We tested the 2023 Surron Ultra Bee a couple of years ago and proclaimed it more capable and higher-tech than many far more expensive motorcycles. Now Surron has upped the ante for 2025 with the Ultra Bee HP, featuring 18 kilowatts in Sport mode (up 44 percent from the previous version’s 12.5kW) and a new “Turbo” mode that bumps peak power to 21 kilowatts. The bike also features a new battery, an updated controller and improved suspension, among other enhancements. Like the original Ultra Bee, it includes three engine performance maps, adjustable traction control, adjustable coasting battery-regeneration modes, adjustable throttle sensitivity and even reverse—all for the same $6499 MSRP.
Photography by Sean Finley and Trevor Nordin
VIDEO | 2025 Surron Ultra Bee HP Ride Review
The Surron Phenomenon | 2025 Surron Ultra Bee HP Review
For those unfamiliar with Surron, this Chinese company has cultivated a cult-like following worldwide with its Light Bee electric motorcycle, introduced in 2018, which has become the go-to pit bike. Surron has since expanded its lineup to include the full-sized Storm Bee and the original Ultra Bee in 2023, as well as the new kid-sized Hyper Bee for 2025.
All Surron motorcycles utilize electric powerplants and therefore offer several advantages over internal combustion options: they’re comparatively quieter and easier to maintain, with no air filters to clean, oil to change or fuel to store. This allows for quiet operation in backyards and other areas where noise would be problematic.
The Goldilocks Factor | 2025 Surron Ultra Bee HP Review
In our opinion, the Ultra Bee is the Goldilocks of the Surron lineup. It’s large enough for full-sized adults to enjoy, while adjustable power settings make it great for beginners. The absence of a clutch or gears simplifies operation considerably for new riders. At 195 pounds, it’s about 50 pounds lighter than a ready-to-ride 300cc two-stroke off-road motorcycle and lighter than most entry-level trail bikes.
As noted in our 2023 Ultra Bee test, some weight savings are achieved through a slightly smaller overall package. The 35.8-inch seat height is approximately two inches lower than that of most full-size off-road motorcycles, while the 54.3-inch wheelbase is roughly four inches shorter. The unconventional 19-inch front wheel (rather than the traditional 21-inch) paired with an 18-inch rear wheel, shod with relatively small 80/100-19 front and 100/90-18 rear tires, also contributes to the light weight. Surron’s switch to an 18-inch rear wheel during the 2024 model year, replacing the 19-inch rear on earlier Ultra Bees, was a welcome change.
Power and Performance | 2025 Surron Ultra Bee HP Review
The 2025 Ultra Bee HP employs Surron’s new Hairpin motor, producing 18 kilowatts (approximately 24.1 horsepower) and 377 lb-ft of torque. An upgraded primary drive belt improves durability. The new 74V/60Ah lithium-ion battery charges from 0 to 100 percent in about four hours. The top speed of 59 mph is approximately three mph higher than that of the previous generations, and Surron claims a 71-mile range (conditions permitting).
Standard equipment includes a headlight and a multi-function display that shows speed, distance, power levels, traction control, ABS settings and battery level. The under-seat storage area, located where an air filter would typically reside, accommodates the charger or other items.
Real-World Capability | 2025 Surron Ultra Bee HP Review
We spent several days riding the Ultra Bee across varied terrain, from desert to single-track trails and backyard motocross tracks, and had a blast. For comparison, we also rode a mostly stock 2024 Ultra Bee (modified only with Electric Cycle Rider Applied fork internals and an SXS skid plate).
As we noted during our 2023 test, experienced riders will be amazed at the Ultra Bee’s capability and performance. Ultra Bees comprised more than half of the 35 entries in the 2024 Red Bull Tennessee Knockout eMoto class, with top Surron riders posting times comparable to the fastest amateur-class riders on conventional motorcycles. Former Supercross winner Josh Hill has been riding a 2025 Ultra Bee HP with a 21-inch front wheel and modified suspension in Arenacross competition and in spectacular freeriding sessions.
The 2025 Ultra Bee delivers significantly more power than its predecessor, verified with a few drag races. While the 2024 model wasn’t slow, the 2025 version is genuinely quick and requires finesse to use its full potential. It’s approaching the chassis limits, which is why we’re not fans of the “Turbo” mode. The bike is already plenty fast, and the turbo mode’s 10-second duration creates control issues, delivering a power burst that can cut out precisely when you need it most. We preferred the three standard power levels.
On technical trails, the updated controller offers significantly improved modulation in slippery conditions. A new crawling mode would benefit beginners, although we didn’t feel a strong need for it given the precise throttle control.
