The Definitive ONYX Blog

Congrats, you’ve got an ONYX! I’m based in Midtown Manhattan if you need a hand. This blog offers practical guides to maintaining, modifying, and safely riding your bike.

Seven Years Later: What's Next

What’s changing, what I’m continuing to work on, and my plans for expanding the ONYX blog and developing a Spotify podcast.

October 20, 2026 · 3 min · 434 words · John Angel

72V: CT-22 Display Setup and Wiring

A practical CT-22 reference for 72V ONYX RCR owners, covering everyday controls, troubleshooting, wiring, advanced parameters, and Fardriver integration.

October 22, 2026 · 17 min · 3534 words · John Angel

72V: Huck Swingarm Generations Compared

A practical look at swingarm geometry, reinforcement, axle mounting, and the reasons I favor the Gen 2 design over the Gen 1 and Gen 3 layouts.

October 14, 2026 · 16 min · 3299 words · John Angel

72V & 80V: Motor Heat Limits and Magnet Damage

A practical guide to QS and Sotion motor temperatures, N35SH magnet ratings, high-temperature operation, controller protection, Statorade, Hubsinks, and water cooling.

October 13, 2026 · 8 min · 1634 words · John Angel

72V: Using Inner Tubes in Tubeless Motorcycle Tires

A technical guide for ONYX RCR owners covering tire compatibility, textured interiors, friction, heat, tube failures, rolling resistance, and the zip tie installation method.

October 12, 2026 · 12 min · 2538 words · John Angel

72V & 80V: Sotion vs QS Motor Heat and Performance

A technical comparison of four hub motor configurations, including heat management, sustained power, mountain climbing, racing, motor construction, and installation requirements.

October 11, 2026 · 16 min · 3300 words · John Angel

Theft Tracking and Recovery

Based on documented ONYX theft cases in New York City, this guide explains practical security measures, proof of ownership, GPS and Bluetooth tracking, Facebook recovery efforts, and the steps that help identify and recover a stolen bike.

October 10, 2026 · 19 min · 3891 words · John Angel

CTY2, 72V & 80V: Ownership in New York

Based on years of firsthand riding and involvement with the NYC ONYX community, this guide explains what owners should know about police encounters, traffic laws, documentation, equipment, and evolving regulations.

October 9, 2026 · 15 min · 3082 words · John Angel

72V & 80V: Overheating, Throttling and Range Loss

Real-world experiences with 72V and 80V ONYX RCRs explain how aggressive acceleration generates heat, wastes energy, and reduces range. Learn how controlled throttle application can reduce unnecessary heating, improve efficiency, and maintain Sport mode acceleration.

October 8, 2026 · 16 min · 3334 words · John Angel

CTY2 & 72V: Tire Sizes and Fitment

Separates tire selection and fitment from the dedicated QS205 spoke, rim, and lacing reference.

October 7, 2026 · 12 min · 2407 words · John Angel

Battery Protection Plans: Coverage and Providers

Distinguishes service contracts from insurance and links separately to paid New York registration-service verification.

October 6, 2026 · 17 min · 3497 words · John Angel

New York Registration Services: Licensing and Fees

Separates provider verification from vehicle-registration eligibility and preserves reported fee observations with their original limitations.

October 6, 2026 · 8 min · 1605 words · John Angel