The “Tesla” of Motorcycles?
Feb 4th, 2009 by Leo
Up till now, electric motorcycles have been “interesting” the way sixth grade science projects are “interesting.” If I had to ride one every day I’d feel like I was in detention… But what the Tesla did for electric cars (somewhat), this company is trying to do for motorcycles… I just wish we could see the thing in motion…
Here’s what we know: It has a top speed of 150mph, and can go 150 miles on a charge. It recharges in under 2 hours and has a 100lf/lbs of torque. It’s being billed as the world’s fastest production electric motorcycle (which I’m sure it is).
It’s being unveiled at TED at Long Beach sometime today, so check back for a video of that… Until then, what do you think? The future of motorcycles? Or marketing hype?
Want a closer look? Click to the Mission Motors website.
Related posts:
Looks like scooter controls: No rear brake pedal, but a lever on the left handlebar. (Bike requires no clutch, so I’m guessing that’s the rear brake).
150 mile range sounds good, until you realize you have to wait eight hours (8 hrs @ 110V, 4 hrs @ 220V) to go the next 150 miles. Not like you can just gas up and go.
The range says “commuter” to me. And that doesn’t look like it would be a very good commuter bike. +1 hype.
I would miss the engine noise. One of the things I love about riding is running up to high RPMs, or to listen to the engine quietly ‘burble’ in neutral.
Ugly, IMO, but I’m for everything that’s under the skin.
Bring it. It’s overdue.
I want to ride it. I will suspend all aesthetic judgment and any gripes about the lack of exhaust note until I at least see it moving, or ride it myself. Could be a whole new experience. Could be amazing. But 100ft/lbs of torque at 0mph? (shudder)