The BMW C1-E concept is the company’s contribution to the European safety project eSUM. The BMW C1-E is an two-wheels electric concept that’s focused in achieving a high level of active and passive safety. The BMW C1-E features a roll-over bar, an energy-absorbing impact element at the nose, a seat-belt, a windscreen and luggage space behind the rider. The safety features of the BMW C1-E are based on the ones premiered on the BMW C1 concept, but all of them have been enhanced.

The BMW C1-E provides exemplary protection for its rider. This is ensured by the safety cell with the conspicuous roll-over bar which dynamically spans the rider seat in combination with the energy-absorbing impact element at the nose end. A further special point is that the C1-E rider wears a seat belt, which is highlighted by red belts and belt buckles in this concept version.

Visually the concept vehicle expresses brand typical sheer driving pleasure and clearly distinguishes itself from typical scooter looks. Its lines are dynamically stretched and flow horizontally with a low visual centre of gravity. The fairing with its windscreen, the luggage space behind the rider and the side stand for effortless parking ensure high suitability for everyday riding combined with a high degree of wind and weather protection.

The electric motor employed in the study has been designed for city use and is based on components by the company Vectrix. The motor obtains its power from a lithium-ion battery and thus possesses sufficient power for mastering most inner-city traffic riding with ease. Alternatively the vehicle could also be equipped with an efficient, low-emissions internal combustion engine.

If you can’t wait for this prototype to hit the production lines, check out more electric powered vehicles online at GQ Scooters. You will be able to view all of the latest gas scooters and electric scooters.

The latest design from MotoCzysz is the E1PC electric super bike. The MotoCzysz E1PC idea started when an employee of MotoCzysz got permission to borrow a Yamaha YZF-R1 frame and built an electric motorcycle, planning to enter it in the TTXGP. Czysz thought it would be better to design a new bike from the ground up using an advanced carbon fiber frame that’s been designed to accept a modular powertrain. This design will reportedly allow for a range of electric motorcycles all based on the same basic underpinnings. So the MotoCzysz E1PC was born.

The MotoCzysz E1PC, a zero-emission electric super bike uses 10 battery packs and 3 motors to reach the same speeds as gas-powered bikes. The new digital bike can reach 120 mph in around 7-8 seconds, putting it in the race for the fastest electric bike. In addition to its breakneck speeds, the MotoCzysz E1PC also uses an apple iphone, embedded in a custom dock between the handle bars.

An entry-level model designed for commuters, priced at under $20,000, would have a smaller battery and motor designed to deliver around-town or short highway-commute performance, while a higher-spec, more expensive sportbike could go faster and farther. A higher-spec model could go for $50,000 or more and would use a much larger battery pack. The top-of-the-line superbike’s “battery power could be the same as a Chevy Volt,” and its performance could “rival a 600cc supersport,” according to Czysz, with a top speed of 150 mph and enough juice for 30-40 minutes at full race pace.

We’ve been hearing this kind of utopian description of futuristic motorcycles and cars for years, but these vehicles are now closer to reality. With billions of dollars being invested around the world in batteries and alternative fuels, it seems like an affordable battery with sufficient energy is just a matter of time. The simplicity and modular nature of electric-vehicle design will benefit motorcyclists and redefine the industry.

If the hefty price tag gives you sticker shock, plenty of electric powered vehicles can be purchased online at GQ Scooters at discounted prices. You will be able to view all of the latest gas scooters and electric scooters.

Now may be the perfect time to buy electric scooters. Although the powersports segment has taken a hit, electric scooters are still a relatively attractive seller. As the market begins to recover, scooters are going to represent a growing piece of the pie. Electric bicycles and electric scooters in the U.S. is increasing by 50% year on year. China has electric bike sales of 25 million electric bikes (called ‘e-bikes’) on the road already.

Many electric scooters can hit top speeds of 60 MPH and can go for 90 miles before needing a recharge. A typical electric bike runs between $1,000 and $3,000. An electric scooter will run closer to $3,000 or $4,000. Hybrid bikes and scooters are also available. Unlike hybrid cars, there is no regenerative braking, but the hybrid scooters are so lightweight that they don’t need constant on the road recharging.

