In 1991, trial lawyer Matt Chambers dissolved his law firm to found Accomplice Bikes, driven by a vision for “enlightened design infused with genuine American ingenuity”. What’s been missing from the American V-twin legacy? He embarked on an odyssey that yielded 1,300 meticulously crafted bicycles, unprecedented in their elegance and sophistication. By June 2016, Harley-Davidson’s chief motorcycle designer, Lee Olsen, had concluded his most ambitious project, confidently declaring that he had crafted the final word in V-twins. As he pondered his next move, he considered acquiring the iconic Curtiss motorcycle brand and redirecting the company toward an electrifying future.
Glenn Hammond Curtiss was a pioneering figure in the development of the early motorcycling industry. He designed, built, and piloted his own custom vehicles. On January 24th, 1907, he revolutionized the world of cycling by setting an unprecedented record on a custom-built bicycle of his own design. The singular occasion when this impressive milestone was accomplished on a motorcycle. Widely regarded as a pioneer in the motorcycle industry, he designed and built the pioneering American V-twin motorcycle that would go on to become an iconic symbol of American motorcycling heritage. He is also widely credited as the pioneer who founded the American aviation industry.
Matt embarked on a fresh chapter in collaboration with Jordan Cornille, his talented young protégé in the world of design. Matt says, “For Jordan, it’s a relationship of mutual dependence: ‘He makes me; I’m nothing without him.'” Together, they conceived and built the acclaimed Zeus mild electric vehicle prototype.
In 2018, the team welcomed JT Nesbitt, a seasoned designer who collaborated with Matt on the highly acclaimed Wraith, famously dubbed “The Sexiest Bike Ever”. Matt likens JT to a 21st-century Glenn Curtiss – a visionary entrepreneur and inventive trailblazer. As Matt put it, “Matt and JT are like two peas in a pod; once we’re on the same page, it’s game on – things will definitely take off.”
Curtiss’s unconventional nature sets him apart from the norm, refusing to conform to conventional expectations. Curtiss is more than just an organization – it’s a collective of forward-thinking pioneers and passionate advocates who converge their specialized knowledge with the creativity and energy of youthful minds to bring forth innovative solutions. Matt has successfully assembled a team that he is confident can execute the Curtiss mission flawlessly. As a seasoned entrepreneur, I’m a firm believer in cultivating a tight-knit team of dedicated professionals who share my passion for delivering exceptional results. “We’ve finally assembled the ultimate team.”
Given an opportunity to design something new, JT leveraged his inexperience to create his most impressive project yet. He collaborated diligently with Vinay Valleru, a skilled Curtiss engineer, to ensure a seamless process. Because of its minuscule size, minor problems emerge rapidly. The Curtiss 1, an all-electric aircraft, entered production in early 2022.
The initial prototype of the Curtiss 1 is painstakingly assembled by hand at the Curtiss Design Studio in New Orleans, with JT and Vinay spearheading the project.
Curtiss is built upon a foundation of innovative spirit. Rather than settling for off-the-shelf components and assembling them together, JT’s approach has been driven by an originalist ethos, conceptualizing every aspect of a bike from scratch to innovate at every level. Pursuing unwavering excellence in design, JT has crafted a revolutionary future machine that sets a new standard for the electric automobile industry, boldly redefining what is possible with innovative, uncompromising solutions.
By utilising the central drive shaft as a pivot point, the patented Centre Energy Axis fosters an unparalleled level of stability, while its entirely adjustable rake and path enable riders to fine-tune their suspension settings and handling preferences with precision. Improvements made:
Time-saving modifications possible within four versatile hand tools in mere minutes.
Original: Changes that may be achieved by the rider in minutes with 4 provided hand instruments.
Reworked: Time-saving modifications possible within four versatile hand tools in mere minutes.
With an unyielding passion for simplicity, JT has made a steadfast commitment to embracing the principles of minimalism. While simplicity may not define one’s sense of style, in the realms of engineering, design, and manufacturing, a core principle is to minimize the number of components while maximizing their versatility. With only 175 machined components, your motorbike features a surprisingly streamlined design, with more than 70 percent of those parts capable of performing multiple functions.
The Curtiss OX-5 engine-powered biplane resists becoming outdated by design. While some companies proudly tout the cutting-edge features of their electric bicycles, a closer examination reveals that these innovative products may ultimately end up as electronic waste in just five to ten years? The battery power drains away, rendering the machines inoperable. Curtiss has created a bike that could potentially stand the test of time and remain relevant for generations to come.
The company has developed a revolutionary modular battery system, enabling users to simply swap out worn-out or outdated cells for newer, cutting-edge technology – a valuable service offered exclusively to their customers. The bicycle is transported back to the workshop, its battery pack refurbished by removing obsolete components and upgrading with modern replacements. The battery is the primary power source used in electric vehicles (EVs). The cells are cooled by a fluid circulating through the finned vessel, maintaining a remarkably stable operating temperature of just 31 degrees Celsius. This feature effectively eliminates the risk of fireside incidents.
