Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the
Corbin Sparrow

What is this thing?

It's called a sparrow, It's a fully electric (not hybrid) vehicle. Because it has only 3 wheels, it's concidered a motorcycle in most states, even though you drive it like a car. Some states require a helmet be worn! It was made by the Corbin Motorcycle Company (no longer in buesiness).

Where can I purchase a Sparrow?

  • Unfortunately these are no longer being made by Corbin. Myers Motors at www.myersmotors.com bought the assets of the car company and are completing the assembly of the last few cars. This will probrobly be the last time to buy a new one. They call theres the NmG (for no more gas) and it looks essentially the same but has several improvements/upgrades.
  • The best way to find a Corbin Sparrow is by using the Internet.
  • You can use eBay with the search criteria: Corbin Sparrow
  • Join the Corbin Sparrow group on the Yahoo site

    Where can I find Sparrow parts?

  • For "common" items, check on ebay (charger, batteries, tires, lights, etc.)
  • Join the Corbin Sparrow group on the Yahoo site and post to the group for the item your looking for.
  • You can contact Myers Motors at www.myersmotors.com (current as of 12/7/2006)
  • Costco carries the Optima Yellow Top batteries for these. (current as of 12/7/2006)

    How fast will it go?

    Top speed of the vehicle depends on the motor controller used. It will vary from 70 to about 85MPH+. The 'Nike' sparrow, serial number 001, Has a racing motor and controller and is capable of speeds over 120 MPH!! I have never driven it near that so I can't confirm that speed. If you'ld like to see the Nike Sparrow, go to the pictures page.

    How far can you go on a charge?

    The short answer is from 20 to 60 miles on a charge.
    Maximum distance Varies based on many factors:

  • driving conditions
  • Age of the batteries - batteries GAIN capacity for the first 30 charges then they loose capacity with each additional charge.
  • Speed traveled - the slower you drive the further you can go.
  • acceleration - rapid acceleration uses batteries quicker. You should accelerate as if there's an egg between your foot and the accelerator.
  • braking - brakes convert forward motion into heat. The more you use your brakes the shorter the distance overall you can travel. If possible leave additional space between yourself and the car in front of you so you don't have to brake as often.
  • 'resting' along the route - just as in flashlights, if you turn off a Sparrow for 10 mins you can usually get a few extra miles out of it. This practice can hurt batteries by discharging them too much and should be used only if necessary.

    How long does it take to re-charge?

    You should always rechage your batteries as a discharged battery will 'sulfate' and damage the battery.
    It is rare that the battery is ever fully discharged so these numbers are worst case.
    At 110 VAC about 6 hours.
    At 220 VAC about 2 hours.

    How much does it cost to drive it?

    The electricity or 'fuel' costs are about 1 cent per mile!!

    How much does it weigh?

    1,350 lbs without the driver.

    How big is it?

    57 inches tall with a 72-inch wheel-base.

    How fast will it go?

    Top speed of the vehicle depends on the motor controller used. It will vary from 70 to about 85MPH+. The 'Nike' sparrow, serial number 001, Has a racing motor and controller and is capable of speeds over 120 MPH!! I have never driven it near that so I can't confirm that speed. If you'ld like to see the Nike Sparrow, go to the pictures page.

    How much does it cost?

    The retail price was $14,900. Remember, this was in the year 2000.

    Can I ride in it?

    It's only a 1 seater, so the answer is no.

    Is it for sale?

    No, I just add to my collection and don't sell any.