In a world where there’s still plenty of conjecture around electric motorcycles, Curtiss Motorcycles (formerly known as Confederate) has gone all in on the idea. It said goodbye to gas-powered engines in 2017 and announced it would focus all efforts on electric motorcycles. Soon, Curtiss announced its first EV, the 1 (codenamed Tesla Of Motorcycles), which, after much wait, is finally edging ever closer to your home now.
Curtiss Motorcycles Receive Go-Ahead For Patented System
The bikemaker has received the go-ahead for its patented Axis-Centered Design operating system. According to Curtiss, this system will make its motorcycles entirely symmetrical to ensure a smooth, balanced riding experience, starting with the 1. What is the system you ask? Well, it basically means most parts on the motorcycle serve more than one purpose to focus on minimalism. For instance, the drive shaft of the axial flux motor doubles as the swingarm pivot and helps transfer the load to the chassis. You can watch the embedded video for more details.
Anyway, now that the patent has a go-ahead, we believe Curtiss will speed up production, so the motorcycle reaches you soon. And in case you believe in the brand even more, it has announced a direct-to-investor offer to let you own a piece of the brand. Another benefit would be early access to the motorcycles. More details on the matter are available on Curtiss’ website.
What Makes The Curtiss 1 Special?
In short, a lot. For starters, the motorcycle is carved out of 6061-billet aircraft-grade aluminum, paired with umpteenth carbon fiber - present on swingarm, fenders, fork legs, belt cover - and titanium components. Another notable aspect is the adjustable wheelbase and rake, which, in turn, alters the seat height and ground clearance. You can also reposition the rider and passenger footrests in 19 and eight places, respectively.
Under the wizardry lies an axial flux motor, good enough for 110 horsepower and 147 pound-feet. This, together with the 8.8 kWh battery pack, allows you to go 70 miles on the highway (or 110 miles in the city). After that, you have three hours for a good nap or some Netflix until you’re back to 100 percent charge. All this while, the motorcycle rolls on girder forks up top with RaceTec springs and 19-inch wheels clamped by Beringer Aerotech brakes. The wheels come in both spoke or alloy configurations--one of the many customization options Curtiss offers.
Finally, the Curtiss 1 comes in three variants - the 1907 racing livery version (limited to just 36 examples), a Hades edition (limited to 13 examples), and a recently unveiled 120-anniversary edition (limited to 120 units). None of these are easy on the pocket, though, as they boast a $137,500, $125,000, and $120,000 price tag, respectively. Whatever you buy, Curtiss will offer a full factory service and one free battery upgrade in the first seven years of ownership.