BLACK TEA MOTORBIKES BONFIRE Electric Motorbike Owner’s Manual
- June 5, 2024
- BLACK TEA MOTORBIKES
Table of Contents
- BLACK TEA MOTORBIKES BONFIRE Electric Motorbike Hello & Welcome!
- General information
- Motorcycle Overview
- Handlebar Controls Overview
- Vehicle Operation
- While Riding
- Good to know
- Regular inspection and Maintenance
- Service table and Service intervals
- Wheels and Tires
- Brakes
- Removing & Charging the Battery
- Charging the Battery
- Owning and Operation
- Troubleshooting
- Tools
- General Vehicle Overview
- Contact and Support
- References
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
BLACK TEA MOTORBIKES BONFIRE Electric Motorbike Hello & Welcome!
You are now a proud owner of a Black Tea Bonfire.
We are extremely flattered that you have chosen Black Tea Motorbikes for your
upcoming adventures. Welcome to our Rider Community. It’s now our obligation
to do the best we can to serve you with product information, service, and
spare parts for an effortless experience.
Our mission is to make adventures accessible to everyone, everywhere. That is
why our ambition is to develop compelling motorcycles for any kind of
adventures you have in mind. For an easy service & personal customization, we
build our bikes as simple as possible allowing any kind of (legal)
modification.
This manual should be your tool and guidance for general maintenance, safety
precautions, service matters – stretching from what may be dealt with by
yourself and what needs to be handed over to professional mechanics, tuning,
warranty aspects, handling and troubleshooting.
Please to use this document, to ensure that every ride is a safe ride.
Introduction
Safety regulations
We want both you and those around you to get through everyday life safely.
Therefore, we ask you to pay attention to a few things when you are on the
road with your Bonfire.
Keep to the traffic rules. To minimize risk of serious injury, protective
equipment should be worn at all times including a helmet. Please always have
the following documents with you when you drive your Bonfire: Identity card,
insurance papers, number plate and operating license.
Probably you are super excited to start riding your bike but please follow the
steps below to make sure to not make any damage to the vehicle, or property or
injure yourself or others. During transportation, the bike might have become
damaged. We can’t guarantee the bike’s drivability as it’s been strapped down
for up to several weeks before you receive it.
- Read & understand this manual
- Go through the chapter “Regular Inspection and Maintenance”
- Go through the checklist on “Before each ride”
Make sure that you have the latest version of the manual by visiting www.blackteamotorbikes.com/service
Unpacking
If you receive a fully assembled motorcycle, you only need to mount the
mirrors and the reflectors before your first ride. If you receive your Bonfire
in a cardboard box on a palette, you will have to unpack it and make the final
assembly on your own.
We recommend everyone watching our instruction video teaching you how to
assemble, ride & maintaining your bike. Visit our page at
www.blackteamotorbikes.com/bonfire or scan the QR code here to learn how to
disassemble the box, unpack & assemble the bike.
General information
Safety & Warranty
Warranty
The standard warranty guarantee is covered by the attached terms and
conditions. It will be voided by damage caused by actions contrary to these
operating instructions.
Usage
Black Tea Motorbikes are designed and homologated to the highest standards for
road traffic by TÜV Süd in Munich, Germany. It is therefore forbidden to
remove any equipment or manipulate the wiring outside an authorized service
centre. The Bonfire is not designed for field use or racing.
Riding
When riding a Bonfire bike for the first time, there are a few things to be
aware of. The bike has an electric motor with instant torque and a primary
drive with no gears which means you have all the power available at all times
in the throttle. It’s very sensitive and it’s highly recommended to start
riding in the 1st riding mode to get used to this kind of vehicle.
Important: You have two keys. One key is for the ignition & the steering
lock. The other key is for the battery box. Make sure to use the right key,
otherwise you can damage the lock or the key.
There is no clutch, instead you have the rear brake positioned on the left
side of the handlebar. This means that there are neither rear brake nor gear
shifter to be found by the rider’s feet. This can feel very unnatural for
experienced combustion motorcyclists.
