The 1907 Curtiss V8 motorcycle, packing a powerful engine, set the land speed record of 136 mph in its time. Taking inspiration from that 1907 speed demon, the Zeus Radial V8 Motorcycle by Curtiss is an artful, fierce, modern reimagining of the record-breaking two-wheeler.
In order to create the V-shape of the gasoline motorcycle engine, Curtiss Motorcycles’ designer Jordan Cornille built eight beefy, cylindrical battery packs that protrude out of a central terminal to capture the essence of the original. In addition to giving the bike an intimidating look, the design also helps with battery cooling. The battery capacity is 16.8 kWh at 399V and the expected powertrain — which is under development at the moment — should be producing 217 horsepower and 147 lb-ft of torque. The hot rod motorcycle’s robust skeletal frame also serves to capture the aesthetics of the 1907 beast. Expected to enter production in 2020, the Zeus Radial V8 has a price tag of $75,000.
