Fun Futuristic Motorcycle Models and Prototype Bikes
Perhaps driven by the futuristic-looking motorcycles famously portrayed in the movies, or conceivably steered by emerging motorcycle propulsion technology, manufacturers have been creating concept bikes that are pushing the envelope with designs. Some of these rides are just meant to turn heads. Others are meant to showcase technological breakthroughs, not only in design, but rider interaction.
Cycle Trader is taking a look at some of the more interesting concept bikes out there right now. Some are intended for production while others are merely made for the marvel of engineering. At the forefront of the production vehicles, it’s not surprising to see the Japanese giants like Yamaha, Honda, and Kawasaki, as well as European goliaths such as BMW and Ducati joining the fray. However, there are a few other lesser or unknown names developing new concepts that may someday break the mold on people’s perceptions on the definition of what motorcycle design should be. Here are a few we found.
Shop from this selection of new and used sportbikes for sale online.
Yamaha MOTOROiD2
Yamaha unveiled the original MOTOROiD in 2017 at the Tokyo Motor Show. Using an array of cameras, the bike is self-standing, can recognize its handler, and moves back and forth based on the handler’s voice commands and hand gestures. This was meant to show a relationship between owner and machine, but critics felt it lacked Jin-Ki Kanno, which is defined by Yamaha as the use of technology “that seeks to deliver users the seductive exhilaration felt when they truly become one with their machine.” The MOTOROiD2 strives harder to make that happen.
Featuring what is known as “The Leaf,” the MOTOROiD2 offers the driver three different riding positions: a legacy posture where the rider uses the handlebars, seat, and step; a jockey style where the knees are fitted into knee holds; and what Yamaha refers to as a “centaur” style—half man and half horse—allowing the driver to stand, completely freeing the use of the upper body.
BMW Motorrad Vision Next 100
Oddly enough, the triangle body frame of the Motorrad Vision is meant to pay homage to the R32 from 1923. However, the bike’s overall integrated motorcycle technology is meant to “guarantee safety,” meaning that the rider only needs a pair of interactive glasses, forgoing the traditional helmet. Fashionable light fabrics are also meant to be used, eliminating the need for heavy leathers and creating more fluid motion while riding.
The self-standing bike requires no kickstand—tilt-over and dumps are a thing of the past. All data features from the motorcycle appear on a heads-up display on the goggles. The idea is that the motorcycles of the future will be self-driving. The bike’s “digital companion” ensures a high degree of safety, responding to both the rider’s commands and acknowledging the world around it to avoid accidents and incidents.
Jetpack Aviation Speeder
How about a flying motorcycle? Jetpack Aviation is a company that has been creating vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft for more than 10 years—including functional jetpacks like you’ve seen in the movies. They’re working on a prototype “motorcycle” that is intended to revolutionize personal transportation once the concept is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
What is currently considered one of the smallest jet aircrafts ever designed, the Jetpack Speeder operates using eight miniature jet engines that can go airborne and propel the vehicle up to 60 mph for about 30 minutes. How great would that be for morning commutes? The 300-pound vehicle is expected to be capable of handling a load of up to 600 pounds, providing it with one of the best size-to-payload ratios known.
The initial price tag of $381,000 (these are already available for preorder) means the skies won’t be heavy with flying motorcycles when they are first approved, but you can see the future on the horizon, and the view is rather magnificent.
WMC250EV
At first glance, the 250EV from White Motorcycle Concepts doesn’t look that futuristic—until you view it from the front. This aerodynamic engineering marvel features a “tunnel” through the length of the bike, reducing drag up to 69% when compared with other traditional top-tier motorcycles. This not only boosts speed, it doubles the mileage per charge.
The company is working with other firms that excel in electric battery technology, fluid dynamics, and lightweight composites to produce a concept vehicle that is expected to revolutionize the electric motorcycle designs of tomorrow.
Other Future Bikes
For a look at other interesting concept bikes, check out:
- Honda Riding Assist
- Kawasaki J Concept
- Ducati Desert X
- TMC Dumont
- Zero SR-X Concept
- Akrapovic Full Moon Concept
Check out these new and used cruiser motorcycles for sale online.
Why Wait?
Even though some futuristic models are still in the concept phase and won’t be available soon (or for some, never), you don’t need to wait to get a fantastic ride now. Go to Cycle Trader for the largest online marketplace of new and used motorcycles available for purchase.
And the best news is, when the new concept vehicles are available, we’ll be around to help you sell your current bike so you can cruise into the future in style. We can’t wait to see what’s next.
Barrett Baker
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