Be aware of your surroundings. Remember that electric vehicles are quiet. Be
aware of people or other cyclists that may be on or near the paths and lanes
that you are using.
- Never ride the bike under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Always check your local laws and regulations where to ride.
Motorcycle Overview
- Seat
- Holding Mount for passenger
- Rear & Stop Light
- Rear Indicator
- License Plate Holder
- Electric Hub Motor
- Position of EPA Label (USA only)
- Side Stand
- Footrests
- Battery Box
- Position of Certification Label
- Position of VIN
- Steering Lock
- Front Indicators
- Headlight
- Display
- Mirrors
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
The VIN / Chassis Number is a 17-digit number stamped on the head tube of the
frame. Do not alter or remove this number as it is the legal identifier for
your motorcycle. You can also find the VIN on the statutory plate/
certification label.
Battery Serial Number
The battery serial number is located on the battery. The serial numbers are
hidden from view, when the battery is inside the motorcycle.
Motor Serial Number
The motor serial number is laser etched on the left hand side of the motor
housing and is visible when the motorcycle is fully assembled.
Controller Serial Number
The controller serial number is attached on the top of the controller housing
and is visible when one of the side panels is removed.
Certification Labels
The European & US VIN certification labels are located on the right-hand side
of the down tube. The EPA label for US motorcycles is mounted on the right-
hand side of the swingarm & it includes the official engine family for
registration at the local DMV. Do not alter or remove the labels.
Handlebar Controls Overview
- High Beam
- Adjust Button
- Kill Switch (On/ Off)
- Low Beam
- Select Button
- Start Button
- Indicator
- Ignition
- Speed Mode Button
- Horn
Battery Box Overview
- Battery safety lock
- First battery compartment
- Second battery compartment
- Connector to the vehicle
- Battery Box Lock
Display Overview
Vehicle Operation
Start your Bonfire
Before you start the bike, please remember that this is an all-electric
vehicle that is completely silent when it’s on. To start your Bonfire, follow
the steps below.
- Make sure that your battery is charged, turned on and connected to the bike
- Move the battery safety lock down & close the battery box door. If you don’t move the battery safety lock down, you are not able to close the door.
- Make sure that the steering lock, and any other locks being used have been unlocked.
- Put the key into the ignition and turn it to the right. Now, the display & lights should turn on.
- Pull up your side stand if you haven’t already & sit down on your bike.
- Now, make sure that the kill switch is in “ON” position & press the START Button
- If you can see your riding mode appearing on the display, the bike is now active, and you can start riding. If you are still not able to start your bike, you might need to fold the side stand up.
- To avoid injuries, there is an additional safety feature included. When you stop your bike after riding, “Active” will be shown on the display to remind you that the bike is still on.
Turn off your Bonfire
- Fold out the side stand & make sure that your Bonfire is stable.
- To turn off your bike turn your key to left & remove it.
- Lock your bike, see Chapter 5.4
While Riding
Brakes
Please note that, unlike a regular petrol motorcycle, both the rear and front
brake is located on the handlebar and there is no footbrake. The rear brake is
located on the left side of the handlebar and the front brake is located on
the right side of the handlebar.
Speed Button
With the 1,2,3 Button you can change your Driving Mode. There are 3 different
Power modes to choose from when riding the bike. Never ride the bike above
your comfort level and always ride according to your personal riding skills.
We always recommend new Riders to start in the first mode to get used to the
bike and the differences between an electric motor and an internal combustion
engine. The 3 different Power modes have different attributes in terms of top
speed, acceleration, and torque to suit riders of all riding levels, from
beginners to professionals.
Power mode 1 – Eco
This mode is ALWAYS recommended when riding a Bonfire for the first time. It
has a limited top speed of 35 km/h (35 mph in the US) and soft acceleration.
Power mode 2 – Normal
With a top speed of 40 km/h (40 mph in the US) and a good acceleration, this
mode is perfect for slow roads or off-road passages.
