Project: ARES, the sculpted electric café racer from South Carolina-based Real Motors, is now running on the road. The company has built new working prototypes and plans a limited production run in 2027.
The electric motorcycle first appeared in 2024, drawing attention for its sculptural bodywork and science fiction influences. Since then, Real Motors has built new working prototypes that are now on the road. Buyers can now reserve one of the 250 machines in the first production batch.
Real Motors is not the only builder reimagining the motorcycle’s silhouette for an electric era. Futuristic tribute to BMW’s 1934 motorcycle shows how a classic machine can be reshaped with modern styling, which makes it a useful companion read.
Prototypes keep the original shape
The newest prototypes keep the proportions of the original design. Broad body panels wrap around the electric drivetrain, and a sharply tapered seat runs out over the rear wheel.
The prototype numbered 03 is painted bright red and carries oversized white graphics. A rectangular headlight sits at the front. Large aerodynamic covers hide the front forks, which gives the bike a solid, heavy-looking face.
Prototype 04, nicknamed “Ghost,” uses the same design in black. Its dark, translucent bodywork lets riders and onlookers see the wiring and other mechanical parts underneath. Because there is no combustion engine or fuel tank to package, the design team could redraw the café racer’s outline. The result is a smooth, continuous surface across much of the body.
Electric café racer performance and weight
A café racer is a stripped-back motorcycle style that puts the rider low and forward. ARES follows that pattern, with low handlebars and a wide central body that fills the space between the rider’s knees.
Real Motors reports that the electric powertrain has produced roughly 100 horsepower. The company also reports 1,000 Nm of torque at the rear wheel after gearing. The prototype’s estimated weight is 485 pounds, which is heavier than its slim profile suggests.
The company calls its approach “Electric Analogue.” The idea is to keep the physical link between rider and machine as the engine gives way to an electric motor. The controls stay familiar, and a small digital display shows the essential riding data.
A rider’s first impressions
Tim Stevens, writing for The Verge, rode the Ghost prototype and reported smooth acceleration. Power arrives progressively across three riding modes, according to his account.
Handling drew more mixed comments. Stevens said the bike needs deliberate steering through corners, which he linked to the heavy battery pack. His test offers an early, independent view of how the unusual design works on a real road.
Lot 01 specifications and pricing
Real Motors is preparing Lot 01, a run of 250 motorcycles for sale worldwide. The production configuration listed so far uses a 65-kW electric motor and a 13.4-kWh battery. The estimated top speed is 110 mph.
These Lot 01 figures differ from those of the higher-powered prototypes and the Founder’s Edition. Final specifications are expected before manufacturing begins. Prices start at $20,000, and North American deliveries are currently expected in early 2027.
Customers will also be able to choose from a set of exterior liveries. The Founder’s Edition, the earlier model, has already sold out. The production schedule has moved since the bike was first announced. Still, with working prototypes on the street, ARES is closer than ever to reaching its first owners.
H/T designboom.com
Frequently asked questions
How much does the ARES electric café racer cost?
Prices for the ARES electric café racer from Real Motors start at $20,000. Customers will also be able to choose from a set of exterior liveries.
How many ARES motorcycles will be in the first production batch?
The first production batch, called Lot 01, includes 250 motorcycles for sale worldwide. Buyers can now reserve one of these 250 machines.
What is the estimated top speed of the production ARES?
The production configuration of the ARES, listed for Lot 01, has an estimated top speed of 110 mph. Final specifications are expected before manufacturing begins.
When will North American deliveries of ARES begin?
North American deliveries of the ARES electric café racer are currently expected in early 2027. The production schedule has moved since the bike was first announced.
More in
Vehicles
All Vehicles
More like this
Ducati Unleashes the Carbon Fiber Espresso Marvel: 1,926 Limited Edition Machines
Three Wheels and a 2.0-Liter Turbo: MTPEAK's One All Roadster Heads to Milan's EICMA
Modern Versatility Meets Rustic Charm in the 48-Foot Tinde Tiny House by Sweet-Haus
Saikhom's Gunmetal Vision Fuses Motorcycle Heritage with Firearm Aesthetics
