Brammo goes street fighting with the 100mph Empulse electric motorcycle (video)
By Tim Stevens 
posted July 15th 2010 9:30AM
posted July 15th 2010 9:30AM
The Empulse is a radical departure from the Enertia, indicated by the way the company is promoting the thing. When we test rode that first bike Brammo reps were a little cagey about its top speed, initially indicating it would be limited to 50mph but later saying it'd do over 60 if you pushed it. With the Empulse they're making no bones about its 100mph+ top speed. That's hardly world-class in the world of motorcycles, but in the world of electric motorcycles it's a definite rarity.
So too are the looks. Most EVs look either like experiments thrown together in a garage or an attempt at replicating something from the future. The Empulse has rather more traditional styling, only its inclined array of water-cooled cells sitting where the motor should be plus that unusually large rear sprocket giving away its alternative means of propulsion. The front end looks rather like a Ducati Streetfighter or MV Augusta Brutale. The golden forks, Nissin brakes, and front fender shape are reminiscent of a 2005ish Triumph Speed Triple. The short, wide seat section is, however, unique to Brammo.There will be three models offered: the 6.0, 8.0, and 10.0. These indicate the endurance of the bikes, with the lowest managing 60 miles of "average range" and the top of the line 100 miles, each of which can be extended by keeping your right wrist in check. The 6.0 will naturally be the cheapest, starting at $9,995, the 8.0 for $11,995, and the 10.0 will go for $13,995. That's before a whole raft of federal and state tax rebates which should save buyers at least 10 percent and, in some states like Colorado and Oklahoma, could knock multiple thousands of further dollars off the price.
The only catch? It doesn't ship until sometime next summer. If you want one then you'll need to get on the waiting list now, a refundable deposit saves your spot ahead of these things starting to roll out when the weather gets warm again after getting cold again. We're almost ready to place our order but need a little more information first -- primarily some firm performance figures beyond top speed plus maybe the weight and dimensions of the thing.
Update: We have some specs thanks to Hell for Leather, namely a horsepower rating of 55 with 59lb-ft of torque and a weight of 390lbs. That's comparable to your average 600cc sportsbike and far torquier, but also a good bit down on power compared to them. Still, all that torque here will be available from 0 RPM, which should make this thing deliciously fun to ride.
Brammo announces the Empulse - a trio of 100+mph electric motorcycles, including one model that can travel up to 100 miles on a single charge. Prices start at $9995.
Ashland, Oregon – July 15th, 2010. Brammo, Inc. announced today it will begin production of an electric sportbike, calling it the "Empulse." Brammo demonstrated a pre-production prototype today and all three production models of the Empulse will be capable of sustaining 100 mph. The three models will have different battery capacities, all utilizing an innovative proprietary array, the Brammo Power™ battery and vehicle management system. The Empulse is available for immediate order and deliveries will commence in 2011.
Craig Bramscher, Founder and CEO of Brammo said "motorcycle riders have been requesting increased speed and range and I am proud and delighted to reveal these game changing Brammo electric motorcycles. Our customers expect Brammo to design and produce the world's most exciting (and affordable) electric motorcycles and that's exactly what we have done." Bramscher continued, "Today's announcement promises no more range anxiety for Brammo customers."
The Empulse Trio
All three models of the Empulse will be freeway capable and will enjoy a top speed in excess of 100mph. Each of the three models will offer customers a different average range from a single charge. The Empulse 6.0 is capable of 60 miles average range, the Empulse 8.0 is capable of 80 miles average range and the top of the line Empulse 10.0 is capable of a travelling 100 miles on a single charge. Range of all three models can be extended by travelling at lower speeds.
The estimated MSRP for the Empulse trio when deliveries start next year are; Empulse 6.0 $9,995, Empulse 8.0 $11,995 and Empluse 10.0 $13,995. All three models will be eligible for Federal and State tax incentives. For example, the Empulse 10.0 may cost as little as $7,000 in certain states after Federal and State incentives.
