The first motorcycle to bear the legendary Lotus marque, the C-01, is now road registered and ready for action. With a limited production run of 100 bikes, the machine will almost certainly become a collectors’ piece. The price is yet to be announced.
The C-01 produces “approaching 200bhp” via the same 1195cc, 75 degree V-twin engine as the KTM RC8R superbike and has a distinctive body designed by Daniel Simon, integrating carbon fibre, titanium and aerospace-quality steel.
The C-01 motorcycle is not designed, engineered or produced by Group Lotus plc – the world renowned sports car manufacturer and engineering consultancy – but is the result of a collaboration between motorsport veterans under the leadership of Kodewa, led by Dr Colin Kolles. Kodewa has been granted a licence to produce the motorcycle by Group 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. Drawing on their wealth of motorsport experience, the team of engineers has designed a unique high performance superbike.
The C-01, which weighs in dry at 180kgs, will be available in a range of liveries some of which pay homage to Lotus’ sporting pedigree. A customisation service is also available, limited only by the imagination of the client. Superbike collectors and fans of the Lotus brand will need to move fast to secure one.
The original idea to create the C-01 came from Kodewa’s Dr Colin Kolles. Speaking about the project he said: “We set out to create a bike that isn’t just great to ride but also represents a piece of art in motion. Over the years I have seen my fair share of style over substance, what this bike brings to the market is a unique combination of both: state-of-the-art technology with a truly jaw-dropping aesthetic.”
Commenting on the C-01 Güther Holzer, CEO of Holzer Group said: “I was one of the first people to ride it and I have to say I was very impressed. Together we have found that delicate balance between raw, aggressive power and breathtaking handling. The team has created something very special, it looks incredible, it sounds fantastic but above all, the ride is sensational. I’m very happy.”
Designer Daniel Simon said: “The design process of the C-01 was a labour of love, there were many challenges, ensuring that the bike not only touches your visual senses with its timeless blend of classic appeal and modern execution, but that is safe and ergonomically sound was critical to me. We have worked hard to create a motorcycle with very distinctive features such as a clean main body, an extremely low side profile, a bold stance, a unique air intake and clean graphics.”
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