Prof. Samantha Clarke
Dust.Moto, a company founded by former employees of Ubco, has unveiled its highly anticipated Alpha prototype, revolutionizing the electric vehicle (EV) market. Recognizing a gap between e-bikes and traditional dirt bikes, the team at Dust.Moto aimed to create a motorcycle that is lightweight, easy to ride and maintain, and suitable for riders of all skill levels. The result? A game-changing “play bike” that promises to reinvigorate the joy of riding and having fun on a motorcycle.
With its Alpha prototype, Dust.Moto has truly hit the mark. Weighing just over 220 pounds, the motorcycle is designed for effortless maneuverability. The final version is expected to achieve a strict curb weight of 200 pounds. Equipped with a 3.5 kWh battery, the Alpha offers an impressive 35 horsepower and an astonishing 369 lb-ft of torque, providing more than enough power for backyard adventures.
The Dust.Moto team has incorporated top-of-the-line components into the Alpha prototype, ensuring optimal performance. With a WP fork at the front, Ohlins rear suspension, Formula brakes, and dirt tires with excellent grip, the Alpha delivers everything a good dirt bike needs. Notably, Dust.Moto’s engineers have included a rear brake on the handlebars, a concept borrowed from e-bikes and bicycles. This unconventional feature allows for enhanced control, making it easier for riders to master the bike’s handling.
One of the major advantages of the Alpha’s electric drivetrain is the ability to program different drive modes, offering varying levels of power. This flexibility enables riders to gradually increase their skill level and experience the full potential of the motorcycle. Additionally, Dust.Moto can easily develop new maps to alter the bike’s personality, simplifying the process of customization.
Though our time with the Alpha prototype was limited, it was abundantly clear that Dust.Moto is on the right path. The motorcycle feels exceptionally playful and well-balanced, thanks to its lightness and carefully tuned suspension. The seating position, peg height and position, and handlebar placement are all optimized for comfort, catering to riders of various sizes.
A standout feature of the Alpha is the rear brake lever on the handlebars, which offers superior control compared to traditional foot brakes. This design choice allows riders to effortlessly control rotation and slide into corners with confidence. The familiar handlebar-mounted brake lever is particularly beneficial for riders transitioning from e-bikes or bicycles to the Alpha.
While the current power mapping options are already impressive, Dust.Moto’s engineers have room for further improvement. The team has designed three distinct drive modes, but additional refinement could enhance the overall experience for riders. Providing more differentiation between the maps would allow riders to select a mode that perfectly suits their preferences and skill level.
Dust.Moto’s Alpha prototype has set the stage for a new era of playful riding. By bridging the gap between e-bikes and dirt bikes, Dust.Moto has created a motorcycle that caters to riders seeking an exhilarating experience in their own backyard. With its lightweight design, advanced technology, and innovative features, the Alpha promises to be a game-changer in the world of electric motorcycles.
The electric vehicle (EV) market has seen significant growth in recent years, with the demand for environmentally friendly transportation options on the rise. Dust.Moto’s Alpha prototype aims to capitalize on this trend by providing a unique offering that fills the gap between e-bikes and traditional dirt bikes. With its lightweight design, impressive power, and customizable drive modes, the Alpha is set to revolutionize the electric motorcycle industry.
Market forecasts suggest that the global electric motorcycle market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 42% between 2021 and 2027. This growth can be attributed to factors such as increasing environmental concerns, rising fuel costs, and advancements in battery technology. The Alpha’s introduction comes at an opportune time, as it addresses the demand for a versatile, lightweight electric motorcycle that appeals to riders of all skill levels.
One of the main issues related to the electric motorcycle industry is range anxiety. Many riders are concerned that electric motorcycles may not offer enough range to meet their needs, especially for longer rides or off-road adventures. However, Dust.Moto’s Alpha prototype addresses this concern by providing sufficient power and torque to handle a variety of terrains, while still maintaining a lightweight design that maximizes battery life. With a 3.5 kWh battery, the Alpha offers both power and range, making it suitable for backyard adventures and more.
Another issue that the industry faces is the lack of customization options for electric motorcycles. Unlike traditional dirt bikes, which often have aftermarket parts and accessories readily available, electric motorcycles have limited options for customization. Dust.Moto seeks to address this issue with the Alpha’s programmable drive modes. By allowing riders to select their preferred power level, Dust.Moto offers a level of customization that is unique to the electric motorcycle market. This feature not only enhances the riding experience but also simplifies the process of adapting the bike to different terrains and skill levels.
As the electric motorcycle market continues to grow, innovation and competition are key drivers of success. Dust.Moto’s Alpha prototype stands out in the industry with its lightweight design, advanced technology, and innovative features. By capturing the essence of both e-bikes and dirt bikes, Dust.Moto has created a motorcycle that caters to riders seeking an exhilarating experience in their own backyard. With its promising performance and game-changing potential, the Alpha is poised to make a significant impact in the world of electric motorcycles.
For more information about the electric motorcycle industry and market forecasts, please visit MarketsandMarkets.
