Lotus is capable of manufacturing a lot of things, but the company never tried to build motorcycles. Paradoxically enough, one of the world’s most impressive bikes bears the British car maker’s name.
The Lotus C-01, as it’s called, was sketched by former Bugatti designer Daniel Simon (who is best known in the 2-wheel world for the Tron Legacy Lightcycle), and built by Kodewa under license from Lotus. The development on the C-01 was carried out with the support of Holzer Group (co-owners of Kalex) and design guru Daniel Simon.
The idea for the C-01 came from Kodewa’s owner Dr. Colin Kolles, who wanted to create a bike that isn’t just great to ride but also represents a piece of art in motion
The concept motorcycle was first revealed as a 3D computer mockup in 2013, sporting a carbon fiber monocoque body shell described as “menacingly retro-futuristic”. By the time it made it into a very limited series production of only 100 units, the bike ditched the monocoque for a far more practical chromoly trellis tube frame. But don’t worry, the contraption still integrates carbon fiber, titanium, and aerospace quality steel.
It also features an aluminum-casted swingarm, 320mm Brembo racing brakes, twin Ohlins rear suspension, upside-down Sachs forks, and carbon-fiber wheels.
Powered by a 175hp KTM 1195cc V-twin from the RC8R superbike, this particular C-01 sports a modern Lotus Formula 1 livery , and it’s believed to be the only one in North America. If you’re interested in owning one of the rarest and most exclusive motorcycles on the planet, head up to Mecum, but be sure you have at least $370,000 – $450,000 in your pockets.
PHOTO GALLERY