The uncompromising standards of components, including the renowned Yasa motor and aircraft-grade Beringer brakes, establish a pinnacle of engineering and manufacturing excellence, guaranteeing a machine built to endure for countless generations.
The team led by Matt has successfully built the motorbike they required. A motorcycle embodying over a century of collective wisdom in the world of motorcycling, meticulously crafted to exceed the expectations of even the most discerning riders. This isn’t some cynically driven marketplace train.
Curtiss is driven more by philosophical aspirations than revenue-driven considerations. A comprehensive set of guidelines for designers, engineers, and manufacturers to ensure adherence to ethical principles throughout the entire product development lifecycle: design, conception, and production. Rules standing defiantly against the pervasive company skepticism prevalent in the automotive industry today.
They observe the mantra of Greatest & Best, utilizing the best parts and processes in one of the best work they’ll ship. Meditative Matt shares his philosophy of seven succinct maxims: “Embracing authenticity unlocks presence, which fosters bliss.”
Curtiss’ tradition is rooted in the philosophy of Huey P. Newton’s quote “All power to all people,” which emphasizes autonomy and self-determination; each individual has the freedom to govern themselves without external guidance or interference. Matt has designed a space where creativity knows no bounds, and innovative ideas are encouraged to flourish. A playground for innovations. For Matt, the key to success lies in pursuing what truly excites him, as Lou Reed so aptly put it: “You do what you love.”
The outcome is a motorcycle, the first to conclusively put to rest the tired stereotypes surrounding outdated motorbikes, thereby inaugurating a novel era of “otherworldly riding”. An elevated cognitive proficiency that fosters a harmonious synergy between rider and bicycle, prompting a profound recalibration of fundamental cycling techniques.
As Matt explains, being behind the wheel of a sleek, lightweight electric vehicle is an exhilarating experience, combining attractiveness, stunning design, proportions, ease of use, straightforward operation, swift acceleration, and sheer enjoyment, with every touch and interaction feeling refreshingly cool. It appears that this inquiry pertains to my role as a professional editor. The essence of spiritual awakening. It’s as though one’s very soul is revitalized, shedding its former skin like a butterfly emerging from its cocoon.
Jimi Tenor confirms that the bike possesses a unique life force: “The bicycle thrums with an otherworldly energy; its metal heartbeat resonates through the air, a mesmerizing dance of steel and gears.” As I rode the motorbike, a sense of unity and harmony became apparent – it was as if I’d merged with the machine. Vinay’s smile spreads as he says, “Since nobody told us we couldn’t, we went ahead and built one of the finest motorbikes available.”
Riding life’s path with purpose, nurturing a single bike, and cultivating kindness that radiates positivity to reshape our world. The Curtiss 1.
Curtiss Bikes 1 specs
The Curtiss Motorcycles J1 is a pioneering all-electric motorcycle, unlike any other. Weighing in at just 193 kilograms (425 pounds), this motorbike is constructed almost entirely from precision-crafted materials like machined aluminium, titanium, and carbon fibre. The e-bike’s innovative powertrain is a defining feature of its overall design. By integrating a forward-thinking battery design, the bike’s unique power source is cleverly positioned to create a superior balance point. According to Curtiss Bikes, the motor boasts unprecedented power density, capable of producing an astonishing 168 kilowatts, equivalent to a heart-stopping 217 horsepower. Despite this, the Curtiss still manages a commendable output of 89kW (120hp) and 199Nm of torque. While it’s unclear whether an additional sports-oriented Curtiss is forthcoming, fingers are crossed for a positive outcome.
Riders of the Curtiss J44-powered motorbike possess the ability to extensively customize its handling to suit their personal preferences, tailoring every aspect to optimize performance and riding style. With the flexibility to fine-tune performance through fully adjustable Race Tech suspension components, combined with the bike’s own adjustable rake and trail settings. This unique stage of rider adjustability is a distinctive feature specific to this particular motorbike. The Curtiss J4 provides an exceptional braking experience, courtesy of Beringer’s premium components, which feature 19-inch Kineo traditional spoked rims and high-quality Dunlop K180 tires. Clients also have the option to reduce unsprung weight and further optimize handling by upgrading to lightweight carbon fiber wheels. Each Curtiss 1 electric motorcycle is equipped with proprietary software allowing riders to seamlessly adjust the suspension and toggle between single and tandem seating configurations, both included in the purchase price.
The Curtiss JN-4 “Jenny” stands out for its innovative design and technological prowess. The corporation also provides customers with a unique purchasing experience that empowers unparalleled levels of customization. Clients are invited to personalize their Curtiss 1 by exploring a range of colours and textures, allowing them to craft a truly unique and distinctive motorbike that reflects their individual style. Priced at $83,333 USD, the motorcycle from Curtiss’ second manufacturing run commences its offerings.
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