The DAB 1a X Electric Scrambler Blends Aerospace Tech with Dirt-Road Dreams

We love combustion engines and the visceral experience they provide – that unmistakable growl between your legs simply can’t be replicated. Yet despite our allegiance to gasoline, we can’t help but admire what DAB Motors has created with their 1α X Electric Scrambler. This French-built beauty takes their flagship model and gives it a dirt-friendly makeover that’s impressively executed, blending minimalist design with premium materials and legitimate off-road capabilities. The bike is a true head-turner and proves that while electric motorcycles might lack that emotional rumble, they can still deliver their own brand of excitement through thoughtful design and focused engineering.

Scrambler Spirit Without the Soundtrack

The most obvious scrambler transformation comes courtesy of Pirelli’s Scorpion Rally STR tires, which replace the street-focused Diablo Rossos found on the standard 1α. These dual-purpose knobby tires instantly signal the bike’s intentions – to venture beyond the pavement when the mood strikes. Working with the new rubber is a high-mounted front fender crafted from upcycled carbon fiber (more on that collaboration later) and fork protectors that add both visual muscle and practical protection.

Despite these changes, the 1α X maintains the stripped-down, almost architectural silhouette of its sibling. The monocoque structure houses a 3.4-liter glove compartment and creates a distinctive profile that’s more industrial design than traditional motorcycle.

Luxury in Unexpected Places

Where most scramblers embrace a certain rugged utilitarianism, the DAB 1α X incorporates luxury materials in surprising ways. The seat and glove compartment are upholstered in genuine Alcantara – the same premium material found in supercars and high-end furniture. It’s definitely an interesting choice for a bike designed to get dirty, but it does speak to DAB’s commitment of blending performance with unexpected refinement.

The suspension comes from a collaboration with Italian manufacturer Paioli, featuring a 46mm USD front fork and rear shock, both with TIN Gold treatment that’s as visually striking as it is functional. These adjustable units should provide the flexibility needed to handle both smooth pavement and rough trails without compromise.

Aerospace-Grade Sustainability

Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the 1α X is its partnership with Airbus to upcycle carbon fiber for key components. The high-mounted front fender and motor side protectors are crafted from repurposed carbon fiber from the aerospace giant, turning potential waste into functional motorcycle parts. And while we were already suckers for anything carbon fiber or space-age, the sustainability story here is certainly a collab we can get behind.

Electric Performance That Delivers

At the heart of the 1α X is an electric powertrain that delivers impressive numbers: 395 Nm of torque at the wheel (that’s not a typo – electric motors deliver torque differently than combustion engines) from a brushless DC motor capable of 25.5 kW peak output (about 34.6 horsepower). While the horsepower figure might seem modest, the torque is what matters for scrambler-style riding, providing immediate response whether navigating city traffic or climbing a dirt path.

The 7.1 kWh lithium-ion battery provides up to 150 km (93 miles) of range – enough for a day’s adventure but not cross-country touring. More interestingly, DAB describes the battery as “repairable and recyclable,” addressing one of the main environmental criticisms of electric vehicles. The onboard charger eliminates the need for bulky external units, allowing riders to simply carry a charging cable in the Alcantara-lined glove compartment. A full charge from 0-100% takes about three hours.

Gaming-Inspired Power Boost

In a nod to video game nostalgia, the 1α X features a blue “Nitrous” button inspired by Need for Speed Underground 2. While we’re pretty sure it doesn’t actually inject nitrous oxide into an electric motor (that would be… interesting physics), it does provide a temporary power boost when you need that extra kick. It’s a playful touch in a category that sometimes takes itself too seriously.

The bike offers multiple other riding modes including Eco, Road, Sport, and even Reverse to help maneuver in tight spaces. Braking comes courtesy of Brembo, with a radial four-piston caliper up front and a single-piston unit in the rear, both managed by Peugeot Motorcycles’ dual ABS system.

Handcrafted Heritage

Each DAB 1α X is built in the historic Peugeot factory in France, which dates back to the 1890s. The company emphasizes that these are handcrafted, numbered motorcycles built by skilled artisans rather than mass-produced products. While electric motorcycles are undeniably forward-looking, there’s something reassuring about knowing your bike was assembled with traditional craftsmanship in a factory with over a century of heritage.

Spec Sheet

Pricing & Availability

The DAB 1α X is priced at $16,725 – surprisingly less than the street-focused 1α model it’s based on, which starts at $19,900. The company offers worldwide delivery and service, along with a two-year warranty. Additional customization is available through DAB’s Custom Studio service, though this will increase the price depending on chosen options.

Recap

DAB Motors 1α X Electric Scrambler

The DAB 1α X Electric Scrambler combines French craftsmanship, aerospace-grade materials, and electric performance in a 275-pound package that’s equally at home on city streets and dirt trails.

Learn More: DAB Motors