Orphiro retro electric motorcycle

The electric motorcycle will become a mainstay in major manufacturer's line-ups in the mid term future and there's already several models on sale in a country as remote as Australia. But the adoption by riders has been hesitant to say the least.

Based on the feedback we get here at the Bikesales Network, many riders are open to the idea of buying and riding an electric motorcycle, but a vast majority of riders are still waiting for the cruising range to increase from the current ball park figure of around 100km to something higher, a range that would allow for extended day trips without the need to recharge.

Another issue raised was appearance; that some electric motorcycles don't have a modern look. Well, perhaps Dutch start-up company Orphiro can help, offering the world's first retro-themed electric motorcycle.

In stark contrast to the current crop of electric bikes in the dirt and street mould, the Orphiro is more of a cruiser, a high-tech electric bike with a retro design.

There's a hint of bobber in the design, particularly the seat and the unsprung rear end, and though the bodywork is bulbous it hides the bike's internals well - battery packs, motor etc - and has a clean appearance. But is it better looking than the Lito Soarer electric motorcycle?

The footpegs are pushed forward for a straight-legged riding position, which should improve long distance comfort (but this is a curious design cue considering the bike's 100km cruising range).

Many electric vehicle designs are factoring in the potential of upgrading power/range as the evolution of battery systems will allow more potent units to be integrated in future. In another five years for instance, a more advanced lithium polymer battery could theoretically extend the Orphiro's range to 300km.

Top speed for the Dutch designed retro greenie is 120km/h (75mph), though if the electric bikes we've ridden thus far are any indication, riding at maximum speed will significantly reduces the cruising range.

Orphiro's designers have fitted an LCD gauge to the tank section that details battery charge remaining, road speed, odometer etc, below which the on-off switch is located. It appears as though the charging plug is also affixed to the tank section.

If what we've experienced on the Zero S is any indication, this retro-designed model could be a lot of fun to ride and the potential for fitting more powerful batteries (and possibly motors) as EV technology improves is promising.

The Orphiro is scheduled for a September 2011 launch in Europe, though no price has been supplied.

"Orphiro is more than just an electric motorcycle; Orphiro is a company where youth is informed and learned about electric mobility to prepare them for tomorrows' automotive market," claims the company.

What do you think - is this a positive glimpse into the future of electric transport, or a misguided design that only an architect could love? Leave a comment below.

Read the latest Bikesales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at