Power mode 3 – Sport
Here you have no restrictions when it comes to the performance, this mode is
perfect when you need all the power available. You get 45 km/h (45 mph in the
US) top speed & a good acceleration.
Regenerative Braking
Your Bonfire allows one-throttle riding (known as one-pedal driving from
cars). When the throttle is released, the bike starts the regenerative
braking. It allows to stop the bike without using the brakes & it charges the
battery.
Important: Regenerative Braking can be unreliable, especially at a full
battery charge. So always use the regen brake feature with caution.
Good to know
Side stand
The side stand can be conveniently folded out even when sitting on your bike
and activates a switch that interrupts the power supply to the motor for
safety. As long as the side stand is folded out, the bike will not ride.
Mirrors
You can easily adjust the alignment of the mirrors. The joint works with a
counter-rotating screw system. Insert them into the thread provided on the
handlebars & turn them clockwise. Align the mirrors and then tighten the nut.
With the help of your mirrors, you should be able to keep an eye on the road
and everyone you leave behind.
Display
On the display you can see the bike‘s SOC (state of charge), Ride mode, speed,
trip odometer & time.
Operating the display
The lower left button is the Select Button, and the upper left button is the
Adjust Button.
Setting the time
With the bike completely turned off, press and hold the upper button while
turning the ignition key. The display turns on and the minutes start flashing,
indicating that they can be changed.
Release the upper button and then either press it briefly again to increase
the minutes by one or press and hold the upper button to increase the minutes
continuously until you release the button.
To select the hours, click the lower button once – this causes the hours to
flash, indicating that they can be changed. Again, you can make changes to the
hours either by pressing the upper button briefly or by pressing and holding
the upper button. When you are finished, click the lower button again and the
clock is set, and the dashboard returns to normal operation.
Clear trip odometer
With the display on, simply press and hold the Adjust button for 3 seconds.
This will clear the trip odometer.
Emergency Operation
Battery Overvoltage or Battery Undervoltage
If the voltage is out of the ordinary range of the battery pack, such as an
overcharged battery pack or an empty battery pack, the performance will be
limited as to not damage the battery or other components in the drivetrain.
The controller will give out the following Error Code (Overvoltage): ¤ ¤¤
The controller will give out the following Error Code (Undervoltage): ¤ ¤¤¤
Controller overtemperature
If the controller is getting too hot, the performance will gradually be
limited. If the temperature reaches 100°C, the bike will stop riding until the
temperature falls below 80°C. Go easy on the throttle or take a short break if
this occurs.
The controller will give out the following Error Code: ¤¤ ¤¤¤
Motor overtemperature
If the motor is getting too hot, the performance will gradually be limited. If
the temperature reaches 150°C, the bike will stop riding until the temperature
falls below 130°C. Go easy on the throttle or take a short break if this
occurs.
The controller will give out the following Error Code:
Battery overtemperature and Battery under-temperature
The battery pack does not like extremely warm or cold temperatures. In order
to avoid damage on the battery pack, it’s recommended to keep your bike inside
during if the outside temperature ranges from +2°C to +35°C (36 F to 95 F)
Regular inspection and Maintenance
Before & after each ride
Make sure that your bike is always in good condition and avoids injury or damage, please make sure to always take care of your Bonfire by the following steps.
- Check your whole bike (according to Chapter 3.2.)
- Check the wheels (see Chapter 3.3.)
- Check that the brakes are functioning properly (see Chapter 3.4.)
