In what seems to be the growing trend of motorcycle startups latching onto the growing EV market, the Agility Saietta debuted today at the Carole Nash MCN Motorcycle Show in London. The design is likely going to be a love or hate affair for most riders, and we doubt it’ll do anything to convince petrol-heads that electrics are the future of this industry, but the Saietta packs some seriously dubious performance claims, which if true should impress performance geeks.
Engadget is reporting an ambiguous performance figure from Agility of 675 hp/ ton, which would work out to 169hp on a 500 lbs motorcycle, and 135hp on a 400 lbs machine. Spying the air-cooled brushed DC Agni motor nestled within, we imagine that figure is peak power rating, and as we’ve seen at the Isle of Man TT, those Agni motors are finicky about running at those power levels for extended periods of time.
Available for sale for in two models, the Saiette S boasts a 50 mile range, 4 second 0-60mph time, and £9,975 ($16,100) price tag, while the Saiette R is good for 100 miles, 0-60 in 5 seconds, and hits the wallet for £13,975 ($22,550). Actual pricing for the United States is still a bit fuzzy, but Agility does admit to a “slight premium” over other available models. Units on the water buffalo shaped vehicle are expected to ship in April of this year.
Supposedly the hump on this beast helps direct airflow to cool important components, while aiding in the overall aerodynamics of the motorcycle. The affect is visually striking, and certainly highlights the divide in electric motorcycle design that either seeks to integrate with current ICE configurations (e.g. the Mission Motors Mission R), or strike a new mold for electric powered vehicles (e.g. feet-forward proponents).
The Saiette features a cantilever-style front end, while the battery packs look to be configured in a similar chassis design as can be found on the Brammo Empulse. Reaching up to the head tube, the hump’s airflow looks like it will pass over the batteries on its way out to the Agni motor. It’s hard to gauge how effective the cooling will actually be, but if it works it’s a fairly elegant solution, so kudos there.
At the current performance figures and pricing though, the Agility Saiette will have a hard time competing with the Brammo Empulse when both bikes finally become available, but as they say competition is good for the breed, and who knows how crazy summer pricing could get for either brand.
Agility Saiette Concept Renders:
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