The electrification bug has bit most manufacturers, with nearly all protagonists either already aboard the EV bandwagon or on course to do that. Our very own Buell belongs to the former club, and it recently announced the Fuell Fllow commuter electric motorcycle. However, being a commuter, the Fllow doesn’t live up to the brand’s iconic performance-hungry legacy which makes us wonder just what a Buell-badged electric would look like. Lucky for us, this is also what designer Theo Cauchy thought, and unlike us, created the XBE concept–a Buell streetfighter from 10 years in the future.
The XBE Blends A Futuristic Design With Traditional Buell Elements
As you’d expect from an electric concept, the motorcycle dons a futuristic design. Be it the unique headlight or the sleek, dangling tail, all of it looks straight from the future. The mid-section too follows the same approach, courtesy of the unique battery/motor case with contrasting see-through orange panels.
In a similar fashion, the designer’s vision for the XBE’s cockpit is newfangled. Unlike a handlebar-mounted display, the e-motorcycle concept flaunts a massive screen between the seat and the handlebar. Now, we don’t know what all this would pack, but we’d expect nothing less than a touchscreen, turn-by-turn navigation, and smartphone connectivity. After all, these are staples on modern electric motorcycles.
Speaking of staple bits, the XBE doesn’t miss out on the signature elements you’d expect on a Buell motorcycle. So you get two perimeter disc brakes up top and a star-shaped sprocket outback–both found on all of Buell’s current motorcycles. All it needs is a set of star-shaped wheels to complete the package.
The Buell XBE Should Have Plenty Of Oomph
One aspect that Theo hasn’t highlighted is the XBE’s performance. But that’s where we come in. If Buell indeed builds something like this, we’d expect it to promise even more punch than the company’s powerful 1,190cc, V-twin that produces 101.6 pound-feet at 8,600RPM. Why? Well, because a powerful motor and battery combination can easily kick an ICE’s butt, at least in terms of low-end torque. It might not give you the same jolt at higher speeds, but the lack of transmission helps electric motorcycles accelerate like a bullet. Plus, given Buell’s rivalry with Harley-Davidson, the former’s EV will aim to bury the latter’s flagship, i.e. the LiveWire One.
Anyway, all this is speculative, as Buell is currently focusing on its gas-powered lineup. The American bikemaker recently announced the 175-HP SuperCruiser with Roland Sands, followed by the 185-HP SuperTouring–both destined for a 2025 debut. Once out, only then there’s scope for an all-electric Buell-badged motorcycle.