Bel&Bel, a vehicle manufacturer founded by Carlos and Jesus Bell in Spain, is getting ready to launch small-batch production of a bike inspired by Katsuhiro Otomo’s legendary manga of the 1980s, ‘Akira’. It is touted as one of the world’s best-known bikes that never existed in real life.
According to Ride Apart, the bike will ride on electric power and cost from €20,000 to €24,000.
Bel&Bel has spent multiple years working on the project. The original plan was to release it with a hybrid powertrain based on a 250cc Yamaha engine and an all-wheel drive system, but the company eventually decided to go full-on electric.
Rumor has it that the bike is based on a Yamaha scooter chassis with Honda VFR 800 suspension at the back and a body combining CFP and GFRP components. What we do know on official terms is that an electric motor mounted at the rear axle will take you from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in six seconds and will go all the way to 150 km/h (93 mph) if needed.
There will be three selectable drive modes, each capped at a certain output level. Reversing will also be possible. The suspension will benefit from high-end air-ride components, and 17-inch wheels will be adorned with LED rings.
Right now, the company is busy assembling the first two examples for private clients. It then plans to launch small-scale production and open sales.