- Clean your bike regularly (see Chapter 5.2 – Cleaning)
Service table and Service intervals
Service| Every Ride| 10
Hours
| 20
Hours
| 6
Months
---|---|---|---|---
Check the angle of your mirrors| x| | |
Check that the lights & turn signals are working properly| x| | |
Check that the horn is working properly| x| | |
Check that the rear and brake light is working properly| x| | |
Check & Torque Fork, Axle, Handlebar, and Suspension| x| | |
Check tire pressure| x| | |
Carefully Check Tires for Any Debris or Wobble| | x| |
Check rims for damage| | x| |
Check spoke tension| | x| |
Check brake discs| | x| |
Check brake pads| | | x|
Check brake fluids| | | | x
Check brake hoses for damage| | | | x
Check front wheel bearings| | | | x
Check screws on brake disc, front & rear| | | x|
Check footrests| | | x|
Check the battery box| | | | x
Check frame and swing| | | | x
Check cable harness| | | | x
Check Battery Connections| | | | x
Wheels and Tires
The wheels should be inflated to a pressure of 230 kPa.
Keep checking your spokes regularly. You just need to make sure that there are
no loose spokes in the wheel.
- Check that the tires are inflated with the correct pressure
- Check the tires tread pattern is at least 3mm deep
- Check for bent spokes
- Check that all spokes have the correct tension
- Check that the brake discs are straight
- Check that the axle of the front wheel is tightened correctly
- Check that the rear axle is tightened correctly
- Check that the axle of the rear wheel is adjusted correctly
Brakes
Look at the front and rear callipers to see that they or the brake brackets are not damaged. Look at the front and rear brake pads to see that they are not worn out. Look in the window at the reservoir to see that there is enough brake fluid in the brake housings on the handlebar. Make a brake test to check that both the front and rear brake works properly.
Removing & Charging the Battery
Removing the Battery
As a safety measure, you are not able to ride your bike while charging the
bike. Make sure that the bike is standing securely before removing the battery
pack.
Use your key to open the battery box. If your bike is standing on a flat
ground, the door should stay open. Please make sure to turn the battery off.
You can find the On/ Off Button on top of the battery.
Now disconnect the battery from the bike. Move the battery safety lock up. Get
the handle of the Battery & take it out of the bike.
Important: The battery is heavier than it might look like.
When putting the battery back in the bike, make sure that there’s no dirt or
objects on the floor. This can damage the battery and block your door from
closing. Always be careful handling the battery. If dropped, inspect it
visually and get in contact with a Black Tea Motorbikes Employee if there’s
any damage to it.
Charging the Battery
Plug in the charger into the wall and then plug in your battery. You should be
able to hear the charger while charging. The charger light will change from
green to red after the battery is connected. When the battery is done charging
the light will turn green.
Important: If the outside temperature is below 0°C, wait until the
battery has reached room temperature before charging.
Putting the Battery back
After the charge is complete make sure the battery switch is in the “OFF”
position before installing the battery. Place the battery back in the bike.
Connect it. Put the safety lock down and turn the battery on. Close the door
and lock it.
Note: Do not be afraid if you forgot to turn off the battery and the
connectors spark on contact. This is okay a few times but over time this can
wear out your connector.
Owning and Operation
Maintenance & Cleaning
It’s important to keep the bike in good condition in order to get the full
performance of the bike and increase its lifetime. When you are done riding,
always clean the bike and follow the ”regular inspection” checklist. Charge
the bike to a minimum of 30 % State of Charge. Turn the bike & the battery off
if it will not be used for more than a week. Otherwise, it is in standby and
will drain the battery to an unhealthy level which will shorten the lifespan
of the battery.
Always be cautious when cleaning the bike. The bikes electrical components can
be damaged if cleaned improperly which can damage the bike, property or
people. Always make sure that the bike is standing firmly before washing and
don’t forget to turn the bike off.
Never use a pressure washer or a water hose in order to clean the bike. It’s
recommended to use pressurized air, a bucket of water together with a cloth
and brush.
Storing
Follow these steps to ensure that your Bonfire is always in a good condition
and to extend the life of the bike. We recommend you to ride the bike at least
once every month as some of the bike’s components needs to be used in order
for them to be in the best condition. Store the bike indoors away from
sunshine to avoid unnecessary aging or discoloration. Make sure to turn the
bike off completely by disconnecting the battery. Never store a bike with an
empty battery. If the bike will be stored for a longer period of time, charge
the bike to at least 30 % SOC to maximize the lifespan of the battery.
