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EJC 690 Duke with a paper mockup of the graphics kit we made for the race series.

The RAD e bike responds to customer needs to be mobile when car use is restricted or not possible. The RAD e is also a reminder of Opel’s early industrial period of manufacturing bicycles. In that sense, the designers developed a study that is both historically relevant and offers a vision of the future.

The RAD e is aimed primarily at those living in the city, at a time when e-bikes are predicted to play an increasing role in future integrated urban transport concepts.

It follows Opel’s design philosophy “sculptural artistry meets German precision” and incorporates boomerang design cues that also appear in the award-winning Ampera and the RAK e experimental electric vehicle. The RAD e name takes its inspiration from “Rad” -the German word for bicycle and wheel.

The RAD e is the first e-bike concept to be designed around automotive manufacturing mass production methods. Instead of exotic light-weight materials, the Opel designers opted for a hollow pressed-steel frame which is also light weight, strong, flexible and easy to make. In Opel’s 150th anniversary year, it is particularly appropriate that the designers took their inspiration from the Opel’s 1928 Motoclub 500 motorbike which also had pressed-steel frame elements. At the time, the Motoclub was revolutionary because its steel components were pressed, cutting the production time from previously 14 to just four hours. Thus Opel makes a historical link to its pioneering spirit of the past which is still relevant for its innovations of the future.

The RAD e’s pedelec propulsion system is based on a state-of-the art 250 watt electric motor and a lithium-ion battery. In a maximum time of two-and-a-half hours, the battery can be fully charged. The e-bike can also be transported on Opel’s unique FlexFix bicycle carrier and be charged while driving.

Delivering at least 40 Nm of instant torque, the bike feels agile and fun to ride. The motor gives the rider support when pedaling. At an average speed of 20 kilometers an hour and depending on the electric assist and terrain, the e-bike achieves an electrically supported range of between 60 and 145 kilometers.

VIA Do the ton

Video of the build here. Impressive to see how it turned out as it was completely trashed when he bought it. VIA motorcyclephotooftheday

Interesting look at the Diesel and Ducati design studios. Bikes pretty nice too. Cant really go wrong with the Triumph scrambler paint and a Special edition Monster 1100 EVO. I’d ride it.

VIA Asphalt and Rubber.

VIA RSD FB

Not exactly sure why, but KTM dropped off the EJC 690 Duke race bike today at Kiska. I was in a bit of a rush, but the sun was shining so I took a few photos for you. Would rather have gone for a ride on it though mind you, it sounded mint.

ready, ready.

would prefer a black or carbon fibre belly pan, but overall, very nice.

Looking for a career in Supersports or Superbike and are between 14-19 years? Still a few places in the KTM European Junior Cup for those with at least one years licensed competition in road racing or other motorcycle discipline with an FIM affiliated federation. More info here http://bit.ly/Ao5gLz

As cool as it is, I reckon the full powerparts version of it looks a little better for now. Check it out here if you didnt see it yet.

This painting process involves lacquering silk fabric onto the tank and repeated sanding and lacquering to a smooth finish. This tank also has a splash of gold flake to pull it all together. More info here.

Sweet concept sketch by Kiska/C.Dent of the 125 Duke from a couple of years ago which I found in the archives and don’t think has ever seen the light of day.