Electric bike and scooter sales are expected to soar despite the average person’s opinion that they are too expensive. With the increase in fuel prices and the government’s ban on conventional vehicles in highly polluted countries. Electric bike companies are expecting a 150 per cent growth in the 2008-2009 financial year.

Governments are looking at putting subsidies in place to make the bikes more affordable. Not only will this be an eco-friendly implementation but with range and speed per battery charge increasing, the electric bike will allow people to re think transport and embrace a new direction.

The latest projections show electric bike sales rising in the U.S. from 120,000 units in 2008 to 170,000 in 2009. Of course, the numbers are probably much higher in other parts of the world. Either way, the worldwide growth projections are huge and sales are expected to rise significantly.

To view alternative green vehicles at discounted prices, visit online at GQ Scooters. You will be able to view all of the latest electric scooters adopting green technology.

The X-Rider electric motorcycle from Xtreme Green Products in Nevada is the ultimate two passenger Green Urban Commuter. With a top speed approaching 65 miles per hour, a range of 95 miles, and an operational cost as low as $0.003 per mile, the Xtreme Green X-Rider merits serious consideration for those looking to purchase electric motorcycles.

Additionally, the X Rider qualifies under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 for the $2,500 plug-in electric vehicle tax credit. Deposits of $3,000 are being taken now for X Riders that will be delivered this summer. They were told by the EPA that they are the first electric motorcycle (”Highway Motorcycle – Battery Electric”) to receive this certification in the U.S. This certification also allows the X-Rider to be operated on all U.S. highways.

The company claims that the cycle provides the power necessary to safely and comfortably travel at highway speeds. Power comes from a 4500 watt in-hub rear-wheel motor powered by a 60 amp hour lithium ion battery. Front and rear disc brakes provide stopping power. A built-in 110/220-volt charger is said to recharge the batteries in approximately three hours.

The bike’s overall length is 6′6″ and the wheelbase is 56″. Weight with batteries is 266 lbs, and the X Rider has a 330-lb capacity. The fully-equipped X Rider is priced at just $7,999.

X Rider Special Features

• 4500 watt – 72 volt proprietary hub motor
• 6.5 feet long, wheelbase of 4.8 feet
• Load capacity of 330 pounds
• State of the Art, 60 Amp Hour, 72 Volt Lithium Ion (LFP) Battery Propulsion System (6kWh battery pack)
• Range between charges of over 100 miles
• Lithium Ion Battery System will last for over 2000 charges – about 7 years based on one charge per day
• Proprietary, computerized Battery Management System for safety and long life
• Speeds approaching 65 MPH
• Climbing capacity of over 20 degree grade
• Front and rear disc brakes
• Built-in battery charger – 110/220 volt
• 2 to 3 hour charge time from empty
• Net weight of 266 pounds

To view alternative green vehicles at discounted prices, visit online at GQ Scooters. You will be able to view all of the latest electric scooters adopting green technology.

Just a few weeks ago, Brammo began rolling-out their program to sell Enertia electric motorcycles at Best Buy’s along the west coast. In the next 60 days or so, you’ll see a new product announcement from Brammo, secretly dubbed “The Anti-Scooter”.

Called the Anti-Scooter internally, the next electric-powered two-wheeled creation from Brammo will aim to be a scooter replacement, which will not require a motorcycle license (or in some states, an easier to get M2 license) in order to be ridden. Continuing on Brammo’s goal of bringing new consumers into the world of motorcycling, this Anti-Scooter (official name yet to be determined) hopes to get new people on two-wheels, who have yet to get their motorcycle license.

In order to get non-licensed riders on the new motorcycle, Brammo will impose a speed restrictor on the new motorcycle that will mimic the displacement restrictions that various states have set in-place for mopeds and motorized bicycles. Normally this would be a difficult task for a manufacturer, since laws vary from state-to-state, but since electric motorcycles can impose this restriction via software, the variance is easy to make. The Brammo Anti-Scooter bike will be a low speed vehicle, which limits it to a top speed of about 30 mph. It will have a software-controlled speed restriction on it.

