Tacita unveil electric cruiser

WHAT’S a cruiser without a loud, rumbling V-twin? The future, according to Italian motorcycle manufacturer Tacita, which unveiled its all-electric T-Cruise at the American International Motorcycle Expo last month.

The T-Cruise has all the characteristics of a traditional American cruiser – a long, low chassis, raised bars and a large, single headlight. But in place of an iconic big twin sits a 30kW electric motor, capable of 52 lb-ft of torque.

Three battery options are available on the model, which looks to be set for the US market. The entry-level T-Cruise, with a 7.5 kWh battery and a range of up to 50 miles will cost from $10,999 (£8,283). The middling 15 kWh version will boast a range of 93 miles, at a price of $14,999 (£11,296) and finally, the 27.5 kWh option will provide an impressive range of 168 miles, for $27,999 (£21,086).

The T-Cruise features a hand-stitched leather saddle, three-way adjustable footpegs, and optional italian eco-leather panniers, in 28 colours.

Suspension is accounted for by hydraulic telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers with preload adjustment. Linked front and rear Brembo brakes offer regenerative braking, while the T-Cruise comes with an onboard charger and fast charger.

Perhaps the most surprising part of the bike is its five-speed gearbox with hydraulic clutch, which includes a reverse gear. Usually electric motorcycles don’t feature gears due to their instant torque from zero revs.

Tacita previously made history with the T-Race Rally, which became the first ever electric motorcycle to race in a desert rally, when it took on Africa’s Merzouga Rally in 2012.