X
Innovation

Electric motorcycle affordably reaches 100mph, 100 miles per charge

Brammo's Empulse electric motorcycle has some advanced EV capabilities, but it should still impress gearheads.
Written by Dan Nosowitz, Contributing Editor

Brammo's new Empulse electric motorcycle is impressive in a few ways. It's an affordable vehicle, ranging between $10,000 and $14,000 in price. Every model has a top speed of 100mph, with a totally respectable amount of horsepower and torque. And the Empulse, the older brother of the Enertia, can run for up to 100 miles on a single charge--on average. Keep in on a low speed, as in city driving, and you could hit 130 miles.

The Empulse comes in three different models: A 6kw version (averages 60 miles per charge), 8kw (80 miles per charge), and 10kw (100 miles per charge), which will cost $9,995, $11,995, and $13,995, respectively. You'll even be eligible for tax credits for the use of an EV.

If the Empulse has a downfall, it might be its charging time. With a standard 110v outlet, the 10kw version of the Empulse could well require overnight charging. This is not a bike built for road-tripping. But for city use, you get a lot more bang for your buck than a moped.

And in its styling and construction, it draws inspiration more from traditional heavy-metal bikes than from scooters. Says the source, a magazine called "Hell for Leather," which gives you an idea how seriously these people take their motorcycles:

The rest of the motorcycle is surprisingly conventional. That huge extruded aluminum frame connects the swingarm pivot to the headstock and supports the batter packs. Front suspension is upside down forks holding radial Nissin brake calipers and there's a full-adjustable rear shock. Brammo chose to go for a streetfighter-inspired look with the Empulse as most riders will be using them in urban environments. While this pre-production model has clip-ons, they'll likely be optional on the production bike with taller handlebars standard.

Check out a video of this beast below:

The Brammo Empulse will be released sometime next year.

This post was originally published on Smartplanet.com

Editorial standards