3D printing could change the world of manufacturing as we know it. From smaller parts and components, to larger and more complex products, 3D is become more prevalent. The world’s first-ever 3D printed motorcycle has recently been completed, and it breaks more boundaries than one.
Meet the Light Rider, a 3D printed motorcycle built by APWorks, a subsidiary of the aircraft manufacturing giant AirBus. Apart from being the first commercially available 3D printed motorbike, APWorks are also calling the Light Rider “probably the world’s lightest motorcycle”. And it’s not difficult to see why that would make that statement; the all-electric bike weighs in at a featherweight 35 kilograms, and is built using a custom aluminium alloy powder. The alloy has been dubbed “Scalmalloy” by APWorks, and is similar to a material used in commercial building and is close in strength to titanium alloy.
As far as performance goes, the Light Rider doesn’t do too badly. It has a maximum speed of 80km/h and is able to reach 0-45km/h in only 3 seconds. The bike’s battery needs to be swapped out every 60 kilometres, so you won’t be doing any cross-country trips on the Light Rider.
If you’re looking to own one of the world’s first commercially produced 3D bikes you’d better act fast. Only 50 have been produced, with no plans to manufacturer anymore. You’ll also need rather deep pockets, as they retail for €50,000, with a €2,000 deposit required. Visit the official Light Rider website for more information.
