In a remarkable feat of endurance and innovation, Joel Amboka, a boda boda rider from Ruaraka Sub-County, Nairobi, has successfully completed a 900-kilometer journey from Malaba to Mombasa using the Roam Air electric motorcycle.
Dubbed the “Border-to-Beach Ride,” this journey showcased the Roam Air’s reliability, efficiency, and practicality for everyday riders in Kenya.
The Journey: A Test of Endurance and Innovation
Amboka’s ambitious journey took him across Kenya’s diverse landscapes, passing through Eldoret, Nakuru, Nairobi, Machakos, Kibwezi, and Voi before reaching the sunlit beaches of Mombasa.
Relying on Roam Air’s dual-battery system and portable charging feature, Amboka covered an average of 160 kilometers per full charge, making just six charging stops throughout the trip.
Cost Savings & Performance on Kenyan Roads
Reflecting on his experience, Amboka praised Roam Air’s seamless performance across all terrains, from rough backroads to busy highways.
The electric motorcycle tackled hilly regions in the Rift Valley, uneven rural roads, and smooth tarmac with ease. Each full charge cost him only KES 140–160, compared to the KES 1,200 he previously spent on petrol for the same distance. Amboka noted that Mode 2 was the most stable and efficient setting for highway riding.
“Before switching to Roam Air, I spent KES 1,200 daily on petrol. Now, I only spend a fraction of that on charging. This motorcycle is built for boda boda riders like me—reliable, cost-effective, and powerful.” — Joel Amboka
Inspiring Kenya’s Boda Boda Community
As the Ruaraka Sub-County boda boda chairperson, Amboka used his journey to connect with fellow riders at charging stops, sharing his story and encouraging them to embrace electric mobility.
Roam Air’s affordability, environmental benefits, and long-term reliability make it an ideal solution for Kenya’s hardworking boda boda community.
A Game-Changer for Kenya’s Transport Industry
According to Lumbi Muchui, Roam’s Technical Manager, the Border-to-Beach journey reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustainable and affordable transport solutions.
“This journey was a true test of Roam Air’s performance. By covering over 900 kilometers with Joel, we proved that this motorcycle is ready to power the daily lives of boda boda riders, whether in the city or countryside. It’s not just a motorcycle—it’s a reliable partner for riders looking to earn more and spend less.” — Lumbi Muchui, Roam Technical Manager
Unlike Roam’s previous solar-powered expedition to South Africa, which was led by engineers, the Border-to-Beach ride focused on an everyday rider’s real-life experience—proving that electric motorcycles are designed for the people who need them most.
The Future of Electric Mobility in Kenya
Amboka’s journey is a milestone in Roam’s mission to revolutionize transport across Africa. Following this success, the company plans to expand its reach across Kenya and beyond, bringing electric mobility closer to riders who need it most.