The Anti-Scooter won’t be shaped like a motorcycle. Instead, expect the next Brammo to be a step-through design like a typical scooter. According to Asphalt & Rubber, the bike will look something like the extremely popular Honda Ruckus. The Honda Ruckus inspired bike sits low to the ground and hopes to be an electric alternative to the Vespa scooter, which have become increasingly popular here in the US.

Brammo hopes to show the public the Anti-scooter in the next 60 days, and based on customer feedback, proceed with the final design process. Few technical details are known, but it wouldn’t be hard to imagine that with a top-speed of 30 mph, the Anti-Scooter could match the Enertia for range, even with smaller battery packs. Stay tuned for more information as we get it.

In the meantime, if you’re interested in other electric scooters or gas scooters, check out the large selection available at GQ Scooters.

Having already successfully incorporated its patented Cantilevered Independent Dynamic Linkless Indispension (CDLI) into lithium-powered scooters and wheelchairs, Patmont Motor Werks (PMW) has now upsized their suspension system and installed it into a motocross prototype called the Go-Ped Shocker.

Still in the early stages of development, the Go-Ped “Shocker” is intended to be a tri-sport machine (street, dirt, and freestyle) that relies on electric power, allowing it to be operated within communities without worries about emissions or noise by-laws. The CDLI makes for a very cool-looking bike since no shocks or springs or even traditional steering with handlebars are present.

Weighing in at a rather trim 198 lbs, the bike holds 2.3 kWh of lithium polymer batteries and runs at 78 volts nominal at 250 amps continuous. The sealed liquid-cooled DC brushless dual axial gap motor (ok, breathe) is 94 percent efficient at 3000 rpms with throttle-controlled regeneration abilities that can extend your riding time. Speaking of the throttles, this one is wireless so freestylers can do bar spins and tail whips to their hearts content.

Besides the impressive running gear, the most interesting part of this motorbike is the way the frame is suspended. The unique design is said to allow for 13.5 inches of travel front and rear and give it dynamic anti-dive properties under braking. If everything works out as planned, a production model will get its own purpose-built aluminum frame and may see finished units as early as next year. Like all PMW products, the Go-Ped Shocker electric motorcycle will be built at their facility in Nevada. Hit the jump for some footage of this promising prototype putting down its power to the pavement.

Patmont Motor Werks has a wide selection of Go-Ped scooters which can be purchased online at GQ Scooters at discounted prices. You will be able to view all of the CIDLI suspension equipped Go-Ped gas scooters and Go-Ped electric scooters.

After a one-year hiatus, word on the street is that the Evo Powerboards will be returning to the United States just in time for the holiday season. The demand for these gas scooters were at an all-time high before the economic downturn caused it’s premature demise. High quality scooters are hard to find and the Evo Powerboards are no exception. It’s good to see them returning and sales are expected to be high.

Evo Powerboards are the third generation of Gas Scooters from Puzey Design. Through state-of-the-art design and manufacturing techniques, the new generation of Evo Powerboards have taken a technological leap and are loaded with innovative features that make all other brands of scooters seem obsolete.

In an era where most designs are still running spindle drives and crude folding systems, Puzey has stepped up to the plate and set the new benchmark. With the introduction of many innovations like the world’s first 2-Speed gearbox in the personal transport vehicle (PTV) business, one touch seat removal system, positive lock folding, greatly improved braking design, a fool-proof belt tensioning system, the world’s first portable scooter with linkage suspension and many other great improvements, the Evo Powerboard brand is ready to tackle the competition head-on.

No word yet on whether all previous models will be returning: Evo 2, Evo 2X, Evo SPX, Evo R. A brand new model is also not out of the question. In all likelihood, however, the Evo powerboard gas scooters will most probably return with the same models. Pricing is not available at this time. If you’ve been waiting for an Evo Powerboard gas scooter, they will be available online at GQ Scooters.

