABS ensures safety while riding.

While the Aera excels in fun and performance, it comes at the cost of range. The claimed range is 125 km on a single charge, but in real-world conditions, riders can expect around 60-70 km, depending on the riding mode. The range prediction on the Aera can be inconsistent, and riders should be aware of potential discrepancies. Charging the bike to 100% using the standard charger takes approximately six hours, but Matter plans to introduce a faster DC fast-charging option.

Verdict

The Matter Aera electric motorcycle shows plenty of promise in the e-motorcycle segment. With its unique mechanical gearbox, impressive handling, and good performance, the Aera aims to provide a riding experience that emulates a conventional petrol motorcycle. While there are areas for improvement, such as the overall build consistency and range prediction, the Aera offers a well-thought-out and versatile package.

Priced at ₹1.74 lakh for the Aera 5000 and ₹1.84 lakh for the Aera 5000+, the Aera is positioned as a premium offering. Matter intends to deliver 40,000 Aera motorcycles within 2024 and plans to open 150 dealerships in 12 months. The Aera will compete against other electric motorcycles, such as the Tork Kratos R, Oben Rorr, and Hop Oxo. As the electric motorcycle segment continues to grow, the Matter Aera has the potential to make a significant impact and “matter” in the larger scheme of things.

In conclusion, the Matter Aera electric motorcycle is a compelling option for riders looking for a unique and thrilling riding experience. With its mechanical gearbox, impressive performance, and thoughtful features, the Aera sets itself apart in the e-motorcycle market. While it may not be perfect, it showcases the potential of electric motorcycles and paves the way for a future where sustainability and excitement can coexist on two wheels.