This Lil' Electric Bike Has Us Saying Ooh La La

Yep, electric bikes are starting to pop up faster than daisies after an April shower, but this time, friends, we're headed to France. Meet the J2R Dynamics Smol, a petite little charmer that looks like it popped right outta Super Mario Kart.

Before all you experienced motorbike fans start scoffing, let me explain. This ain't some heavyweight, knee-dragging crotch rocket – it's a simple, clean little thing geared for commuters and newbies. So yeah, I guess it is a little like a video game – easy to pick up and play.

So, what are we working with here? The Smol's packing an 8kW hub motor, about the same oomph as a 125cc gas-guzzler. It'll allegedly top out around 68 mph (110 km/h), which is plenty for zipping through city streets.

As for juice, you can choose one or two 4 kWh batteries. The company claims a range of 93 miles (150 km) with both batteries, but remember, that's their best-case scenario. Don't expect to hit that cruising down the highway with the throttle wide open.

The design is where things get really interesting. It's got this minimalist, dirt bike-inspired vibe that's oddly endearing. Can you picture a Parisian bulldog; kinda wonky but with a quirky charm all its own? Yeah, that’s Smol right there.

Unfortunately, there’s a small annoying detail  – the Smol is still a concept. J2R Dynamics plans to show off their darling at the Albi Eco Race in May, followed by a small production run. But for now, it exists mainly as pretty computer renderings.

The real question is, will people take a chance on this petite Frenchie? If you're looking for a no-fuss electric runabout, or a way to ease into the world of bikes, the Smol might just be your cup of tea (or should that be café au lait?).

Here's what gets me excited – the Smol is proof that the electric revolution isn't just about blazing-fast superbikes. It's about shaking up the whole motorcycle world, giving us quirky, fun options we haven't seen before. And who doesn't love a little bit of whimsy? Now, if only they'd make a version with a tiny mustache and a beret…