Are Electric Superbikes The Future Of Racing?
Electric Superbikes – The Future Of Racing
Die-hard bikers may not like the idea of a superbike without that classical engine noise, but the fact remains that electric vehicles are the way of the future. Already there are a number of electric superbike options available for the public to buy in various parts of the world. Here we take a look at some of the best bikes to take the world by storm.
- KillaCycle (0.97 seconds)
The KillaCycle is the fastest electric bike on the planet. The KillaCycle uses 500 hp from A123 Systems batteries and two DC motors to accelerate from zero to 100 in an incredible 0.97 seconds flat. That’s super fast even with normal petrol superbike standards. Amazingly, the KillaCycle has been around since the 1990’s, although not in its current form of course. Lead designer and owner Bill Dube has been competing against himself for years, giving demonstrations of his creations blistering speed. We can only wait and see if the KillaCycle ends up in a full-on MotoGP league.
- Chip Yates Superbike (1.0-2.0 seconds)
With 258 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque, the Yates is the earth’s most powerful road-racing bike. Showing up petrol powered bikes at the Auto Club Speedway; it has won records for both hill climbing and eight FIM Official World Records. This incredible machine packs more power than a formula one car.
- Lightning LS-218 Superbike (1.0-2.0 seconds)
The Lightning is actually legal to drive on civilian roadways, although no one is sure how this came to be. Faster than the action you’ll enjoy when indulging in Australian Open tennis betting, this bike holds the SCTA world record for production bikes at over 350 km per hour.
- Sarolea SP7 Superbike (2.8 seconds)
Born in Belgium, the Sarolea is an electronic demon with 80 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The sprint on this bike must be seen to be believed and can be seen on the Isle of Man annual race against other electric superbikes.
- Mission R (under 3.0 seconds)
Although not the best looking bike in the electric stable, the Mission R still cracks the nod for under 3 seconds. It was hailed as the Tesla of motorbikes and is available to the general public to buy, although not by any means for peanuts.
- Energica EGO (under 3.0 seconds)
Musch prettier than the Mission R, the Energica EGO is also available for the public to buy. This monster boasts 134 hp and 144 lb-ft of torque. In good track conditions, you can expect to get up to almost 250 km an hour on a straight.
- Zero SR (3.3 seconds)
The totally emissions-free Zero SR easily goes from 0 to 100 in 3.3 seconds. That is fast enough to give anyone whiplash. The Zero produces 67 hp and 106 lb-ft of torque and has no problem slipping into traffic. Be prepared to turn heads however, as the bikes aggressive lines and lack of tailpipe or noise will easily set you aside at any biker meet.
- Brutus 2 (4.7 seconds)
Although this bike is much slower than the others on our list, we have included it due to its unique looks. A brass frame puts the bike much more in the road category than the superbike category, although it still offers the same performance as the other superbikes on our list. Touted as the Harley of electric bikes, the Brutus is a totally unique looking bike that will be sure to get you more than just a few passing glances.
