There’s really no limit to what modern motorcycles can look like. If you didn’t know that yet, you’ll know it after scrolling through Robb Report‘s list of 12 of the most extreme modern motorcycles on the planet. These two-wheeled beasts are so aesthetically pleasing, they will make your jaw hit the floor. Literally. Or at least figuratively. Take a look at our favorite six mechanical masterpieces from the list.
1. Lotus C-01
The first motorcycle branded by Lotus, this stunner is crafted from titanium, carbon fiber, and aerospace-grade steel. The style of its body was developed by the same guy who conceptualized the light cycles on the movie Tron: Legacy. No word on whether Jeff Bridges owns one of these bad boys. Price: $139,000. Find out more info here.
2. Confederate G2 P51 Combat Fighter
Louisiana-based Confederate Motorcycles makes this threatening-looking vehicle. Weighing in at 500 pounds, it’s 25 percent more powerful and 12.5 percent lighter than its predecessor, the P51 Fighter from 2009. We’d argue it’s 25 percent more badass, too. Starts at $125,000. Get more info here.
3. Quantum Leap
No, this isn’t Scott Bakula’s ride. Frankly, we’re not sure the Quantum Leap star could handle it. Built single-handedly by artist Eddie Meeks in Greensboro, North Carolina, this bike represents more than 2,100 man-hours. Interestingly, it features a fixed front wheel, and the rear wheel (acting as a rudder) initiates the turns. Price: $250,000. Get more info here.
4. Bandit9 AVA
This minimal-looking silver bullet was created by Daryl Villanueva, who is based in Vietnam. He and his team plan to build only nine of them, and they are constructed from a 1967 Honda Supersport. “The inspiration for the bike comes from the Jet Age—the peak of design and engineering,” Villanueva tells Robb Report. They are “proof that motorcycles can be interesting again—fun, imaginative, and useful.” Price: $10,950. Get more info here.
5. Gatsby
Here’s a not-so-fun fact: Nearly 100,000 Americans die every year riding motorcycles. But if you’re gonna kick the bucket on a bike, this would probably be our choice. It was designed in 2007 by Paul Yang and Larry Nagel, partners in Dreamcraft Motorcycles. And yes, it’s named for that Gatsby. Only one made. Get more info here.
6. Bell & Ross B-Rocket
Luxury French watch company Bell & Ross commissioned the U.K.’s Shaw Speed & Custom to create a concept motorcycle that commemorated the early days of aerospace engineering and experimental jet aircraft. And this sleek-looking road rocket is what they came up with. We’d say it was money well spent! Only one made; more info here.
To see all 12 motorcycles, go here.
—Shawn Donnelly for RealClearLife
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