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Tuesday, November 9, 2010

VertiGO – The New Electric Super-Bike

VertiGO – The New Electric Super-Bike picsVertiGO – The New Electric Super-Bike picsVertiGO – The New Electric Super-Bike picsVertiGO – The New Electric Super-Bike picsThe idea of electric bikes has been around for many years. First electric motorcycle was released in early 1911. Though it was a breakthrough at that time, concept didn’t succeed. The idea become popular again in late 1980’s when people realized potential of electric motorcycles. After that all sorts of radical concepts appeared, and nowadays we have even electric drag-bikes like Killacycle.
While all this may seem fascinating, people rarely think of buying sport motorcycle that runs on electricity, mainly because of weird designs and lack of speed and acceleration. That is until now.
I introduce you VertiGO – super-sports bike with remarkable acceleration and extraordinary aesthetics. And it doesn’t need petrol either.
It was designed and created by extremely talented and wise student from Transportation Design University, which is found in the Netherlands. His name is Maarten Timmer, VertiGO is his graduation project.
VertiGO is probably first super-sport motorcycle that runs on electricity, there was a lot of them in the past, but nothing was so speedy and swift. Estimated top speed – 250km/h, acceleration will be very fast, they claim that it accelerates much faster than most gasoline powered super bikes, because high torque is available almost instantly. Engine is relatively small, but powerful electric battery, also bike has high-tech, revolutionary drivetrain. And finally, it will be front-wheel drive, unlike most electric motorcycles.Design is pretty nice to say the least; because VertiGO doesn’t need a gas tank, there is a lot of negative space in the middle, and seat is beautifully anchored. Overall it reminds of racing circuit bikes, but of course VertiGO is much more exotic looking bike.
VertiGO will be very light motorcycle as well – it doesn’t need heavy engine, exhaust, ECU’s and all related mechanical details that usual bike has. It should be agile and well balanced due to center of gravity. Also they promise light, easily controllable handling.
Right now VertiGO is still a prototype, and it needs a lot of testing before it will be possible to put it on the mass production. It will be radically different experience for all bike fans out there. Let’s hope it will be as good as they promise, and affordable as well!