Cast your minds way back to the start of the year. At Driving Experience, we predicted that 2021 was going to be the year that Electric Motorcycles would be on their way up, and sure enough, a new model has hit the market this week emphatically proving that point.
The German motorcycle firm Black Tea Motorbikes ran an incredibly successful crowdfunded push in the summer last year, and the result of that investment from their audience has been unveiled in the form of their new Bonfire model, the first road-legal all-electric motorbike of its kind.
Although on first glance, you wouldn't automatically know what it's powered on. Unlike other electric bikes currently on the market, its looks are closer to a classic set of two wheels than anything with more of a modern fascia. It's a clever angle their design team have gone for, and one which, like its namesake, will undoubtedly set off fireworks. And that's not all.
It's also lighter and more aerodynamic. The Bonfire has a reduced overall weight, and is powered on a simple electric drivetrain generating 5.4kw for top speeds of 45km/h, which makes it easier to ride - particularly so for more novice riders. Viktor Sommer, founder of Black Tea Motorbikes, said in a press release this week that "Our motorcycles are designed to empower the rider … [which is why] … they are as simple as possible."
It's actually probably the smartest and most commercially viable electric set of two wheels we've seen thus far. We'd argue that half the battle with getting petrolheads converted to greener alternatives is for them to be able to ride something that actually looks attractive, superficial as that may sound, which is a big tick in Black Tea's favour.
But when you also consider that their bike is made from easily obtainable materials and parts, it means both the production and maintenance of them are a wise and sustainable use of resources in the long run. The Bonfire will currently set you back about just under £3,500 direct from their website (excluding shipping costs), but it's worth keeping your eye on this one.
In the meantime, if you fancy enjoying a driving day on two wheels, why not visit our Motorcycle Experiences page today on the Driving Experience website? You can book directly onto available dates from our Events Calendar or purchase one of our open Gift Vouchers.
