News

Since we started the EV RESCUES series, we’ve seen a lot of interest in the Maeving RM1. It’s easy to see why—with its 1920s board-tracker styling and British engineering, it’s one of the most distinctive bikes on the road. After successfully rescuing this 2023 model in our workshop, we took it out through the streets of Durham to see if the reality lives up to the retro-cool aesthetic.

The Kinghorn EV Restoration

This specific RM1 arrived as a non-runner, but as is often the case with EVs, the faults were more “ghosts in the machine” than mechanical failures.

• The Fix: We replaced the 12V auxiliary battery and repaired both the kickstand and battery door sensors which were causing intermittent cut-outs.

• The Detail: To ensure it met our standards, we fitted brand-new handlebars (replacing the original pitted units), polished all chrome work, and performed a full paint correction. We even had the original text custom-printed back onto the ignition surround.

[Click here to watch the video]

Running Costs: Is it Really Cheaper than Petrol?

One of the biggest questions we get is: “What does it actually cost to run?” Based on April 2026 energy prices in the North East (approx. 23.8p/kWh), a full 40-mile charge for this 2.03kWh battery costs just 50p.

To put that in perspective: one gallon of petrol costs around £7.00. For that same £7.00, you could charge this Maeving 14 times and travel 560 miles. Effectively, you’re looking at the financial equivalent of 560 MPG.

The Verdict: Who Is It For?

• The Ideal Rider: City commuters. If you live in Meadowfield and work in Durham city center, this bike is a “cheat code.” It’s light, silent, and exempt from road tax.

• The Upgrade Path: This is a single-battery model with a 40-mile range. However, a second battery can be added instantly for £899, doubling your range to 80 miles.

• The Trade-off: With a top speed of 45mph, this isn’t a bike for the A1(M). It’s a precision tool for the urban environment, not a motorway cruiser.