The company acknowledged that the issues have caused significant financial losses and reputational strain, prompting it to intensify engagement with riders and the wider public. The matter was discussed during a media briefing held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025.
One of the most common concerns raised by riders involves the perceived failure of brakes on Spiro motorcycles, a situation that some fear could lead to accidents. However, Spiro says the problem is largely linked to limited familiarity with the design and operation of electric motorcycles.
Spiro Rwanda's Deputy Plant Manager, Dieudonné Mbuguje, explained that the motorcycles are equipped with three braking mechanisms, unlike conventional petrol-powered bikes. In addition to the front and rear brakes, Spiro motorcycles also feature an engine braking system that cuts power to the rear motor.
According to Dieudonné, some riders have been disconnecting small sensor-linked components that regulate power flow to the motor, often unknowingly compromising the braking system in the process.
'When these sensors are disconnected, riders are left relying only on the conventional brakes, and the engine brake can no longer cut power to the motor when needed,' he said, noting that this can create the impression of brake failure.
To address the problem, Spiro is expanding its training programme beyond initial onboarding. The company said it has rolled out refresher tutorials across its service centres, battery swap stations and offices, while also circulating training videos through riders' WhatsApp groups.
'We are introducing electric motorcycles into an environment where driving licences are issued for conventional bikes,' Dieudonné said. 'That means riders need additional knowledge to operate electric motorcycles safely. We are now going beyond basic riding lessons to ensure users fully understand how these bikes work.'
Low prices, not low quality
Spiro has also responded to criticism, suggesting that the relatively low price of its motorcycles reflects poor quality. The company insists that its pricing strategy is designed to support ownership rather than rental among riders.
Shanton Ngabire, Spiro's Head of Commercial, said the company deliberately keeps prices low to enable riders to own their motorcycles, aligning with government efforts to promote electric mobility.
'Most conventional motorcycles are expensive, forcing many riders to work for years paying off bikes owned by others,' he said. 'Our goal is to help riders own their motorcycles and work for themselves.'
He added that a promotional offer introduced in November last year was intended to accelerate adoption of electric motorcycles. While the promotion later drew complaints from customers who experienced delays in receiving their bikes, Spiro says the issue has since been resolved and all outstanding orders have been fulfilled.
Battery concerns addressed
Some riders have also reported concerns about battery performance, including claims that motorcycles lose power quickly or stop unexpectedly while in motion.
Spiro Rwanda's Country Lead, Arunkumar Bhandari, said the batteries are designed to last up to five years, but acknowledged that the company is still refining its systems, having operated in Rwanda for less than three years.
He said batteries that develop faults are removed from the system and replaced at no cost to riders, noting that Spiro retains ownership of all batteries to ensure consistent quality and safety.
IGIHE
