Experienced a thrilling ride on the innovative Verge TS Pro electric superbike, with its Tron-inspired aesthetics and premium cost nearly meeting expectations
The Verge Motorcycles TS Pro, a groundbreaking electric motorcycle from the Finnish company, has been making waves in the industry with its innovative in-wheel motor technology. This unique design, which houses the motor inside the wheel hub, sets it apart from traditional electric motorcycles.
Unprecedented Torque and Range
The Verge TS Pro's rear wheel is a marvel of engineering, composed of bands of magnets that rotate around one another, generating an unprecedented amount of torque. This setup allows for rapid acceleration and high speeds, with the bike offering 1,000Nm of torque at the real wheel and a 0-60 seconds sprint time of just 3.5 seconds [1]. Add to that a claimed maximum range of 217 miles, and you have an electric motorcycle that outperforms many of its competitors in terms of range and acceleration.
The space-efficient design, made possible by the integration of the motor inside the wheel hub, also allows for a large onboard battery pack. This design feature contributes significantly to the bike's impressive electric range, which is substantially higher than many other electric two-wheelers [2]. Moreover, the TS Pro supports CCS fast charging and plans full compatibility with Tesla’s Supercharger network, enhancing charging convenience and speed.
A Futuristic Ride
The Verge TS Pro is not just about performance; it's also about the ride. The bike can be ridden as easily as a twist-and-go scooter due to the absence of a clutch, transmission, and other moving parts. The bike features a touchscreen display, fold-away "feet-forward" pegs, and is activated with a card instead of a key or key fob.
The bike's Startmatter system, found in pricier TS Ultra models, offers over-the-air updates and advanced active safety systems thanks to the inclusion of six cameras and two high-resolution radars. However, the touchscreen is currently underused, with only a few menus accessible when on the move.
A Slight Learning Curve
The Verge TS Pro comes with a slight learning curve. The throttle can be sensitive, making modulation along slower sections tricky. Additionally, both front and rear brakes are mounted on the handlebars, which may take some getting used to for those accustomed to gas-powered motorcycles. The bike features digital sliders for adjusting engine braking, allowing it to be as aggressive or non-existent as desired. The handlebar brake setup also frees up two foot peg positions.
A Striking Design
The Verge TS Pro's unique design has earned it comparisons to a bike from the movie Tron. The rear wheel, which resembles an engine but is actually the bike's "engine", is a standout feature. However, the touchscreen's position makes it difficult to see when riding, but it is expected to offer navigation and a more encompassing digital experience in the future.
Accessibility and Price
Despite its cutting-edge technology, the Verge TS Pro is not prohibitively expensive. The bike retails for $29,900 / £31,980 (around AU$46,000), making it a viable option for those looking to invest in a high-performance electric motorcycle. The bike can be fast-charged in around 35 minutes, further enhancing its usability.
In conclusion, the Verge TS Pro is a game-changer in the electric motorcycle industry. Its innovative in-wheel motor technology, large onboard battery, and advanced charging compatibility make it a formidable competitor in the electric two-wheeler market. While it may require some adjustment for those transitioning from gas-powered motorcycles, its performance, range, and charging speed more than make up for any learning curve.
[1] Verge Motorcycles [2] Electrek
- The Verge TS Pro's unique design, with a bespoke in-wheel motor, resembles a bike from the movie Tron, setting it apart in the electric motorcycle industry.
- Equipped with gaming-inspired features like fold-away pegs, a touchscreen display, and a card activation system, riding the Verge TS Pro is a futuristic experience.
- With a retail price of $29,900 / £31,980 (around AU$46,000), the Verge TS Pro offers cutting-edge technology without breaking the bank, making it an appealing choice for high-performance electric motorcycle enthusiasts.
- The Verge TS Pro's Startmatter system, featuring six cameras and two high-resolution radars, promises a safer ride on the roads, especially with the added luxury of over-the-air updates and advanced active safety systems.