Empulse Technology
Today's announcement sees the first application of Brammo's innovative Brammo Digital Drivetrain™ including the Brammo Power™ battery pack and Brammo Power™ vehicle management system. Brammo's breakthrough in price/energy density is at the heart of today's announcement and is unequalled in the electric vehicle industry. The Empulse is also the world's first production electric motorcycle to have a water cooled motor.
Brian Wismann, Director of Product Development at Brammo and designer of the Empulse said,
"The Empulse reveals the significant price performance that we can deliver using Brammo Power™ technology. Just like it did with the Enertia Powercycle, Brammo has again raised the bar in terms of electrical drivetrain innovation and time to market."
Empulse Availability
Customers can place their order for an Empulse by visiting the Brammo website www.brammo.com . Deliveries are expected to commence in mid-2011 and orders will be filled on a first-come, first-serve basis. Customers placing an order will be expected to place a refundable deposit once their Empulse is within 90 days of delivery. The Brammo range of motorcycles will be available globally through select motorcycle dealerships and participating Best Buy stores during 2011.
Brammo Distribution
Brammo is expanding its dealership network both within the USA and in Europe and Asia. Organizations interested in selling and servicing the Brammo range of motorcycles, which includes the award winning Enertia, can register their interest by visiting www.brammo.com/dealerapplication
Adrian Stewart, director of Sales and Marketing at Brammo said "We are always looking for individuals and organizations that want to enter into a long term business partnership with Brammo to sell and service our range of electric vehicles. JCAM, our distributor and dealer in Hong Kong and Singapore is an excellent example of such an organization. "
Forged in the Heat of Competition
Brammo Power™ technology employed in the Empulse is race proven in the Brammo Empulse RR race bike. You can see the Empulse RR in action at the 2010 Red Bull Grand Prix, Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Brammo will race the Empulse RR in the FIM e-Power series which will see 15 electric motorcycle teams from around the world compete on this demanding circuit.
Meet the Empulse
Brammo CEO Craig Bramscher will be unveiling the Empulse at the 2010 Red Bull Grand Prix at the Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, California, 11.15am, Saturday July 24th 2010.
Later this year the Empulse will be at EICMA Milan, Italy and at the Macau Grand Prix, China.
About Brammo
Brammo Inc is a leading electric vehicle technology company headquartered in North America. Brammo designs and develops electric vehicles including the award winning Brammo Enertia motorcycle. Brammo is an OEM supplier of it's innovative Brammo Digital Drivetrain™ systems including the Brammo Power™ battery pack and Brammo Power™ vehicle management system. Brammo has vehicle distribution and marketing operations in North America, Europe and Asia.
Looks pretty cool.
@Bob the Terrorist
It's a great start to something that should become commonplace in the next 5 years (if oil prices carry on going the way they currently are).
@Bob the Terrorist agree, but need to know the charging time too
@pple is poo
Yeah, hates it some much that they're willing to give tax credits to incentivize it.
@pple is poo
I pay very little to insure and plate my 3 motorcycles in MA.
@pple is poo
Motorcycle insurance isn't that expensive. I insure my 04 Kawi for a little more then $120 per year.
But you are right about registration. Cost me a little more then $300 to register the bike and get a plate.
And $44 to renew when it use to be $10 bucks a year.
@pple is poo i know a fair amount of people with motorcycles and they always say how motorcycle insurance is incredibly exaggerated. even my friends with a 1000cc Honda CBR and a 900cc Suzuki GSX-R say its considerably less than their modest cars.
on a side note: since this is electric is this a singe gear set up like some of these electric cars we're seeing? or is this a standard 5 speed to appeal to the purists?
@pple is poo - You obviously haven't seen any of the new GM vehicles that have been coming out. Just keep driving your suddenly accelerating, turning without warning, engine stalling Toyota then buddy, you're as bad as the Apple Fanboys!
