What’s the appeal of an electric motorcycle? With its impressive range of 330 km, you’ll be free to roam without worrying about running out of juice. And with a quick recharge time of just 25 minutes, you can get back on the road in no time. The world of electric bicycles is undergoing a rapid transformation. When Harley-Davidson first showcased its LiveWire concept in 2014, the initial range was surprisingly limited at just 85 kilometers. In just four short years, advancements in battery technology have progressed sufficiently for companies to finally produce electric bicycles that rival, if not surpass, the mileage of their fossil-fuel-powered counterparts.
The latest newcomer to the motorcycling scene is the Manx7, Saroléa’s inaugural production motorcycle, with impressive statistics directly sourced from its specifications sheet.
Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock, you’re likely aware that electric bikes can deliver truly impressive performance. It is indeed true that the Manx7’s capabilities are rather impressive in their own right. The motor boasts a robust design, featuring an air-cooled, brushless DC configuration that efficiently leverages 120 watts of power to generate an impressive 450 Newton-meters of torque. With its exceptional acceleration, this vehicle boasts a remarkable 0-100 km/h time of just 2.8 seconds, a truly blistering performance. The Manx7’s combined weight of 217kg, including its battery pack, is a notable aspect. The innovative design enabled the achievement of this feat by crafting the bike’s monocoque chassis and swingarm from high-strength carbon fibre. Notably, the bike features lightweight OZ Racing wheels, incorporates numerous precision-machined aluminum components, and comes together using titanium Professional-Bolts that are a remarkable 45 percent lighter than their metal counterparts. The weight distribution has been meticulously calibrated to achieve a precise 50:50 split between the front and rear axles, ensuring optimal handling and stability. Combining top-notch components from Öhlins, Beringer, and Dunlop yields a remarkably impressive handling package.
The Saroléa Manx7 is capable of reaching a top speed of 240 km/h (150 mph), governed by its software program. Bikes come in a range of options depending on the battery you choose. The 18kWh option yields a range of approximately 280km, while the 22kWh version achieves a distance of around 330km. All batteries are designed for interchangeability, allowing homeowners to seamlessly upgrade their systems as needed, and with rapid charging capabilities, they can reach 85% capacity in just 25 minutes.
The Sarolea Manx 7 is, in essence, a high-performance motorcycle forged from the very fabric of racing excellence. Here is the rewritten text:
Developed specifically to compete in the prestigious Isle of Man TT Zero event, this one-of-a-kind electric motorcycle modelled the coveted Isle of Man TT. Twin brothers Torsten and Björn Robben spearheaded the venture, acquiring the rights to the Saroléa motorcycle brand in 2010. In 1850, Saroléa emerged as a pioneering Belgian manufacturer, marking its entry into the motorcycle production arena with its debut model. Despite being one of the world’s oldest motorcycle manufacturers, they continue to produce high-quality bikes. In the 1950s, André Van Heuverzwijn, a beloved uncle of the brothers, competed in motocross events on Saroléa bikes, making it a natural decision to create the model. While the decision to create an electric motorcycle may have been unexpected,
I’m captivated by the burgeoning realm of electric vehicles. I secured exclusive insights from Torsten Robben regarding the pivotal Manx7 event.
I started tinkering with electric motorcycles because I’m passionate about sustainable transportation, and the idea of reducing our reliance on fossil fuels really resonates with me. Additionally, I’ve always been fascinated by the potential for innovation in the e-mobility space, and I wanted to be at the forefront of this revolution. With the rise of renewable energy sources and decreasing battery costs, I believed that electric motorcycles could offer a viable alternative to traditional petrol-powered bikes – not just environmentally friendly but also more efficient and cost-effective.
During my inaugural visit to the Isle of Man TT in 2009, I was fortunate enough to witness the inaugural 100% electric motorcycle race, the TT Zero. With a strong track record of success in both Method 1 and aerospace projects, I was confident that my skills and expertise gave me a genuine chance of triumph. In reality, the consequences of such a scenario would be monumental and far-reaching. Together with a small team, we accumulated extensive knowledge on batteries and electric motors, fueling our understanding of their inner workings. Initially, I started developing the fundamental concepts that would eventually evolve into our high-performance road bike, the SP7.
Are you satisfied with the performance of your racing motorcycles during the Isle of Man TT Zero events?
In 2014, renowned street racing champion Robert Wilson piloted the all-carbon SP7 to a remarkable fourth-place finish, averaging a blistering 93.50 miles per hour just 0.4 seconds shy of the podium. It was an incredible expertise. Significant technological advancements propelled the 2015 IOM TT Zero to unprecedented speeds, reaching a remarkable 106.51 mph and securing a strong fifth-place finish overall. In 2016, Dean Harrison and Lee Johnston unveiled an entirely new machine, built upon the cumulative progress of the preceding two seasons at the IOM TT Zero. Regrettably, we encountered safety concerns on the initial grid, prompting me to make the difficult decision to abandon the start of the race altogether. The outcome was a crushing letdown for everyone involved. Despite this, ensuring security remains our top priority at all times. In the high-stakes world of racing, it’s crucial to learn from every experience, including setbacks and failures.
