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

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: 41Ah Battery Balance Lead Failure

72V: 41Ah Battery Balance Lead Failure

One owner’s 41Ah battery showed extreme cell group readings that changed when the pack moved. His video revealed a disconnected balance lead, illustrating why a physical connection fault can look like severe imbalance.

November 3, 2026 · 5 min · 1018 words · John Angel
80V Firmware 2.0: Features, Riding Modes, and Considerations

80V Firmware 2.0: Features, Riding Modes, and Considerations

Understand what changes from Firmware 1.75, what the new dashboard information provides, and what to consider before updating the controller and display.

October 26, 2026 · 5 min · 948 words · John Angel
72V: CT-22 Display Controls

72V: CT-22 Display Controls

Operate the display and identify the next check, with detailed wiring and parameter setup in their own references.

October 22, 2026 · Updated November 3, 2026 · 6 min · 1261 words · John Angel
72V: CT-22 Display Settings

72V: CT-22 Display Settings

Record the installed configuration and compare speed and distance separately. Supplier examples are identified so they are not mistaken for ONYX settings.

October 17, 2026 · 8 min · 1527 words · John Angel
72V: Huck Swingarm Generations Compared

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

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 · Updated November 3, 2026 · 8 min · 1669 words · John Angel
72V: Using Inner Tubes in Tubeless Motorcycle Tires

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 · Updated November 3, 2026 · 10 min · 2037 words · John Angel
72V & 80V: Sotion vs QS Motor Heat and Performance

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 · 3303 words · John Angel
Theft Response and Recovery

Theft Response and Recovery

Follow the recovery steps while keeping prevention, tracking setup, and ownership records in their dedicated guides.

October 10, 2026 · Updated November 3, 2026 · 12 min · 2352 words · John Angel
CTY2, 72V & 80V: Ownership in New York

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 · Updated November 3, 2026 · 13 min · 2545 words · John Angel
72V & 80V: Overheating, Throttling and Range Loss

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 · 3335 words · John Angel