Yamaha’s diverse range of class-leading Urban Mobility models is further expanded with the launch of two new electric models, the BOOSTER Easy eBike and the BOOSTER S-pedelec electric.
Following the company’s recent announcements regarding the new NEO’s electric scooter as well as the introduction of the Moro 07, Wabash and Crosscore eBikes, the launch of these innovative and stylish new BOOSTER models underlines Yamaha’s ongoing commitment towards establishing itself as one of the major brands in the European 2-wheel EV market.
Initiated at the beginning of 2022, Yamaha’s Switch ON strategy represents the beginning of an exciting new era in the design and production of the next generation of electric vehicles. Many commuters are now actively seeking zero-emission personal transportation, and the growing range of electric Yamaha models offers a clean, reliable and efficient solution for commuting, leisure and sporting applications.
Created with Yamaha’s 30 years of EV experience
Yamaha introduced the world’s first production eBike in 1993, and now, 30 years later, the premium Japanese brand is at the forefront of the development, design and manufacture of zero-emission 2-wheel electric scooters, eBikes and pedelecs. Yamaha is also a key manufacturer of drive units that power many brands of eBikes produced by other manufacturers. At the same time as being a major producer of zero-emission vehicles that help to contribute towards a cleaner environment, Yamaha has also accelerated its programme to become a carbon-neutral manufacturer by 2035.
BOOSTER Easy and BOOSTER: What’s the difference?
Yamaha’s new BOOSTER Easy and BOOSTER look virtually identical and are technically very similar, sharing the same lightweight chassis design. The difference is in their performance: BOOSTER Easy is an eBike with a maximum pedal-assisted speed of 25km/h, while the BOOSTER is an AM licence S-pedelec or electric moped that can power to a maximum pedal-assisted speed of 45km/h.
Contemporary and minimalistic design
Fun to ride, simple to maintain and accessible to an extremely wide and diverse range of customers of all ages and backgrounds, the BOOSTER models are the spiritual successors to the original ‘fat tyre’ 50cc Yamaha and MBK scooters that played a big part in the lives of thousands of European teenagers growing up in the 1980s and 90s.
The contemporary and minimalist design features an exposed diecast aluminium front frame as well as spoked wheels with fat 20” x 4” tyres, and a classic U-frame configuration that makes getting on and off so easy. Driven by an ultra-compact and lightweight Yamaha PW-S2 drive unit that delivers seamless power, the new BOOSTER models are ready to make every part of the metropolis easily accessible to the new generation of riders who live, work and play in the city.
Exclusive Yamaha body components
The BOOSTER models benefit from a range of exclusive chassis components that add extra fun and functionality to the look and feel of these new zero-emission vehicles. The front end of the bike features Yamaha-exclusive fork covers, a front plate cover and front mudguard as well as a Supernova headlight to give a sleek and coordinated look.
Cables are hidden away behind ducts for cleaner lines, and a chain cover and engine covers underline the BOOSTERS’ high-quality of finish. The rear carrier provides plenty of carrying space, and both models feature an adjustable Royal Orbis seat and Integrated Koso LED taillight.
Comfortable and agile, perfect for urban mobility
The BOOSTER models represent the next generation in urban mobility and are amongst the most accessible powered two-wheel models available today. Riding comfort is assured on uneven road surfaces thanks to the fat 20” x 4” tyres that offer excellent grip on different road surfaces. The adjustable seat height enables riders of varying sizes to find their ideal riding position – and, together with the shock-absorbing high-profile tyres, the smooth front suspension soaks up the bumps. As well as offering easy ingress, the strong and simple U-frame design with its unique diecast aluminium front section ensures a low centre of gravity for Easy agility, making this zero-emission 2-wheeler the smarter way to move.
630 Wh 36V Yamaha battery
Both the BOOSTER Easy and BOOSTER are equipped with a 630Wh 36V battery that provides the PWseries S2 drive unit with an instant and reliable supply of power. The quickly detachable unit is located centrally for easy access as well as centralising mass for agile and responsive handling – and battery charging can be carried out both in-situ and remotely if the unit is removed.
Performance and range
BOOSTER Easy has a top assisted speed of 25km/h to comply with European eBike legislation – and riders can select the Zero mode for faster pedal-only riding on downhills. Five modes are available – +ECO, ECO, STD, HIGH and AUTO, enabling the rider to choose the appropriate setting to suit the local terrain and their individual range requirements.
The torque ratio supplied by the Yamaha drive unit is set at 50% for +ECO mode and goes up to 280% in HIGH mode, and the typical range with a 75 kg rider is up to 120 km in +ECO mode through to 60 km in HIGH mode.
BOOSTER is being classed as an electric moped (L1e) riders requires an AM license and the appropriate insurance (EU). The +ECO, ECO, STD, HIGH and AUTO modes can be selected by the rider to match the conditions, and a range of 110 km(+ECO mode) up to 50km (HIGH mode) can be achieved with a 75kg rider.
The torque ratio supplied by the Yamaha drive unit starts at 60% in +ECO mode and increases to 400% in HIGH mode, giving this electric moped a drive unit assistance reducing at 40km/h and stopping before 45km/h.
Intuitive user interfaces
BOOSTER is equipped with the latest centrally located Yamaha Display C user interface featuring a large 2.8″ full-colour dot matrix TFT display and a separate control switch. The information displayed includes battery capacity, riding speed, assist mode, range, clock, trip distances, cadence, calorie consumption and time. A range of fitness and navigation apps can be accessed by connecting a Smartphone via Bluetooth to enhance the overall riding experience.
BOOSTER Easy features Yamaha’s simple-to-read Display A interface that’s equipped with a 1.7″ LCD screen. Its basic design features integral buttons, and ‘always on’ information includes a speedometer, battery capacity indicator and assist mode, as well as a selectable trip meter, odometer and range.
PH availability and pricing
Currently, Yamaha PH has yet to announce the availability and pricing of the new BOOSTER e-bikes in the country, should they make it available to Pinoy riders.
Keyword: Yamaha joins the pedal-assist craze with the BOOSTER