
"A solid entry into the 72V space with great range and a swappable battery, held back by underwhelming brakes."
We picked up the Rawrr Mantis X on a Tuesday morning and headed straight for the Hungry Valley SVRA, one of Southern California's premier off-road riding areas. The bike arrived in a surprisingly compact crate, and assembly was straightforward — about 45 minutes with basic tools. First impressions were positive: the Mantis X has a larger, more substantial feel than the Sur-Ron class of bikes, which is both a blessing and a curse.
The auto-button battery swap system is genuinely clever. Press a button, and the battery releases from its cradle, making trailside swaps a breeze if you carry a spare. This is a significant advantage for riders who want to extend their ride time without waiting for a charge.
The 9.5kW motor delivers decent initial punch, and the 72V platform gives it a noticeable edge over 60V competitors in terms of raw acceleration. However, we noticed a frustrating early power sign-off under sustained load — climbing long, steep grades, the motor seems to pull back power earlier than expected, likely due to thermal management.
This is where the Mantis X earns its stripes. The claimed 62-mile eco range is optimistic but not outrageous. In our mixed riding, we consistently hit 35-40 miles of moderate trail riding, which is competitive with bikes costing significantly more.
Unfortunately, this is the Mantis X's Achilles' heel. The stock brakes are, frankly, the worst in the class. They lack bite, fade quickly on long descents, and require excessive lever force. For a bike with this much power and weight, the braking system is a genuine safety concern that demands an immediate aftermarket upgrade.
The Rawrr Mantis X is for the budget-conscious rider who wants 72V performance and great range without spending top dollar. If you're willing to invest in a brake upgrade, it becomes a much more compelling package.
| Motor | 9.5kW peak |
| Battery | 72V swappable |
| Range | 62 mi eco |
| Top Speed | 50 mph |
| Weight | 155 lbs |
| MSRP | $3,599 |