Quantya, a Swiss company making electric motorcycles that I really, really want
Let me just say... I want one of these Quantya electric bikes really, really badly. I would not blame you one bit if you stopped reading right now and went past the break to see a video of this machine in action... it made me want to get up from behind my computer and head on outside for a ride - but then, how would I be able to show you this stuff, huh? I'm so self-sacrificing. HA! Anyway, the motor is powered by 48 volts from lithium-polymer batteries. It takes two hours to fully charge the batteries - maybe longer in America. The front forks are Marzocchi Shiver 35 mm units which are often specified for downhill mountainbike racing.
According to their website, Quantya should have competition and road versions of this off-road bike available soon. From the looks of their visitor map, there are plenty of people interested in this in America. Unfortunately for them (and me), though, this article from EVWorld says that the company is focusing on Europe first. Bummer!
[Source: Quantya, YouTube]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
DANG 8:09AM (9/12/2008)
Domenick : Yes it's much cheaper (actually US dollar is pretty cheap, that's a bargain) but in fact the Swiss one is homologated for street use........ I know that for some US rider it's not important but in europe lot of countries allow to ride Enduro only with street use motorcycles even in the backcountry
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Dang 8:07AM (9/12/2008)
Yes but the Swiss one is homologated for street use so you can't compare....... As it's much easier/cheaper to do unhomologated machines, vehicles..........
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KTMKen 5:15PM (12/04/2008)
The Zero is much less MX-designed. While an impressive machine, they made some sacrifices to get it down to 140lbs. A great trailbike, could be a great trials bike, but not intended for serious mx competition. If you do a search you can find a test where Micky Dymond (sp) a former MX pro rode one and promptly blew the rear shock out.
Still, both of these bikes and also the KTM prototype electric dirt bike show this is the wave of the future.
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brian beltn 7:22AM (12/07/2008)
This quantya is a terrific bike. I own one and love it. Regretfully, i need to sell it because I am moving. It is the "Strada" dual sport and it has ten hours. 310 766 0738. brianbeltoninc@yahoo.com
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1763bd13 7:32AM (12/07/2008)
Further to above, some have commented on being able to ride in urban areas without being intrusive, noise-wise. This is a big plus. I own a quantya strada. It is quick, quiet, and the charge really does last 3 to 4 hours. Thats plenty of time to have a good time. The lighting kit makes night time trail riding alot of fun. WIth two, its nice to speak with someone in a normal voice while riding.
mike 9:43AM (9/09/2007)
Impressive video. Bikes look powerful and Silent!
Military ought to be interested in these.
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Domenick 11:40AM (9/09/2007)
It looks pretty nice but I think the Zero has better numbers.
http://zeromotorcycles.com/specifications.htm
I think it's also cheaper and available in America, well it will be available next year.
I'd like to see them have a race.
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Tim 1:31PM (9/09/2007)
Since these are silent, they should be more widly accepted in sensitive areas. This will serve to increase the popularity of the sport. Heck, you could even ride one in yourlarge backyard without the neighbors calling the police. Think of the hunting and fishing possibilities since they can access places the 4x4s can't. The future is electric!
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Alex 9:42AM (9/10/2007)
but loud pipes save lives!
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quantyausa 6:27PM (11/11/2007)
Quantya bikes are now available in the USA. We will be in California from November 29th till December 9th, 2007 for various shows in Anaheim and Newport. For more information, you can email info@quantya.us
Anyone wanna test ride one? email us with your location and we will try and schedule a test drive. We want to hear your comments and feedback.
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