Hailed as the alternative for e-scooters, and available from age 16 on a CBT licence, the CU Mini has been chosen as the paddock bike for Moto E, and for Ducati in this year’s MotoGP season. Easy to manoeuvre through small and cramped space, and with acceleration straight off the line, this little commuter handles the tight traffic, ULEZ, speed limits and any other limitations that come with any major city.
Inspired by the Super Soco CUX, I took this sleek and small commuter from Finsbury Park to Farringdon followed by a jaunt through the streets of Central London and I managed a 40 minute journey in half the time. That’s including the multiple times I got lost.
Safer than an e-scooter and less hard work than a pushbike, this twist and go commuter is available for anyone 16+ with a valid CBT, or by those who obtained a car licence before 2001. New riders, young riders, and those who want to save money and energy on their commute.
Charging, range and speed and power
The 600-watt motor gives the CU Mini a top speed of 25 mph, although due to the speed limits within central London I didn’t get the opportunity to go above 20 mph. Plus, the 25 mile range was more than enough for my little day out, even factoring in the fact I got lost, repeatedly.
Easy to charge, the removable lithium-ion battery weighs just 7kg and can be charged from any standard 3-pin UK plug outlet. So less backache and hassle than some of the bigger electric bikes.
Like most electric commuters, the power is immediately available, so be careful not to let your wrist slip otherwise you’ll end up flying off into traffic.
Equipment
Although small, it doesn’t sacrifice on technology with keyless ignition, a USB port, alarm, tracking device, LED lights and companion app, with which you can track the bike in real time, and monitor the state of charge from a mobile device.
Comfort
I have predominantly ridden bikes of 200kg+, so it took me a minute to get used to how lightweight and compact the CU Mini is, but once I did I was squeezing through the tightest traffic jams, which larger bikes could not fit. I was amazed how comfortable the ride was, once again aiming for potholes, manhole covers and speed bumps.
What I didn't like was the overall size and the storage. I didn’t have suitable luggage, so the charger was on the hook at the front, which took up a lot of foot space. The bag was resting on my boots.
Price
At £1,699, the CU Mini is cheaper than the average London commute per day. Plus, there is finance available and few maintenance costs.
Super Soco CU Mini verdict
Those who know the headache that is travelling through central London (or any other heavily built-up city) will appreciate the manoeuvrability that the CU Mini offers. It’s not fast, it’s not intimidating, but it is fun. Even the most seasoned riders won’t be able to help jumping on and whizzing around (Toad had a go). I could explore more of London in a shorter period of time, for minimal cost, without having to cook on the tube or sweat cycling.
