For many Kenyans, motorbike riding isn’t just a way to get around, it is a source of income. But managing fuel costs, maintenance, and long hours on mechanical bikes can make the job challenging.
At M-KOPA, we have provided an e-bike mobility solution that is helping motorbike riders overcome these challenges and increase their earnings. Here are real stories from riders who are experiencing the difference with M-KOPA.
1. Maurice Owaga, Nairobi
Maurice, a boda-boda rider in Nairobi, has been in the business for the past 15 years. He was using a petrol motorbike before purchasing his current M-KOPA e-bike, the Roam Air.
“I had done my research and found out that M-KOPA offers quality goods. So, I went and bought it from them. When I compare it to my previous bike, I can say that the Roam Air bike is good in terms of maintenance since it is cheap and easy.”
He also alluded to the quality of the bike, and its different components, like the plug.
“I am saving a lot compared to when I was using the petrol motorbike. My work has become so easy ever since I joined M-KOPA, and I like the fact that whenever I want to charge, there are hubs in place that I can use to charge my bike and continue making money on my end.”
He is grateful for M-KOPA and happy with the introduction of electric bikes for customers.
2. Janet Wamuhu Mungai, Kitengela
Janet is an entrepreneur who lives in Kitengela. After trying out two previous business ventures that failed, she decided to enter the male-dominated motorbike lending industry. Now, she buys motorbikes and rents them out to drivers on a daily basis.
“Previously I used to use petrol motorbikes and I was really encountering a lot of issues. Mainly, the bikes had no trackers, thus it was difficult to trace the rider I hired the bike to in case they fail to return the bike or default in paying me.”
Because of these challenges, Janet switched to M-KOPA’s electric motorbikes based on a friend’s recommendation.
“Getting the e-bike from M-KOPA has really eased my life, mainly because they come equipped with systems which allow me to conveniently track and manage my fleet. I remember how easy the process was to acquire M-KOPA’s electric motorbikes, allowing me to expand my business from one to three bikes in two months. Also, M-KOPA has mechanics in place who usually assist in case the bikes have issues, unlike other companies which don’t offer such services. I also like the fact that M-KOPA offers licenses to customers, which is an added advantage.”
Looking ahead, Janet plans to expand her fleet to ten electric motorbikes. She is now teaching her daughter the business, empowering another woman to claim her space in the mobility sector.
3. James Theuri Gichuki, Nairobi
Mr. Theuri has been a delivery rider for quite a long time. He began this career using a petrol motorbike, which he says had many limitations.
“When I discovered M-KOPA and took the e-bike, these challenges were sorted.”
Our e-bike is economical in terms of consumption since it uses electricity, and this is one of the features that fascinated Mr. Theuri.
“I can view the battery consumption, unlike previously with petrol bikes,” he said, amused.
He is happy with the fact that whenever he has issues with his e-bike, he always gets assistance. We also trained him on how to charge the e-bike and he is now a pro on this.
“I will be able to do my deliveries on time and with ease, all thanks to the M-KOPA e-bike,” he added with a smile of gratitude.
4. Armstrong Eungu Odhiambo, Dagoretti Corner
Armstrong, based in Dagoretti Corner, has been a top performer among M-KOPA riders for quite some time. Since he started using the Bolt Fleet electric bike, he has seen significant improvements in his earnings and lifestyle.
“I have consistently been saving KES 1,000, thanks to the bike's efficiency allowing me to cover 60–70 KM per charge.”
This saving has significantly improved his quality of life, enabling him to meet his basic needs and pay school fees for his two children.
“I’m also proud to have opened a savings account where I make regular deposits,” he shared.
With the increased income from using the electric bike, he’s now looking forward to starting a business for his wife, further improving his family's financial stability.
5. Erick Odero Ochiel, Waithaka
Erick used to ride an ICE bike while working online, but the earnings weren’t enough. To make ends meet, he had to take up a second job in construction.
“It was exhausting, and I barely had time to rest,” he shared.
Everything changed when he got an M-KOPA electric bike. Since then, he has become a full-time online rider, without the need to juggle two jobs any longer. The flexibility means he can choose his own hours, get proper rest, and still earn more than he did before.
“On average, I ride about 50 to 70km a day. The savings from fuel and maintenance compared to my old bike have made a real difference,” he added.
The money he has saved has helped him consistently make payments on the M-KOPA bike while also keeping a personal savings.
“It feels good knowing that I am paying the e-bike off with the very work it allows me to do.”
More than just a bike, the M-KOPA e-bike has become a stepping stone to better income for Erick.
Why do these stories matter?
These riders are just a few examples of how, through M-KOPA Mobility, we are making life easier for Kenyans across the country. From saving time to increasing income and improving daily comfort, this solution empowers boda boda riders to work efficiently and live better.
Compared to mechanical motorbikes, our e-bikes offer lower running costs, higher earnings potential, smooth and comfortable rides, all with an affordable pay-as-you-go ownership.
If you’re a motorbike rider looking to switch to an e-bike or start your riding business, reach out to us. You can own your M-KOPA e-bike today, and start riding without paying the full price upfront. How does that sound?
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