Never store your bike below 10° C, if you are unable to store the bike in
temperature above that, remove the battery and bring it inside.
Locking
In order to keep your bike safe. It’s recommended to use an external lock that
is recommended for motorcycles. When leaving your bike on the street, always
turn the bike off, take out the batteries, lock the steering and take your
keys with you.
The steering lock is found under the triple clamps between the fork legs. Lock
the steering lock by turning the handlebar all the way to the left and insert
the key into the steering lock on the right side and turn the key. You will
feel how the handlebar will be locked to that position, so you can’t ride the
bike.
Warning: Be aware that the key is fragile and twisting of the steering while
having the key in the lock can damage the mechanism and/or key.
Crash
In the case of a crash, please go through the bike for any visual or
structural damage. If you find any damage affecting the handling of the
vehicle, stop riding to prevent further damage to the vehicle, yourself or the
environment around you.
If your bike needs a repair, please contact us at
service@blackteamotorbikes.com
For inspection, please go through the procedures under Chapter 3 ”Regular
inspection and Maintenance”. In case of a broken or damaged component, visit
www.blackteamotorbikes.com to order spare
components. If you can’t find what you are looking for or have any questions,
please get in contact with Black Tea Motorbikes directly.
Troubleshooting
If your bike isn’t working properly, please read the following use cases to
find a solution. If you can’t find the problem you are experiencing or a
solution that works for you, contact Black Tea Motorbikes directly.
My bike won’t turn on
Start with checking that the battery, the ignition and kill switch is turned
on properly. Open the battery box to check that the battery is properly
connected to the bike. Make sure that your side stand is up.
My bike doesn’t give me full power
The bike will protect itself and can under certain circumstances limit the
performance. This happens if any of the drivetrain components gets overheated,
under-voltage, over-voltage etc.
Start with making sure that the bike is properly charged by checking the
display. As the battery gets close to empty, the battery cells inside lose the
ability to have a high discharge (full power).
Please be careful when checking if the controller or motor is overheated as
you could get burned. Please let the vehicle cool down sufficiently to avoid
permanent damages to either the motor, controller or battery.
My motor is sounding strange or won’t spin
If the motor sounds strange when giving throttle and does not run properly,
please turn off the bike and do not give the bike any throttle as the motor
can still be overheated by the battery current. This could potentially happen
if the sensors in the motor get
humid/water. The issue is temporary, please put the bike inside to let it dry
for 24 hours.
My bike won’t turn on after a long time of inactivity
Turn on the main switch and measure the voltage with a multimeter. If the
voltage is under 43V, please charge your battery.
Tools
To properly maintain and to keep your Bonfire in good condition, we always
recommend using quality tools and to handle the bike with care. If you can’t
perform and need maintenance, please get in touch with someone who has the
proper experience.