Funny and cheerful, the Ark Tribe scooter is the proposal offered by BetaMotor for every person who is looking for a practical, reliable and gritty vehicle. Practical, reliable and ready to take anything the road throws at it, the Beta Ark AC/LC Tribe Scooter always offers a peppy ride, no matter where you’re going.

Ark Tribe, air or liquid cooled with the white and red color, is the suitable scooter for people who live the road with fun and freedom, adding color to your day. The Ark look doesn’t hide its sporting and scathing spirit: high mudguards, off-road sides, brawny muffler, are only some details that add energy and race look to a daily use vehicle.

With its hardy frame and with its handiness, Ark has a forceful hydraulic fork and a adjustable spring preload mono-shock that grant adherence to the road and an incredible steadiness. Even the bumpiest roads can’t shake this Beta Scooter.

Powered by a 50cc air-cooled engine, the Ark AC/LC Tribe looks like it could leave the mean urban streets and take to the dusty trails. The Ark is extremely versatile: it was born with off-road heart according with Beta style, but is also aggressive on the asphalt thank to slick tires

In order to get Ark riding more exciting a lot of accessories are available: the very practical windshield that protect against rain and wind and the rear luggage rack, which is extremely useful to go shopping in city. With it’s streamlined and modern design, the Beta Ark Tribe scooter is a winner in many ways.

Building on the success and popularity of our XPv, Motorino electric scooters has introduced the XPr; the second MOTORINO to feature an elegant vintage aesthetic. It is slightly bigger than the XPv and it is designed to comfortably accommodate a rider and passenger. It has the same CCT driving system as all XP models; a drive system which for a second year since its debut has proved itself to be very powerful, efficient and reliable.

The CCT’s function is similar to the transmission in a regular drive train; only instead of teeth and pinions, the CCT uses transistors and logic gates. The CCT allows the rider control torque while maintaining the current drawn and consequently maintaining motor efficiency. By allowing the rider to control torque and speed independently, efficiency is greatly increased – high torque is not always necessary, but high speed is always appreciated.

Thanks to this unique CCT controller and its powerful brushless motor, Motorino XPr riders can effortlessly ride their bikes up the steepest gradients without draining their battery as drastically as with a regular driving system. You can travel one hundred kilometers with a dual battery pack without sacrificing torque or speed. The regenerative CCT brakes efficiently recover braking force, converting the bike’s inertia into electricity which is returned to the battery. When immediate stopping power is needed simply engage the brake handles to activate the powerful, self-adjustable hydraulic disc brakes found on the front and rear wheels. Both are equipped with ABS (Antilock Braking System) seen only on high grade motorcycles.

The most impressive feature of the CCT driving system found in the Motorino XPr electric scooter is its reliability. Geared motors are subject to friction damage and require frequent maintenance. The CCT driving system is completely solid state; the spinning tire and its bearings are the only moving components. The motor and controller are well sealed and resistant to corrosion and can carry a rider for several thousand miles without servicing.

The Motorino XPr, which has already enjoyed global popularity as a 150cc motorcycle now enters into a new age of practicality as a power-assisted bicycle. Incorporating years worth of engineering improvements in Greenwit Technologies’ CCT driving system the XPr combines the power and presence of a motorbike with the practicality and affordability of a power-assisted bicycle.

The Price: The 2009 stock version, which comes in choice of metalic burgundy, metalic navy blue or lime green, retails for $2,200. Motorino is a Canadian based company so you would need to locate a U.S. dealer. Go online to www.motorino.ca  to find the closet dealer.