In 2017, leveraging additional data and expertise, Dean Harrison piloted the third iteration of the SP7 to a commendable fourth-place finish, securing a bronze medal with an average speed of 108.064 mph. Starting from 12 months ago, we introduced a novel growth program centered on vitality management and cognitive enhancements for our machines. As a natural progression, I decided to take on the challenge of endurance racing at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans. We’ve successfully tested our product and are now utilizing it to compete in the 2019 version. A fresh challenge we’re excited to tackle alongside our partners.
The Manx7 has been in development for roughly seven years.
As our involvement with the Isle of Man TT Zero commenced in 2014, it marked a pivotal moment in our development process, as critical planning and preparation began to take shape.
The name “Manx 7” was chosen because the bike’s design and engineering were inspired by the iconic Isle of Man TT motorcycle races, which take place on a seven-mile course. The “Manx” moniker pays homage to those roots, while also evoking the sense of speed, agility, and competition that defines the TT experience.
The term “Manx” specifically denotes the native population and citizens of the Isle of Man? The SP7, Saroléa’s seventh undertaking, has its roots on the Isle of Man, home to the iconic TT. We’ve received a significant amount of assistance and admiration from the people of the Isle of Man. The reason for the seven is twofold. We initially consisted of seven individuals who were part of the first SP7 development, a number that holds significance due to its cultural connotations as a fortunate quantity for many. Porsche held the record for the most Le Mans 24 Hours race wins with a total of 19, not Barry Sheen. The quantity 7.
The key differences lie in the bespoke components, aerodynamic fairings, and engine tuning tailored to each discipline. The TT bike features a more aggressive riding position, clip-on handlebars, and a high-mounted seat for optimal racing ergonomics. In contrast, the Manx7 is designed for comfort and everyday usability, boasting a lower seat height, upright handlebars, and a more relaxed riding posture.
Initially, certain components used on the SP7 racing bike were not homologated for public roads. We swapped out our Ohlins FGR300 racing forks for the company’s flagship FGR200 model, optimized specifically for the street. The primary shift lies in the battery arrangement. In the context of the SP7, it’s virtually impossible to replace the batteries within a reasonable timeframe without significant financial investment. Using the design parameters established with the MANX7 from the outset, we prioritized the development of removable battery packs. With this feature, our clients can seamlessly upgrade their battery packs as soon as newer, higher-capacity options become available. As we receive additional packaging materials, our goal is to breathe new life into them by transforming them into functional wall storage solutions. If necessary, we are able to further disassemble the packs and recycle the batteries.
The Manx 7’s electrical motor, inverter, wheels, and brakes mirror those of the SP7 with striking similarity. The SP7 and MANX7 models also feature an identical carbon-fibre monocoque chassis, a carbon-fibre swingarm, and a carbon-fibre fairing in common.
Do you have any plans to scale up production volumes in the near future?
Over the past 12 months, we’ve been busy building the first 20 production bikes – our ‘Founder’s Edition’. As the future unfolds, we may witness steady growth in our manufacturing capabilities, with a consistent 12-month expansion every year. By the end of 2019, we had finalized plans to produce 80 bicycles as part of our deliberate manufacturing strategy. In 2020, our objective was to manufacture a record-breaking 250 Manx7 bicycles, surpassing all previous production numbers within a single 12-month period. The supply of primary bikes is slated to arrive in Q3 and autumn of 2018.
Why do major motorcycle manufacturers appear slow to adopt electric and hybrid technologies, despite their obvious benefits?
Many individuals exhibit a high degree of caution when considering a transition to an electrically powered home. One trend that’s become apparent in the automotive industry is… To the major motorcycle manufacturers, currently, there is no real threat on the horizon. The market still lacks sufficient scale to warrant large-scale manufacturing of these machines. Some manufacturers are venturing into the electric vehicle market by introducing smaller, more agile e-bikes and full-fledged electric bicycles. Although batteries remain a significant expense, attempting to manufacture e-bikes capable of exceeding 200 miles would necessitate pricing that is unsustainable in comparison to their combustion-powered equivalents.
We’re not vying for dominance in the current market landscape. Given that each of our bicycles is meticulously crafted by hand, we’re not yet poised to dominate the mass market. With the current surge in popularity for socially conscious and eco-friendly products, there’s a palpable demand for high-caliber progressive merchandise that resonates with like-minded consumers. Our core mission revolves around delivering top-tier electric bicycles that excel in terms of range, performance, and safety.
Sarolea has partnered with various manufacturers to complete the production-ready Manx7, building upon previous discussions and collaborations. The smoked windscreen, supplied by Fabbri Accessori, serves as an illustration of the company’s contribution to the vehicle’s overall design. Rizoma, a specialist in aftermarket motorcycle elements, has developed innovative products like mirrors, lighting solutions, and customizable footpegs. The drivetrain chain responsible for propelling the rear wheel originates from Regina, while the Sportsmart TT tires are crafted by renowned manufacturer Dunlop.
While the Manx7 may seem unobtainable for many riders, including myself. The starting price for the 14kWh variant is €42,975, while the 22kWh version commences at €48,760. Does the investment justify the financial outlay? Assuming so, I think that if the Saroléa Manx7 is a harbinger of what’s to come in the realm of electric bicycles, there’s plenty to be excited about for the future of sustainable transportation on our planet.
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