For the Bonfire, Black Tea Motorbikes recommends buying and using the
following tools
- Hex keys, 1-10 mm
- Screwdriver
- Rubber hammer
- Wrench kit
- Tire iron
- Spoke wrench
- Bleeding kit for brake fluids
General Vehicle Overview
Overall Vehicle Specifications
Item | Specifications |
---|---|
Drivetrain | 3 kW Electric Rear PSM Hub Motor |
Drive Modes | Eco/ Normal/ Sport |
Riding Range per battery (km) | 75 / 65 / 55 |
Top Speed in EU (km/h) | 35 / 40 / 45 |
Top Speed in USA (mph) | 35 / 40 / 45 |
Battery Type | Removable 52 V Lithium-Ion Battery Pack |
Number of Packs | 2 |
Anti-Theft Protection | Steering Lock |
Front Fork/Suspension Design | Heavy-Duty Aluminum Fork |
Rear Suspension | Double 335 mm Adjustable Shock Absorber |
Basic Dimensions (L x W x H) | 1900 mm x 700 mm x 1250 mm |
Wheelbase | 1300 mm |
GWR – Gross Vehicle Weight Restriction | 260 kg |
Total Curb “Wet” Weight (with 1 battery) | 97,5 kg |
Maximum (Payload) Carrying Capacity | 162,5 kg |
Total “Dry” Weight (without Battery) | 86 kg |
Electronics Specifications
Item | Specifications |
---|---|
Throttle | Full Twist Hall Throttle (waterproof) |
Battery Voltage Range | 45V – 58.8 V |
Battery Case Dimensions | 310 mm x 220 mm x 100 mm |
Battery Weight | 11,5 kg |
Battery Capacity | 1,8 kWh |
Rated Current | 70 A |
Peak Current | ~95 A |
Charge Current | 10 A |
Battery Charger Output | 10 Amps @ 58,8 VDC |
Charging Time | 80 % Charge = 3 Hours |
Battery Cell Type | 3.7V Lithium Ion – NCM 18650 Cells |
Item | Specifications |
--- | --- |
Battery Pack Configuration | 14S12P |
Battery Management System (BMS) | Safe and efficient charging. Balancing of |
each cell. Overcharge protection (cut off at 4.25 V +/- 50 mV).
Overdischarge protection (cut off at 2.8 V +/-80 mV).
Battery Connector| QS8-S Connectors with resistors
Battery Life Cycle| Rated for 800 Charge Cycles
Motor Controller Type| Electronic Sine Wave (BLDC) Controller
Controller Features| Enhanced Regenerative Braking; Hardware Over- Current and
Over-Voltage Protection; LED Fault Code; Thermal and Current Cutback Plus Low
Voltage Battery Protection Shutdown; Aluminium Housing for Maximum
Heat Dissipation;
Controller Environmental Protection| IP 66
Motor Type| Brushless Permanent Magnet (50H) 3000W Hub Motor
Max Torque| 195 Nm
Rated Power| 3 kW at 450 RPM
Peak Power| 5,4 kW at 480 RPM
Motor Environmental Protection| IP 54
Motor Temperature Protection| Thermic Probe (sense to prevent overheating)
Wiring| Complete Insulated and Wrapped Wiring Harness with
Automotive Water-Resistant Connectors
Brakes Specifications
Item | Specifications |
---|---|
Brake System Type | Dual-Piston Hydraulic Disc Brake |
Front Brake Rotor Disc | 220 mm Disc Brake with 3 mm thickness |
Rear Brake Rotor Disc | 220 mm Disc Brake with 3 mm thickness |
Brake Fluid Type | DOT-4 |
Front Brake Caliper Style | Dual-Piston |
Front Brake Pad Type Material | Asbestos free |
Rear Brake Caliper Style | Dual-Piston |
Rear Brake Pad Type Material | Asbestos free |
Wheels & Tire Specifications
Item | Specifications |
---|---|
Wheel Rim Size | 1.85 x 18 ‘’ |
Tire Configuration | Spoke Rim + Inner Liner + Inner Tube + Tire |
Standard Tire Size | 3 ‘’ Front and Rear |
Maximum Possible Tire Width | 3.50 ‘’ Front and Rear |
Tire Options | Street |
Tire Manufacturer | Heidenau |
Tire Model | K33 |
Tire Size | 3.00-18 ‘‘ |
Tire Position | Front and Rear |
Tire Load Rating | 52 (200 kg) |
OEM Tire Speed Rating | S (180 km/h) |
Tire DOT Safety Code | DOT N6YX CB2R |
Contact and Support
If you have any problems or questions regarding the bike, send an email to
service@blackteamotorbikes.com.
For general questions and information, get in contact with us at
hi@blackteamotorbikes.com.
www.blackteamotorbikes.com
Black Tea Motorbikes GmbH
Gollierstr. 70
80339 Munich, Germany
This manual is constantly being updated.
Please make sure that you have the latest one on
www.blackteamotorbikes.com/service
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Read User Manual Online (PDF format) >>