Chassis and Suspension | 2025 Surron Ultra Bee HP Review
The chassis remains largely unchanged from the previous model, but the upgraded suspension is noticeably improved. The forks, especially, are much more compliant over small rocks. As noted in our previous test, the suspension is fully adjustable and outperforms most trail bikes. However, with roughly 9.5 inches of front and rear travel, it doesn’t match high-performance off-road bikes that typically feature nearly 12 inches of travel. For a play bike costing about 40 percent less than those machines, some performance compromise is expected.
Surron also upgraded the brakes for 2025, though we felt the previous model’s units performed well. The 240mm front and rear hydraulic discs are predictable and never faded, even on gnarly descents. Notably, the rear brake operates via a hand lever on the left handlebar, where a clutch lever would typically reside. This configuration is common on electric bikes, and while it requires some time to get used to, it eliminates the need for a foot brake, allowing riders to focus on weighting the footpegs for traction and balance. Without a clutch, riders accustomed to modulating rear-wheel power need time to adapt, though the left-hand rear brake can somewhat mimic clutch modulation on climbs. For newer riders, the absence of a brake pedal or shift lever simplifies operation considerably.
Having reverse on a motorcycle sounds silly, but it can help extract you from tricky predicaments on the trail.
Range and Charging | 2025 Surron Ultra Bee HP Review
Using the Strava activity app to track riding distance and actual moving time during every ride, we found that intermediate-level riders could achieve over 2.5 hours of riding time and cover up to 60 miles on trails. Time and range vary with riding intensity, but most riders will find the Ultra Bee provides ample riding time for enjoyment. Despite the larger battery, the range proved nearly identical to that of our 2024 comparison bike—the additional power likely consumed the extra battery capacity.
Surron claims 2.5 hours to charge from 20 to 80 percent and four hours to charge from 0 to 100 percent, which is consistent with our experience using the included 110-volt charger. The battery can be easily swapped if you’re serious enough to purchase a spare for extended riding time.
For remote locations like tracks or campsites, you’ll need a generator and must plan charging around riding schedules—you can’t simply grab a gas can for a quick top-off.
Durability and Support | 2025 Surron Ultra Bee HP Review
We’ve logged over 250 miles on the 2025 test bike and more than 600 miles on our 2024 model without issues. We used the 2024 model for course marking at the Tennessee Knockout, then raced it at the TKO, accumulating significant time on various Surron bikes with consistently strong results. We’re confident durability isn’t a concern. The only problem we had was spinning the tire on the rim due to no rim locks so that is something we would add. Like any brand, it is helpful to have a good dealer nearby.
Conclusion | 2025 Surron Ultra Bee HP Review
The Surron Ultra Bee excels for new riders thanks to its slightly smaller size and easily adjustable power delivery. Experienced riders will also appreciate the bike’s ease of operation in various situations. While most serious riders won’t replace their primary machine with an Ultra Bee, it’s a fun alternative whose reduced noise enables riding in locations off-limits to conventional bikes.
Regarding 2025 improvements: the additional power is welcome, and the new controller’s improved throttle modulation enhances technical riding. The new suspension settings, particularly noticeable in the forks, represent a significant upgrade.
Both experienced and new riders will appreciate the reduced maintenance requirements of electric bikes, and Surrons are among the most refined and ownership-friendly options currently available. Among the Surron lineup, we believe the new Ultra Bee HP is right in the sweet spot. CN
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2025 Surron Ultra Bee HP Specifications
| MSRP | $6499 |
| Engine Type | Permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) |
| Peak Power | 21 Kilowatts with Turbo; 18 Kilowatts (24 hp) |
| Peak Torque | 377 lb-ft |
| Top Speed | 59 mph |
| Max Range | Claimed 71 miles but varies widely based on terrain |
| Battery Pack | 74V/60Ah Lithium-ion |
| Charging Time | 2.5 Hours (20%-80%). 4 Hours (0-100%) |
| Riding Modes | Sport, Daily, Eco, Crawl, Reverse |
| Rider Aids | Surron Traction Control System (SRTC), Surron Energy Regenerative System (SERS) |
| Frame | Forged Aluminum Alloy |
| Front Suspension | 37mm inverted fork with adjustable compression and rebound |
| Rear Suspension | TR Intersect Monoshock with adjustable preload, compression and rebound |
| Front-Wheel Travel | 9.4 in. |
| Rear-Wheel Travel | 9.4 in. |
| Front Wheel | 19 in. |
| Rear Wheel | 18 in. |
| Front Brake | 240mm hydraulic disc |
| Rear Brake | 240mm hydraulic disc |
| Seat Height | 35.8 in. |
| Ground Clearance | 12.4 in. |
| Wheelbase | 54.3 in. |
| Weight (ready to ride, claimed) | 195 lbs. |
Click here to read the 2025 Surron Ultra Bee HP Review in the Cycle News Digital Edition Magazine.
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