Storing the ONYX RCR

For optimal protection, store your ONYX RCR indoors, such as in a garage or inside your home.

If outdoor storage is necessary

  • Use a bike cover to shield it from the elements.
  • Secure the bike with a chain lock and disc brake lock.
  • Remove the battery to prevent theft and protect it from temperature extremes.

Rain, Winter, & Summer Riding Advice

Rain

The ONYX RCR performs well in the rain and is not prone to water-related issues. However, it’s important to wash and dry the bike within two days if exposed to dirty rainwater. This helps prevent grime buildup by replacing dirty water with clean water.

Winter

  • The ONYX RCR can be ridden in temperatures as low as -5°F due to the battery generating heat during discharge. However, riding in 15°F or colder can be uncomfortable even with heated gloves.
  • Avoid storing the battery outside overnight in temperatures below 32°F or above 120°F to prevent damage.

Summer

  • In temperatures above 85°F, lithium batteries behave differently during charging and discharging, generating more heat during aggressive riding.
  • Avoid frequently charging a hot battery with a fast charger (10 amps or higher), as this can degrade the battery’s lifespan.
  • Always charge in the shade or use a cover over the battery compartment. A backpack works well as a temporary cover.
  • Plan your charging schedule to maintain battery performance and longevity.

Front Suspension Dust Covers

If your ONYX RCR didn’t come with fork dust covers, wipe down the silver portion of the front suspension with a dry paper towel after each ride to keep it clean and functioning properly.

Setting the Display Clock

  • Hold down the two buttons on the left side of the display.
  • While holding the buttons, turn on the ONYX RCR by pressing the kill switch near the throttle.
  • The display clock will begin flashing.
  • Use the same display buttons to adjust the time.

ONYX RCR Brake Noise

Both the front and rear disc brakes may produce noise until they are properly broken in. To reduce or eliminate this noise, apply a small amount of disc brake solution to both sides of the front and rear brake rotors.

Brake Pads

  • Use 500-grit sandpaper to gently smooth the edges on both sides of the front brake rotor disc.
  • The stock front brake pads on the ONYX RCR are medium-grade, offering solid performance but tending to be noisier.
  • Upgrading to higher-quality brake pads can significantly reduce noise while maintaining or improving braking performance.

Front Brake Pads and Cleaner

Battery Don’ts

  • Avoid storing or charging ONYX RCR batteries in direct sunlight.
  • Do not charge the battery immediately after a ride on a hot day, especially with a 10-amp charger.
  • On hot days, charge the battery in the shade and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before plugging it in.
  • It is safe to leave the batteries and chargers plugged in overnight, provided the environment is between 32°F and 105°F.

Throttle Don’ts

  • Do not rely solely on the mode settings switch to manage the ONYX RCR’s power. Even in Normal Mode, the bike can be challenging to handle.
  • If this is your first e-bike with half or full throttle, expect a learning curve.
  • Learn to handle unexpected moments, such as accidental throttle rolls, by practicing throttle feathering.
  • Take your time building confidence until you have complete control over the throttle in all settings and modes.

Lean Forward

  • Develop the habit of leaning forward by 10 degrees or more before twisting the throttle.
  • This slight forward lean helps with:
  • Handling potholes unexpectedly.
  • Managing accidental acceleration.
  • Improving overall control during takeoff.

Speed Wobbles

  • Never apply more than 20 pounds of weight on the handlebars. Excess weight can cause speed wobbles.
  • Grip the handlebars lightly, as though you’re holding fragile items, like baby chicks. Avoid a tight grip or leaning heavily on the bars.
  • When taking off with a full-throttle twist, slide forward on the seat and lean forward by 25 degrees or more to maintain stability.

Foot Placement

  • If you don’t have foot pegs, let your left leg dangle semi-stiff, with a slightly bent knee and your left foot about half a foot off the ground when taking off from a standstill.
  • Avoid placing your left foot on the pedal during the first three seconds of acceleration.
  • Gaining comfort with the ONYX, particularly when wheeling after dialing up the power, takes time and experience. Be patient and practice.

Unintentional Wheelies

To manage unintentional wheelies:

  • Stand up on the pedals with your bottom about 6 inches or more off the seat.
  • This method offers better control than abruptly letting go of the throttle or applying the brakes.

Control and Power Delivery

With practice and experience, full-throttle takeoffs will become smoother:

  • Sit forward on the seat with your bottom 6 inches off the seat.
  • Keep your left foot dangling semi-stiff with a slight knee bend, about 6 inches off the ground or resting on the left peg.
  • This technique ensures solid control and power delivery, whether or not the front tire is on the ground.
  • The ONYX RCR can be steered with the front tire lifted by managing your body positioning.

Braking Game

Improve braking efficiency by:

  • Using the left lever regen brake (with a light 1/4-inch squeeze) for 80% of braking, simulating engine braking.
  • Using the right front brake for the remaining 20%, offering precise stopping power.
  • Rarely relying on the rear physical brake unless you have variable regen installed.

Full Battery and Regen Braking

When the battery is above 83 volts, avoid overusing regen braking, especially on long downhills.

  • A full battery has no capacity to store regenerative energy, which can cause the battery to cut power or even shut the bike off.
  • Be cautious and limit regen braking on a fully charged battery.

Steering Through Corners

Unfamiliar Roads:

  • Brake before the turn.
  • Turn naturally.
  • Accelerate only after completing the turn.

Familiar Roads:

  • Brake before the turn.
  • Apply 25% throttle during the turn.
  • Gradually increase throttle as you exit the turn.

New Battery Charge Level

  • Both the 41Ah and 23Ah ONYX RCR batteries arrive at a stored charge of 50% to 75%, ready for immediate use.
  • The 23Ah battery requires extra care, while the 41Ah battery is more robust and low-maintenance.