At the start of 2023, retired, two-time Formula One World Champion Mika Häkkinen joined Verge Motorcycle’s advisory board. The two decided to celebrate their new partnership and shared Finnish heritage by creating a limited edition model of the brand’s super bike.
Based on the Verge TS Pro performance platform, the Signature series bike starts with a basis of high performance. Power comes from an electric motor that powers the rear wheel directly, reducing the need for moving parts such as chains, and increasing efficiency.
The hubless motor offers riders 737 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque, which can propel the bike from 0-60 mph (96 km/h) in just 3.5 seconds. It can also continue on to a top speed of 124 mph (200 km/h).
The patented motor not only provides impressive power but also features a unique spokeless rear wheel, making it stand out. Additionally, it contributes to space-saving in the center of the bike, allowing for the integration of extra battery cells. With this configuration, the bike boasts an impressive range of 217 miles (350 km). Furthermore, it can be fully fast-charged in just 35 minutes.
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According to Verge, the center of weight of Häkkinen’s signature bike is positioned low, which enhances the motorcycle’s maneuverability and stability for riders. Additionally, the bike features custom midnight suspension and pitch black shock absorbers, adding to its unique design and aesthetics.
The suspension components play against the carbon fiber farings, as well as the dark gray and silver body work, which resemble the livery of the driver’s championship-winning McLaren-Mercedes Formula One cars.
“I know from experience what it takes to develop a vehicle that embodies speed, precision and elegance. I wanted to design the bike right down to the smallest detail rather than just picking the color,” said Häkkinen. “Each bike is numbered and features an exclusive signature. This electric super bike represents the future of riding and is a testament to a life lived to the fullest.”
Pricing and availability
Available for purchase at Verge Motorcycles’ online store, the bike will also be offered at the manufacturer’s new flagship store in Monaco, which will be opened in the coming days, around the same time as the running of the nation’s famed Grand Prix, which Häkkinen won in 1998.
Verge Motorcycles says that it is also planning to open its first dealership in the U.S. in the near future. Just 100 Mika Häkkinen Signature series bikes will be produced, and prices start at €80,000, or around $87,000.