The new Oset TXP-24 is the bike everyone will want, even if they don’t admit it
Oset bikes should come with a warning label – not for safety reasons but because they’re so addictive. These bikes are immensely fun, practical and versatile, making it surprising that they don’t sell out immediately.
It’s easy to imagine an Oset parked in every dream garage. Silent and electric, they can be ridden almost anywhere, making them a must-try experience. But be warned: once you ride one, it’s nearly impossible to resist justifying the purchase.
For those who may be unfamiliar with the brand, Oset Bikes is a British company founded over two decades ago by Ian Smith. Originally created to build a bike for his son, Olly, the brand has since grown significantly. It’s now owned by Triumph Motorcycles and operates independently, with Ian continuing to refine the bikes and Olly demonstrating their full potential in his skilled hands.
Oset offers a range of models, including the 12.5R, 16.0R, TXP-20 and the TXP-24 – the latter being the bike we tested. My son Bodhi started riding the 12.5R at nearly three years old and now, at 10, he rides the top-spec TXP-24 alongside me.
Oset recently updated the TXP line-up, which includes the TXP-20 and TXP-24 in Trials, Explore and Play configurations.
The new TXP range brings significant advances in technology and performance. A sealed lithium battery provides up to four hours of ride time and recharges to 90 percent in just 90 minutes. A bespoke motor designed by Oset delivers double the power of its predecessor. Riders can switch between a low trials seat and a conventional bench seat, both of which are included with the bike, making it effectively two bikes in one.
The all-new chassis features fully adjustable air suspension front and rear, allowing customisation based on rider preference and terrain.
It also comes equipped with a modern push-button keypad that replaces the previous dials, offering four adjustable settings for power, speed and throttle response. There’s even a parental lock for younger or less experienced riders.
Prices start at just over $3100 for the 12.5R, with the TXP20 priced at $7740 and the TXP24 at $8740.
As a parent, I’ve seen firsthand the joy and confidence Oset bikes inspire. My son started riding the 12.5R before his third birthday, with speed and power settings reduced to match his age. Now he’s moved up to the TXP-24 the versatility of the two-seat setup is a game-changer. I can ride it with the higher bench seat for a more traditional MX or enduro feel, while he prefers the lower trials seat.
The new control panel is straightforward and user-friendly, with parental locks providing peace of mind. At its lowest settings, the bike is tame enough for a beginner, but with everything maxed out, it’s surprisingly powerful – capable of rivalling an 80cc petrol trials bike in skilled hands.
Oset’s adaptability is one of its standout qualities. My son Bodhi adjusts the settings based on terrain and conditions, typically keeping them low for casual riding. When I ride, I crank everything up to explore the bike’s full chops. The battery lasts three to four hours depending on usage and recharges quickly enough to ride again after a lunchbreak. During our test at Inch Perfect Trials in the UK, we rode until we were thoroughly soaked and exhausted – it was the rider, not the battery, that gave out first.
Riding the Oset is as simple as it gets: twist and go. With no gears, no clutch and familiar mountain bike-style brakes, even beginners can get the hang of it within minutes. The electric motor eliminates heat, noise and fumes, which is especially reassuring for parents – no concerns about burns from a hot exhaust after a minor spill. The lack of noise might not appeal to purists who miss the sound of a two-stroke engine, but it has numerous advantages. We’ve ridden in woods near houses without any complaints and encountered dog walkers and horse riders without issue. Silence also allows for clear communication – perfect for giving instructions or receiving tips from experts, as we did at Inch Perfect Trials.
While the Oset TXP-24 can do almost everything its petrol counterparts can, there are a few trade-offs. Expert riders may miss the clutch, and its 80cc-equivalent power has its limits. However, in most scenarios, the bike is more than capable. It can handle deep-water crossings and challenging obstacles, all without the maintenance of petrol bikes – no filters to clean, no fuel costs and absolutely no noise or emissions.
Despite the freezing conditions during our test at Inch Perfect Trials, I had an incredible time on the TXP24. Its versatility, ease of use and environmentally friendly design make it an outstanding choice for riders of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a parent introducing your child to motorcycling or an experienced road rider looking for a capable electric trials bike for the first time, the Oset TXP-24 delivers a unique and addictive experience.
Verdict
Yes, it’s easy to dismiss the Oset as a toy or not suitable for serious trials riders and, to an extent, I can understand why. However, for the vast majority of inexperienced riders – whether they’re children, adults or seniors – it makes perfect sense. It’s particularly ideal for those stepping into off-road riding for the first time. Even my 83-year-old father couldn’t resist giving it a go!
If I had to choose between the Oset and a conventional petrol equivalent, I’d take the Oset every time. It’s simpler, safer and quieter. The silence is a massive benefit – it allows me to ride at the bottom of the garden without worrying about disturbing the neighbours. When I reduce the power using the straightforward control pad, my son can safely enjoy riding it too.
The Oset’s versatility is a standout feature and it’s nearly impossible not to fall in love with it. As mentioned earlier, it really should come with a warning: once you ride one, it’s incredibly difficult to say no. And at $8740 for the top-spec TXP-24, it’s not an outrageous investment, especially considering its advanced features and potential to provide hours of fun for riders of all ages and skill levels. Check one out.
Pros – Silent and electric, the versatile Oset can be ridden almost anywhere, making it a must-try experience.
Cons – Once you ride one, it’s nearly impossible to resist justifying forking out the cash for one.
SPECIFICATIONS
motor
Capacity N/A
Bore x Stroke N/A
Engine layout N/A
Motor details 1600W brushless controller
Performance
Power N/A
Torque N/A
Transmission single speed – chain drive
Average fuel consumption 3-4 hours of riding
Tank size N/A
electronics
Rider Aids – 4 speed modes, 4 power modes, 4 throttle response settings
CHASSIS
Frame Tubular steel, powder-coated. Removable footpeg brackets and alloy sump plate.
suspension
Front suspension Triple crown
air forks with 160mm travel. Rebound and volume adjustment
Rear suspension Air shock with 160mm travel. Rebound and volume adjustment.
wheels & brakes
Front brake 4-piston caliper, 300mm disc
Rear brake 4-piston caliper,
180mm disc
Front wheel 19in/ tyre 19×2.75 Oset
Max Gripper
Rear wheel 17in/ tyre 17×3.5 Oset
Max Gripper
dimensions
(L/W/H) N/A
Wheelbase 1220mm
Seat height 635mm (Trials)
810mm (Xplore)
Weight 49.1kg
servicing & warranty
Warranty 6 months bike,
12 months battery
business end
New price From $8740
