Electric motorcycles don’t have to look like rolling science experiments, as Canadian manufacturer Beachman is keen to prove with its new Aviator model.
Inspired by the stripped-back cafe racers that became a fixture of British motorcycle culture in the 1960s, the Aviator combines a leather bench seat, exposed mechanical details and classic proportions with an entirely electric powertrain.
Hmm, sounds very similar to Maeving’s raison d’être, but Beachman has gone for an altogether chunkier and more traditional approach to its packaging.
There are three versions on the way, although only the first two are available this summer. The entry-level Class 2 E-Bike costs $5,499 and is limited to 20mph on the road, although it can reach 35mph off-road. A 2.8kWh removable battery provides more than 55 miles of claimed range, while an optional 4.3kWh pack pushes that figure beyond 80 miles.
Step up to the $5,999 Light Motorcycle and the top speed increases to 45mph, while the same two battery options remain available. Unlike the E-Bike, this version requires motorcycle registration, insurance and a licence.
“Owners can customise everything from the tank colour and leather seat to the handlebars, grips and accessories”
Then things get considerably more interesting. A 125cc-equivalent version is due later this year with an enormous 8.2kWh fixed battery, an 8kW motor and a top speed of around 60mph. Beachman reckons it will manage more than 125 miles between charges, making it considerably more useful for longer urban journeys.
Perhaps the cleverest feature, though, is hiding in plain sight. The Aviator’s redesigned ‘fuel tank’ isn’t a fuel tank at all, but a lockable storage compartment with around two gallons of capacity. That means there’s somewhere to put gloves, charging cables, shopping or the inevitable collection of motorcycle detritus without resorting to saddlebags.
There’s also USB-C charging, remote start and stop, an integrated alarm and a double-locking battery system.
Beachman has built the Aviator around a new unified frame designed to improve stability, durability and battery security, while owners can customise everything from the tank colour and leather seat to the handlebars, grips and accessories.
It’s a refreshingly analogue approach to electric mobility, too. There’s no attempt to bury the rider beneath apps and screens; the idea is simply to build a good-looking motorcycle and let the electric powertrain do its thing.
With more than 150 pre-orders already in the bag, Beachman clearly thinks there’s an appetite for it. And judging by the Aviator’s wonderfully retro proportions, we’re inclined to agree.
Check out the website for more info.