What's with the training wheels?
@Baconbits Just a stand.
@Baconbits You'd think the bike would have a kickstand...I'd hope the bike would have a kickstand.
@tasteskindasalty This is standard for bikes. It is just a stand so you can work on it. It lifts the back wheel slightly off the ground so you can change the tire/chain/ect.
Wow, most TechGeeks really know nothing about bikes. Ive seen a handful of "training wheels" comments already lol
@tasteskindasalty It's a paddock stand, typical for press shots / garage work. In addition some track bikes don't have a side stand at all, all in the name of keeping weight down.
@Baconbits
Yup, just for storage, and easy to wheel around the garage when plugged in.
But where is the kickstand? I dont see one on it...
You are really perched up high on this bike. I wish ebikes would lower the seat height. And this bike is one of the few that looks like it could have. anyone over 5'10" will look silly on it.
"The short, wide seat section is, however, unique to Brammo."
Unique? Or, are they just the only ones that dont know how fugly that looks?
@A25i
It's a sport bike. You need to be up high to put weight on the front tire when turning.
It's not a cruiser, where you're positioned lower and farther back for comfort.
bless.. this must be the kiddywinks version as it still has its stabilisers on in the main picture... aaaah
@rollocla
Just a stand...
@paul34
I know it's often said that Americans don't get irony, but I thought sarcasm was par for the course?
You can go 100 miles with it, and drive at a speed of 100 mph, but at what speed do you have to maintain to go 100 miles, and how long will you last going 100 mph?
The Bugatti Veyron can go 260+ mph, but it'll only last a few miles and you'll need new tires after 15 minutes.
@tasteskindasalty With that, tyres are the least of your problems. Fuel is gone in 12 and a half min
I will take this bike seriously when I see it without training wheels...
@RAMenthusiast That's what I meant by the whole "it'll only last a few miles", but you're right, fuel would run out before your tires go bad.
Relative to this bike I would like to know just at one speed they tested that they were about to get 100 miles out of it. 50-60 and I'd say good for them.
@RAMenthusiast
Just FYI to you and a few other moto newbs on this board, it is called a "rear stand" and most motorcyclists have one (and sometimes also a front stand) to keep a bike level during storage and also to lift it up to work on the bike (you will notice it lifts the rear wheel off the ground). Pit Bull, for exampl, is a popular brand of rear/front stands. These stands are akin to 'jacks' that are used to lift cars off the ground for maintenance.
That being said, bike looks decent - but I'll stink with my MV Agusta, 102mph in 2nd gear.
@DigDug
er, "stick"
Yeah, and it will go twice as far and as fast in Europe? 220V ;)
@pufflye I'm kind of afraid that you're being neither cynical nor ironic with this comment...
@pufflye There are just as many iarticles under this that would be getting bumped off too, wtf are you on about?
Back to topic, that is a gorgeous bike and the price is fairly reasonable (when compared to prices in Aus anyway). Would love to see the 0-60 times and weight etc too and a date on shipping this way lol.
Wow today is a day of great news. First Argentina and now this. I loved the Enertia and this new bike looks just awesome.
This makes a lot of sense. 60 miles would really cover the mass majority of my daily travels.
The only thing I'm concerned about is that people have a hard enough time noticing bikes with loud exhausts; it'll probably be even worse with an electric bike.
@paul34
I was thinking the same thing. I can see more accidents happening if this takes off. The average driver that runs into you will say- "I never saw or heard him coming. It was a stealth bike."
@ChristianTexan Loud bikes are only really easy to hear from behind. The most dangerous impacts happen from the front. Visibility and defensive riding are far, far more important than noise.
@paul34
Exhaust noise only helps you be heard from people behind you, which means they can see you. You (the rider) are responsible in making sure that you are noticed by cars in front of you, or that they can't hit you (proper positioning).
