The year 2023 saw several concept showcases, with no less of an action in the two-wheeler segment. Several motorcycle manufacturers displayed new electric and internal combustion engine-powered products, with some spotted at the EICMA 2023. With the year winding down, we take a look at the top motorcycle concepts of this year.
Ultraviolette F99
The first one on our list is the Ultraviolette F99 factory racing platform. This is an updated version of what was showcased at the Auto Expo 2023. It features changes in the form of a liquid-cooled drivetrain with 121bhp, active aerodynamics, and others.
With 121bhp at its disposal, the F99 can sprint from a halt to 100km/h in 3 seconds. Meanwhile, its top speed and aerodynamic drag coefficient stand at 265km/h and 0.45, respectively. In comparison to the F77, the Ultraviolette F99 Factory Racing Platform has a 400V battery architecture. The battery here is an air-cooled unit.
Another highlight is its active aerodynamics drawing inspiration from supersonic fighter jet principles. The F99 gets an integrated air windshield and front cowl ducts that channel air towards the motor, resulting in improved performance. Also on offer is electronically-actuated 'Air-Blade' for enhancing airflow and downforce during cornering.
Also Read: Ultraviolette F77 Performance, Quality and Value for Money Ranked
Featuring carbon fibre bodywork, the electric superbike tips the scales at 178 kilograms. Other design bits include angular panels, a muscular fuel tank, a V-shaped headlight, and a single-piece seat. In terms of hardware, it gets an aluminium structure with a machined swingarm, Ohlins suspension, Brembo monoblock callipers, and Pirelli racing slicks.
Touted as India's fastest electric superbike, the F99 will go on sale in the international market in 2025, with more details expected to be revealed soon.
Royal Enfield Him-E
Next is the Royal Enfield Him-E or the electric prototype of the Himalayan. This EV prototype will serve as a test bed for the Indian bikemaker to develop its new electric powertrains and other components. Its battery, which forms a structural element of the bike, is designed in-house, while the motor and controller are off-the-shelf components.
Also Read: Royal Enfield Goan Classic 350, Guerrilla 450 Trademarked in India, Here's What We Know so Far
To ensure its battery and other components work in both normal and harsh conditions, the Him-E is said to have undergone wind-tunnel testing and real-world prototype testing. While not much is known as of now, the 'High Performance' Him-E could share its underpinnings with the Stark VARG electric dirt bike, which comes equipped with 59bhp and 79bhp motors. The battery is a 6.5kWh unit.
The Him-E comes with minimal bodywork made of organic flax fibre, a circular LED headlamp, a large windscreen, a single-piece seat, a modified fuel tank to house the charging socket, SM Pro Platinum spoke wheels wrapped in all-terrain tyres, petal-type discs, upside-down front forks, and an adjustable rear mono-shock. Royal Enfield says that the first electric motorcycle to be based on the prototype will be unveiled in 2025.
Ola Diamondhead
Showcased at the recently concluded Indian MotoGP, the Ola Diamondhead features a unique and futuristic design. This striking concept gets dual-tone bodywork, full fairing, a full-width horizontal LED strip, a dome-shaped windscreen, as well as a slim tail section. The clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs give you a sporty riding position.
Interestingly, the Ola Diamondhead has a huge front swingarm, suggesting the implementation of a hub-centred steering system. Meanwhile, braking duties are handled by dual disc brakes at the front and a single disc at the rear. These come mounted on 17-inch alloy wheels. Other bits include a belt drive system as well as a unique function enabling you to switch the footpeg positioning from comfort to sporty.
Ola is expected to launch the Diamondhead in India towards the end of 2024. Once launched, the bike will be Ola's answer to the Ultraviolette F77.
Hero Concept 2.5R XTunt
Hero MotoCorp revealed a naked bike concept at the EICMA 2023, called the Concept 2.5R XTunt. The bright red concept motorcycle is expected to produce a 250cc offering.
As the name suggests, it is a stunt motorcycle designed for those seeking a thrill. Based on the Karizma XMR – Hero’s fully-faired bike, the 2.5R XTunt has an aggressive stance and a distinctive design, making it easy to navigate through metropolitan streets. However, it misses out on lighting units like the ones found on a standard motorcycle.
Although powertrain specifications are under wraps, the XTunt will likely draw power from the same liquid-cooled engine that powers the Karizma XMR, but it will have better torque and power figures. The concept bike features a trellis frame, suspended by upside-down forks at the front and an adjustable mono-shock at the back.
For an improved riding experience, the 2.5R XTunt includes active-aero technology and a Follow Me drone. Expect the bike to enter production later this year.
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