Rwanda’s hilly terrain has long been a test for motorcycle riders, particularly those navigating steep roads and slippery stretches. Now, electric-motorcycle maker Spiro has unveiled its latest model designed with those conditions in mind.
The company unveiled the EKON 450, also dubbed the “1,000 Hills Motorcycle,” at the Expo Grounds in Gikondo. It is the eighth E-motorcycle model introduced by Spiro since it started operating in November 2022 in Rwanda.
Spiro says the new electric motorcycle is designed to combine comfort, speed and consistent power while producing zero tailpipe emissions. The company is positioning the model for both everyday transport and commercial use across Rwanda’s rolling landscape.
This motorcycle was designed to be more than just another addition to our product line,” said Amit Chawla, Managing Director of Spiro Rwanda.
“We looked closely at the everyday realities our riders face, from steep hills and challenging road conditions to affordability and ease of maintenance—and knew we needed a motorcycle purpose-built for those needs. The EKON M1 V3 is the result of that approach.”
The EKON M1 V3 is powered by a mid-mounted motor delivering up to 9kW and more than 260Nm of torque, giving it the power needed for demanding terrain. Its 200mm ground clearance is designed to help it handle uneven roads, while the upgraded 130mm braking system is claimed to cut stopping distances by 15 per cent.
Spiro has also strengthened the motorcycle’s suspension and increased seat thickness by 73 per cent compared with earlier models. A 16-litre storage compartment adds further practicality for riders using the motorcycle for daily transport and work.
The new EKON 450 is up to 35 per cent more affordable than a comparable fuel motorcycle and can also cover 120 kilometers before swapping batteries.
During the entertainment launch, host Anitha Pendo took guests through the motorcycle’s main performance features and upgrades before local artist Riderman performed for attendees. Visitors also had an opportunity to see and test the new model, with some expressing interest in buying it.
One of the features Spiro highlighted is the motorcycle’s braking system, which the company says is designed to provide better control when riding downhill or climbing the mountainous terrain of Rwanda.
The EKON 450 M1 V3 is available at Spiro’s head-office showroom and through its agents across the country. Prices may vary depending on whether the motorcycle is being sold under a promotion or at the standard price.
Addressing safety concerns Spiro Rwanda’s Human Resources Manager, Annet Degenri, said some of the challenges experienced with earlier e- motorcycles were partly linked to riders being unfamiliar with the transition from fuel-powered motorcycles to electric models.
She said the company responded by introducing and increasing free training sessions and safety awareness, particularly for motorists who were using electric motorcycles for the first time.
“Today, the challenges faced have been solved as most have gained the experience on how to ride them,” Degenri said.
She added that Spiro has introduced a safety programme known as “Tekana Safety,” through which motorists receive free training on how to operate the e-motorcycles. Riders are also expected to be certified before switching to Spiro motorcycles.
The company says the programme is intended to improve rider safety and give customers greater confidence that motorists using its motorcycles have received the necessary training.
Spiro also says it has expanded its charging infrastructure as demand for its motorcycles grows.
Degenri said the company currently has eight operating mega charging stations, with plans to establish more.
According to Degenri, the stations can charge more than 250 batteries at once, an expansion he said was necessary to keep up with the growing number of Spiro motorcycles on the road.
Amit Chawls Spiro Managing Direct said, “The Company has also been working with financial institutions to make electric motorcycles more accessible to buyers. Spiro signed a memorandum of understanding with LOLC Unguka Finance for its broader vision for electric mobility in Rwanda.
Roshan Gunawardena, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of LOLC Unguka Finance, said the partnership would help the microfinance institution extend its services to customers in locations where it does not currently have branches, beyond its existing network of 18 outlets.
It also has an agreement with Equity Bank, signed in March 2025, to develop eco-friendly financing models for electric motorcycles.
Chawls said the company’s ambition goes beyond selling motorcycles, arguing that reliable and affordable electric transport can make a difference in people’s everyday lives.
He said the motorcycles can help students get to school, workers arrive at work on time and businesses deliver orders more efficiently.
John Kalisa, a motorist who tested the motorcycle at Expo 2026, said its hill-climbing ability and comfort stood out to him.
“Given my riding experience, the new model is affordable, has good hill-climbing power and is comfortable,” Kalisa said.
He also pointed to the availability of spare parts across the country and the expansion of charging stations, including in areas outside major towns, as advantages for riders.
Spiro, which was established in Rwanda in November 2022, says it has sold more than 3,300 motorcycles in the country and provides about 2,000 direct and indirect jobs.
The EKON 450 M1 V3 is currently available for public viewing, test rides and purchase at Spiro’s Expo stand in Gikondo.