The "Loud Pipes Save Lives" BS is just there for 'Bikers' who want the attention they get at stoplights and bars. 'Motorcyclists', of which I am one, don't need loud pipes to save lives.
@pufflye There is a massive Droid X ad at the top of the page and the first tab under the header is the Droid X review. The one thing I can't seem to find on engadget is your maturity, did they try and hide that too?
(seriously, its an article about an electric motorcyle and you want to talk about cell phones...)
Okay, so a while back I said I had no interest in electric vehicles. This has changed my mind. I want one! This would be perfect for my commute...
For $13k you could get a Yamaha R1...
@allenrotstein but your R1 would be running on gas, not electric. Cost of ownership is drastically different.
@pufflye There are 2 Droid X articles and 1 iPhone article on the front page. You're an idiot.
I thought it was something to do with akira before I read the article...in any case, looks fantastic!
"...goes street fighting with the 100mph Empulse..."
*laughs hysterically*
You have much to learn, young grasshopper, if you really think that 100mph qualifies your bike as a "street fighter". Not to bash the bike, I'm sure it's great. I just have a hard time taking them seriously until they really start offering the same sort of performance figures and prices of conventional bikes.
@Rambo Dude, a "streetfighter" is a sportsbike with the fairing taken off. That's exactly what this is.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Streetfighter
@TimStevens
Tim, lol many on here thought that the rear stand was a set of "training wheels." This is far from a "motorcycle-savvy" group.
@DigDug Yeah, kinda sad, really, but I'm doing what I can to change that!
@TimStevens
You sort of missed what I was getting at. My bicycle has no fairings, so I guess it's a "street fighter", right?
I'm getting the impression that Brammo wants buyers to see this a performance machine, but compared to (much cheaper) alternatives, it isn't.The fact remains that you could buy a decent sport bike and a LOT of gas before you come to even the standard price of this thing. Unless you are a die-hard electric fan, I don't see how most consumers would give this a second look. Again, I'm not saying it's a horrible bike, but Brammo will have to get the price down a LOT before these things become competitive, both specs-wise and price-wise.
@Rambo Was your bicycle based on a sports bike before it had its fairings removed?
The Empulse is based on this:
http://www.plugbike.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/brammo-ttr-ttxgp-bike.jpg
Take a sports bike, delete the fairings, and you have a street fighter. Magic!
See also: Brutale, Street Triple, Ducati Streetfighter, etc. etc. etc.
@TimStevens
really one need only see the Brutale ;)
@DigDug I LOVES me my Stree Triple. But if I had the cash, I'd be looking at the Ducati, warts 'n all.
You're going to run out of extension cord pretty fast, with this one. :)
So what's the average tax incentive on one of these? $13k is Ducati 848 territory. I dont know what the cost per mile on he Empulse is, but on an average 750cc+ gas bike, it is normally around 44mg. So @ $2.89/gallon it is roughly $.07/mile. I wonder what it costs to give the Empluse a full charge.
@sethmo don't forget oil every 3000 miles or so. Not a huge cost factor, but a factor nonetheless. Most moto oils go for roughly $9 qt for synthetic.
@icepop77 I am just talking gas vs electricity. I am sure the Empulse has its own maintenance costs whatever those would be.
@sethmo
Performance wise it's in the Kawasaki 250R range - and that goes for $4k.
According to the site the battery is good for 2000 charges with an average 42 mile range. So you've got 16800 miles of battery (average).
That's about 6200 kW.h of electricity in total (minus conversion losses) - Here in South Africa that's about $700 worth, and we're told we've got cheap power...
At $3/gallon, that's 233 gallons, which should take the Kawasaki at least 233x52 = 12000 miles.
So you'll get 4000 miles more, but you'll have to replace the battery - which would probably cost more than 50 gallons of gas.
And that's after you've spent at least $4k more on the Bremmo.
Bit of a hard sell to be quite honest...