Electrification has transformed motorcycle design by eliminating traditional engines and fuel tanks, granting designers unprecedented freedom. While various minimalist and retro-futuristic models have emerged, Real Motors’ debut machine stands out dramatically.

Design and Concept

This all-electric machine is the first offering from South Carolina-based Real Motors. Bearing a shape reminiscent of cyberpunk sci-fi aesthetics, Project Ares starts at $20,000 and ships in limited volumes. Its future cafe racer styling houses serious engineering beneath the surface.

Project Ares is designed and built in Greenville, positioned squarely within the emerging regional EV manufacturing hub.

Prototype versions showcase a glossy yet translucent black fairing that reveals internal cooling vanes and bright orange high-voltage wiring snaking through the battery pack.

The machine features a roughly 15 kilowatt-hour battery pack supporting charging speeds up to 3.3 kilowatts via a standard SAE J1772 port located on top of the faux tank.

The motor is officially rated at 101 horsepower alongside massive torque figures at the wheel, placing it among the most powerful twisting motorcycles available.

Those substantial power figures are accompanied by considerable heft.

Ergonomics and Handling

Because current battery technology remains heavy, the Ares totals 485 pounds, placing it on par with similar electric models while maintaining a longer wheelbase.

Low-set handlebars and high pegs place the rider in a classic aggressive posture close to the tank, ensuring maximum cornering clearance.

The wide saddle and heavy geometry require a brief adjustment period for riders getting used to the machine's overall mass.

Performance and Ride Experience

The riding experience emphasizes a distraction-free layout with a minimalist LCD screen, omitting mirrors on the prototype to prioritize streamlined aesthetics.

The bike offers multiple speed settings to help manage the extreme torque output safely.

Rather than featuring an overly abrupt throttle response, power delivery remains smooth and progressive without sudden lurching.

Across higher power settings, the motorcycle provides an entertaining yet manageable ride with predictable acceleration.

In terms of cornering dynamics, the Ares handles more like a stable cruiser than a lightweight twitchy sportbike, requiring intentional handlebar input.

The machine features high-end hardware options, including adjustable Öhlins dampers and responsive Brembo brakes.

Range and Practicality

Official specifications estimate a city range of around 120 miles per charge. Real-world efficiency varies depending on riding aggressiveness, particularly when operating under heavy throttle.

Ultimately, Project Ares successfully blends eye-catching styling with robust speed, proving that electric motorcycle design continues to evolve in striking directions.

Score breakdown

Scored out of 10
design9.5
performance8.5
battery7.5
value7

Specifications

PriceStarting at $20,000
Battery CapacityApprox. 15 kWh
Motor Power101 horsepower
Weight485 lbs
Range120 miles (city estimate)
Who it may suit

Ideal for enthusiasts seeking cutting-edge electric motorcycle design and smooth acceleration, provided they do not mind the heavier, cruiser-like handling characteristics.