Technical features on the Motorino XPr include:

• Range – 31-37 miles (56 miles)
• Loading capacity: 265 lbs
• 500W 48V oversized high torque CCT brushless regenerative motor
• Charging time: 4-7 hrs with standard and 2-4 hrs with rapid charger
• 10” aluminum motorcycle wheel
• Tubeless all weather 3.5” wide tires
• Motorcycle grade DOT approved 8 layers tires with ABS protective shield
• Mechanical: front hydraulic disk brake; rear drum with wide motorcycle pads
• Built-in motorcycle remote alarm with immobilizer
• Locks on battery compartment and under seat storage
• Handlebar locking
• Lights: Head – high/low beam, direction lights, tail, brake – 12V bulbs
• Mirrors with built in direction lights and running lights
• Dashboard indicators: speedometer, battery capacity indicator, turn signals indicators
• Seat : Double seat 82cm above ground
• Storage: under the seat
• Built in remote vibration sensitive alarm with two remote controls
• Rain cape – poncho type with hood and window for head light
• Rain cover for the bike
• Shell: Composite ABS with two coats epoxy paint
• Frame: Motorcycle grade high tensile steel frame
• Hydraulic front suspension, 2 shock absorbers per wheel
• Safety: Side mirrors, side base turn signals

The folks at Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) have a winner with the Can-Am Spyder, a hi-tech, three-wheeled vehicle. This testosterone-laden roadster is an absolute head-turner. Only question is, should it be classified as a motorcycle or an ATV on steroids.

The Can-Am Spyder comes in a semi-automatic (SE5) and manual (SM5) version. According to Motorcycle USA, “No matter how you describe the riding experience, the one word that keeps surfacing to the top is “fun.” Plus amazing, unreal, incredible, awesome and a whole slew of positive adjectives. Bottom line is the Can-Am Spyder Roadster is an absolute kick-in-the-butt to ride.”

The SE5 rides like a snowmobile and matches the overall BRP riding position common to their ATV, Snow and PWC products but it is beneath the cover where these models differ. More computing technology brings even more automobile-like features to the roadster.

The Spyder’s operator manual is filled with safety and performance acronyms like VSS, ABS and TCS which stand for Vehicle Stability System, Anti-lock Brakes and Traction Control System, respectively. The VSS supplied by Bosch can also be experienced on the Chevy Silverado and Toyota Camry. The system intervenes by applying brake pressure or cutting the throttle with the onset of wheel lift or if the G-meter under the seat senses excessive lateral movement.

Despite all the technology incorporated to keep you from rolling over in the turns, BRP has built in a lot of fun as well as safety. The traction control system took a back seat to the giggles on our ride around Dallas as burnouts became rampant. Stocked with the Rotax 998cc V-Twin engine previously used in the Aprilia but remapped for more torque, the SE5 boasts 106 hp and 77 ft-lbs of torque, letting it run from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.

Much like an ATV, snowmobile or PWC, the Spyder has Dynamic Power Steering which is computer controlled and tied to torque and wheel speed. All told, there are five ECUs in the Spyder, in different boxes placed around the machine that are interdependent but have a redundant backup system for safety.

So how exactly does this thing work? A centrifugal clutch ensures no engagement of the clutch under 1,800 rpm, eliminating the need for a clutch lever, leaving you freely idling at full stop. Poking the “+” button opens the clutch, shifts, closes the clutch and reengages gears in 200 milliseconds, which is essentially imperceptible to us humans and smooth as can be expected.

Gear ratios are the same for both the SM and SE models. On the downshift, you can manually toggle the “-“ button at your fingertip or you can wait for the machine to automatically downshift itself. Upon coming down to 2,500 rpm in any gear, the system will automatically downshift for you, enhancing the reacceleration ability of the Spyder for any such emergency need to escape danger.

There is nothing on the road quite like the Spyder SE5. Government perception and legislation reflects this as you can drive the Spyder without a motorcycle endorsement on your license in California and Delaware, but will need it if you reside in any other state. Canada, the home of the Spyder, still can’t agree on what the hell it is, so the rules have yet to be written. Since licensing and registration differs per state, your best bet is to check with both the BRP site and your local DMV for more information.

The Price: The 2009 stock version, which comes in gray, retails for $15,449. If you want a Spyder in yellow or red you will need to add another $400. And if you want the SE5 version, that will set you back another $1,500. Go online to www.brp.com to find the closet dealer.